Today’s Reading: James 1:1-11
Today’s Verse: But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. James 1:4 KJV
There is a reason why some things happen in our lives. Some will be good. Some will be bad. Both have a purpose or meaning.
Many times we want results to come quickly.
But we must have the ability to wait. To continue to do something despite difficulties. To suffer without complaining.
Through them, we can find the encouragement we need to keep faith. To maintain a positive outlook.
Believing that difficult experiences will eventually lead to something better. They will strengthen us.
The Bible defines patience. It is an active time of suffering. A time when we are to show courage. That through the challenges and trials of life our faith is developed. Our character is shaped. Our hope in God’s faithfulness is strengthened.
But we all have a part to play.
Much effort is required to do something. For us to keep doing it till the end. Even if it is hard.
Christianity teaches us to be joyful under troubles. That they are sent from God’s love. That they brighten our graces now. That we will receive our Heavenly rewards after a life of faithfulness. Our ultimate victory over hardships and death.
We must let patience, not passion, work in us. No matter what is said or done.
The more we increase in faith, hardships will still come. These trials are just a test of our faith.
James was a servant of God.
In James 1:2-4 KJV, he encourages every believer to remain strong in all areas of life. To keep doing it until the end.
“Let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing” (James 1:4 KJV).
Patience is a “fruit of the Spirit.” It is one of moral excellence and righteousness.
It grows faith. Produces character. It leads to our completeness.
When the work of patience is complete, it will furnish all that is necessary for our Christian race and warfare.
Let us consider it joy when we face trials. Knowing that these trials test our faith.
God desires our faith to be strong. For us to grow in wisdom and knowledge.
The result will be one of maturity. It leads to spiritual completeness. A work that builds our faith.
We have steadfast hope in God’s ultimate plan.
A WORD OF PRAYER
Father, we know we will face times of hardship. That we should not pray so much for the removal of affliction, as for wisdom to make the right use of it. We know that through the Word we find comfort. It can help us deal with difficult situations. It calls for a positive engagement with life’s challenges. We are not to simply endure them but allow it to do a work in our lives. Our experiences will be meaningful. They will help us deal with our personal growth. Thank You for teaching us how to be joyful in our times of trouble.
In Jesus’ Name we pray, Amen