“Dealing with frustrations”
By Rev. Michael Stonhouse
Meditation – Thursday, November 10, 2022
James 1:1-15 (Forward, p. 12) CEV p. 1272
There are many things that we can come to expect as Christians, as followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, some quite erroneously. For instance, we might be led to believe that life should be hassle free, should be without serious problems or difficulties. Or we may think that temptations will cease to come our way simply because we are Christians.
James, however, tells us that the truth is exactly opposite to this. We will indeed have our faith tested, and that this is actually good for us and it will strengthen us and make us more able to endure anything. Surprisingly, he suggests that even poverty—and riches—can be used by God to build us up if handled correctly. However, we shouldn’t blame God if our own sinful desires cause us problems. These should be nipped in the bud for they can deceive us, ensnare us and lead us into spiritual death. All these things are normal, James says, and manageable if we go to God and ask for His wisdom and assistance. And so, how to deal with the ever-present frustrations of life--just take them to Him. Amen.
Forward notes: “If any of you is lacking in wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and it will be given you” (verse 5).
“As an English and literature teacher, I am often asked by students for book recommendations. Of course, I usually respond by asking what type of reading they prefer. From there, I am usually able to discern their tastes and offer some titles. I love when students ask me about which books to read. Their question shows intellectual curiosity and openness, and it offers me the opportunity to influence their thinking just a bit further than the curriculum allows.
“What must it do for our divine teacher when we come to God with the desire to understand? God loves our curiosity and openness more than I do when my students ask for book suggestions, but that does not mean that the wisdom in God’s answers will be easy for us to hear. It may even be excruciating. But when we ask for wisdom, God sees our desire for depth, truth, and beauty. What teacher would ever deny those things to students?”
Moving Forward: “What are you reading? Share a book recommendation with us at #ForwardDaybyDay.”
