This is a book filled with lots of practical wisdom.
When you encounter trials in life, see it as opportunity for faith and character development (Jas 1:2-4). We can always ask God to give us wisdom in dealing with difficult situations, but we have to ask in faith and not doubt (v5-8). God’s perspective of our position in life is different from human standards (v9-11). A reward awaits the one who perseveres under trial (v 12).
The difference between trial and temptation is highlighted (v13-15). God is a giver of good gifts, and in particular, eternal life (v16-18). God effects eternal life through his word. The sin principle in our life can be curtailed if we are not just hearers of his word but doers of it (v19-25).
James gives three practical tests to confirm true faith in God (v26-27):
1. Bridle our tongue – elaborated more in ch 3.
2. Visit orphans and widows – helping those who are not as fortunate in society; this thought is expanded in ch 2.
3. Keep oneself unstained by the world – influenced by the pleasures of this world, leading to covetousness and self-righteousness (ch 4-5:6).
Two Old Testament figures were held up as models of faith-ful people:
Job – endured great suffering and passed the test (5:10-11). Are we in a similar situation? Maybe not comparable in magnitude to what Job has gone through. Take heart, God blessed him twice over in the end.
Elijah – prayed earnestly and in faith (5:17-18). Have we prayed fervently enough to receive from God?
If not, keep praying as God is in the faith stretching business. Our faith will grow as we do or say things in accordance to God's word.
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