James 1:13-21

New International Version

¹³ When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; ¹⁴ but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own^(A) evil desire and enticed. ¹⁵ Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin;^(B) and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.^(C)

¹⁶ Don’t be deceived,^(D) my dear brothers and sisters.^{(E) 17} Every good and perfect gift is from above,^(F) coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights,^(G) who does not change^(H) like shifting shadows. ¹⁸ He chose to give us birth^(I) through the word of truth,^(J) that we might be a kind of firstfruits^(K) of all he created.

Listening and Doing

¹⁹ My dear brothers and sisters,^(L) take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak^(M) and slow to become angry, ²⁰ because human anger^(N) does not produce the righteousness that God desires. ²¹ Therefore, get rid of^(O) all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you,^(P) which can save you.