Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. (James 1:2-4) Can I admit to you that I feel weak right now? Each point in history is a unique one to be a Christian, but during the advent of Corona Virus, I feel exhausted. Concentration is at a minimum, and it is difficult to move forward, and at times, I feel as though I am crawling. So what do I do? I strain forward. I persevere. I continue. But how? If any of you lacks wisdom,let him ask God,who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith,with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man,unstable in all his ways.
(James 1:5-8) James answers that question as we go on in his letter: we ask! We ask God for the strength and wisdom to continue, and if we ask, not double minded, but knowing what God has promised, He will supply the wisdom to continue generously and liberally. The Word of God reminds us that we don't need to fight the battle. We just need to stand firm (For example, Ephesians 6:10-20). The Battle is never ours to fight, but always the Lord's. We're to call upon Him, and so, as we persevere, we're given strength, not our own, but the Lord's that we may point to Him in all things. He is our help in times of trouble. He is our strength and deliverer, our Redeemer. And so, we're not asked to win battles, nor even fight them. We're not asked to legislate, appropriate, or anything else (even if it doesn't rhyme with ate). We're called to call on the name of the Lord and rely on His strength. Persevere! Stand fast. The Lord is coming! Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.
Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of his creatures. (James 1:12-18)
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