James 1:12 (NIV) Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. *** Not to undermine the truth stated in this verse, but, sometimes I think we miss so much in our daily walk with the Lord, by being only futuristic in our thinking pertaining to verses such as this. For instance, how good we feel when we have stood up under the pressure of a trial, or have overcome a temptation that has plagued us for a long time! Maybe you have come to the place where you can say with Paul, "...I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content" (Php 4:11 RSV). Admittedly, not a crown yet, but what great spiritual blessings are given to those who stand everyday tests! How wonderful to lay your head on your pillow at night and know that you have come through the day victoriously, even amidst all the hellish influence connived against you. Does not God look on with distinct approval of how you have conducted yourself? Is not His heart filled with admiration for you, His child, that has obeyed His voice? Your heart, mind, and spirit is filled with His peace instead of the calamity which the devil intended for you? All because you stood the test! In contrast, how miserable we feel if we have succumbed to the devil’s tactics. That is, of course, if we are really trying to live in Christ and walk in the Spirit. And that alone should present incentive to persevere.
Posted on: Tue, 16 Jul 2013 14:33:32 +0000
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