I am an observer by nature and early experience. I could delve into reasons, but this is not the place or time.
Rather, I observe. I sometimes verbalize my observations. Those are not always (or, perhaps seldom) socially appropriate.
These thoughts invaded my mind as I contemplated this thought from my buddy, James.
Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.
I discussed the need for the pause between thought or emotion and speech while thinking on anger. That pause is useful in other contexts. We attend church services or mass or prayer meetings or Bible studies religiously (meaning regularly), yet, we have a weakness not yet overcome. We talk to much—about subjects and people we would best remain quiet about.
James continues about being religious in the next sentence of the same paragraph.
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
Would we like to consider ourselves religious in the sight of God? Attending gatherings provides a foundation and even energy. The proof is how we show this to the world around us. What do we do with our money and our time? Do we TikTok or serve meals to homeless people? Do we have discussions around coffee with people who think like us, or do we contribute to orphanages or child rescue missions? (I link to two of mine.)
I’ve been reviewing some church websites. Some are disappointing. They talk about the Bible. Nothing wrong about that—except they stop there. James (teaching from the teaching of his brother, Jesus) tells us there is much more to life in the spirit.
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Gary Mintchell
Faith Venture 