Bible Verse Friday #21

"Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.  The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results." - James 5:16

Last Thursday in our small group we had discussed the difference between religion and church.
In some opinions religion is a set of rules that can cause division amongst those with common beliefs, whereas, church is a gathering of people who come together to achieve the same goal.

Dictionary.com defines Religion as the follow:
–noun
1. a set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe, especially when considered as the creation of a superhuman agency or agencies, usually involving devotional and ritual observances, and often containing a moral code governing the conduct of human affairs.
2. a specific fundamental set of beliefs and practices generally agreed upon by a number of persons or sects: the Christian religion; the Buddhist religion.
3. the body of persons adhering to a particular set of beliefs and practices: a world council of religions.

and defines Church as:
–noun
1. a building for public Christian worship.
2. public worship of god or a religious service in such a building: to attend church regularly.
3. ( sometimes initial capital letter ) the whole body of Christian believers; Christendom.
 
Regardless of how you define either of these, we must make sure that in both of these that we continue to do God's will and that we make sure we are always reaching out for those in need.
In short, we must remember not to judge.
This weeks verse tells us to confess our sins to each other.
How on earth do we expect people to open up and tell their deepest shames and hurts to us if they forever feel they will be judged by man (or woman)?
As Christians we are supposed to hold other Christians accountable and in some cases that may require gentle correction.
It is so important though that we remember the difference between judging and correcting.
 
In group I explained that when I judge someone I put myself in a higher position than them, however, when I am correcting someone my heart is usually heavy with concern.  Not swelled up with perfection.
As we progress into the weekend try to remember that we are to come to each other for prayer and counsel.
If someone comes to you check your pride at the door and humbly accept them, allowing them to feel welcome and unjudged.
 
As always if there is ever anyway that I can pray for you please feel free to comment with your request or  email me if you wish to keep the matter more private.
I am not perfect.
I am constantly checking myself.
If you think of me, pray that God will help me stay humble and open.
 
I hope you all have a Blessed Friday!