Today’s Scripture: James 1:1, KJV- “James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.”
The salutations of the letters to God’s people often share how the disciples of Christ saw themselves. James believed he was a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. Do we see ourselves as servants of God and the Lord Jesus Christ as well?
James 1:2 instructs us, “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.” (NLT) Attempting to see joy in our troubles certainly requires God. Contrary to our nature, serving God in our troubles is where we do find the greatest of joys.
We will all experience or witness cherished family and friends who have been tested far beyond anything we can conceive. Yet James 1:3 is telling us that the testing of our faith produces perseverance and patience.
But perseverance for who? It is interesting the shift in James 1:4 as perseverance takes on a personality of its own. The King James Bible states, “But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.”
But LORD, do you understand our sufferings? How can this be perfect work? It seems so far from perfect in the immediate. It makes no sense. Yet, James 1:5 instructs us that “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” (NIV) Ok God, I admit I am lacking wisdom in this situation. I am doing my best to be patient and trust in the good that can come from this. I am asking You for wisdom now and trusting You will give it to me.
James 1:6-7 guarantees that our own thoughts and doubts only rob us of God. We do not have the ability, in our flesh, to not doubt nor understand. However, James 1:12 promises “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” (NIV)
We cannot control our circumstances, but we can choose to love. As James 1:16-17 states, “Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” (NIV)
Our lives may not seem perfect to us in the moment but somehow and someway God is creating perfection through us. It is much easier to become confused, angry, and bitter than it is to accept God’s plans. However, as James 1:21 advises us we must humbly accept the word of God planted in us. This is so much easier said than done. We must humble ourselves before God and our loved ones who suffer.
We do not have answers, but we can pray to love and serve God and all others. We may not see God’s plan in our lifetimes, yet our lives will somehow be used by God to serve Him and grant us the crown of life to live with Him forever.
Today’s Prayer: Heavenly Father, I am praying to serve You and the Lord Jesus Christ today. Please accept my infirmities and fears and turn them into doubtless trust in Your omniscience. Please grant me the wisdom to trust Your ways. Use my life LORD for Your glory. Please grant me a rich faith and love that overcomes this life. Help us to love our neighbors in the ways that will show Your love. Thank You LORD for the freedom to love and trust You. Thank You LORD for the crown of life to live with You forever. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ whom we serve. Amen.
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