James 1:21 Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.

Put the sin aside

We often try to start something new to improve our lives. Maybe it is reading more books or trying an exercise program. Whatever it is, in order to start the new adventure for improvement, we have to set aside other less important things. Much more important is when we start our walk with Jesus. We are to get up daily and crucify our flesh. In doing so, we lay aside filthy sin and the wickedness that lives in our hearts. Matthew 15:19 “For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies.

We are to receive the implanted word in meekness. Meekness is power under control–think about a bridled horse. Implanted means that when we are saved God puts His word and the desire to seek it out in our hearts. Seeking out more and more of God is how we improve our lives, but accepting His grace first puts us in His presence for eternity.

Take action

James 1:22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. After the word is implanted in us after accepting Jesus as savior, then we are to act. We are to take what He has imputed and be doers. This is an action word–not a passive word. If we do not act, then we have deceived ourselves. Our lives should resemble Jesus. We should have works out of the overflow of His love. He walked the countryside of Israel to preach, teach and heal.

James 1:23-24 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. Are you the same person in business, family life and work? We are to be real people who are known by the work we do for Jesus. Can you say that in all parts of your life?

Have you been born twice?

John 3:3 Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” All we have read hinges on one person. And He is calling out and asking you, “What have you done with My sacrifice?” Enough written.