Proof in the pudding - Mark Cerfonteyn

Have you ever built a very large puzzle with many small pieces? If you have, you would have found that looking at one piece without the full picture doesn’t make much sense. James teaches us likewise, that seeing the bigger picture can help us to make sense of the pieces that make up our lives. (James 5:8) We need to live for Gods greater eternal plan, not only for today or for ourselves here on earth. There is a bigger picture at work. Q - How do you think we can practically live our lives with an eternal perspective? James helps us by sharing 4 things to help us live with an eternal perspective: 1️⃣ Our time is short (James 4:13-14) There is no promise of a future that favors our own plans. But what is true is Gods eternal plan for each of our lives. Q: How would you live life and what choices would you make if you knew you would be face to face with God in few days time? 2️⃣ Our pursuit is God’s purpose (James 4:15-17) All we do and all we aim to pursue in our lives should be submitted to the will and purposes of God. Q - How can we go about our careers and family life, still living in submission to God’s will and greater purposes? 3️⃣ Our blessings are meant to bless (James 5:1-6) James is reminding us that God has blessed us, but also warns us to not think that it was a blessing given only for self indulgence. We are blessed to be a blessing, so others may live! 4️⃣ Our lives here are temporary (James 5:7-8) Don’t set your heart on things of this life. Set your heart on things above and keep your eyes on the bigger picture. God’s greater plan for all of His children.