Let endurance have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:4 WEB
James begins his writing in chapter one with a greeting to the twelve tribes of Israel. In his first few lines, he encourages Christians to count the temptations they encounter as joy. Additionally, James shares that the testing of faith produces endurance. Hardships increase our reliance on God and make us stronger in faith. Overcoming temptation strengthens us and leads to maturity in Christ.
Endurance is the ability to go through difficult circumstances without giving up. The lofty goal of perfection is freedom from flaws and defects, indicating complete maturity in faith. Considering these things, the adversity of temptation provides the believer with an opportunity to grow in strength and demonstrate trust in God.
Like an athlete in a competition, the more difficult the situation, the more we develop endurance. Christians gain greater ability to trust God from enduring trials and tribulations of all sorts. Whether physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual, growth comes from overcoming difficulty. Each time the Lord brings us through trouble, we grow spiritually and in faith.
Trust in God
James encourages the believer to “let” or allow endurance to lead us to become “perfect and complete.” Rather than avoid difficulty, embrace it, and consider it joy. This is not because we enjoy pain, it is because adversity produces maturity and greater trust in God.
Of course, a large portion of difficulty for believers arises from temptation to sin. When we resist our tendency to give into our sinful nature, we come closer to being “perfect and complete.” Largely, James encourages the faithful to avoid being drawn away from God by the temptations of the flesh. Instead, he directs us to endure and mature in Christ.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the truth you reveal in scripture. Forgive me for falling short of your glory. Help me to endure that I might become perfect and complete in your service. Lead me away from temptation and toward living life in accordance with your will. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Follow After Love
