James 1:2-8
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. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.
You’ve heard this before. You’ve read it. It’s been preached. It’s classic fare for just about any modern Bible study. It’s easy to include because it’s impossible to argue with and it all seems pretty obvious.
We share this passage with people who are struggling as a way to normalize struggle. I’d imagine that most people like to think of themselves as those who are “mature and complete,” who do not “lack wisdom,” who are generous and never find fault, and who always believe without doubt. For those of you who might be reading this, well done. You can now close this page and I’m grateful that you read this far. Blessings.
For those of us who are still here, I’m also grateful. I’m not sure where I fall off the list, but it’s pretty early. I’m pretty good right up until the writer says, “Consider it pure joy…whenever you face trials.” I don’t even make it all the way to “of many kinds.” One trial, two max and I’m fetal on the floor ready for it all to stop. “Trials of many kinds?” No thanks. I’m good. I’ll take the C.
It’s still an encouraging passage for a few reasons and it’s a perfect end to this week. Here are the takeaways.
- We will face trials, and at times they will have friends. Sort of a trial convention.
- Those trials will test our faith. We will question ourselves and the world and God.
- Maturity and completion are possible. We can grow. We can learn.
- Sometimes, we will lack wisdom. It’s ok. We can recognize those times and seek God.
- When we do, He is moved to generosity. He gives when we lack.
- When we do seek Him and ask, we can trust His character and provision. He provides.
- (PS. If we’re seeking Him and asking and we DON’T trust Him, we don’t actually know Him.)
- If we know Him and trust Him to be who He says He is, we know He will be there with us and for us in whatever trials (and conventions) that we face. That is where the joy comes from.
Reflect:
On the trials you have faced. On the ways your faith has been tested. Have you sought God in those times?
Journal:
Your growth so far. What have you learned through those trials and tests? What areas need some more growth?
Pray:
For eyes that see His participation and provision. For deeper trust. To know Him more. For pure joy in the trials that will come. This is a courageous prayer to a kind and compassionate God.