Throughout the centuries of Christian history there's been several different viewpoints on wealth. Some believe that we're called to live in poverty, while others believe that wealth is a direct blessing of God. In today's message Pastor Mark clears up one of many important topics within the Church. Continuing us in the book of James, Pastor Mark demonstrates how money itself isn't evil, but what we do with our wealth very well could be. As disciples of Christ, we're called to care for those who are in need. As Pastor Mark points out, it's hard to serve others while squandering our wealth.

Whenever we attempt new things or pick up different roles in the work place, we often rely on guidance and instruction. Those of us who have attempted certain things without instruction have quickly discovered that we don't make much progress. In today's message Pastor Mark will point us to the best set of instructions mankind has ever received. The written Word of God. From questions about our origin to seeking out the will of God, Pastor Mark encourages us to study the Scriptures. Just as the Apostle Paul wrote, the Bible contains reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness.

Time and time again, the Bible calls for us to have understanding and to apply that understanding appropriately. Simply put, some would define this knowledge-application as wisdom. But where do we get our wisdom from? In today's lesson for living, Pastor Mark encourages us to look to the Word of God for understanding and guidance. Most of us are quick to find out that things don't always go as planned when we decide to go about our business without God's council. Reflecting on this reality, Pastor Mark gives us an important reminder to stick to the Word of God, and seek Him in prayer.

Many of us can get so caught up in the business of life that we don't even realize how far ahead we're planning out our lives. This of course reveals to us just how much expectation we're putting into our life span. In today's message, Pastor Mark discusses a topic that all of us have taken for granted. The temporary span of our lifetime. Addressing this topic from the Letter of James, Pastor Mark brings us a very important reminder. All of us know that this life is temporary. But do all of us live a lifestyle that reflects this reality?

Starting your day off with God helps you do life right, because you're choosing to do it together with Him. Today Pastor Mark reminds us that when you put God first, you'll have the peace you need to face whatever happens during the day. Scripture says, be careful how you live, not as unwise, but wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Don't be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. God wants to communicate His will to us and the only way He can do it is when we spend quality time with Him. Friend, don't be a selfie, live your life dependent on God.

Today Pastor Mark teaches that how you view God, translates to how you relate to Him. And how you relate to Him determines how others view Him. The only way you'll ever get an accurate understanding of Who He is, is to spend the time to get to know Him. The consistent study of scripture is the only trustworthy, written resource we have, to gain a healthy knowledge of Who it is we're called to serve. Combine this with meaningful prayer, genuine worship and the examples of godly men and women and you'll soon develop a deep, intimate knowledge of The Lord.

The selfie generation began long before the invention of the smart phone. Today we learn from our text, that James had to address Believers within the church' for the same issues of pride and self promotion, we deal with today. We like to believe and foolishly boast, that we're doing all right, living life by our own rules, when in reality, that can't be farther from the truth. Listen in as Pastor Mark points out, the problem with the selfie mindset, is you wind up in more bondage and conflict than you can handle alone. If you're ever going to live in peace, you have to give up on your selfie lifestyle and get right with God.

No one can serve two masters. Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world, is an enemy of God. Today Pastor Mark says we need to ask ourselves this question. Are you living for God or living for the world? He says you need to be sure, because there's no in between. God is jealous for His children and He refuses to share us with satan and the world. He's jealous for us, because He loves us so much and has our best interest in mind. Friend, if someone or something is luring your affections and attention away from God, leave them right now and come running back to Him.

Today Pastor Mark reminds us that Jesus came to earth, to show us God's love. He never looked down His nose in judgment, at what hurting people were doing wrong, He influenced them with His mercy and grace. In one of His compelling sermons, He said the second most important thing to do as Christian's, is to love others, as much as we love ourselves. And friends, when we fail to love like that, we're breaking God's law. There's only one Judge and that's The One, who's able to save and destroy. We're not in any position to be that person, because we all fall short in God's sight.

Today Pastor Mark teaches that James chapter four is all about, peace and conflict. He explains these are two components in the life of a Believer they struggle with on a regular basis. Where the problem lies is with Christians trying to do life on their own without the One who can help them. We learn that God designed our lives to be lived with peace even when we have conflict, but we have to live by His rules to achieve such a thing. Listen in to learn what adjustments to make in your life to finally experience true peace, despite what's going on in the world.