James 1

We are not completely sure who James was. James could be the brother of Jesus and leader of the Jerusalem church. He starts with the scattered 12 tribes in his salutation, so he probably had Jewish roots and audience. Israel had 12 tribes. The Book of James is a very practical (lots of ethical advice) book.

James knows that trials go with being faithful. An easy faith is no faith at all, just luck. James is encouraging people to persevere. Maybe the worst place to be is not that of an unbeliever but that of a fence sitter, a doubter. You are naturally unstable and you never know where you will land. Trust God to deliver!

James lifts up people of humble means. Riches are of little use when the real things that matter in life come along. They get in the way of a relationship with God.

Temptations to fall away from God through bad actions come from within us. We cannot blame anyone else, even God. Temptations given into lead to sin. Sin leads to death. Christians are called to be different, a new kind of being who blesses others (and does not harm or hinder others.)

Listen and stop trying to argue your point. Check your anger. It will not serve God's purpose. Draw on the Christ within you to withstand the temptation to get mad and talk without hearing out your neighbor.

Stop soaking up sermons and Bible reading without applying it to your life. Stop forgetting who you are but hearing the Bible but not doing it. Your identity is not found in the noise of life but in applying the Bible in day-to-day living.

 

If you are a gossip or constantly talking and giving your opinion, you are not Christian. Helping those in need shows you are actually listening to God and applying His Word.