James 1: 2-4
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
These words ring true, although living them seems painful. I have been sheltered somehow from many trials, and cannot claim to have experienced the growth described above. But I know how small crises bring people together, develop a sense of teamwork and unity. Facing hardships with others is different than facing them alone. The quality of the relationship changes. We are never alone. We always have God with us. We grow closer to Him the more we experience life with Him.
Lord, May my faith grow each day, as I rely on you to walk beside me. Amen
Becky, transforming
James 1: 2-4 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Patience and perseverance, something I am not very good at. It does take patience and perseverance to become more God like. Patience and perseverance helps us make actual progress toward these goals. James is telling me that by having patience and perseverance, achieving these goals will be easier.
Dearest Lord, give me the patience and perseverance to do better and become the person you want me to be. Give me the grace to achieve these…
James 1:2-4 The first line is very difficult for me. I saw no joy in the death of a loved one. It is only in looking back do I see the test. I didn’t lose my faith, but it was held in anger for a while. A strong faith can survive these tests, but you must work hard for a strong faith. Worship, Bible study, and the people we are around can help in this building of faith. But – I still have difficulty finding joy in those moments of great grief. Prayer: gracious God, while I think my faith is strong, I know some troubles can and will derail me – but only for a while. Amen
James 1: 2-4 At one level these words of James are intimidating, largely because I have seen situations in which the faith of some people was strengthened by trials and others whose faith was destroyed. Significant trials have not been a feature of my life compared to the horrors I have observed as a consequence of my career. If and when such a trial were to come, I know two things. I could not face it alone and my brothers and sisters in Christ would see to it that I do not face it alone. It is here where perseverance will strengthen faith.
Prayer - Sovereign God, my faith tells me You hold us in Your eternal embrace. I pray that…