I randomly opened to a book of the bible today and started reading James chapter 1. I wasn't sure if this should be post or not as I'm looking for general comments rather then an asnwer to a question.

The first part of James is about perseverence. This verse caught my eye as it has to do with one of Bruce's blogs and something I've been dealing with. I don"t consider myself to be very steadfast person. Recently I've been asking God to change me in this way. In response I have come into a few problems in my life that require more then a quick solution, but more likely long periods of time in prayer. In these problems I find verse 4 to be very reasuring. "Perseverence must finish its work so that you any be mature and complete, not lacking in anything." At the same time I'm a lttle distressed by verses 6-8.

www.Biblegateway.com has some great commentary on this verse. One of the commentators talks about the difference between perseverance and passion. It was a great little blurp on submitting to God.
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Outside of that I thought that verses 26 and 27 were nice ones to devote to memory. I think you would like these, Paul.

Ok, James - verse 26 and 27 are great verses for me.  Thanks for calling that to my attention.

Overall, I still see the basic thread of non-violence attitude in the background.  Jesus was teaching that we should emulate the Love of God toward everyone else.

I noticed that he has asked to rejoice in troubles.  Under Rabbinical teachings, Jews were always told that they should never despair. It was a forbidden attitude.

Troubles I believe allow us to reflect on our own personal religious foundation.  For nothing shakes, crumbles or erodes a religious belief faster then trouble.  It is in handling that trouble in coordination with your belief that either makes it stronger for you or brings to light a deep seated problem that is looming.  I do look at trouble as a joy. It tests my thoughts and outlook, which is good.

He also seems to be stating that one must continue with the endurance and patience to find that crown of life from God.  To me this is a call for total personal sacrifice toward the betterment of those who live under injustice or in worse conditions then I have. These particular verses 5-8 are about staying loyal and committing everything to the cause. Even to the ultimate self sacrifice that may take everything you have away from you. That is a very scary thought, and yet it is a requirement to God.