Vince Miller Podcast

magine gripping an Olympic barbell, its cold steel pressing into your palms. Now, with every word you speak, imagine spotters steadily adding weight—one pound at a time. Each phrase makes the bar pounds heavier until it becomes unbearable. That’s the kind of weight spiritual leadership carries. This devotional is about 1100 words long. Just imagine trying to deadlift that—not a chance, right? That would be an record, If I were able to lift it. And yet, that’s the reality of teaching God’s truth. In James 3:1-2, we’re reminded that those who teach will be judged with greater strictness. So, how do we step up to the bar without being crushed? Let’s dig into that together. Welcome to the Daily Devo. Our text today is James 3:1-2. Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body. — James 3:1-2 James opens this chapter with a warning: not everyone should aspire to be a teacher. And what is his reason? Teaching God’s Word comes with weightier spiritual responsibility and accountability because it carries the power to shape others’ faith and lives. Misusing this gift can cause spiritual harm, so James emphasizes the weightier judgment for teachers. And honestly, these verses have always humbled and incited a holy fear in me—which is necessary for the spiritual teacher. Just so you know, I think about this every day as I approach God's Word—if I am rightly handling the weight of the Word. I do my very best to dig deep and let God's Word speak precisely as the original author intended so that I make applications to our lives that are as surgically correct as possible. But even though James warns spiritual teachers about the weight, he also acknowledges a universal truth: we all stumble or struggle to bear the burden of the weight, which reminds teachers and every one of us with a mouth about the weight of our words. For the Disperions of believers James addressed, this was a warning about the dangers of false teaching and spiritual pride. In a time of persecution and fragile church communities, their words mattered deeply. Teachers had to rely on God’s truth, not their cleverness or ambition, to guide others rightly. Today, this truth is just as critical. God's Word reveals the way, the truth, and the life. Whether you are teaching it from a pulpit, leading from it in a small group, or mentoring someone one-on-one, the weight of your words about God's Word is real. Here’s the key I always try to remember when communicating God’s Word: it’s not about my ability or strength to carry its weight. When I teach the Word, I rely on the All-Powerful God who spoke it. I let its weight rest on me and then share it with you. In the end, my prayer is that we both entrust our lives to the One who can truly bear that weight—Jesus Christ. Here’s the good news: Jesus came to carry the burden we could never bear. He lived the perfect life we couldn’t live—He never stumbled in word, action, or thought. And on the cross, He bore the crushing weight of sin for you and me, paying the price so we could be free from its burden. Today, you have the opportunity to let go of that unbearable weight. Jesus invites you with these words: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). You can let go of the barbell. All you need to do is surrender to Him. Confess your need for His grace. Believe in Him as your Savior. And follow Him as your Lord. If you’re ready to make that decision, pray this with me: “Jesus, I can’t carry this weight anymore. I’ve stumbled in many ways and need your forgiveness. Thank you for living the perfect life and dying for my sins. I believe you rose again, conquering sin and death. Today, I surrender my life to you. Be my Savior and my Lord. Amen.” If you just prayed this...

What does spiritual maturity look like in action? James 2 offers a powerful blueprint: impartiality and living works. Summary: James 2 challenges believers to grow in spiritual maturity by practicing impartiality and linking their faith to action. Impartiality obliterates prejudice by recognizing that all people are equal before God, while living works demonstrate the evidence of a genuine, active faith. Spiritual growth requires stopping favoritism and actively serving others, reflecting God’s standards through both belief and behavior. Reflection and Discussion Questions:

What do Abraham, a patriarch, and Rahab, a prostitute, have in common? At first glance, it seems nothing—one is a giant of the faith, the other a woman with a checkered past. Yet James places them side by side, using them as examples of how men and women of living faith should aspire to live. Welcome to the Daily Devo. Our text today is James 2:21-26. Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works; and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”—and he was called a friend of God. You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way? For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead. — James 2:21-26 Abraham’s faith is legendary in the Bible. It led him to the ultimate act of trust—total obedience to God and the willingness to offer up his son Isaac on the altar. Even though God did not let him carry out the final act, Abraham’s willingness to follow God’s command revealed a faith so deep and complete that he became known as the Father of Faith. This wasn’t just about belief; it was about belief that acted. His legacy of faith became the foundation for generations to come, marking him as a friend of God and a model for all who follow. Rahab’s story, though seemingly different, echoes the same truth. As a Gentile woman with a sinful past, Rahab had no reputation to lean on—only a choice to make. Her faith moved her to risk her life by hiding Israelite spies and helping them escape. This single act of courageous trust in God not only saved her family but also grafted her into the lineage of Jesus Christ. Her legacy? Proof that faith can transform even the most unlikely life into a story of redemption. What binds these two together is a faith that moves—faith that acts, responds, and lets God write the story. Abraham’s faith shaped nations. Rahab’s faith redeemed her family and secured her place in history. Faith that moves writes stories that endure. So, what story does God want to write with your life and faith? The only way to find out is to live out your faith through action. Remember, Jesus didn’t just speak of love—He demonstrated it through the ultimate act of obedience and sacrifice. Leaving the glory of heaven, He took on human form and laid down His life on the cross for our sins. His unwavering faith in the Father’s plan was lived out in perfect action, securing redemption for all who believe. Jesus went all in for us—now it’s our turn to live all in for Him. #FaithInAction, #LivingFaith, #TrustAndObey ASK THIS:

Have you ever met someone who talks a good game but doesn’t back it up? Whether it’s the friend who promises to help but never shows up or the coworker with big ideas but no follow-through, we all know the frustration of empty words. James confronts a similar issue when it comes to faith: faith without action is like words without deeds—it’s empty. Welcome to the Daily Devo. Our text today is James 2:18-20. But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder! Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? — James 2:18-20 James makes a comparison today on a topic he has already been building on. He presents a fictional debate between two people who live in two ways: one who claims they have faith without evidence and the other with faith with evidence. This comparison cuts to the core of a decision for Jesus that demonstrates no decisive change. In James' mind, what we might think of as "easy believism" might be a belief, but it is not a living, working, and active faith in Jesus. He calls it foolish, useless (James 2:20), and dead (James 2:17). He then makes another comparison to emphasize the preposterous nature of the logic of "easy believism." He highlights that demons themselves hold an orthodox understanding of God’s existence and oneness. They acknowledge the truth of God's sovereignty. They even tremble in fear because they know God's power and authority. However, their faith is not a genuine saving faith because it fails to produce evidence of authentic faith. Their belief does not produce signs of repentance, obedience, or a transformed relationship with God. God is merely a fact they cannot deny, yet it does nothing to change their rebellion. The shocking implication is that "faith without evidence" is similar to the "faith" of demons. Both may believe God exists, believe he is one, know God is sovereign, and tremble in fear before God but demonstrate no demonstrative. Faith that is not demonstrative is demonic. James challenges his readers to examine their proclamation of faith carefully. Is it only acknowledgment, like the demonic, or is it demonstrative? The easiest way to begin is by connecting your faith to straightforward action. Here is a list of seven actions you could take to connect your faith with action. Choose one. Commit to doing it, and let's demonstrate authentic faith to those around us. 1. Serve Someone Look for an opportunity to help someone in need, whether a neighbor, coworker, or stranger. It could be as simple as lending a listening ear, sharing a meal, or helping with a task they can’t handle alone. Faith in action serves others selflessly. 2. Speak Life Be intentional with your words. Encourage someone who might be struggling or share a Scripture that has impacted you recently. Let your speech reflect the hope and truth of Christ. 3. Step into Obedience Identify one area where God has been calling you to obedience. Maybe it’s forgiving someone, confessing sin, or starting a new habit like daily prayer. Take the first step today, trusting that God’s strength will carry you through. 4. Practice Generosity Give something tangible—a financial gift, your time, or resources—to someone or an organization that could use it. Generosity demonstrates trust in God’s provision and care for others. 5. Reflect God’s Love at Home Sometimes, the most challenging place to live out our faith is with those closest to us. Show patience, kindness, or humility to your spouse, children, or roommates. Let your actions match your faith in Christ’s transforming love. 6. Commit to Growth Spend intentional time with God by studying Scripture and praying daily. Then, look for ways to share what you learn with others, making your spiritual growth an encouragement to their faith. 7. Stand for...

What good is your faith if it sits on the bench instead of stepping into the game? James warns us today that true faith doesn’t stay idle. It moves, takes action, and meets the needs of those around us. Faith that doesn’t act is dead—lifeless, useless, and disconnected from God’s purpose. So, is your faith alive and thriving? Or does your faith need a resurrection? Welcome to the Daily Devo. Our text today is James 2:14-17. What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. — James 2:14-17 To be clear, James isn’t suggesting that works save us. Salvation is by faith alone, through the finished work of Christ on the Cross. What James is saying is this: true, saving faith produces visible evidence. A faith that doesn’t show itself in action is not alive—it’s counterfeit. James’ message cuts straight to the heart of Christian apathy. If we claim to follow Christ, we can’t just say it; we must show it. If I believe in a God who loves, then my life must overflow with love. If I trust a God who provides, my actions should reflect generosity. And if I know a God who forgives, then I must extend forgiveness and mercy to others. Faith that works isn’t optional—it’s essential. James paints a vivid picture: if you see someone shivering in the cold and starving and all you offer are empty words, “You’ve got this!” you’re missing the point entirely. They don’t “got this.” They’re cold. They’re hungry. Real faith doesn’t drive by; it stops, steps in, and meets the need. Here’s the hard truth: selfishness and a desire for convenience lie at the root of dead faith. We avoid helping because it disrupts our plans, our comfort, or our resources. But a living faith embraces the inconvenience because it reflects the sacrificial love of Christ. Faith that works, works. This year, don’t just proclaim your faith—live it. God didn’t just say He loved us; He demonstrated it by sending Jesus to die for our sins. Jesus’ sacrifice is the ultimate act of faith in action. If you’ve experienced His love, let it move you to love, serve, and act in ways that reflect Him. Take a moment to examine your heart. Is your faith alive and active, or does it need a resurrection? Confess where you’ve fallen short and ask God to breathe life into your faith so it overflows into your actions. Lord, I confess that my faith has been stagnant in too many areas of my life. Thank You for showing me mercy through Jesus. Help me to live out my faith by meeting the needs of those around me and showing Your love through my actions. Amen. If you’re ready to get off the bench and into the game, write “I’m in the game” in the comments below. Let’s live a faith that moves, reflecting the God who moved heaven and earth to save us. Join me tomorrow as we continue our study through James! ASK THIS:

What if one mistake made you guilty of everything? According to James, that’s exactly how God’s law works. But here’s the lifeline: God’s mercy steps in where we fall short. The 1% we can’t earn but desperately need is available in Christ. Welcome to the Daily Devo. Our text today is from James 2:10-13. For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become guilty of all of it. For he who said, “Do not commit adultery,” also said, “Do not murder.” If you do not commit adultery but do murder, you have become a transgressor of the law. So speak and so act as those who are to be judged under the law of liberty. For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment. — James 2:10-13 God’s standard is perfection. Breaking just one part of His law makes us guilty of it all. Think about that: one small sin in a lifetime of goodness still leaves us entirely guilty before a holy God. His law reflects His perfect character, and breaking even one command dishonors the Lawgiver Himself. That leaves no room for pride, comparison, or judgmentalism—we’re all in the same boat. As Paul reminds us in Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” But here’s the good news. James points us to the “law of liberty,” the freedom we have in Christ because of God’s mercy. Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection are the proof and provision of that mercy. The question is: will you receive it or reject it? Rejecting Jesus is rejecting mercy itself. And if we receive His mercy, we’re called to reflect it—because withholding mercy reveals we haven’t truly accepted it. Are you ready for God’s final judgment? Without Christ, none of us can stand before God’s perfect standard. But through God’s mercy in Jesus, we’re offered forgiveness and freedom. If you’ve been relying on your own goodness, it’s time to trust in God’s grace. Confess your sins, big or small, and place your faith in Jesus. His mercy sets you free from the law of sin and death. Here’s a prayer to take that first step: “Lord, I confess that I fall short of Your perfect standard. Thank You for the mercy You’ve shown me through Jesus. I surrender my life to You and ask for Your forgiveness. Help me to walk in Your grace and extend mercy to others. Amen.” If you prayed this prayer today, write "I choose Jesus" in the comments below and follow me daily as we study the bible. I would love to be your mentor as you begin the journey. Let's live all in for him, who lived all in for you. #GodsMercy, #FinalJudgment, #James2 Ask This: Do This: Choose Jesus and choose mercy. Pray This: Lord, I confess that I fall short of Your perfect standard and need Your mercy. Thank You for offering forgiveness through Jesus; help me to live in Your grace and share Your mercy with others.Amen. Play This: Mercy.

Two people walk into church. One is a polished executive, exuding confidence and commanding attention. The other is someone worn out by life, with tattered clothes and weary eyes. Who catches your attention first? The confident one, or the struggler barely holding it together? How we respond to these two reveals what we truly believe about God and His church. Welcome to the Daily Devo. Our text today is from James 2:5-9. Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him? But you have dishonored the poor man. Are not the rich the ones who oppress you, and the ones who drag you into court? Are they not the ones who blaspheme the honorable name by which you were called? If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing well. But if you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors. — James 2:5-9 James reminds us that God’s kingdom flips our understanding of value upside down—or perhaps, sets it right side up. What the world prizes often holds little worth in God’s eyes. In fact, worldly values can blind us to true spiritual worth. God doesn’t measure value by appearances, achievements, or accolades but by His love, His law, His promises, and the honor of His name. True value, then, isn’t something we decide—it’s defined by God. James highlights that those who lack material wealth are often more aware of their spiritual poverty than those who rely on their own resources. Why? Because the poor depend on God, not on what they can offer themselves. This means that the world’s values—money, status, power—don’t carry the same weight in God’s community. Instead, James gives us the royal law: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Favoritism fails, but love fulfills the royal law. If favoritism has taken root in your heart, now is the time to bring it before God. Just yesterday, I caught myself slipping into a judgmental spirit. My thoughts were swirling about people, situations, and moments from the day. Then, I read these verses and was convicted. While James applies this to favoritism in the church, the root issue is the same: a judgmental heart. I had to speak God’s truth to my thoughts, repent, and confess my sin to Him. Even though no one else knew, I turned my heart back to the royal law of love. Like me, I invite you to turn from favoritism and judgment. Begin by asking God to forgive you for evaluating people through the lens of worldly standards. Then, pray for His help to see others through His eyes. What step can you take this week to love someone the world has overlooked? Together, let’s value what matters to God and show others the God who values them. #RoyalLaw, #NoFavoritism, #GodsKingdom Ask This: Do This: Repent of favoritism and judgmentalism. Pray This: Lord, forgive me for judging others by worldly standards and playing favorites. Help me to love all people as You do and reflect Your grace.Amen. Play This: Holy Spirit.

Have you ever felt invisible? Maybe you walked into a room, and no one noticed you because you didn’t fit the mold. Imagine walking into a church to seek hope only to find rejection. How you treat others could be the difference between them being drawn to Jesus or driven away from him. And this is what James is concerned about in today's text in James 2:1-4. Welcome to the Daily Devo. If you are new here, it is not too late to get your James Scripture Journal. If you missed a few devotionals you can go back and listen and catch up on our study through James. There are hundreds of us studying the book of James right now, and you can join the community. Let's read the text for today: My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory. For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,” have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? — James 2:1-4 James does not pull punches here. He directly tackles a widespread issue in the church: favoritism. I think we can all imagine this situation: two people walk into the same church. One is decked out in designer threads, radiating success. The other looks like they just crawled out of bed from a hard week. What do you think? What's your judgment? Will you disregard the disheveled and favor the decked-out? Will you ignore the one to seek the benefit and approval of the other? If you do, even within your mind, James defines this as “judging with evil thoughts.” We all have been the target of favoritism and the instigator of it. However, favoritism in the church is a deadly disease to the gospel and the glory of God. When we come to a gathering of believers in "judgment mode," judging the people around us we objectify the wrong thing—ourselves. God's church was not designed to be a place to build our network or net worth. It is a place where together we focus our hearts and minds on God, glorifying and worshiping him, not ourselves. This is one of the things I appreciate about the church and the gospel. We are all sinners through and through, redeemed only by his grace, not by factors determined by the government, education, pop culture, net worth, or genetics. Why would we rely on such factors, unless we’ve become judges with evil thoughts? Favoritism reveals our faithlessness. Check your heart this week. Notice how you judge those within your Christian community. Who do you gravitate toward? Who do you ignore? Then ask yourself the hard and reflective question: why do I ignore one and gravitate to the other? Then, make it a point to intentionally greet or sit with someone you’d normally overlook at church. When you do this, you are glorifying God and sharing the gospel of God's great grace. The same grace he extended to you. If our favoritism reveals our faithlessness, then the gospel reveals God's boundless grace and perfect judgment. None of us can stand before him based on what we wear, what we’ve done, or who we know. We’re all sinners in desperate need of a Savior, and the good news is this: Jesus judges perfectly and welcomes us just as we are even though he demands a change. While we often judge by appearances or selfish motives, Jesus looks beyond the surface. He sees your heart and offers grace—not because of what you bring, but because of what he has done. He lived the perfect life we couldn’t, died the death we deserved, and rose again to offer us forgiveness and eternal life. So today, if you feel overlooked, unworthy, or even guilty of favoritism, know that Jesus offers a better way. His perfect judgment leads to perfect grace. You don’t have to earn his favor. You can accept his gift of forgiveness and trust him to...

Are life’s challenges breaking you or building you into the person God wants you to be? Summary This video explores James 1’s powerful insights into trials, temptations, and integrity. Discover how trials can strengthen and complete your faith, learn to recognize and resist temptations and integrate God’s Word into your actions to live with integrity. This chapter of James provides a practical and life-changing guide to spiritual maturity. Reflection and Small Group Discussion Questions 1. How have trials in your life shaped your faith journey? 2. What steps can you take to view challenges as opportunities for spiritual growth? 3. How do you differentiate between a trial and a temptation? 4. What practical ways can you "abort" temptation when it first arises? 5. How can you better integrate God’s Word into your daily actions? 6. In what areas of your life do you struggle with aligning your hearing and doing of God’s Word? 7. How does your understanding of trials change when you see them as opportunities to strengthen faith? 8. How can community and accountability help you overcome temptations? 9. What does it mean to you to live with integrity in a world full of trials and temptations? 10. How has God used a recent trial or temptation to grow your spiritual maturity?

It is frustrating to see people who claim to be religious act like complete jerks. And this is precisely what James will call out today in James 1:26-27. Welcome to the Daily Devo. Remember, tomorrow, you will receive a chapter study on James 1 on the Vince Miller Show. If you are new here, get your James Scripture Journal now so you can take notes as we study this letter together. Let's read the text for today: If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless. Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world. — James 1:26-27 James gives three marks of an authentic believer. These marks prove our authenticity. They are easy to control, or "bridle," when life moves as expected. But how do you respond when life metaphorically speeds up, hits unexpected traffic, a sudden turn, or an object in the road? Can you then steward your words, show compassion, and stand pure? A few days ago, I embarked on a whirlwind trip to help my son travel from Minnesota to Florida. I flew out of Florida at 1:00 p.m. on Friday and landed in Minnesota. An hour later, we hit the road in his car. We drove nonstop from Friday night through Saturday, finally arriving in Florida at 11:30 p.m. We drove through six states and encountered all sorts of memorable sights. But one incident stuck out. Two drivers behaving recklessly in traffic were weaving in and out of cars. Then, one of the drivers, whose car proudly displayed a fish sticker, took things to the next level when he started yelling obscenities out his window and flipped the bird in a fit of rage. But as disappointing as this was to watch unfold, we all know we have the propensity to act this way. And the true mark of our spiritual authenticity is how, in these moments, we: James is saying that it is possible to "look" religiously perfect. You can have perfect church attendance, vast bible knowledge, pray elaborate prayers, and even give generously, but if your words are habitually unbridled, you have no compassion for the vulnerable, or you cannot stand pure in an impure world, your religion is worthless. This is because religious practices, no matter how perfectly practiced, are meaningless if your heart is not marked by authentic change. A marked heart, not a marked checklist, marks authentic religion. You see, a fish symbol on a car is just a symbol when it does not symbolize the heart of the driver. And James warns us not to let our lives resemble the same. What you display to the world—your faith—needs to be consistent with how you live. That means your words must be consistent. Your hearts must break for the vulnerable. And your life must testify to purity in a world stained by sin. Ask yourself these three questions today and make the necessary changes. If you want, write down the change you need to make in your Scripture Journal or leave a comment below as a testimony to the change you are choosing to make. #AuthenticFaith, #James12627, #TrueReligion Ask This: Do This: Write out the change you are going to make. Pray This: Father, transform my heart so that my words, actions, and life reflect true and pure faith in You. Help me to steward my words, show compassion, and remain pure in a world that often pulls me away from You. Amen. Play This: God, I Look To You.

You roll out of bed, glance in the mirror, and see yesterday’s dinner stuck in your teeth. Instead of grabbing a toothbrush or toothpick, you think, I'll leave that there for a snack later, and you head to work and wonder why everyone’s staring at you when you are talking. Ridiculous, right? This is the picture James paints today of someone who hears God’s Word and doesn’t live it out. Welcome to the Daily Devo. [Get ready for a chapter study on the Vince Miller Show] If you are new here, we are excited to have you. Get your James Scripture Journal now so you can take notes as we study this letter together. Our text today is James 1:23-25: For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing. — James 1:23-25 James compares a forgetful hearer of God’s Word to a man who looks at his reflection but quickly forgets his own appearance. It’s not the mirror’s fault, nor the man’s inability to understand what he saw. The problem is in the follow-through—or lack of it. Hearing the Word without doing anything about it is spiritual negligence. But there’s another kind of man—the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty and acts on it. This isn’t a guy who merely glances at Scripture for a quick fix or a feel-good information. He studies it, lets it reshape his thinking, and then gets to work. His obedience is a response to the liberty Christ has already given him. Truth applied is life amplified. God's Word isn't passive. It is active. But we must let it activate us by applying it and living amplified. #FaithInAction #DoersOfTheWord #BlessedByObedience Ask This: Do This: God's Word isn't passive, so don't be passive—act. Pray This: Lord, help me to not only hear Your Word but to live it out in every part of my life. Give me the courage and discipline to act in obedience, reflecting Your truth daily. Amen. Play This: Act Justly, Love Mercy, Walk Humbly.

Did you know most people forget about 90% of what they hear within just a week? Now consider this—according to the American Bible Society, only 16% of U.S. adults read the Bible most days of the week. Let’s assume they spend a generous 10 minutes a day in Scripture. That adds up to just over an hour a week! But if 90% of what you take in fades quickly, how much of God's Word is truly shaping your life? Maybe it’s time to rethink how we engage with Scripture. This is what James is concerned about today. If you are new here, we are excited to have you. Get your James Scripture Journal now so you can take notes as we study this letter together. Our text today is James 1:22: But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. — James 1:22 James doesn’t beat around the bush. His advice is simple: don’t just listen to God’s Word—live it. He understands something we often forget: information without action is deception. Here’s the stark difference James points out. One group of believers goes to church, listens to teaching, feels conviction, and gathers information about God. But they stop there. They don’t act on what they’ve heard. The other group does the same—except they put what they learn into action. And that’s where transformation begins. Hearing the Word changes nothing until you start doing the Word. So, what do you need to start doing today? Here’s my suggestion. I am here every single day—literally every day! And every day, I give you an action to take. I don’t do this to encourage effort-based salvation but because I believe in the power of small, consistent steps of obedience done every single day. Why? Because small spiritual actions done daily and immediately leave a more profound and lasting mark on your life than a flood of information that you never act on. It’s daily obedient actions in combination with God's Word and Spirit promptings that sanctify change. James boldly confronts us all, declaring believers who hear but don’t act live in self-deception. Remember: A faith that listens but doesn’t live is no faith at all. #LiveTheWord, #FaithInAction, #DailyObedience Ask This: Do This: Listen to the word and act quickly. Pray This: Lord, help me not only to hear Your Word but to live it boldly every day. Show me small ways to act obediently and transform my heart through daily faithfulness. Amen. Play This: I'm Listening.

Have you ever regretted saying something in the heat of the moment? It's like squeezing toothpaste from the tube—once you squeeze it, you can’t put it back in. James knew this too well and offered us wisdom on how to avoid the pasty mess. Welcome to the Daily Devo. [Get ready for a chapter study on the Vince Miller Show] If you are new here, we are excited to have you. Get your James Scripture Journal now so you can take notes as we study this letter together. Our text today is James 1:19-21: Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. — James 1:19-21 James gives us a threefold admonition on hearing, speaking, and anger. He will develop these three ideas in the coming verses. At the end of the week, we will address how to integrate them in our video. He tells us that the human process of gathering and responding to information is flawed. Therefore, we treat people unrighteously, not like God does. However, the issue is not just the speed of our hearing, speaking, or responding; it also concerns the vulgarity and vileness of the information we seed in our hearts and minds. What we need is a new word, the implanted Word of God. The bottom line is that human anger, even our idea of righteous anger, does not produce God's righteousness. Here's your application: Pause, plant the Word, and produce God's righteousness. This is why I believe being in God's Word daily is so important. Let’s be honest—we’re constantly bombarded by things that stir up frustration. The news stokes our anger, careless drivers test our patience, and even our loved ones can push our buttons. But when we let God’s Word sink into our hearts, it transforms us. His Word calms our anger, redirects our focus, and saves us from countless headaches. Once anger’s out, you can’t take it back—let God’s Word soak in and stop the squeeze. So stop being so angry. Get in the Word. Let it soak and seep into your soul. #TamingAnger, #ImplantedWord, #RighteousLiving Ask This: Do This: Don't squeeze the tube. Pray This: Lord, help me to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. Implant Your Word in my heart today, transforming my thoughts and actions to reflect Your righteousness. Amen. Play This: Even When It Hurts.

It’s easy to point fingers when things go wrong in our life: We think, "It’s their fault," or sometimes we dare to think, "It's God's fault." But James cuts sharply through these excuses, showing us another way to look at our situations. Welcome to the Daily Devo. [Get ready for a chapter study on the Vince Miller Show] If you are new here, we are excited to have you. Get your James Scripture Journal now so you can take notes as we study this letter together. Our text today is James 1:13-18: Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death. Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. — James 1:13-18 In this section of chapter one, James turns inward. He is no longer talking about external trials but internal temptations. The challenges that derive from our devious desires. And I think James' sexual-fishing metaphor is spot-on. We get lured and enticed by our own desires. We get hooked and then commit adulterous affairs in our hearts. Then, these adulterous expeditions result in sin that we birth. We are on the hook for them, and they kill us and others. God is not on the hook for temptation. We are. God is good, and every gift he gives is good. You can't blame the hook when you're the one chasing the bait. Today, James is challenging us to take responsibility for our temptations. Instead of pointing fingers at others or God, we need to own our desires, hook, line, and sinker. The correct response is not to blame God for our desires but to surrender our desires to Him. So, what desire has been hooking you lately? Don't skip past this question. Think about it. Identify it. Confess it. Share it [in the comments below]. Surrender it. Pray about it [like we talked about yesterday]. Then, take intentional steps to replace it with God's desires. Remember, the Father of Lights fills your life with good gifts—so ask him for a heart that desires his very best. #OwnYourChoices, #GodIsGood, #GuardYourHeart Ask This: Do This: Stop blaming God. Pray This: Father of Lights, thank You for every good and perfect gift You provide. Help me surrender my desires to You and pursue Your best for my life. Amen. Play This: Hooked On A Feeling.

Doubt—it's that little voice that whispers to us in our trials. It says, "But what if God doesn't come through?" We've all heard it. But today, James warns us that doubt and the whispers of doubt can wreak storm-like havoc on our faith. And we will discover the right response to doubt is surprising, simple, steady, and strong. Welcome to the Daily Devo. [Don't forget at the end of the week, we will do a review of the entire chapter on the Vince Miller Show] If you are new here, we are excited to have you. Get your James Scripture Journal now. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. Let the lowly brother boast in his exaltation, and the rich in his humiliation, because like a flower of the grass he will pass away. For the sun rises with its scorching heat and withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beauty perishes. So also will the rich man fade away in the midst of his pursuits. Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. — James 1:5-12 In my life, trials have a way of turning my heart and mind toward a defensive mentality or a defeatist mentality. I am sure you are no different. When I encounter a trial, I either try to defend myself against the trial, using my own ingenuity to work my way around it or out of it. Or, if the trial goes on too long, I get this defeatist mentality where I want to give up. But this text says there is a far better answer to navigating our trials: It's to ask God [circle those words] for the wisdom we lack in our trials. I hate to say it, but this is the missing step that amplifies the drift of doubt. Too many believers live lives of secret self-exaltation. They spend too much time trying to work a way out of their trials or ruminating on the trials while they drift far into a sea of doubt. Instead, we should be humble, submissive, trust, and turn to God, who can provide wisdom for the trial. And if we do the latter, we are blessed and will receive the crown of life. When trials crash over you, resist the urge to paddle on your own ingenuity or sink into defeat. Instead, stop and ask God for wisdom—that’s the step that anchors your faith and steadies you in the storm. Write it down, circle it, underline it: Ask God. Then trust that he will give it. Repeat it until it becomes a habit because your storm isn’t the problem—it's how you face it. Your storm isn’t the problem—it's how you face it. #FaithOverDoubt, #AskGod, #SteadfastUnderTrials Ask This: Do This: Ask God. Right now! Pray This: Father, in my trials, help me to trust You completely and ask for the wisdom I need. Strengthen my faith so I can remain steadfast and receive the blessings You promise. Amen. Play This: Lord, I Need You.

When was the last time you were really excited about a spiritual trial in your life? Never? Well, wait till you hear what James has to say about that. Welcome to the Daily Devo. If you are new here, we study our way through the bible book-by-book, chapter-by-chapter, and day-by-day. I want you to show up here every day. Here is what you will get: daily devotionals through a chapter for 6 days and, on day 7, a study of the whole chapter. Grab your James Scripture Journal, take notes, and follow along. Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. — James 1:2-4 Highlight these key verses. They introduce the first of 12 factors James addresses to help us “Grow Up Spiritually”—trials. No one likes trials, especially the kind that hit you out of nowhere—a family sickness, job loss, or tragedy. No one celebrates those moments. But that’s not what James means by “Count it all joy.” He’s urging us to look beyond the trial to see its purpose. Trials refine us. They produce steadfastness and build a full, complete faith. Take a moment today to reflect on a current or past trial. Instead of asking, “Why is this happening to me?” ask, “What is God teaching me?” Write it down. Too often, we rush through trials without recognizing how God is using them to grow us. The other day, my wife and I were hit with an unexpected expense. My gut response? Definitely not joy. But once I got past my irritation, I realized God was teaching me something practical—plan better for emergencies. Even I have to work at this, just like you. Complaining won’t help when we worship a God who uses trials to refine us. Remember, trials aren’t setbacks—they’re setups for spiritual growth. Sometimes, you just need to stop long enough to see how. #SpiritualGrowth, #FaithThroughTrials, #CountItAllJoy Ask This: Do This: Ask, “What is God teaching me?” Pray This: Lord, help me to see trials not as burdens but as opportunities to grow in faith and steadfastness. Teach me to trust Your refining work in my life, even when it’s hard to understand. Amen. Play This: Teach Me To Obey.

Imagine living far from home, surrounded by people who don’t understand your culture, your faith, or your struggles. Every day feels like a battle to remain faithful while navigating pressure to compromise. Can you imagine that? I can! To the twelve tribes in the Dispersion: — James 1:1 James opens his letter with a greeting to "the twelve tribes in the Dispersion." These are Jewish converts (now Christians) who have been scattered across the land, originating from persecution following Stephen's death (Acts 8:1). Many of these new believers ran from Jerusalem to escape hostility, only to encounter new challenges in foreign lands. They were strangers in hostile environments, wrestling with poverty, discrimination, and the daily grind of trying to live out their faith in a world that opposed them. But James doesn't just acknowledge and empathize with their situation—he equips and empowers them to live in their situation. This little letter that got passed on from group to group addresses all the practical issues believers were encountering, like trials (James 1:2-4), temptation (1:13-15), talk (3:1-12), and treasure (2:1-9; 5:1-6). At the core, James is calling them to a faith that works itself out in everyday life—one that is not merely thought about but lived out through daily action. I think many believers today can relate to the cultural challenges the Dispersion faced. We live, attend school, and work in cultures that oppose our values and beliefs. Brothers and sisters, we are swimming against the tide. The tide is strong, and for some of us, it is getting stronger. Like the Dispersion, there are some of you who feel scared, scattered, or secluded. However, as you will read in this letter, James's response to them is sympathetic but strong: "It's time to grow up." This message is so relevant to our time. You can complain about the challenges of our culture or bring about change. You do this by being light in the darkness. You live it out. You are the Dispersion—shine where you're scattered. #FaithInAction, #ShineInTheDarkness, #LiveTheGospel Ask This: Do This: Shine where you are scattered. Pray This: Father, help me live out my faith with courage and integrity, even when the world is against me. Strengthen me to be a light, reflecting Your love and truth wherever I am. Amen. Play This: Shine A Light.

Do you have one of those popular names? The one where people call you out in a crowd, and you are unsure if it is you? James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ — James 1:1 I don't have one of those popular names, but many of you do. So when someone yells my name, I take notice. Many years ago, I remember a father stopped by my house to pick up his son, who was hanging out with my son. He came to the door and said: "I'm Vince, here to pick up my son." And I was instantly confused. I was like, "You mean 'Your Vince.'" And he replies, "No, I am Vince," as he points to himself. And I reply, "Don't argue with me buddy..." It took a few seconds to register, but I don't hear people use my name often, so moments like that catch me off guard. But that is not the case with James. James was a popular name in the first century, so since this person addresses the book with a singular name, we have to figure out which James is writing this letter. The 4 Possible James James, the father of Judas (not Iscariot). Luke 6:16Acts 1:13James, Son of Alphaeus (One of the Twelve Apostles).“James the Less.”James, Son of Zebedee (Also one of the Twelve Apostles).Acts 12:2James, the Half-Brother of Jesus.Acts 15:13-21"James the Just." The most widely held view is that James, the half-brother of Jesus, authored the letter. Why? The 4 Reasons Why First, James was a prominent leader in the early church, especially among Jewish Christians in Jerusalem. Second, he is deeply aware of Jewish customs, wisdom literature, and Old Testament themes that reflect this background. Third, early church tradition consistently points to Jesus’ half-brother as the author. Fourth, it makes the most sense since his name stands alone. Everyone in their day would have known we were not talking about any other James other than the half-brother of Jesus. By the time this letter was written, James wasn’t just any leader; he was a man of unwavering faith, known for his integrity and boldness in calling others to live out their faith. The letter's tone matches his character—direct, practical, and challenging, like a spiritual coach urging you to grow up in your faith. It’s hard to imagine a better fit for the author than James, the half-brother of Jesus. Your Name or His Name? James's introduction struck me because he could have easily started with, “James, the brother of Jesus, leader of the Jerusalem church.” But he doesn't. He never flaunts his family connection to Jesus or his leadership position in the church. Instead, he leads with God and Jesus, the subjects that matter, and he is merely a servant subject to them. Which I believe is one of the reasons he doesn't use an identifier here with his name. To him, his name doesn't matter. He is a servant, not a sibling. You see, it’s not the name we have that matters most—it’s the name we live for. James wasn’t seeking fame; he was seeking to make the name of Jesus famous. So what about you? When your name is spoken, what comes to the minds of those who hear it? Are you known for something you do or something you have done, or rather for what Jesus has done and is doing through you? Reflect on this, but more importantly, live for a greater name and be known for him, leaving his legacy ahead and your old life behind. #LivingForChrist, #FaithOverFame, #HumbleServant Ask This: Do This: Live all in for Him. Pray This: Lord, help me to live for Your name and not my own, seeking to make You known above all else. Teach me to walk in humility, reflecting Your love and legacy in everything I do. Amen. Play This: Famous One.

Ever been gripped by fear one moment and overwhelmed by joy the next? It’s a jarring shift, but it’s where God often does His best work. "And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. And the angel said to them, 'Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.'" — Luke 2:8-11 It was just an ordinary night for a group of shepherds—likely quiet, maybe a little boring. Then, out of nowhere, the sky exploded with the brilliance of heaven, and an angel appeared, terrifying them. Can you imagine the shock? Years ago, I bolted out of bed in the dead of night, convinced I’d heard something outside. Grabbing the handgun from my nightstand, I rushed outside into the darkness and cold, ready to defend my family. I made a heroic sweep of the house, only to later laugh about my bravery because I had swept the perimeter in nothing but my underwear and boots. I bet the shepherds had the same protective instinct—but at least they were smart enough to put on pants. But the angel’s words were clear: “Fear not.” So why these words? Because this wasn’t a moment to protect but to praise. The message they heard would turn their alarm into celebration: a Savior had come—not just for the elite but for ordinary men like them. And their response? They didn’t hesitate. They ran, leaving their flocks and fears behind to see the Savior for themselves. Human fear has a way of paralyzing us. But holy fear should not blind or bind us but loosen us toward celebrating what is right and righteous. The birth of Jesus proves that God will never abandon us to worldly fears. He steps into time with a message of hope, joy, and peace, turning our terror into triumph in a baby boy named Jesus. Fear retreats when we run in faith to Jesus. What fear do you need to leave behind today? Don’t just sit there—run to the Savior. Run from fear to the one who saves. #FearNot, #RunToJesus, #FaithOverFear Ask This: Do This: Run from fear to faith. Pray This: Lord, help me to release my fears and trust in Your good news of joy and salvation. Strengthen my faith to run toward You with confidence and peace. Amen. Play This: Fear is a Liar.

Sometimes, there’s nothing like the feeling of comfort of coming home. But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, “Rise, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child’s life are dead.”— Matthew 2:19-20 There’s nothing like the comfort of home. I travel a lot, so I know that feeling well—the familiar bed, the space that’s mine, and the presence of family. Home offers belonging, a comfort that feels incomplete anywhere else. I imagine Joseph and Mary longed for that, too. Egypt wasn’t home; Nazareth was. It was where they grew up, where their family and friends lived. For months, maybe even years, they lived as strangers in a foreign land, protecting the Savior of the world while navigating a season of discomfort and uncertainty. Then, one day, another angel appeared to Joseph, bringing news that must have flooded them with relief: “It’s time to go home.” Herod was dead, and the season of displacement was over. I picture their gratitude as they packed up and began the journey back to a familiar place. But here’s the truth: comfort and discomfort often coexist in God’s plans. For Joseph and Mary, the comfort of going home came after enduring an uncomfortable season that shaped them. Life’s challenging seasons—those moments of uncertainty, stretching, and waiting—are no different for us. They feel foreign and unsettling, but they are also refining. And like Joseph and Mary, we’re never alone. Jesus is with us through every twist, every trial, and every unknown territory. God uses seasonal discomfort to prepare us for his sovereign comfort. Are you in an uncomfortable season right now? Maybe you are in a season today that feels like everything familiar has been stripped away. I cannot encourage you enough to listen closely and look around at what God is saying and doing. God speaks in our discomfort, just like he did to Joseph and Mary. You need to trust that he is present, working in your life, and leading you toward the comfort of home—at just the right time. Comfort is coming, my friend. Jesus, thank You for being my comfort in every season, even in the discomfort. Help me to trust You as You guide me through. Amen. #GodsTiming, #ComfortInChrist, #SeasonsOfFaith Ask This: Do This: Find comfort in Jesus. Pray This: Jesus, thank You for walking with me through every season, both comfortable and uncomfortable. Help me to trust Your timing and find peace in Your presence. Amen. Play This: God of All Comfort.