The only thing that can come out is what's in

Bryan continued the James series at Jubilee this week. Another excellent message from one my favorite books in the New Testament. I also love Lamentations, but that's a post for another day.

A few points that hit my heart

1. You are a product of your community.
  Surround yourself with people who are real, loving, and honest. Allow space for people to speak into your life. As Bryan said, if you're not close enough for someone to offend you, how will have to opportunity to forgive? If no one ever rubs you the wrong way, how will you smooth your rough edges? The bible speaks of us as clay, and God uses community to mold us for His glory.

2. When ugliness comes out of you, it's because that's what's in you.
  God uses opportunities when someone hurts/offends/angers/bothers/frustrates/irritates us to show us what's in our own hearts. Repeatedly, Jesus reminds us that what is in the heart is what comes out our mouths. When we live life in community and seek God, the ugliness of our sinful nature is bound to make an appearance. This can be incredibly painful. Sometimes the knocking is so hard because God is really digging out deep issues in our lives. The joy of community is forgiveness and sanctification. God uses these situations in our life to give us an opportunity to repent and to bring freedom in our lives.

3. Pride separates people
  When you value yourself above others either in arrogance or false humility, you separate yourself from others. Protecting yourself from the pain of possible confrontation by withdrawal or a "too deep alarm" isolates you. You are cutting yourself off from the life God has for you in community.

Are you in your community or just around people?