“My brethren, COUNT IT ALL JOY WHEN you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith PRODUCES PATIENCE. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be PERFECT AND COMPLETE, lacking nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach (criticism), and it will be given to him.” (James 1:2-5) Notice, it says “when” we are going to have trials (tests) of our faith. When this happens it is not suggested that we count it all joy, no, it is necessary for us to proceed joyfully thru our temptations or trials. Like getting our drivers license, we have to be tested!
Because, “God blesses those who PATIENTLY 1ENDURE testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him. (James 1:12) 1makrothumeō: to be long spirited, to persevere, “to stick with it.” “When God made His promise to Abraham, since there was no one greater for Him to swear by, He swore by Himself, saying, “I will surely bless you and give you many descendants.” And so after Abraham had PATIENTLY ENDURED, he obtained the promise.” (Heb. 6:13-15) Abraham experienced many trials and temptations but remained faithful So God said, “In blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply your descendants as the stars of the heaven and as the sand which is on the seashore…” (Gen. 22:17)
This is a very important point to remember about our temptations, “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is COMMON TO MAN; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted BEYOND what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the WAY OF ESCAPE, that you may be able to bear it.” (1 Corin. 10:13)
Your Personal Pastor -Bill Stockham