We aren't called to be mindless, naïve, emotionally charged, obtuse people. We must be mindful, wise, joyful, and astute. This means proclaiming the Gospel that quenches all fires and brings reconciliation with the red-hot Eternal God. This means being salt and light, even when people want blandness and darkness. This starts with being a mindful Christian.

The Christian life is one of endurance. As we’ve been covering James, trials produce endurance, ultimately leading to maturity in Christ. These are for our good and given to us by God. On the other hand, indulging in temptations undercut our growth in Christ.

What do you call a person who freely gives up their Queen in chess? You call them the same thing that you call a Christian who doesn't pray. Crazy! That's because prayer is the Christian's advantage in this world. To give that up is to give up a fruitful, joyful, and exhilarating life. To give up prayer is to give up the catalyst to align oneself with the will of God.