James by Joyce Meyer

Meyer's teaching is deeply rooted in the Word and it is no surprise that she would write Bible commentaries. This book is a good general devotional commentary on James. It is good for general audiences as it does not go into Greek. Meyer at times comments on one verse while at other times covers up to twelve verses in her writing. There is usually a personal reflection question at the end of each section with space for journaling although some sections do not have it.

There are some areas of her teaching I particularly like. One is her teaching on contentment (on James 4:1-3). “I have discovered that the secret of being content is to ask God for what I want and to rest in the knowledge that if it is right, He will bring it to pass at the right time.” That really precludes the greed and selfishness James wrote about.

Another area of her strong teaching is on the tongue and our words. This is an important area for Meyer and she really emphasizes the effect our words can have on others. We are to use our words to prove our faith and trust in God. She also has a good section on what it means to keep God first in our lives. A good way to do that is to have a continual conversation with Him, she says.

This commentary would be good for new Christians or ones not very familiar with the Bible. Meyer writes about the truth of James in a very understandable way. She does not explore puzzling or complex issues, such as how turning a sinner from his way will save his soul from death (James 5:19-20). Readers will gain encouragement and inspiration from the book of James as Meyer explains the practical teaching contained in it.

You can find out more about the book and watch a book trailer at http://bit.ly/JamesandEphesians.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

Joyce Meyer is one of the world's leading practical Bible teachers. A New York Times bestselling author, her books have helped millions of people find hope and restoration through Jesus Christ. Her programs, Enjoying Everyday Life and Everyday Answers with Joyce Meyer, air around the world on television, radio, and the Internet. She has authored more than one hundred books, and over 65 million of her books have been distributed worldwide.

FaithWords, 127 pages.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.