Blessed Through Trials: The Crown of Life

Still rolling with James…“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”James 1:12 As we’ve talked about staying true to our faith under hard times and how that will build perseverance, James tells us that the man who persist on doing what is right under hard times is blessed. But how can this be? I mean we often regard being blessed as having material prosperity, trouble-free relationships, or healthy bodies. James, on the other hand, sees beyond these earthly benefits. He sees the blessed man as one who is not a stranger to struggle but persists to remain rooted in God under suffering and holds fast to His promise of the crown of life. No matter the pressure pushing him from within and without, he will not give in. The promise of James 1:12 should encourage us to set our lives in the context of eternity and seek things which are above. Ultimately, the blessed man endures temptation because He loves Jesus. Be Nice. Grace wins. FMJ