Good morning people who persevere, pass the test and receive the crown

James 1:12 NIV Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.

Being blessed is not seen in the absence of trials. It’s never been about this for God. Yet too often we have made it about this as Christians. It’s this wrong belief that derails many; not the trials themselves.

Being blessed is seen in our perseverance under trials that results in passing the test of our faith. When questions don’t derail us or cause us to step back from God, we are blessed! When despite trials of many kinds, we lean further into God, we are blessed!

And the result of this blessing is, we will receive the crown of life!!!

It reminds me of the following Scripture that speaks of our Lord’s example to us. It’s very familiar, but please read it slowly and mediate on it in the context of what I am speaking about:

Hebrews 12:1-3 NIV Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

So, the next time you go through a trial and your faith is tested, think about the example of Jesus. Draw your strength from Him.