Campbell River Baptist Church Campbell River Baptist Church

What does it mean to wander away from God? Why do people wander? What do we do if our friends or family member drift away from the faith? What should we say? Should we pretend that nothing is wrong? Should we talk to a pastor or friend? Should we wait it out?
In James 5:19-20, we read about the responsibility of believers when they encounter Christians who have started to fall away from their relationship with God. James emphasizes the importance of doing something when someone has meandered away from God’s truth. He encourages us to actively engage with the wandering individual, praying for them and doing what we can to help bring them back. The passage highlights the urgency of restoring someone because the stakes are high, and we are called to do something.

As we approach the conclusion of the book of James, we receive important instructions for the community of believers. We find a challenge to understand the difference between a religious community and a spiritual community. What does it mean to have God as an active member of our community? This Sunday is also Mother's Day, and we’ll take time to consider the special role that women play in the community of believers. Please pray for the team as we prepare for this Sunday. We look forward to being with you!

What are you waiting for? What is the thing in your life that you want to see change or come to pass? Maybe you are waiting to finish schooling, or get married, or wanting to become a parent? Or maybe you are waiting for a job opportunity, an advancement in your career or retirement? Or maybe you are waiting for better health? What are you waiting for? James 5:7-11 urges patience and perseverance in the face of persecution and suffering. The passage begins with an exhortation to be actively patient, like a farmer who waits for the fruit of the earth to ripen. He encourages us to not give up and fight the good fight because God’s blessing is coming. Yet, our default response is, “How long must we wait?”

When it comes to money, how much is enough? What number in your bank account would satisfy you? What would you do to acquire more? How far would you go?
James 5:1-6 speaks about the dangers of greed and the love of money. In this passage, James warns wealthy individuals, who have amassed their wealth through unjust means, that they will not find satisfaction but instead will find only emptiness and their eventual downfall. He reminds us that wealth is fleeting and temporary, and it is our character and the impact we have on others that truly matters. When it comes to money, James calls us to examine our own hearts and priorities. Above all else, he encourages us to use our resources for the benefit of others and to pursue righteousness and justice, rather than solely focusing on accumulating wealth for ourselves.

What does God say about our affections when we have eyes and desires for other things over Him? Does the Bible say that God is jealous for our affections? If so, what does that mean?
James encourages us in Chapter 4 to resist the temptation of worldly desires and instead draw near to God. God desires our complete devotion and affection, not because He needs it but because it’s best for us. When we make God the center of our lives, we experience true joy, peace, and fulfillment.
Join us this week as we look at what an intentional relationship with God is, and learn how to prioritize Him above all else. It is a call to surrender our wills and desires to God and trust Him to guide us toward a life that is pleasing to Him.

This Sunday we explored James 4:13-17, which centres around the consequences of making plans for tomorrow, apart from God's leading. We all spend a lot of time planning for, or worrying about the future. Though Scripture does teach us to plan and be prepared for our physical needs, we often forget to plan for our spiritual needs. This week we look at one simple phrase that could change your life.