Five People Who Can’t Pray
Inconsiderate Spouses – Part 2

Scripture Reading: James 1:2-8

Key Verse: James 3:17

But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.

Yesterday we read that the prayers of the inconsiderate are hindered. Webster says that when something is hindered it is “held back; checked.” We have been trying to do just the opposite with our prayers this month. We’ve been studying how to pray effectively, as Jesus did and taught us to do.

Today the Apostle James reminds us that wisdom from God will be “considerate,” among other things. If we walk with God, gaining His wisdom for our daily lives, then we will be considerate toward others around us. This means that we will be thoughtful of others around us. This means that we will be thoughtful of the rights and feelings of others. A considerate person lives by what is called the Golden Rule: do unto others, as we would have them do to us.

One of the consistent themes throughout the Old Testament was God’s instruction on treating people fairly and ethically. There were times when merchants would tamper with the scales they used to measure grain and produce. They were cheating people out of their fair share. God was angry with these merchants and confronted them through His prophets. God cares deeply about everyone and demands that His people do the same! When we are inconsiderate to anyone, our prayers will be hindered.

Ask God today to keep you sensitive to others around you, looking for ways to encourage them with kindness.

Father, you were thinking of me when you sacrificed your son for the sins of the world. Help me to be thoughtful of others throughout this day. In Jesus’ Name, amen.