“Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.” James 1:21
In this verse, James is making a contrast between two things. Can you see what it is? It’s like he is saying, “I want you to clean out your cabinets. They’re filled with junk food, moldy bread, and rotten fruit. Clean out that mess so I can fill them with something that’s healthy and so much better!”
The contrast is between filthiness and wickedness, and God’s saving Word to his people, the gospel. James is saying that if your life is filled with ungodliness, it will be hard to embrace God’s best for you—his Word of truth that is able to save you.
The problem with filthiness and wickedness is that they might feel good in the moment, but in the end, they lead only to destruction. They can’t save us. Only God can do that through the gospel.
Read
“Every word of God proves true;
he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.”
- What does a shield do? How does that relate to God’s Word?
- In what ways do you need to seek God’s Word for protection?
- In what ways have you seen sin not protect you but rather let you down?
Prayer
Father, help us to see that filthiness and wickedness will only leave us empty inside. May we receive with joy your Word of truth that reminds us that you are the only hope of salvation. Our sin can never save us. Our impulses can never save us. Only you can save. You are mighty to save. Enlighten our eyes to love your truth. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
This devotion is adapted from the James Study Guide. Pick up a copy today for only $9.99. The Study Guide includes a 15-week curriculum, a small group study, a group inductive study, as well as 75 daily devotions for your personal or family worship.
