It was interesting that you mentioned James, as the pastor at the church I "attend" has been giving sermons on James. This week was on the 4th chapter, and the text is so applicable to so many phases of life. When he was reading it, I instantly had a picture of the current Israel/Palestine conflict, but the appilcations reach accross all aspects of life.
This is the 4th chapter of James
And here is a link to the sermon for all who are interested
Getting in the Way of Grace