Donna Huff

God wants us to be doers of the word, not hearers only as James states in the first chapter. Our tongues can cause others and ourselves many problems. If we can bridle our tongues, that is the ultimate form of self control. If others hear us gossip or lie or just blurt out whatever we believe at the time, Christians and non-christians alike will have trouble trusting us. We will have no witness. When we are lead by the Holy Spirit, He helps us control our thinking and our speech. The quality of our quiet time or woship is US renewing ourselves, taking IN for ourselves. We need to do this so we can give OUT to others. Be a clean vessel for God to use. Faith without works is dead. We can't give what we don't have so renewal is necessary to be a true disicple. Be a great day in the Lord. Donna

I am currently reading a book called "The Way of Agape" by Chuck and nancy Missler. I ran across this and thought I might share it with you since it sums up the question pretty well. Why does God allow trials? 1. because He loves us and he wants us to be healed, to be whole and to have abundant life. 2. so we might see our true selves. 3. so we might hear His voice. 4. so we might choose His way 5. because He wants us to love Him. Good huh? I couldn't believe how this chapter I was reading went along so well with what James has to say about trials. All these things are attainable to us if we handle our trials right. I am still working on this. My first reaction is to be fearful, to run and hide or try to take things into my own hands until they are fixed. I usually end up having to have God fix it all for me only after I have spent a lot of time trying to do it on my own and getting no where. God knows me so well and He is always right there when I finally get it right and turn it over to the One who knows me best. Thank you Jesus. Donna

Hi, my name is Donna. This is my first online study and I am looking forward to this topic on Practical Christianity. I have been a believer and follower of Jesus for many years. Most of the years have been up and down for me as I was a very rebellious person. I have since grown and just want to go back to some practical points on following Jesus. I have not done very well with trials in my life so I decieded to start here with my studies. Thanks , Donna