RELIGION ACCEPTABLE TO GOD

Passage: James 1:26-27

Key verse: 27

NIV

26 Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues(A) deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. 27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after(B) orphans and widows(C) in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.(D)

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Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Source: BibleGateway

ESV

26 If anyone thinks he is religious (A)and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's (B)religion is worthless. 27 Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: (C)to visit (D)orphans and widows in their affliction, and (E)to keep oneself (F)unstained from the world.

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The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.
Source: BibleGateway

1. Keep a tight reign on the tongue (26)

Jesus said that the words that come out of our mouths reflect what is in our hearts (Mk 7:21-23). Paul said that the depraved man has a corrupted mouth (Ro 3:12-14). According to James, a person's religion is worthless if he cannot put a bridle on his tongue, that is, what he says should build up and encourage others. Lies, gossip, words that damage another's reputation or discourage him should not come out of our mouths. We must not fall into the trap of the world and allow our mouths to spew out criticism of everyone and everything. We should use our mouths to teach the Bible and to praise God.

2. Look after the needy; keep pure (27)

True religion is not just a matter of what we believe; it is really concerned with how we act. We must have the mind of Christ, and serve those who need our help. We must not follow the ways of the world or our peers into a corrupt lifestyle, no matter how tempting the invitation may be.

Prayer: Lord, work in my heart until I learn the faith that pleases you.

One Word: Faith that pleases God