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James 1:22-25 is arguably one of the most familiar passages in James, encouraging believers not only to hear the Word but be a doer of the Word. Based on the context of 1:19-21, James is calling believers to hear biblical truth. This passage takes that idea further, calling believers to remember what Scripture has taught by applying it to their own life. Pastor explained it in a way that hit a little closer to home for me: it's easy for me to forget how God is working in my heart only twenty minutes after I read my Bible. What is the regular rhythm of my interaction with Scripture? How often have I been guilty of this?

After thinking through a few simple ways to apply this, I want to focus on how we can encourage one another in our meditation of Scripture. A good starting place is how we interact with each other at our gatherings every Sunday. After the sermon, we are usually quick to start talking with one another about the previous week or other topics. These conversations are good! A church family should interact with each other in a way that seeks to live life together. However, these conversations are also a good opportunity to discuss what God is doing in my life after hearing his Word preached. What if the first conversation I have after the sermon this Sunday focused on how God used his Word? Instead of starting conversations by asking others about their week or shooting the breeze (which, again, aren't necessarily wrong), I should start by talking about the ways God has pricked my heart in the sermon I just heard.

As we think about encouraging one another to mediate on Scripture, this provides a small piece of the puzzle toward spiritual growth. I recognize this might feel awkward, but do not let that stop you from sharing what God is doing in your life. Pushing one another toward being doers of the Word is worth the awkwardness. This Sunday, join me in taking opportunities to share with one another. Whether broaching the topic yourself or interacting with someone who brings it up, may God be pleased as we point one another to him.