”But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does.” [James 1:25]
Do you ever feel guilty when someone is telling you what they learned in their quiet time—and hope they don’t ask you what you learned in yours? Do you long for a greater intimacy with the Father? Or perhaps you have experienced the joy but at the moment wonder where the joy has gone. First, don’t feel guilty but keep on returning to the habit of being intentional about seeking Him morning by morning.
In this one verse James wraps up what it takes to experience the joy and freedom of being a follow of Christ. Let’s look at one word more—INTENTLY.
Intently means to firmly fix or concentrate—or having the mind fastened upon some purpose. Finding freedom is one of the promises attached to James’ recommendation but it’s not ‘hit and miss’; it’s something that requires a habit formed by ‘continuous’ application. We tend to think that freedom and joy come with salvation. Deliverance comes with salvation, but to activate the gift of freedom and joy that deliverance provides, we have to unwrap the gift—look into the gift—and be a partaker of the gift.
Check out what God is saying in His Word every morning—write down what you see—write down what you hear—write down the questions you have and leave a space for the Holy Spirit to give the answers. His voice will quietly give you answers, and freedom will overflow your heart with joy as you intentionally… just do it!
Diane M. Hale
For the past 30 years, Diane has served as evangelist, trainer, teacher, mentor, and consultant for churches of many denominations.
