The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

James 1:1-5, “James, a bond-servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ,
To the twelve tribes who are dispersed abroad: Greetings.
2 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials,
3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.
4 And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and
complete, lacking in nothing.
5 But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously
and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”

As with all ancient written communication, the name of the writer appears early, so as not to confuse the reader. In this short passage, James identifies himself as a “bond-servant” of God and of the LORD Jesus Christ. Simply stated, we’ve got to be something before we can do anything for the LORD’s cause.

The recipients of this letter were separated from one another, which always encourages depression. Yet, James pours on the encouragement! The difficulties you encounter, he says, are merely trials to test your faith. The more you are tested, the greater strength you produce. Everything you encounter makes you stronger in the faith.

But what about wisdom? God is the Ultimate Source of true wisdom. Ask Him for it, when you pray. Remember, too, to pray in faith. If you pray for something, but doubting that He’s going to give it, He won’t! There’s no trust in that kind of prayer. You have to believe as you ask. Who would hire you for a job, if you acted as if you weren’t going to get it? “You don’t want to hire me, do you?” Bosses need men and women who are convinced they can do the work. So it is with the LORD Jesus.

Ask Him for wisdom! Believe that He will give it to you! Behave as if you have it!
He will be with you all the way.

Heartily in Christ Jesus,

(Dado III)

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.
Springdale, Arkansas 72764
United States of America

“We never know that Christ is all we need until He becomes all that we have.” – Corrie ten Boom