I've been struggling the past few months, so today I decided to turn to the Book of James. James is actually a letter to believers that can be read in about 20 minutes. It's short and that's what I need right now to stay focused. Maybe you're at that point in your life right now too.
James 1:2-4 "Consider it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
This verse grabbed me by the shoulders because it says "when" you encounter various trials, not "if". Christians need to expect trials in their lives and see it from a godly perspective. That's where I'm at and I needed to know what the purpose of it all is. Well, it says my faith is being tested to produce endurance. My faith is being tested to trust God completely in His will for me in this trial and in my life. When James says "Count it all joy", he wants us to see the bigger picture in our trials, as opportunities to grow and joyfully mature into Christ-likeness.
"James encourages Christians to embrace trials not for what they presently are, but for the outcome God will accomplish through them. James 1:12 promises, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” [gotquestions.org]
The "crown of life" is a gift from God that will be awarded to those who, because of their love for Him, faithfully endured trials and tests on earth: "The crown of life is not an actual ornamental headdress but a symbolic representation of God’s recognition for having spiritually triumphed in this life. Jesus assured the church in Smyrna, “Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown" [gotquestions.org]
When James talks of being 'perfect', it doesn't mean being sinless, it means growing in spiritual development and maturity. I know for myself, I can look back on past surgeries, past school experiences, and how I've responded to worldly things and have seen how my faith grew and I matured as a believer.
" But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without any doubting". We must ask God first for wisdom in our trials and God is not an option. We can't be double-minded by having God as a choice, no, He is the only way. Ask Him, Seek His Word, and Trust Him.
As for myself, I've been in this trial since March. I faced a worldly decision to protect my friends from a wrong in this world. I don't regret it, even tho it's cost me. I have felt imprisoned these past few months but it is nothing compared to the glory Jesus received. I've asked for wisdom and I think that's why God led me to the Book of James. Responding to the things of this world takes the armor of God.
