Devotional Journal: Reflection on James 1:2-4
We have all gone through it. In different degrees at various times. If you have yet to experience it, dont worry. Your time will come. What I speak of is one word: Trials. The testing of what is in our heart and where our faith lies. We all endure trials. Some are new and others are the same test that we fail every single time.
Trials are looked at through many different perspectives. One may focus on the why and another may focus on the outcome. Trials can be an opportunity or a pit fall depending on how you view it. In James 1:2-4, trials are opportunities to gain. In fact, James even goes to the extent of calling it an opportunity to receive joy. This is not happiness or joy in what you are going through, but the joy you can expect to receive when you receive the outcome of the trial. The outcome is endurance and wholeness. Lacking nothing because your faith has been fortified. Trials gives us the opportunity to fully commit to God. When we do this, we lack nothing because we know that He will see us through.
If you are going through something don’t lose hope, nor be discouraged. You are not alone. Others are going through the same thing or have been where you are. Remember that our LORD and savior purposely went through trials for us. If we are suffering, He is right there alongside us. Interceding for you and me to keep going for He knows that with Him you will not be moved but your faith will be refined. Seek the gain that He Has for you when you overcome this trial.
2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.-(James 1:2-4 ESV)
(Speaking about Jesus Christ) 17 Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. 18 For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.-(Hebrews 2:17-18 ESV)
The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2016. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.
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