James !:2-4 are often quoted when we face trials, or outward circomstances in life that may threaten one's faithfulness to Christ. Kevin reminded us of verse 12, in which we are promised a crown of life when we've withstood those trials. The type of crown James is talking about is not the royal, bling-encrusted one we aften associate with the word "crown," but one more like the wreaths awarded in the ancient Olympic games, given for victory in a race. And since the life of following Christ is very much like a long race, I think this is a great picture.
Trials remind us that God is in control. They train us to put our dependence on Jesus alone. They strengthen our faith, because, unlike a popular saying, I think that God does give us more than we can handle - sometimes He lovingly gives us circumstances that we cannot handle without His grace and help. And trials continually point us toward a heavenly hope and eternal perspective.
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