Tag Archives: the book of James

November 12
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“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.” (James 1:12, NIV)

The disciple of Jesus receives a test as a good thing.

Although times of examination are seldom pleasant, the outcome of testing reveals the nature of the stuff we’re made. Only the person who has persevered under trial knows — really knows — the stuff of which he or she is made. Without testing, we’re just guessing.

To “pass” a test of our spiritual selves requires only perseverance. We need not persevere perfectly, but we do need to persevere faithfully.

The strength to persevere comes when we keep ours eyes fixed on Christ under even the most difficult of circumstances. Doing so assures capital “L” Life for us. We apprehend it in no other way.  – Luther

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April 30
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“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.” (James 1:2-3, NIV)

As we mature as disciples of Jesus, we ought not to fret the appearance of “trials of many kinds.” According to James, such occasions are opportunities to develop in us the endurance that is required for the days ahead.

We should also look at “the testing of [our] faith” as a natural step in validating it, as an examiner tests the knowledge of a physician before he or she is licensed to practice medicine; or as a flight examination tests the knowledge and technical proficiency of a commercial pilot before he or she is permitted to carry members of the paying public. 

Who would knowingly consult a physician whose knowledge had never been tested? Who would knowingly board a plane whose captain’s flying skills had never been examined through testing? Testing is a good thing.

We can “consider it pure joy” in the hour of trial because we know that it validates our faith; and develops within us the endurance we need for all future challenges. Because we are being made ready, we may smile in the trial. – Luther

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March 18
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“Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise.” (James 5:13b, NIV)

James reminds us that the rhythm of a disciple’s life is not all labor and toil.  There are many periods of happiness and joy.  

As we ought to run to God when trouble arrives, we ought also to give thanks to God when our path is smooth, the weather is fair, and we are at peace with our neighbors.  

The natural person attributes the presence of these things to many sources other than to God, such as luck, one’s personal knowledge or skill, or the favor of others. The disciple sees only God (even when God is acting through others) as the source of all blessings.  

James recommends this response: Praise God in song.  Indeed, “praise God from Whom all blessings flow; praise Him all creatures here below. . . ”  – Luther

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