Few of us intentionally attempt to put ourselves in God's place. However, as James explains in this passage, our words can reveal underlying attitudes that basically equate to our putting ourselves in a place that's God's and God's alone. In making his case, James presents two case studies: the first focused on how we speak about people and the second focused on how we speak about plans. James instructs us to remember our place in relation to God and to live accordingly.

The news is filled with images and stories illustrating the destructive cycle of hurt, resentment, hatred and violence. What is the source of the breakdown in relationships and society? With pointed words, James challenges us to look inside, to humble ourselves, to recognize our part, and to return to God.

What drives you, and what is it producing in your life? In the midst of a number of passages about the importance and power of our words, James challenges to to realize that true wisdom requires more than talking. There are many who think they are wise, but in reality they are driven by selfishness and envy, and their lives produce division in relationships. On the other hand, those who are truly wise are driven by humility and spend their lives seeking real and deep peace in their relationships.

As James continues in his discussion about the connection between faith and works, he zeros in on a small but potent aspect of our lives: our words. With vivid imagery and many illustrations, James explores the beautiful and dangerous power of words, and invites us to allow the Holy Spirit to purify our speech.

What do your choices, actions and lifestyle reveal about what’s truly at work in your heart? Does your faith in Jesus bubble up into practical acts of mercy and compassion? James challenges us to recognize that faith without action is like a body without breath. And he encourages us to forget yesterday’s mistakes and step into today’s opportunities to live the life that Jesus has created us to live.

James cautions that showing favouritism when newcomers visit the church is entirely incompatible with faith in Christ. To illustrate this, he argues that we should not discriminate between those who the world sees as "movers-and-shakers" and those it sees as "down-and-outers." This is not how God sees things. We are called to live according to a different standard, one that welcomes the powerful and poor on equal footing.

What kind of fruit is growing in our lives? And what does that say about our hearts? James elaborates on Jesus’ teaching, “A tree is known by its fruit,” by inviting us to look into the mirror and examine ourselves. Specifically, he challenges us to pay attention to our speech, our sin, our compassion and our humility.

In the previous passage, James challenged us to find joy in times of trial by asking God for his perspective and focusing on the good things that God can accomplish. James continues today by reminding us of a number of truths that are easy to forget but critical to remember in times of difficulty.

As James writes his letter, he opens with stunning words: “Consider it pure joy…when you face trials of many kinds.” This is certainly not the typical human response to times of difficulty! In the next few verses James identifies the powerful effect of facing trials with God’s perspective, and how to go about getting his perspective.

Walking through seven key scenes following the resurrection, we see relevant messages for our time. Jesus is alive, personally concerned with us, showing us truth, bringing us peace, and giving up purpose. He is risen, and this news changes everything!