“Seven Marks of a Mature Believer”

In this message concluding our study of the book of James, we examine seven traits that are apparent in the lives of mature believers.

“P.R.A.Y.”

James teaches of the prayer of faith. There is hope in God. All you have to do is go to Him for spiritual help. We must drop our pride and let His people love us. In our prayers, we are directed to “P.R.A.Y.” — P-raise Him, R-epent of your sins, A-sk for the needs of others, and lastly, pray for Y-ourself.

“Long Fuse or Instant Heat”

James teaches in James 5:7-11 that patience, that is, having a “long fuse,” is a measure of spiritual maturity. Patience is a virtue that conflicts with our natural tendencies, particularly in 21st century American culture.

“If Rust Could Talk”

In James 5:1-6, James offers a stern warning about how we use our wealth, teaching that we should not store our wealth, but instead use it for for the work of God.

“Are We Crazy, Man?”

There’s a battle going on within each of us, in which we seem to believe that we should be the center of the universe. We bring God into the mix, by wrongly praying for our own desires. We even do church as conveniently as possible, with worship services at 17 different times on Sunday, and commitments to serve in church only once every few weeks. Are we crazy, man? James teaches in James 4:1-12 that we must submit ourselves to God, humbling ourselves before Him, and He will lift us up.