“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” –James 1:2-4
Yesterday we discussed that one of the reasons for our trials is so we can identify with Christ. Today we will talk about the reason mentioned in James: the development of perseverance.
Perseverance doesn’t come naturally in our world. We live in a fast food, instant message, oil change in 10 minutes or less culture. In the last few years, we have seen the beginning of the transition from scheduled TV shows to on demand programming. We don’t want to wait for anything. Yet we have a God who seems to refuse to give us what we want right away. That doesn’t just go for stuff. It also goes for character.
The simple truth is that trials can wind up being the greatest blessing. This is especially true with the ‘testing of our faith’ that James talks about. As much as I love being surrounded by Christians, the simple truth is that I’m not tested as much when I’m not around people in the world. We must guard ourselves from staying in our ‘holy huddles’ just as much as we should guard ourselves from being influenced by the world.
Don’t be afraid of the tests of your faith that you may test. Whether it is being around coworkers who test your ethics, family members who test your patience, or a culture that tests your values, the simple truth is that God has given you the strength to persevere. And when you persevere, you will find that the next time you face a similar trial, you will be able to persevere even more.
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3 comments:
One of my first thoughts during this morning's commute was about the lack of persecution in my life. I marveled at how little I've been persecuted and that lead me to pray that God will find me fit for duty when that day comes. Also that he would help me to banish the laziness that has lead me to be persecution-free.
You aren't kidding about our "fast-paced" world. I was recently in Manhattan and while the city had much to offer leading to sensory overload, my fondest hour was in the more serene, inner-city-get-away I came quickly to love known as Central Park. There is so much chaos in the world and I think I'd suffocate in a place like NYC.
I was even able to persevere while at Yankee Stadium!
J-Rob,
I have to agree with you about NYC and Central Park. When I was there it was clear that place was like a cathedral to people to get out of the business.
I'd love to chat with you about your trip. Sounds like you had a great time.
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