James, a bond-servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ,
To the twelve tribes who are dispersed abroad: Greetings.
Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:1-4
The goal of the Christian life is Christlikeness… to be like Jesus in word, thought and deed. James says, if you want to be perfect, your attitude toward trials will be one of joy, knowing that God is at work in you. In this context, I am saying that to be perfect is to be complete in Christlike character. Notice, that in these various trials (and it takes quite a few of these experiences and seasons), we must endure or ride them out to their conclusion. In doing so, we see how God has been involved, that gives us wisdom and hope for the next trial.
What trials am I going through right now? What wisdom is God imparting? What character is developing.
Jesus, You are my model and guide, my goal and my source. Thank you for the ability to see things on earth from a heavenly vantage point. Please continue to show me what to do and say as You are working within my life. There are a couple of ‘dominoes’ that I still want to tip. I want to give You the glory, guard my heart and do what only You can do.
