What you want matters. Many times we only address our actions and the outside results, but James tells us that conflict and tension comes about as a result of competing desires at war inside of us.

The concept of personalized truths leads to personalized wisdoms, but biblical wisdom is the application of God's truth. James explores the dangers of false truth and wisdom while demonstrating the qualities that come through God's wisdom and truth.

One of the key traits of a mature Christian is the ability to manage their words. But as with many other things, this is easier said than done! So how to we go about tying our tongue?

Is all faith saving faith? James writes to an audience that claims faith and gives some hard counsel to help them to understand what kind of faith is able to save.

Most Christians would loudly say that church is for everyone, but the Bible is very clear that certain behaviors don't belong in church. The one that James is concerned about in chapter 2? Partiality. What does it mean to treat some people better than others and why is it such a big deal?

Many voices are vying for our attention, and it can be hard to know which ones to listen to. James speaks to his readers helping them to understand how to know what is deserving of our attention and when we ought to be quiet and listen even when we want to react or take offense.

The book of James is a lesson in Christian maturity. He opens his letter with instructions for followers of Jesus as he lays the foundation for them to be "perfect."

Thomas was absent when Jesus showed Himself to the other disciples after the resurrection. When others told him what had happened, he refused to believe it, until something incredible happened and Thomas said, "I've seen enough."

Mary Magdeline wasn't the same after meeting Jesus. Then again, neither are we. When Jesus comes into our lives, we become a new creation.

Ministry is hard, not just for pastors, but for everyone in the business of making disciples. This is why God uses people to refresh His people.