The book of James begins with the admonition to count trials as joy (v. 2). The reason being: they can lead to great maturity of faith. Proper perspective also demonstrates that even the “lowly brother” is able to “boast in his exaltation” (v. 9). Physical, mental and even spiritual trials don’t have to be stumbling blocks for Christians. Ultimately they can assist him in “receiving the crown of life” (v. 12). Let’s notice a few important points in James 1:12-15.
(1) First, the “blessedness” of trials is for the Christian who remains steadfast (v. 12). The word for steadfast here is hypomeno, meaning “to bear up under.” The idea is that one continues to endure or continues to be faithful even while suffering through trials. Such trials, regardless of their particular nature, are a testing of our faith (see v. 3). In standing strong in the faith, James assures God’s people that they will “receive the crown of life” (v. 12). This is a crown of victory, the ultimate and eternal victory over sin and Satan! (see also Rev. 2:10). We should certainly understand the inverse: if we can stand that also means we are capable of falling! (see Gal. 5:4). Also note that standing strong is one way that we demonstrate our love for the Lord! (Note the end of verse 12.)
(2) Secondly, it is important to understand the source of temptation. God tempts no man to sin. Such is against His nature. From the very beginning, or at least back all the way to Genesis 3, the devil is portrayed as the source of temptation. Yet here, James does not specifically mention the devil, perhaps to keep the Christian from shifting blame (like both Adam and Eve did in Gen. 3:12-13). But our allurements are enticed by our “own desire” (v. 14). We can’t rightfully blame anyone but ourselves for our sin! We are personally accountable and the sooner we accept that the better off we will be. There are no good excuses for sin. Everyone will give a personal account before God (see 2 Cor. 5:10).
(3) In the third place, note the progression of sin in verse 15. First, it begins with desire. Then desire gives way to sin (the outward act). And finally sin leads to death! Sin begins in the heart, and may seem rather innocent or inconspicuous. However, it is not innocent and neither does it usually stay confined to the heart very long (see Prov. 4:23; Mt. 15:18). And when a Christian becomes a slave to sin it effectively kills the inward man. Sin is the one thing, the only thing, that can separate us from our God (see Is. 59:1-2; 1 Jn. 3:4). The devil works very subtlely and quite effectively. We would do well to keep in mind where sin and death begin. It all begins by giving just a little place of our heart to the devil! (see also Eph. 4:27).
God wants our whole heart and He wants our heart to be holy. There is great blessedness from God in remaining steadfast and faithful no matter what comes our way. Turning away from God and His will is never the answer! Turning to Him in the good times and the bad is blessedness!
Daren Schroeder
