We begin our study of the Minor Prophets with our study of Hosea.

James calls the church to be patient as we wait the return of the Lord - patience is a trusting in the sovereign providence of the Lord.  

In rebuking those who live apart from the living God and trust in riches and possessions, James reminds the people of God not to envy them for their end is destruction.  

James encourages the people of God to live in light of the sovereignty of God.  

Here in the midst of all the commands and all the rebukes, James points us to the grace of God.  Even when we chase after the things of this world, we're reminded that God gives more grace.  

James contrasts the wisdom from above and the wisdom from the world.  The wisdom of the world leads to conflict but the wisdom of God leads to peace.

We have even tamed crocodiles - but we can't tame the tongue.

James not only desires a religion that is pure and undefiled - a genuine religion.  He also call us to a genuine faith - a faith that results in action.  James' desires the lives of God's people to match the profession of God's people.  

James reinforces what God had commanded through Moses - and Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount - show favoritism to none and show mercy to others.  

James instructs and encourages christians to walk in a manner worthy of their calling - to be doers of the Word, not just hearers of the Word.