Verse of the Day: November 9th — James 1:12
“Blessed is the man who perseveres in temptation, for when he has been proved he will receive the crown of life that [the Lord] promised to those who love Him.”
—James 1:12
The Greek word used in this verse for ‘temptation’ is the same one used for “trials.” At this time, St. James was writing to a broad Christian audience. He was encouraging them to not grow weak in faith during times of testing and tribulation … because those who persevered would be blessed by God. Similarly, those of us today who pass through the flames of temptation with faith and love are promised to receive the “crown of life” — peace, joy and honor.
If you are feeling stressed, anxious and unsure today, don’t be tempted to focus on what you can do. Rather, focus on what the Lord will do by your faith. If you are tempted to lose hope or to be angry, unforgiving or bitter, press into the Lord’s love and His promises. He knows what you are going through. He knows how you feel and what you need; and while he does not bring about the temptation, He will guide you through it. We are not expected to know what will happen in the future or how to fix all things. Instead, we are instructed to trust Him — to surrender all worry, care and control at the foot of the cross. It is here we find peace. It is here Jesus restores all that has been lost … and it is here we become victorious.
Today’s Prayer
“Lord Jesus, we find ourselves in the middle of hardships and temptation today … but we know that it is in the darkest valley we grow. We are praying today, not for our trials to be removed from us, but for the strength to persevere in them; for strong faith, hope and love like Saint James — even when things appear bleak and confusing. We lay our sufferings at the foot of the cross, offering them for Your eternal glory; for Your light to shine even brighter in and throughout the world. We believe and declare that all things work for good for those who love and honor You; and we pray that Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. We look forward to one day being crowned with a heavenly ‘crown of glory.’ It is in Your good and Holy Name we humbly pray, Amen.”
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