Blessed is a person who endures temptation, for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life, which the Lord promised to those who love him. James 1:12 WEB
James begins his epistle addressing it to the twelve tribes of Israel scattered among the nations. In his introduction, he calls himself a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. The first section of the letter presents James’ understanding of trials and temptations.
The opening makes clear that trials and temptation do not come from God. Instead, James teaches that these tests of faith derive from enticements to sin that come from our own evil desires. It is our own fallen nature and corrupt hearts that make us vulnerable to the errors of sin and inheritors of death rather than the forgiven in Christ who receive the crown of life.
Lacking in Nothing
Similar to his line about enduring temptation, the author writes in James 1:2-4, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you fall into various temptations, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. Let endurance have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. WEB”
Christ forgives sin but famously teaches the forgiven to repent and give up sinful lifestyles to receive the crown of life that is eternal life in heaven. To the paralyzed man healed at the pool called Bethesda, Jesus says in John 5:14, “Behold, you are made well. Sin no more, so that nothing worse happens to you. WEB” To the woman saved from condemnation and stoning for her adultery, Christ says in John 8:11, “Go your way. From now on, sin no more. WEB”
Temptation Without Sin
Similarly, James discourages continuing in sin after receiving Christ through faith. Saying that a person is blessed by enduring temptation, James teaches to go through temptation without giving into sin. The crown of life may be a direct reference to eternal life but also may indicate a better life here on earth.
In James 4:7, the author encourages his readers saying, ‘Be subject therefore to God. But resist the devil, and he will flee from you. WEB” Enduring temptation without sinning, we develop endurance. Eventually the temptation to sin subsides and the believer is left with a stronger disposition that is less vulnerable to temptation and error.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the encouragement found in scripture. Thank you for your faith building word. Help me to develop endurance to overcome temptation so that I will receive the crown of life promised by Christ. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: The Sabbath Day
