Remain Steadfast And Hope – Persevere To The End

“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 

It is a known fact that gold is placed into the furnace that it may be purified. Diamonds are another rare and precious gem. They sparkle, but not before they are crystallized under conditions of extreme temperature and pressure.

What is the analogy then to be drawn as it relates to us as believers? Is it entirely possible that we can experience true joy in the midst of chaos and as we are pressed through great afflictions of various kinds?  Could we readily attend to all these things and grow in them as we should do? The truth is, no man creates trials unto himself, but they are such that he is said to fall into them.

Let us therefore be ready both in season and out of season when these afflictions come. While trials and afflictions are meant to help us grow and strengthen us spiritually as our faith is also exercised, be mindful to put on the whole armor of God so that we are armed on every side and we are not overcome by the temptation to be drawn into apostasy and hardness of heart.

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” ~ James 1: 5

We must let patience have its perfect work in us, and we shall be perfect and entire as in wanting nothing or lacking in anything. We must surrender ourselves unto prayer. Pray especially for wisdom, not so much to be removed from the trial, but that God will grant the wisdom to govern our spirit and temper and  to guide us into making the right decisions under our trials.

Be not weary, but remain steadfast in hope. Persevere to the end!

photo by: skoeber