Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. (James 1:2-4)
For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised. (Hebrews 10:36)
Would you have perfect joy and completeness, lacking in nothing? Then you must have trials of various kinds. James tells us that when we encounter these trials, we should see them for what they are – a grace and blessing of the very sweetest order from the very hand of our good and gracious God. Child of God, know that only the purifying fire of the test can burn away the dross in your heart. What purpose does your Father have in holding you over the flame? O beloved! It is that you may be made perfect and complete, lacking in nothing! No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it. What you are in need of is endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised! The fire of the trial is no more than the rod and the staff of the Lord. David understood this full well – Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. Believer, whatever trial you find yourself in this day, be comforted by the knowledge that your Shepherd is the only Good One and His eye is on the sparrow. Patiently look to Christ and do the will of God (faithful obedience) that you may receive what was promised.
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