Listening and Doing. (James 1:19-21)

Shema: Listen and Respond. When GOD puts in us a heart that loves in the face of all things, that endures all things, not because of anything we do, but what HE does. We can endure because HE loves us. We are perfected by HIS perfection. We are the clay, HE the potter. That's where the fun begins: We are a new creation in HIM, freed from the marble (to reference Michelangelo's David) set free from the chains of sin and death. We are made free! Will we walk in that freedom? We are free from reacting the way the world does, responding to what it does. Food shortage? Remember that GOD made a widow's flask pour out until there was nothing left to fill. Remember that manna comes from Heaven. Water comes from rocks. (We only need to ask) Funds short? GOD IS seeing to every need, ask HIM for the wisdom for where to look. (HE says HE will give it in James 1:5 and in Proverbs.) Hurting to much? See where HE gives relief and as you praise watch HIM grow it even more. All of you hurts? Praise that you have not died in a state of pain but can be healed and truly live. Start with Jireh if you have to and work your way from there. And if you can think of no reason to say "thank You" to HIM, are you sure you're still a Christian? Because being saved should be reason enough to say thanks, even if the rest is going to pot. Or to barrow from our wise friend Habakkuk: "Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in The LORD! I will be joyful in The God of my Salvation! The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He makes me surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights." 3:17-19 and if you are afraid, go to his next door neighbor (in the text) Zephaniah and remember, "...HE will take delight in you with gladness. With HIS love, HE will calm all your fears..." 3:17 (if you're looking ^.^)

And if you are struggling, remember John 1:5. The darkness has never understood the light so if you belong to HIM, read John 1:1-16 and remember that you are loved, set free, healed, and made bold, all you have to do is believe. (HE will take care of and change the rest)