Digging Deeper James 5:12 "Points to Ponder"

But above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath. But let your "Yes" be "Yes," and your "No," "No," lest you fall into judgment. ~James 5:12 (New King James Version)

And since you know that he cares, let your language show it. Don't add words like "I swear to God" to your own words. Don't show your impatience by concocting oaths to hurry up God. Just say yes or no. Just say what is true. That way, your language can't be used against you. ~The Message

After reviewing the commentary for James 5:12 right off the bat, there were a number of obvious questions begging to be asked of us.

For example:
1. Do we patiently persevere in the midst of trials or do we more readily start talking, saying all sorts of things without much thought as to what God would require of us?

2. When temptation comes in the midst of suffering, are we likely to run to Father in prayer, crying out to Him first and foremost for help, or do we find ourselves more apt to compromise and do what comes natural to our polluted flesh?

3. Do we continue to practice peace, patience, kindness, etc., even when we don't feel like it? Even when we could justify doing or saying the wrong thing or being the wrong way?

Sisters, the truth is, we all get in to trouble. It comes to us in this life whether we like it or not; whether we want it to or not! What we can be sure of is it's not a mistake or by accident.

Sovereign, Holy, Righteous God sees and knows it all, and in the midst of WHATEVER IT IS He is molding, shaping and perfecting in us the image of HIS SON, our Savior, Redeemer: Jesus!!

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones. ~Proverbs 3:5-8 (New King James Version)

Stephanie Paul

Stephanie Paul, wife and mother of two grown children. An "instrument of change" in the Redeemer's Hand, in the lives of wounded and hurting women. Currently serving as a part of the Addiction Recovery Team at America's Keswick as Woman of Character Program Administrator.