[:en]James is the brother of Jesus and one of the leaders of the church in Jerusalem. He gave a practical advice with a theological discourse on the relationship between faith and action. He contrasted empty faith with faith that works and encouraged believers to love and serve others as evidence of true faith.
TRIALS AND TEMPTATIONS (vs. 1-18)
When you face trials, consider as an opportunity for you to test your faith and develop perseverance. Turn your hardships into times of learning in order to make you complete and grow into maturity. If you lack wisdom, you should ask God who will generously give you. Ask God’s wisdom to guide your choices. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt because you will not receive anything from the Lord if you are a double-minded man. Doubt leaves a person as unsettled as the restless waves. If you want to stop being tossed around, rely on God. Stabilize your wavering or doubtful mind by committing yourself wholeheartedly to God.
God does not measure a man by his material possessions. The poor should be glad that riches mean nothing to God. The rich should know that money can easily be lost. True wealth is found in our spiritual life, and not on our financial assets. God values was on the lasting (our soul) and not on what is temporary (money and wealth). So treat each other fairly and respectfully. Those who persevere under trials and stood the test will receive the crown of life.
Temptation does not come from God. It comes from evil desires inside us which grow and become destructive. God tests people but He does not tempt. Sometimes, He allows Satan to tempt people in order to help them grow in their dependence on Christ. Resist yemptation by turning to God for strength. Do not blame others or make excuses for evil thoughts and wrong actions. Instead, accept responsibility for wrong doings, confess them and ask for God’s forgiveness. “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows”. (vs. 17)
LISTENING & DOING (vs. 19-27)
“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to angry, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you” (vs. 19-21)
Do not merely listen to the word, but do what it says. Tame your tongue and control your speech. Put God’s word into practice by caring for the orphans and widows.
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