Practical Christianity

The Book of James is like the Dear Abby column of the news paper. In other words it is practical advice for living your life. Much of handling our problems is common sense. The difference between using common sense in a worldly fashion as opposed to a spiritual fashion is spiritual formation. When we do things God’s way on purpose we are learning to live life according to Biblical principle.

First, what qualifies James as someone that has the answers?
He was someone who had been through the fire
He was someone who understood where people were

If a Christian were writing to James for advice on certain issues the question might read like this. We will be using the verses of James for the question and answer.

#1 I am going though a very difficult time right now what should I do?

Embrace your trial and learn from it. Believe that something good will come out of it. Ask God to give you wisdom (knowing what to do and doing it).
Don’t be a doubter learn how to stand in faith. Don’t be confused about God. Remember that instability breeds insecurity.

#2 Right now I am just getting by but one day I plan to have a lot of money how can I make sure that the money doesn’t change me?

If you are just getting by remember who you are in Christ. Spiritual richness far exceeds worldly wealth. Just ask Lazarus Luke 16:20-25)
If you are wealthy thank God that you have found the true meaning of life. Thank God you understand you are not measured by what you have.

#3 I want to quit living for God. I am really tired of all the struggles that come with the Christian life. What do you recommend?

Stay with it. Don’t quit. Keep in mind that there is more to life than what we go through in the here and now. Temptation will always be around us but don’t be deceived by the fleeting pleasures of sin. Keep in mind that God has a purpose for you. God has a destiny for you. Don’t abort it.

#4 I really want to give a coworker of mine a piece of my mind. What should I do?

Choose your words carefully. Listen to what other people say and why. Don’t let people anger you. Always ask yourself why is this person saying this? Who is this person saying this? Your vocabulary many times reveals the condition of your heart as well as your maturity level.