Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial. – James 1:12
The early Jerusalem believers in Christ were enjoying the favor of God and most people. Acts 4 says they were of one heart and mind. They were experiencing a unity and fellowship of community that seemed almost miraculous. Things looked rosy until the Sanhedrin got word that one of them, Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, had been performing signs and wonders and preaching about Jesus. They brought Stephen before the high priest, he was put on trial, and sentenced to death by stoning. On that day, a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered. Godly men buried Stephen, but wherever the new believers went, they were also persecuted.
Two thousand years later, hardships and difficulties continue to be part of life for everyone and Christians should not expect to escape problems because they belong to the Lord. Calm waters and smooth sailing are temporary in this life. Jesus said His followers would be despised, mistreated, and possibly persecuted. “All these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me” (John 15:21).
Jesus said that you will be like “sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves” when your trials come (Matthew 10:16). Be prepared to pray for those who mistreat you (Matthew 5:43-48), and pray for members of Congress who are being ridiculed for standing on Biblical principles.
Today’s Verse: James 1:12
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.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: James 1:2-8
2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. 6 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. 7 For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
