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.

Such a man need not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord,

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.

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.

Some one indeed may say, "You have faith, and I have deeds." "Then show me your faith," I answer, "apart from any deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds."

But do you want to be convinced, O foolish man, that faith apart from deeds is barren?

From out of the same mouth pour forth blessings and cursings! My brothers, this ought not to be so.

Does a spring pour forth from the same opening sweet water and bitter?

Such wisdom is not that which is descending from on high, but is earthly, sensual, demonlike.

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.

Where do the conflicts and quarrels that go on among you come from? Do they not come from your passions which are always making war among your bodily members?

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

My brothers, if any one of you strays from the truth, and some one brings him back,

let him know that he who brings a sinner back from the error of his ways, saves his soul from death, and hides a multitude of sins.