Preparing the Self in ALL Ways for the Lord's coming

James 5

Inspired thots

The Lord is really serious about cleansing and molding His people to be the immaculate bride for His coming. This chapter is so into character building through how one is - not greedy or concern about money, be patient with one another and the things to come, endure persecution and suffering, and praying in all situations.

It is all about the heart, the soul, the flesh, the mouth and the spirit.

The heart can be filled with greed - which leads to self indulgence; wanting to make big bucks for a life of luxury on earth (v5)

The soul needs to be trained up in patience - waiting in expectation for the things to come; holding on to what is known and accepted (v8)

The flesh must be pommeled into submission and endurance over the physical suffering or persecution. How blessed I am in this nation of peace and tolerance although there are winds of contention. Prayer is so important to blow them away.

The mouth is a small evil which can spark great trouble. Better to keep it shut than causing harm to self and others. Simplicity in words is best.

All in all, the cherry on the top is prayer to enlighten the spirit. It is important to God to have all His people communing with Him and one another.