[2] For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body. (ESV)
I have some bad news. You are not perfect. This may come as a terribly depressing shock to you, but it’s true. Don’t feel bad. I am not perfect either. James tells us in this verse that we all stumble in many ways. No one is exempt from the depraved corruption that is a part of every human being’s very nature.
Can you imagine meeting someone who was perfect? What would that be like? They would get angry at an injustice, yet not lash out in hateful speech at the one who wronged them. The perfect person would make sure that everything they did built others up instead of ever tearing someone down. The perfect man would be full of grace.