Title James 1:1 - 12
Contents Main text: James 1:1 - 12
*** The need for patience (verses 1-4)
A person who has been physically trained can maintain good health without nodding to any environmental change. A person who has experienced overcoming adversity does not easily become discouraged or give up, even when faced with difficult situations. Likewise, those who have undergone trials to keep their faith learn patience through the process and become fully religious. It is normal for believers to face persecution while living in this world, and it is the right attitude to actively accept, rather than avoid or compromise, conflicts that may arise due to faith. How do I feel when I am ridiculed or ignored by those around me because of my faith? What can I do to be completely happy with the situation?
*** The need for wisdom (vv. 5-8)
If we look carefully at the circumstances of those who are being persecuted, the cause is often not only because of their faith, but also because of lack of wisdom in interpersonal relationships. Therefore, wisdom is necessary for the saints to maintain their faith while maintaining sensible interpersonal relationships. This wisdom is different from knowledge or intelligence, and it is a gift from God to all who seek it. Whether you want to increase your intelligence or have a lot of knowledge, you may not be able to enjoy everything you want, but if you ask for wisdom, God will give you abundantly. There are many times when we need to be wise in our relationships with people, and then we feel the need to ask the Lord for wisdom above all else. What kind of jihe do I need now?
*** Paradoxical evaluation of one's own situation (verses 9-11)
People with character don't brag about themselves, but in a paradoxical sense, brag is necessary. In other words, those who are poor and not recognized by the world need not to be pessimistic about their situation, but to boast of eternal life in Christ. We also need to keep emphasizing the fact that those who are wealthy and commercially recognized as being nothing in the sight of God in order not to be proud. Paradoxically, it is necessary to whip ourselves because people are fragile and their way of thinking about themselves changes according to the circumstances in which they are placed. Especially those who have the things that the world values fortune, knowledge, fame, etc. have to keep in mind that they may unwittingly fall for them unless they keep emphasizing to themselves that they have no ultimate worth. Do I not make the mistake of being pessimistic about my situation? Aren't I secretly proud of the things I'm enjoying right now?
*** Paradoxical assessment of overcoming the situation (verse 12)
Poverty, disease, and persecution of faith are trials that believers must overcome, but in today's environment, material abundance or freedom of faith can be a challenge. Not being indolent in a life that is too comfortable and free from difficulties is itself an important test. Looking back on my life these days, do I deserve a crown in terms of overcoming it when I am physically or mentally challenged? Also, how can you evaluate yourself when you are comfortable and not arrogant when things are going well?