JAMES 1

JAMES ENCOURAGES BELIEVERS TO ASK GOD FOR WISDOM 

James addresses Christians, those who have placed their faith in Jesus, by word of the disciples who have dispersed to share the gospel message.

Knowing that many of the disciples were facing persecution, James encourages them that trials and testing of their faith will produce strong faith and steadfastness. James challenges the disciples to find joy in the challenges they face, trusting that their faith is being cultivated.

James encourages the believers to ask God for wisdom. For those who ask with genuine faith, God will always answer this prayer and provide wisdom. James understands the temporary nature of riches and urges believers not to boast in their wealth.

Explaining a commonly misunderstood idea, James teaches that although God allows people to be tempted, God Himself does not tempt anyone. Each person is enticed by their own desires, causing them to produce sin and death. James clarifies that every good thing comes from God. The Enemy cannot create anything good, but attempts to distort God’s great creation.

James expresses the importance of being quick to listen and slow to speak. Although it is important to hear and comprehend God’s Word, James encourages believers to respond to what they have been taught. James boldly claims that faith without response is worthless, pointing to the deception found in religion without genuine faith. James provides examples of authentic responses to the news of Jesus, including caring for those in need and remaining resolute in their faith and uninfluenced by the world.

James 1:5 - If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.