But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do. James 1:25 NIV
The Context and Focus:
From yesterday's devotion, it was made clear that the Word of God is a mirror. The mirror is not under my influence or control. It does not show me what I want to see; it shows me exactly who/what I am, and how I look. I then have a choice to ignore particular features or attributes I do not like, or accentuate the ones that make me comfortable, but whatever I do does not in any way change what/who has been revealed by the mirror. If I come back to the mirror a million times, it will continue to show me the things I have not addressed. I can decide to buy a newer or more expensive mirror, but as long as it is a proper mirror, without smudges or stains, it will continue to show me who/what I am. Would it not then be a blessing to just focus on what has been revealed, and trust the One who is Truth to help me address whatever is wrong with my current look, so I can be all that God has created, fitted and purposed me to be? We had looked at the danger of ignoring what has been revealed, and today's verse gives the other view, which is the man who is careful to address whatever has been revealed.
The Message:
What do I stand to gain? The verses above point to about three things that form the right response to the mirror: looks INTENTLY, CONTINUES in it, and DOING it. All three are important. Just as was laid out yesterday, reading/hearing is the foundation to all the good things the mirror wants to achieve. I must not just desire to read or hear, but I must do so with a heart that is hungry for more of God on a daily basis. It cannot be occasional, or haphazard, but a daily and regular commitment to seeking God. The word INTENTLY, which is defined as doing something 'with earnest and eager attention' shows the investment of time and the whole heart into the assignment. It leaves no room for distractions. After reading/hearing, and paying attention to the requirements, it is not a one-off exercise, but a dedication to the demands of God by CONTINUING to obey. I do not do it only when it is convenient, but as long as it aligns with God's command and his timing as instructed, I am quick to DO whatever it is that I have been instructed.
The Conclusion:
The connection of the three elements above must not be broken by inordinate pursuits, selfish desires, or any other personal preferences. I cannot take one element and ignore the rest. If I want the end of the verse above to ring true in my life, I must ensure that my life aligns with the elements discussed above. The Word of God is the mirror that shows me the mind of God; it tells us what God's will is, as well as the impact of man's sin on the world, the application of due punishment for sin, as well as the reward of God for right living. Would it be right to take one part and ignore the other? Would I have a balanced view of God if I only take Him as a God of love, and not also as one who hates and punishes sin? I note also that the blessing pronised by God above seems to be tied to the DOING. it is quite great to read/hear but the blessing is in being able to put into practice the things you read/hear. This makes the difference between someone who just claims the name, and someone else who lives out the name. Which one am I? God's time of favour is here.
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