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Dear brothers and sisters... 
James 1:2 NLT
When we read books of the Bible it's not only easy to forget the context in which they were written, but also the heart behind the pen (or quill or whatever James was writing with).
James isn't claiming any special authority, & even though he has some tough things to say, he's coming alongside.
We're in this together. 
A couple of days ago I got quite grumpy with someone about his ideas and opinions. I don't think that helped him or me or anyone else (when it comes to injustice, yes being grumpy & angry are appropriate, but that wasn't what was happening here). 
How different the outcome could have been if I'd started with Jame's heart of "dear brothers and sisters"?
We might both have learned something.
#James
#itsaheartthing
#inthistogether

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