James 1:9-12 NIV 9 Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. 10 But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower.
- Trials erase any superficial distinctions that one may think separates the rich brother from the poor one.
- The very same treatment that exalts the poor and gives them a new sense of worth also humbles the rich.
- Suffering shows the rich that, instead of having a lasting lease on life on this earth, their lives are no more permanent than “a wild flower”
11 For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business.
- 1 Peter 5:5b-7 NIV “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” 6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
12 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.
- “Blessed” (GK 3421) speaks of the distinctive religious joy that is a benefit of salvation. This word describes the enviable state of the person who does not give up when confronted with trying circumstances but remains strong in faith and devotion to God.
- “Stood the test” suggests the process of successfully testing precious metals and coins and their consequent approval as genuine. Perseverance under trial results in approval, and approval results in
- “the crown [GK 5709] of life. For James, this word refers to the reward given to believers who are victorious in their struggles against trials.
- This life “that God has promised” is more than the eternal life given to every believer at the time of his or her salvation
In time of trouble, say,
- “First, He brought me here. It is by His will I am in this strait place; in that I will rest.”
- Next, “He will keep me here in His love, and give me grace in this trial to behave as His child.”
- Then say, “He will make the trial a blessing, teaching me lessons He intends me to learn, and working in me the grace He means to bestow.”
- And last, say, “In His good time He can bring me out again. How and when, He knows.”
Therefore, say, I am here
(1) in His keeping
(2) under His training
(3) for His time.
We can mentally prepare ourselves by:
1. “consider” the other side of trials;
2. calculating the results of our trials;
3. calling on God’s resources in our trials;
4. considering our reactions to our trials; 5. contemplating the reward of our trials.