Have you ever seen poverty up close? Mission trips to Jamaica and Mexico have revealed to us people in extreme poverty, but that seemed a world away. We may have certainly been challenged, but we came back home to our comfort.

James wrote this letter to people who were poor, facing incredibly difficult circumstances. Still, he encouraged (and challenged) them: “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:2–4). Despite the struggles they faced, these believers had beautiful holiness, joy and maturity. Even through their suffering, they reflected the nature of Jesus.

When has serving or interacting with the poor affected your faith?