James by Gary DeLashmutt (2010)

Troubles and suffering are an inevitable part of human existence. When faced with suffering we can either use it as an opportunity to grow and build character or become bitter. We are provided with sufficient knowledge to have faith that God has a plan for us and will grow us through Jesus' example on the cross and knowledge that he suffers with us and for us. James also warns of having divided loyalty between God and earthly riches because riches will eventually fade away.

One of the most important aspects of christian spirituality is humbly accepting God's Word. There are four elements of this process: 1) respect and submit to the Word, putting aside our own pride and principles; 2) look intently into the Word and personally delve into God's provisions; 3) look honestly at what it reveals about you, recognizing our own sin and self deception and look at God's grace; 4) take action on what it reveals to you. By humbly accepting God's Word we can start to experience spiritual healing.

Does the author James contradict the author Paul when he describes true faith as faith that works? No, rather they are each describing two different situations. James is arguing against a mere mental agreement with certain doctrines in order to gain God's acceptance. James is describing words that demonstrate living faith and this is consistent with God's promises. Application for readers today starts with personal belief in Jesus' death on the cross and then living a life of taking steps of faith for God. \r\n

There are two different kinds of wisdom, referred to as ?seeds, that each produce unique relational dynamics or ?sowing?. Each sowing results in two different relational ?harvests?. One wisdom results in ?harvest? of moral health and wholeness in relationships. The other wisdom ?harvests? broken patterns of relationships. Trusting in God's wisdom empowers people to relate to others in a sacrificial way.

Major decisions are not morally neutral. In this passage, the author, James, gives an example scenario to show how to reason in decision making. One principle is to consider the immediate reward and principle two considers the ultimate reward. God gives us every reason why we can trust Him in decision making.

There are many ways to grow a prayer life. Three keys to effective prayer include: 1) cultivating a lifestyle of ongoing individual prayer; 2) confessing your sins to one another and praying for one another; 3) praying for a commitment to God's Will.