It’s Not “If” You Do, But “When” You Do!
The book of James is a very practical book with great instruction on how to live each day with contentment, confidence, and commitment to God. In James 1:12 we read…
“Blessed is the man who endures trials, because when he passes the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.”
In verse 12 we see that we can endure difficult times with testing and trial in our lives. The word “blessed” means “happy.” Yes, we can go through times of testing and trial while remaining happy, content, secure, and confident. The other keyword in this verse is “endures,” which means to come through, having passed the test.
According to verses 2 and 3, James reminds us that we are certain to face trials and testing. It’s not “if” you do, but “when” you do. In having them, God designs and allows these difficulties to equip, strengthen, and teach us, and to fulfill his purpose and plan for our lives. In all of this, he is molding us to be the person he wants us to be, and the person that he can use. Notice the phrase, “…he will receive the crown of life…” This “crown” is a reward God will give for persevering in difficult times. Enduring here on earth will result in receiving reward in heaven one day!
What trial are you facing today? Is there a test that God is allowing you to take as your face some circumstance, problem, or difficulty? Trust God to give you the strength to endure, to come through that trial and pass the test.