James 1:12

January 23, 2008

As you read today's passage, look for these words or phrases: persevere, trial, and crown.

Passage for the day: James 1:12 (NASB)

12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

Questions for thought: Take a few moments to answer these questions before you go on to the next section.

How is it possible for us to be happy or blessed when under a trial?


What do you think it means to persevere in the midst of a trial?


What does God promise to those who endure? Who receives this reward?

Chew on this:

In this short verse, we are told that God rewards those who persevere in trials. The Greek word of persevering or enduring in this text has the idea of refusing to give up, standing firm, or holding on tightly. It means that we are living out our faith with action. We put the promises of God ahead of the cares of this life and hold on to the assurance of eternal life with God. When we cross the finish line, we will be greeted and rewarded by God Himself. We are blessed because we possess the living hope of salvation of the soul – the crown of life. This was the victor’s wreath that was given at the Olympic games in Greece to the champion who endured to the end. The people James was writing to were going under extreme persecution and many were facing death. Some of them may have questioned and doubted whether it was worth it to go through such suffering. James reminds them that they were blessed as they endured, and that they could look forward to eternal life with God as they faced physical death here on earth.

God is using trials to produce believers who stand their ground through a life shaped by the Word of God. The approval that James speaks of does not come about because we were perfect. Rather, it acknowledges a faith that perseveres and loves God. This love for God is an obedient love. Obedience through love is the nature of a right relationship with God, a relationship of wholehearted commitment to Him. So, as we persevere, let’s pursue a genuine love for God and trust God to be faithful as we endure!

For His Name,

Pastor Stephen