Read: James 3:1-2

The things and values God stand for have always been passed from one person to another through oral teaching, which has ancient roots in James' religious tradition.

But James says not every should presume they are qualified to teach others and pass on wisdom. And indeed, people who teach others in the Christian community are to be held to a stricter standard of accountability.

Of course, James concededs that no one is able to live God's value exactly, or else he'd be perfect. Since we are all human, and we all make mistakes, what James is requiring is that teachers keep a closer check over his or her own behaviours and thinking. A teacher must stay open to God's Spirit, especially when he says things we don't want to hear. When the Spirit points out error, we must be quick to acknowledge the mistakes, be quick to make amends and be dligent in dealing with the roots of the problem.

Makes sense, doesn't it? Of all the things we need to be taught as a disciple, this is the most important: how to stay soft and open to the Spirit, and keep doing what he asks.

Write
Think about your faith story: how well do you keep you thinking and behaviour in check? How well do you stay open to God's Spirit? What is an experience when the Spirit pointed out a mistake?

What is currently an area of struggle? How do you protect yourself against failure?

Who do you know have similar struggles, and can benefit from your wisdom and support?

Pray
What is God saying to you today?

Talk to God about your experience of living your faith and keeping your behaviour and thinking in check. Are there things the Spirit is convicting you of presently?

Talk to God about your cuurently area of struggle. Ask God for the courage and trust to stay open to his Spirit.

Pray for your friend who can benefit from your wisdom. Tell God is you are prepare to live by the standard of being a teacher.

Pray for an experience of God's love, grace and mercy as the Spirit coaches you to better behaviour and thinking, and as you teach others to walk closely with him.