Theology is essentially the study of scripture which reveals the nature and will of God, which shapes Christian doctrine (i.e., set of beliefs or teachings). The aforementioned gives birth to life application. In other words, what does Christianity look like in every-day life? This is the primary endeavor of James in his letter to exiled Christians who were enduring persecution for their faith. History reveals they lost their homes and possessions, and were regularly exploited by the rich. James offers right understanding of God’s sanctifying purposes in his people. He provides tangible application that is useful for faith that suffers trial for Christ sake (cf., Jn 16:33). This devotion opens as he unveils heaven’s perspective on why our faith tested by God.
James teaches that gladness should fill our hearts in the midst trials. Isn’t this a strange command? He says, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds,…” The transliteral word from the Greek behind the phrase, “count it” is “hēgeomai” (ἡγέομαι), which means to regard or consider. Joy is possible when we understand and “consider” our suffering in the light of God’s sovereignty who has designed both seasons of prosperity and adversity in our lives according to his purposes (Ecc 7:14). Further, joy is possible when we embrace the truth that we are blessed for being persecuted for his name sake. He promises our suffering is not in vain, for our reward is being built up in heaven (Mt 5:11-12).
James teaches God has a purpose for testing our faith. God’s first objective is to grow us in spiritual maturity (Rom 5:3-5). Second objective: to reveal the quality of our faith. Trial distinguishes genuine faith from superficial profession, like fire that separate dross from silver. As a general truth: the only way to truly determine the quality of anything is by putting it under pressure (cf. 1 Pt 1:6-7). James highlights a third objective: our faith is tested to strengthen it, for it is like precious metals to God. Like a silversmith, God places us in fire. Why? Because we become more shapeable (elastic, trainable, humble) and he can expose and burn away impurities (e.g., lifestyle of sin) from our faith.
This work of shaping and molding faith is a “process” according to James that we must patiently endure. He says, “And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (v4). This process produces a resolute disposition within us that sharpens our attention and affections on Christ in the midst of trial. It causes us to cling to our faith in him, regardless of the hurdles we face. It enables us to persist in doing God’s will like running a marathon where the ultimate goal is to finish the race. This is the work that we must patiently endure with God (by which we cooperate by the Spirit) so that we may be completed in righteousness in Christ.
Blessings,
Dr. Jason S. Price, Th.D.
www.springoflivingwaters.com