Daily Readings - Mon Feb 17 2020
James
1James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.2My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;3Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.4But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.5If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.6But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.7For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.8A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.9Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted:10But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away.11For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth: so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways.
Mark
11And the Pharisees came forth, and began to question with him, seeking of him a sign from heaven, tempting him.12And he sighed deeply in his spirit, and saith, Why doth this generation seek after a sign? verily I say unto you, There shall no sign be given unto this generation.13And he left them, and entering into the ship again departed to the other side.
Sermon
In preparing the sermon, I began by examining the readings from James and Mark. James emphasizes enduring trials with joy, as they test our faith and lead to patience. He advises seeking wisdom from God with unwavering faith, warning against doubt, which leads to instability. He also contrasts the humble and the rich, noting that true worth isn't in wealth but in humility.
In Mark, the Pharisees demand a sign from Jesus, reflecting their doubt and testing of his authority. Jesus' response highlights his frustration with their unbelief, emphasizing that faith should be present without needing signs.
Connecting these, both readings stress the importance of faith. James encourages steadfastness, while Mark illustrates the consequences of unbelief. The sermon should thus encourage believers to face trials with faith, trust in God's wisdom, and remain humble, regardless of circumstances.
The moral lesson is clear: cultivate unwavering faith, trust in God's plan, and embrace humility. This approach helps believers navigate life's challenges with grace and contentment.