Christian Devotional – November 21, 2015

Read James chapter 4

VERSE:

James 4:9–Grieve, mourn, and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom.

TRUTH:

This sounds so contrary to what we typically hear people say. In this case, with the context of the verses before it, we need to get rid of the sin in our life. Often, we become prideful and find joy and laughter at the expense of others. We begin to feel that we are improving if we are stepping on others. Instead of feeling built up by this, we should be grieved by how we are treating others. As we seek to come and draw near to God, these are the types of behaviors that should cause us sorrow and sadness. Will we repent?

RESPONSE:

Father, I know that You are holy. Allow me to see my actions as You see them. Keep me from pride that will blind me to how others feel. Change any ungodly laughter and joy into mourning and gloom she that I can be humble in Your presence and reflect only You.