THE Epistle of James occupies a unique place in the New Testament. It is addressed specifically to the twelve tribes of Israel. Thus it is God’s last message in this age to Israel as such. But this does not mean that it is not for all the children of God. It abounds in practical truth which rises above all dispensational distinctions. Closely allied in substance to the teaching of our Lord in the Sermon on the Mount, which was primarily addressed to the disciples as waiting for the setting up of the kingdom, it stresses the behavior that should ever characterize those who own Jesus Christ as the anointed Saviour, while waiting for His return.
“Not what we have, but what we use;
Not what we see, but what we choose—
These are the things that mar or bless
The sum of human happiness.
The things near by, not things afar;
Not what we seem, but what we are—
These are the things that make or break,
That give the heart its joy or ache.
Not what seems fair, but what is true;
Not what we dream, but good we do—
These are the things that shine like gems,
Like stars, in fortune’s diadems.
Not as we take, but as we give;
Not as we pray, but as we live—
These are the things that make for peace
Both now and after time shall cease.”