Confession: Whenever I have thought of the Book of James in the past, I have usually thought first of legalism. After all, some of its most famous verses seem to be in praise not only temperance, but of outright affliction and indeed (gasp) even "working" for my salvation.

"My brothers, count it all joy when you fall into diverse trials," ~1:2

"Even so, faith - if it has no works - is dead by itself." ~2:17

"Suffer afflictions and sorrow, and weep. Let your laughter be turned into mourning, and your joy into heaviness." ~4:9

But when I listen a little further, I discover that within this tiny little Book there are unique gems of grace and mercy, including one of the most poignant passages on true wisdom and peace in the entire New Testament; a passage that is even more true today:

"But if you have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, do not boast. And do not be liars against the truth.
This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, and demonic.
For where there is envying and strife, there is upheaval, and all kinds of evil works.
But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, without judging, and without hypocrisy.
And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace."

~James 3:14-18

Within these 5 short amazing chapters, James firmly but graciously reminds me not only of the words of Jesus and Paul, but of their true meaning and life application.

"Be holy as He is holy." ~Matthew 5:48

“Let all your things be done in love.” ~1Corinthians 16:14

“Have salt in yourselves and have peace one with another.” ~Mark 9:50b