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James 1:2-3
The first lesson from James is to be joyful during trying times and know that this is a testing of one’s faith, which as one comes through the trial will reap a reward of growth in patience.
This is a command to be joyful during trying times.
This is a promise of growing in patience if we follow the command.
This is an example of growing in our relationship with God through our faith in Christ Jesus.
Being joyful through the trials of life is not an easy task to accomplish. But the point is that in following and growing in our relationship with God through our faith in Christ Jesus is a life that is against our earthly/sinful nature. In our salvation in and through Christ Jesus we are set apart as God’s children and will suffer trials and persecution from the sinful ways of this world. Jesus said in John 15:18 (NKJV), “If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you.” In John 15:20a (NIV) Jesus states, “Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also.” Jesus never promised to prevent trials and tribulations from attacking us, but He did promise to be with us always and help us through them. He states in John 14:15-18 (ESV), “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.”
When we open our hearts to Jesus and proclaim Him our Lord and Savior, He sends His Holy Spirit to live within our hearts – to be our guide through this life and into eternal life in heaven, in His glory. Do not run from God during trying times, but cling to Him with both hands and cry out to Him to help you through,…if you do, He will reward you with blessings – in Christ.
Dear LORD,
It is tough to go through the trials and tribulations of this world. We need You to help us during these times as we do not understand why these things may happen. But we live in a sinful world where sinful things will happen. Please help us to remember You LORD that we would put You first, even during the trying times when we are prone to fall away from You and think that You have abandon us. But help us to see as the famous saying goes, “that when there is only one set of footprints, it is because You are carrying us!” In Jesus name I pray, amen.