James highlights the importance of not merely receiving (or hearing), the word of God, but responding (or doing) the word of God.

James is practical theology written to believers. If we are going to live out our faith effectively and victoriously, the Word of God MUST be a part of that process.

In our text today, James outlines the good and perfect gifts God gives to believers as a contrast to the temptations of vv.14-15. Just as man is solely responsible for our own sin and death/separation - God is solely responsible for the given to the believer that lead to life.

The reality is that every difficult circumstance we face as a believer can either strengthen us, or become a solicitation to evil. In our text, James teaches us “The Truth About Temptation.”

Last week, in verses James 1:9-11, we saw two examples of trials that affect all of us in one way or another. The trial of poverty (humble circumstances) and the trial of wealth/riches. Today, in v.12, James provides encouragement for believers who have experienced trials, are experience, or will experience trials.

James wants us to learn that the tests of faith we experience are ultimately for our spiritual maturity. Today’s text identifies two types of trials and every believer will face one or the other… the trial of Poverty as well as Wealth. And yes… Wealth can be a trial!

No question that… Christian conservatives are filled with emotions: Anger, fear, sorrow, grief, etc. And understandably so! As believers, we have a Biblical answer! It might not be a popular or pleasing answer to some; however, it is the answer!

In our text today, James 1:1-8, we are reminded that the Christian life is not a life without challenges, tests and trials. Everyday is not a Friday! And certainly this life is not “Our best life!” Our text provides help and even comfort for the believer who is facing trials.

How could someone fire a gun into a Catholic School knowing that there were innocent children inside? As believers, we have a Biblical answer! It might not be a popular or pleasing answer to some; however, it is the answer!

Past weeks learning about common men God used to do uncommon things. Jonah, Elijah, Peter & Paul. We have been reminded that “God is not looking for perfect people, He is looking to perfect people”. In each of these heroes of the faith, we witness God using them to accomplish great things in spite of their weaknesses and even failures/sin. So… knowing sin still exists, and knowing that believers still sin… what does the path to purity look like?