In the last eight verses of the letter, James explains that we should deal with suffering, sickness, and sin by praying (intercession with the Lord), and intercession with the person needing it. We are called to be in each other's lives, assisting one another through the trials we encounter.

Loving the world above God is an act of adultery. A stern teaching. And I need this reminder all the time: 15 You ought to say instead, “If the Lord is willing, then we will live and do this or that.” James 4:15

It's a good day when I see this fruit. 16 For where there is jealousy and selfishness, there is disorder and every evil practice. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and not hypocritical.18 And the fruit that consists of righteousness is planted in peace among those who make peace. James … Continue reading James 3. →

In this part of James' letter to the faithful scattered afar, is this well-known question, "14 What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but does not have works?" Indeed. My thought this morning rested on the beginning of the chapter. 2 My brothers and sisters, do not show prejudice if you possess faith in … Continue reading James 2. →

James packs in so many thoughts, commands, etc. into each chapter of his letter it's hard to focus on just one or two of them. But right at the beginning of the chapter this jumped out at me: 2 My brothers and sisters, consider it nothing but joy when you fall into all sorts of trials, 3 because … Continue reading James 1. →