James 1:16
[16] “Do not err, my beloved brethren.”
We are encouraged in this verse not to go down the path of deception and compromise. So many around us have changed their doctrine, their convictions, and their principles. They play the role of a victim or a martyr, attacking those who are still holding the line. The reality is that they are convicted by their conscience because they have erred from the truth, and refuse to budge.
I have two important questions on my mind when I consider this thought, “Why did they go astray?” and “How can I keep from following them?” These questions can both be answered by looking back in the fifteenth verse leading up to our verse today.
The reason some have erred is that: 1. They lost their joy (vs.2); 2. Divers temptations (vs.2); 3. A lack of patience (vs.4); 4. A lack of wisdom (vs.5); 5. A lack of faith (vs.6); 6. A double mind (vs.8); 7. Riches (vs.10-11); and 8. Temptation, lust, and sin (vs.13-15).
The reason others have not erred is that: 1. They are true servants of God and the Lord Jesus Christ (vs.1); 2. They have kept their joy (vs.2); 3. Enduring patience in trials (vs.3-4); 4. Seeking God’s wisdom, not their own (vs.4); 5. Faith that would not waver (vs.6); 6. A single mind (vs.8); 7. Humility and contentment (vs.9-11); and 8. Endurance against temptation and sin (vs.13-15).
James will turn our attention to the Word of God in the upcoming verses. We know that the Word of God is ultimately what keeps us from erring. The Bible gives us light in a dark world. Purpose in your heart, dear reader, that you are not going to deviate in these last days. Stay with what you know has proven true. Stay with those whom you know are real, and live according to the commandments of the Word of God.