James chapter 5 covers quite a few different topics: money, employment, suffering, forgiveness, patience, oaths, commitments. However, for those of us who live in the U.S., the first several verses (1-6) are the most important. The tension in America about wages is extremely high. Recently – in the last month or so – the U.S. …
The sting in James’ letter is clear here. This section begins by asking a series of questions: “Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members?” (4:1). These questions are followed with serious accusations regarding the listeners intentions and desires. These …
This chapter is quite short and continues the thoughts of chapter 2 regarding a believer’s actions and speech. James has already made the case that actions precede from the beliefs held by the individual. Chapter 3 is a Segway for that thought into chapter 4 but regarding the contents of the heart made manifest by …
An introduction note: I wrote this several months ago but never published it. These thoughts are most certainly incomplete as this idea of a balanced walk in following the Spirit has matured significantly. I hope you are blessed either way by reading my thoughts and journey in understanding the Bible. There has been a great …
Favoritism; what a double-edged sword to strike giver and receiver. While the carnal mind of the favored individual loves the attention, the carnal mind also hates favoring those they deem unworthy of the gift. James strikes both down by reminding us: “Love your neighbor as yourself” (vs. 8). It is extremely easy to be blinded …
While reading through James chapter 1, it became abundantly clear these passages could not be sectioned off chapter by chapter due to the density of the content. James makes extremely clear and concise statements throughout his letter that demand intense attention to fully extrapolate the details he desired his listeners and readers to grasp. One …
Maturity According to Design Please, please, please read James before considering my writings. The depth and punch of each sentence in James carries weight that cannot be adequately addressed in 1000 words from me. I will be limited to addressing the verses my own current experience hails me to consider for my personal growth. If …