James 1:

25 But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom and perseveres in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer who works – this person will be blessed in what he does.  

26 If anyone thinks he is religious without controlling his tongue, his religion is useless and he deceives himself.

27 Pure and undefiled religion before God the Father is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained from the world.

The one who doesn’t forget. The one who stays true to God, His Kingdom and His Word, this one lives to please God and walk in His ways. This one will be truly blessed. His heart is focused on God, his relationship with Him and everything that matters to Him. He seeks to please an audience of One.

I must confess, the placement of verse 26 in this passage seems random to me. Though it does speak of true religion. Interestingly, religion here is not in reference to ritual or church involvement. It refers to caring for orphans and widows in distress. Our neighbors who are in need. Others. Loving and caring for them when they are in need.

Also, to keep ourselves unstained from the world. We touched on this before. Not an easy thing to do when it is demanding our attention. Many times, I have read with great inspiration, “The Practice of the Presence of God” by Brother Lawrence. I love Brother Lawrence’s simple life, working at his menial tasks for the love of God. Seeking to please Him in all He does. Staying focused on Him no matter what he’s doing. I highly recommend this book. The Practice of the Presence of God: Lawrence, Brother: 9780883681053: Amazon.com: Books

This ends chapter one of James. Our next posts will be chapter two. Let’s see how this unfolds!