Enjoying the Bible

James, the writer of the Book of James, has been accused of saying that justification by faith must be proved by good works. It was not until I read the book "Once Saved, Always Saved" by R T Kendall that I understand the Book of James better.

James believed in the doctrine of faith alone saves. He made it explicit in James 2:23, "Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness".

James was concerned for the poor and he wanted to come to their defence.

What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? [James 2:14]. What James meant here was with reference to what faith will do for other people. Can our faith save the poor?

If we just say to the poor and needy, "God bless you" and then walk away, what good does that do to the poor?

Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? [James 2:15-16].

This book contains so many nuggets of truth that it knocked my socks off!

If you feel prompted to find out more, you may want to get a copy of the book HERE.

Labor Pains

John 16:21-22 likened Jesus' disciples to a woman in labor.

²¹A woman, when she gives birth to a child, has grief (anguish, agony) because her time has come. But when she has delivered the child, she no longer remembers her pain (trouble, anguish) because she is so glad that a man (a child, a human being) has been born into the world.

²²So for the present you are also in sorrow (in distress and depressed); but I will see you again and [then] your hearts will rejoice, and no one can take from you your joy (gladness, delight).

John 16:33 is the epidural:

I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.]

This series of free pregnancy e-books serves to give an idea of the pregnancy experience. Very suited for men. May this series help in relating better to John 16:21-22 when we experience labor pains in our Christian walk. For a start, may it help the men love and appreciate their wives just that little bit more.

General	Survival Tips
Getting Pregnant	1st Trimester Survival Tips
Man's Role During Pregnancy	2nd Trimester Survival Tips
Pregnancy Cook Book	3rd Trimester Survival Tips