Today let’s address what James lists as the second step to obedience. Once you have heard the Word and are ready to respond, James 1 says the next step is to remove the things that would hinder you from obeying. “Therefore, putting aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls” (v. 21).
The hindrances James mentions are general categories for sin, the works of the flesh that act like calluses on our hearts and keep us from obeying the Lord. We need to remove these so the soft flesh of the new nature can be revealed, which is where the “want to” for obeying God is located. Heartfelt confession, as described in 1 John 1:9, removes these hindrances and prepares the way for the Word to “save” us. This is not salvation, but the transformation that comes when the Holy Spirit is free to apply God’s Word to our lives.
Read James 1:21. Therefore, putting aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls.
Reflect: How would you define areas of “filthiness” in your life?
Reflect: How have these areas hindered your obedience in the past?
Read 1 John 1:9. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Reflect: According to 1 John 1:9, how do you overcome hindrances?
Reflect: Why do you think James says, “in humility receive the word implanted.”
For His Kingdom,
Tony Evans
Prayer: Lord, give me humility in order to admit when there are hindrances that need to be removed from my life. I ask that You help me to repent of the sins that have gotten in the way of obedience, and help me to accept Your forgiveness gratefully as You cleanse me from all unrighteousness. In Christ's name, Amen.
