From Ordinary to ExtraordinarySample

From Ordinary to Extraordinary

The Apostle James was not always extraordinary. He didn’t show any special promise. He didn’t start ministry as one of the twelve disciples. He originally didn’t believe Jesus was the Messiah. Even worse, in Mark 3:21 we learn that he tried to stop Jesus from continuing His work because James thought Jesus was crazy!

So, isn’t it interesting how God used someone who didn’t have a great start to give us one of the most powerful books ever written? Something powerful happened to transform James from ordinary to extraordinary. The same experience still happens to this day.

After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to more than 500 people—one of those people was his younger brother, James. This encounter changed James’ life forever because, immediately, he believed.

James shows us that extraordinary living starts with an authentic relationship with Jesus. In today’s guiding verse, he calls himself a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. James’ faith transformed him from doubter to doer, from skeptic to servant! And authentic faith produces eternal and extraordinary fruit.

If we believe in Christ as Lord, what’s our natural next step? Surrender.

In what life areas can you follow James’ example and surrender more fully to Jesus?

As you engage with God’s Word, consider:

● What is God saying to me?

● How can I apply what God is teaching me?

● How can I be specific in prayer today?

After you reflect on these questions, bring everything to God in prayer.