We read James 1 in our Bible Reading Plan for today and a couple of things really stand out to me! Let's look first of all at verses 2-4:
2 Consider it wholly joyful, my brethren, whenever you are enveloped in or encounter trials of any sort or fall into various temptations. 3 Be assured and understand that the trial and proving of your faith bring out endurance and steadfastness and patience. 4 But let endurance and steadfastness and patience have full play and do a thorough work, so that you may be [people] perfectly and fully developed [with no defects], lacking in nothing. AMP
When we realize that what God has already provided for us is ENOUGH for every situation, then we can look at each test, trial or temptation as an opportunity to show HIM off to the world! Remember, God is NOT the one who brings trials and attacks against you, but He IS the One Who has the solution and the 'way out' of every one of them! AMEN! THAT is why we are to COUNT it all joy! That means that we are to consider the END result that is promised in the Word of God and then operate with the joy that we would exhibit if we already had the answer! THAT is FAITH! Verse 12 gives us THIS promise:
12 Blessed (happy, to be envied) is the man who is patient under trial and stands up under temptation, for when he has stood the test and been approved, he will receive [the victor’s] crown of life which God has promised to those who love Him.
AMEN! YOURS is ready and waiting! So, give GOD the credit for what comes from HIM! Verse 17:
17 Every good gift and every perfect (free, large, full) gift is from above; it comes down from the Father of all [that gives] light, in [the shining of] Whom there can be no variation [rising or setting] or shadow cast by His turning [as in an eclipse].
AND, praise Him NOW for the answer that will manifest itself in HIS perfect timing! Here is an older song from Hillsong that speaks to our purpose in overcoming! Bringing glory to HIM! "Shout Your Fame":
Shalom in Him!
