James opened the first chapter of his letter identifying the benefits of persevering through troubles, “for you know the testing of your faith produces steadfastness…” (v3). As we venture into verse 12, he returns to this theme, as he describes the reward for those who endure the sanctifying process of trial.
Why does God consider those who endure testing of faith blessed? To best understand James’ thinking here, we must corroborate his teaching against Jesus’ Beatitudes section of his “Sermon on the Mount” (Mt 5:2-12). In them, Jesus defined what it truly meant to be blessed from a kingdom perspective. It is here where James draws his reasoning. In summary, a person possesses true blessedness that finds complete happiness (contentment) in God (cf., Phi 4:11-13). Such a person enjoys God’s special favor by way of:
- Grace and mercy through the forgiveness of sin (the cross).
- Justification (resurrection).
- Possession of God’s Spirit that empowers and produces the fruits of righteousness in one’s life.
- The promise of future glory (eternal life) into the new creation.
Why does God test faith? To authenticate and reveal its genuineness (1 Pt 1:6-7). Faith that is not tried and true is worthless. Such testing (like applying heat to metals) exposes impurities in our faith thus revealing areas of needed growth. Jesus is the “Author and Finisher” of our faith that administrates as “Master Teacher” over this refining process. Our response to such revelations (given by the Spirit) is to seek God. We can trust that He never abandons to failure those who diligently seek him. Remember, He greatly desires for us to endure, overcome, and triumph in faith in our lives. This is true prosperity in the eyes of God.
Realization of the “blessedness” of our standing before God……..that we are the focus and affection of his life-giving work, will strengthen our faith. James spotlights our reward, thus, “…when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised those who love him.” The image being depicted here is that of a glorious emblem that is gifted by God as a prize for Christians who endure in devotional and self-sacrificial living for his name sake. Such a crown of life embodies the highest joy and gladness in God. It represents our future glory in Christ that will shine like the radiant sun (Mt 13:43). The Bible teaches that out of heart filled with thanksgiving, we shall cast our crowns (of life) at the feet of our Lord. Why? He is worthy and is owed all the glory and credit for all righteousness manifested in our lives (Eph 2:10, cf., Rev 4:10-11).
Here is the encouragement to endure in faith: Trust in God in all areas of life, whether in the seasons of prosperity or adversity. Trust that the work He begins in you, he will finish. For HE is our glorious reward……that is to be in his courts always, giving him all the glory forever and ever! Hallelujah!!! Amen.
Blessings,
Dr. Jason S. Price, Th.D.
www.springoflivingwaters.com