While I was reading the first chapter of James, this phrase caught my attention: “humbly accept the word planted in you” (V.21). At the time, I had a big decision to make and I was struggling to work out what to do.

But as I read “humbly accept the word” I thought, I don’t need to read another book, hear another sermon or get more advice. I just need to do what the Bible says. All the time I’d spent talking to people about my problem had really just been me buying myself more time so I didn’t have to do anything. God had already said everything I needed to know.

It’s not that asking for advice is wrong. But sometimes, we just need to get on and live by the Bible’s words. James was writing to Christians when he gave these straightforward instructions: “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” (V.22).

The original word used in this verse for “accept” means “deliberately and readily receiving what is offered”. Being humble before God means we’re not fighting against what He says or trying to get out of obeying Him. It means we want to read the Bible and follow His instructions.

By: David McCasland

To Pray About . . .

Lord, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path" (Psalm 119:105). I will submit myself to the truth in the Bible and walk according to it with all diligence.