James 1

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. I.—God takes care of his people, be they scattered how or where they will. Their tribulations for his name’s sake may be great, but should be joyfully borne, as they shall be overruled for the trial and improvement of their present grace, and for the enhancement of their eternal glory. All the fulness of this world is but a fading portion when compared with the exalted and immortal blessedness of humble Christians. Great is the need of spiritual wisdom to direct our behaviour under our diversified trials; and infinite the mercy that our heavenly Father is so ready to grant it, if asked. But alas! many, by their unbelief and inconstancy, hinder the success of their own prayers. Great is the folly of charging our sins on God, who is infinitely and unchangeably holy. Regenerating grace, and every thing good comes from God’s sovereign kindness, and ought to redound to his praise and honour;—but all evil comes from ourselves. What need then have we to mortify our lusts, and to watch against our pride, passion, and hard thoughts of God!—With great humility, reverence, and faith, ought we to hear, receive, and improve, his word. And with deep concern should we guard against deceiving our souls in matters of eternal consequence. We have to do with a God, who requires truth in the inward parts. It is not high pretences, but a renewed heart and holy life, that can evidence us to be real Christians. And an unruly tongue, disregard of the poor, or attachment to carnal persons and things, may prove us graceless, amidst the most splendid glare of a high profession