James Chapter 1

James tells the believer to consider it pure joy when going through various trials. When things don’t go our way we often throw ourselves a pity party. We become angry, bitter, resentful or scared of the predicament that we are facing. We see trials as something bad and not beneficial. James, however sees trials as being incredibly beneficial. Each time one survives a trial by placing one’s faith in God one finds it easier next time to have faith that God will do good to those who love Him.

The question one always faces during trials is: how can I honor God throughout this trial in both my words and deeds? When faced with hardship and an uncertain future we often make bad choices that rely too much on our own strength to endure or to avoid the trial altogether. When faced with not knowing how to speak or act during a trial, pray to God and He will give you wisdom.

A humble person knows that while trials are unavoidable one’s reaction to them is not. Listening to oneself or to the world for advice results in receiving foolishness while relying on God results in wisdom, perseverance and maturity!