James, the oldest half-brother of Jesus and brother of Jude, wrote this letter to Jewish Christians who had been scattered all over because of harsh persecution under King Herod Agrippa 1 (AD 44). This persecution is most likely related to the events of Acts 12. James had become a leader in the church at Jerusalem, along with Peter and John (Galatians 2:9), but was eventually martyred around AD 62. During his lifetime James was known as one who walked in righteousness; furthermore, his life was characterized by that which he had written in this letter to the persecuted Jewish Christians. James’ writing could easily be referred to as the “Proverbs of the New Testament” because of his emphasis on practical Christian living. Considering that the people to whom James was writing were being persecuted for their faith, he was penning these words in order to encourage them to continue living godly in the face of trials. Throughout the book there is a strong emphasis of enduring trials and keeping the faith. A person’s faith in God’s control will be able to sustain him during trying times and enable him to exemplify a Christian witness amongst believers and unbelievers alike. There will be valuable lessons we can learn from this writing of James and I trust that instead of only hearing the truth, we will live the truth (James 1:21-27).
Dear God, teach me as I read through the book of James. May my heart be open to change as You expose areas of my life which need to be transformed by Your truth.
