Read James 5:16 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
- What does James encourage us to do?
- How does he describe the power of prayer?
- What will be the results?
Reflect
James’ encouragement to believers requires a focus on others. Where selfishness might look like hiding mistakes or shifting blame away, we’re called to demonstrate Jesus’ selflessness by admitting where we’ve gone wrong. Confessing sins, asking for forgiveness, and praying for each other is a powerful way to invite in God’s healing and reconciliation.
We’ve all been forgiven by Jesus’ finished work on the cross, but asking for forgiveness from others when we make mistakes still plays an important role in our lives. Saying we’re sorry enables us to shift our focus off ourselves and onto others. It brings sin and shame into the light of Jesus, reminding us of His ultimate victory over Satan. Scripture promises that He hears our prayers and answers them in the way He knows is best.
How easy or difficult do you find it to admit to your mistakes? Do you have trusted people in your life who are able to pray for you and remind you of God’s Word when you make mistakes? What encouragement can you take from Jesus’ victory over sin and shame?
Respond
Pray through these questions, and write down what God is prompting you to do next. Share with a friend, and take a step to apply it.
Remember
During At the Movies, each week we’ll focus on remembering what we read. If you’re new to memorizing Scripture, start by looking at one section of one verse to remember this week.
Read Philippians 2:3-4 again to remember. If you want to begin by memorizing just part of it, start with this phrase:
“Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.”