A Simple Calling

I set a recent goal to read my Bible more. It’s a seemingly simple goal, yet also a huge challenge. A few nights ago, I got out my Bible and cracked open the spine to James.

Truth be told, I did not make it past the above first verse.

It was just a letter heading, so it shouldn’t be that hard or complicated to comprehend. Yet, something about James 1:1 stole my breath away.

James understood the greater calling on his life. It is not to “read the Bible more” so that I could “be a better Christian”, though I should read my Bible more. My entire life should point people to Jesus. Consider James’ words as a calling for us, rather than a simple letter heading.

God, thank you for being so good to us. You love us regardless of our actions-even when we do not pray every day or read our Bibles every week. You sacrificed Your son to liberate us from death! Lord, help us devote ourselves to You every day. Lead us to encourage our fellow Christians so that we may challenge each other to know you more and more. We love you.

I, [insert your name here], am [living my life]. I serve God and the Lord Jesus Christ. I am [living my life] to [inspire and encourage] you, the 12 tribes [also known as Christians] scattered among the nations.

James surely knew he was sinful and human- after all, he was the brother of Jesus Christ, himself! Yet, that fact did not hinder him from living to glorify the Lord, and neither should our faults, our pasts, or anything hinder us.

This week, our challenge is to intentionally live your life glorifying God. Sure, that sounds simple and cliché, but it’s hard! Try leaving post-it notes with this verse in places you often see, such as your mirror or on your computer. While you make dinner, help your kids with their bath or cut the grass, thank God for the big and small ways that you can glorify Him each day.