[Practical Application Review – Week 44]
Greetings,
We continue our journey of exploring all 260 chapters of the New Testament, five (5) chapters each week. Let us finish the book of Hebrews and start in James.
Schedule – Week 44:
Please read and/or listen to Hebrews 12, 13 and James 1, 2, 3
Even though reading and listening to the Bible being read is valuable, our primary goal is learning to live the Bible (to the best of our ability).
Consider our Practical Application Review process…
For “every” chapter:
Step 1: Select a passage of interest
Step 2: Identify area of teaching
Step 3: Consider a practical application
Now let us explore an example (of our three-step process) for each of these five chapters…
Text #1: Hebrews 12
Passage: (vv. 5-11)
Teaching: Our God corrects His sons and daughters. Rebuking, chastening and disciplining so that we might become partakers of His holiness. And trained to produce fruits in peace and righteousness.
Application: Thankfully our Lord God will not just let us go on our own to our devices. He pulls us back toward Him. I am most grateful for His discipline, as I desire to become my very best version.
Text #2: Hebrews 13
Passage: (vv. 1-3)
Teaching: Let brotherly love remain in you. And be hospitable even to strangers. Remember those who are in prison, as though you were a prisoner with them. And remember those who suffer adversity.
Application: The Christian faith is where each of us are expected to love others. I also can be of help to strangers and travelers. Plus, Christians in prison all over the planet. Especially those in pain and suffering.
Text #3: James 1
Passage: (vv. 5-7)
Teaching: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to everyone. Be sure to ask in faith and not doubt, otherwise, expect to receive nothing.
Application: I am always in search of wisdom. Each day seems to bring new challenges. With God’s help, we shall endure and overcome all things.
Text #4: James 2
Passage: (vv. 1-5)
Teaching: Be careful not to show preferential treatment. Good to some while not to others. Remember, God has chosen those who are poor, yet rich in faith.
Application: I am happy to connect with people, whether rich or poor. Honestly, I enjoy the conversation far more than a person’s appearance. The older I get, the more casual I seem to become.
Text #5: James 3
Passage: (vv. 8-10)
Teaching: But the tongue no man can tame. It is an unruly evil. Full of deadly poison. We bless our God and curse fellow human beings. From the same mouth, both should not proceed.
Application: I have learned that some circumstances cause me to become far worse. When I am hungry or get too little sleep, I can be a real bear. Let us be extra careful whenever weak.
“Under the Shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91:1),
Shawn Episcopo