James, a slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, sends greeting to the twelve tribes that are scattered abroad.

If any one of you is lacking in wisdom, let him ask it from the God who gives to all men freely and without upbraiding; and it will be given to him.

When he is being tempted, let no one say, "It is God who tempts me," for God cannot be tempted with evil, nor does he tempt any man.

Every good gift and every perfect boon is from above, and is ever coming down to us from the Father of the heavenly lights, with whom is no variation nor shadow of eclipse.

for a man's anger does not further the righteous purpose of God.

and undefiled before our God and Father, to look after orphans and widows in their affliction, and ever to keep himself unspotted from the world.

Listen, my dear brothers, has not God chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith, and to inherit the kingdom which he has promised to those who love him?

My brothers, what good is it if any one says that he has faith, if he has no deeds? Can such faith save him?

and one of you says to them, "Depart in peace, find warmth and food for yourselves," but at the same time you do not give the necessaries of the body, what good would that do them?

You believe that God is one? You do well; even the demons believe, and they shudder.

And the Scripture was fulfilled which said, And Abraham believed God, and this was imputed to him as righteousness, and he was called God's friend.

With it we continually bless our Lord and Father, and with it we are accustomed to curse men made in the image of God.

Who among you is wise and intelligent? Let him show his deeds by his good life, in the meekness of wisdom.

But the wisdom which comes from on high is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, conciliatory, overflowing with mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without insincerity.

You adulteresses, do you not know that the friendship of the world is enmity to God? Whoever, then, desires to be a friend of the world, makes himself and enemy of God.

But he gives more and more grace. therefore it is said, God ever resists the proud; but to the humble he gives grace continually.

So then ever be subject to God, Ever resist the devil and he will flee from you.

Draw near to God And he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, And purify your hearts, you double-minded.

Is any in good spirits? Let him sing unto his harp. Is any one of you ill? Let him send for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, after anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord;