Lessons in James 1

In James 1, there are many lessons to be learned.  We see several phrases that encourage us to look to direction from God, even the one that encouraged Joseph Smith to inquire.

5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:

17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

James reminds us that when we ask in faith, it needs to be unwavering so that we are not driven about like a wave of the sea.

James says that a ‘double minded man’ is unstable.  This is further reiterated in Matthew and 1 Kings which describe a man who cannot choose between serving God and worldly pleasures as a man who cannot really serve either.

We also learn to be better Disciples of Christ.  Here are some of the ways we learn about in the first chapter of James

• ·         Not giving into temptation
• ·         Abstain from lust
• ·         Develop and be grateful for our good gifts
• ·         Listen to people readily
• ·         Slow to speak and slow to anger
• ·         Be meek and humble
• ·         Rid ourselves of filthiness
• ·         Let the word of God implant on our hearts
• ·         Keep unspotted from the world
• ·         Minister unto the needy

Someone I think who exemplifies these traits is our prophet, Thomas S Monson.  As a young bishop he served in a ward of many widows who he still keeps in contact with today.

I also think of my mom, who drives several hours to complete her visiting teaching and writes thoughtful cards every month to the sisters in her relief society

I think of my family’s home teachers who reach out to us even when we don’t respond to their texts right away.

I think of my in-laws who have welcomed me into their family and I have never seen talk of anyone with malice or pride. They are always looking to help someone out.

Bruce R McConkie said that James 1:5-6 “had a greater impact ... upon mankind than any other” scripture. He said this because they led Joseph Smith to restoring the church. Also, they invite any other wandering soul to follow the same pattern of asking and receiving.