(Rev. Dwight Yoo)
James is the brother of Jesus. He is writing to a church where there is strong theology but weak living. This results in hypocrisy. We believe one thing but we live according to something else. We quote principles and we don't live accordingly. This gap is hypocrisy. God wishes to close this gap. He wants us to live lives of integrity. God wants us to eventually look like Jesus, the one who has lived a life of integrity.
We are saved by faith alone. But that faith is not alone.
The purpose of trials
Trials are one of the main tools God uses to remove hypocrisy from our lives. James calls us not to avoid trials, but to rejoice in them. He's not saying we welcome troubles with smiles. He's saying we see the purpose of God in these sufferings. God is building our character and integrity. When tough times come, they reveal who you are. They don't make you who you are...you are already that way. The circumstances are not to blame, they just reveal your true colors. When our sins are revealed, we can address them: repent, pray over, fight it. This is how we become spiritually mature. But there is one assumption here: we want to become like Christ. If this is missing, none of this makes sense. We must want to change to become more like Christ. Otherwise, we can only wait for this trial to pass. It does nothing for us.
The need for wisdom
Wisdom is important for going through trials. In order for trials to have their full effect, we need wisdom. Wisdom is being able to see how the world/God works and how we fit into it. It allows us to mine those tough situations for the full/maximum benefit. Looking at the cross, we see how God can work through tragedy. James gives an example in the text. He says that the poor man should exalt in his riches. How so? A believer has everything in Christ. He is not worried and striving for more money. Riches are also a trial. How so? A rich person is tempted to place their hopes and worth into earthly riches. Instead they should invest into heavenly things! Eternal rewards and glories.
So how do we get it? ASK, and God will give generously. This means God well give with no ulterior motives.
The anchor of the character of Christ
If we react with rebellion and anger, it means our character is coming out. That is not from Christ. The spirit and character of God is constant and stable. No matter what happens, God loves us and wants the best for us and is working out things for our good. Christ anchors us regardless of tough times, temptations, and trials.
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