Scripture: James 1:2-4
My brothers and sisters, think of the various tests you encounter as occasions for joy. After all, you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. Let this endurance complete its work so that you may be fully mature, complete, and lacking in nothing.
Thought for the Day: In considering the logic presented here by James, would common sense suggest that most people would prefer immaturity? Tests is one of those words that conjures up some significant concerns. When there is a test, there is usually a test facilitator who created the test. So the assumption becomes, in the area of faith, that God is sitting in the heavenly office developing an exam and then waiting to spring it on us. And then God grades it. But at no point does James suggest that God is testing us. In fact, James writes in vs. 13, “No one who is tested should say, ‘God is tempting me!’ This is because God is not tempted by any form of evil, nor does he tempt anyone.” By not blaming God for some bad experience that confronted us, it is much more likely that we will feel comfortable in approaching God and seeking assistance as we go through this challenging time. As I often say, “I don’t believe God needs to test us. The world around us is already doing a fabulous job of putting our faith to the test.”
Prayer: Whether life is going as planned or not, I pray that your loving presence, O Merciful God, is recognizable to me. Let me know that I face whatever comes my way with your eternal love at my side. Amen.
TONIGHT
