{Monday Meditations} Blessed is the Man that Endureth Temptation

Verse: James 1:12 "Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him."

"Blessed is the Man that Endureth Temptation"

Trials and temptations are a part of life. God gives everyone different trials based upon their own personal situations. We all have different struggles that we must face. People don't like to go through hard times though. Hard times are difficult. They test our faith. But they build us and shape us.

I know that trials are rough and they can be very stressful and/or painful. But all through these struggles we must remember that God is preparing us. He is building character within us. He is strengthening us for times ahead.

God is not punishing us as many people think. God is simply getting our attention and preparing us for what he has prepares for us in the future. So many people get angry with God. I feel bad for those people. I can't imagine turning my back on God. God has helped me so much just in the past two years alone.

Of course, God hasn't deemed it necessary to put me through any extremely difficult trials so far. I have been through only one struggle that lightly tested my faith. I struggled a bit, but it has made me stronger. It taught me to trust in God more strongly than I had been. It wasn't drastic, like others I know. I could name so many people whose loved ones passed away due to cancer, or people who deal with terrible physical pain and trials. But God puts us through trials that are special for us.

No matter how difficult our trials and struggles are, they still aren't fun and most of us wouldn't want to endure them again. However I am glad that God drew me closer to Him. I'm sure that I will go through more hard times in my lifetime. I pray God will help me to remain close to Him when I go through those times.

In brief, I just want to encourage those who are going through trials and those who are struggling. God is trying to show you something. He is trying to strengthen you for the future so He can use you more effectively. Do not be discouraged or frustrated or angry at God. Rejoice in that God is working in your life. Keep praying and God will hear you. We must rely on Him for strength. If we ask Him for help, He will supply us with what we need. Remember that God’s will is perfect even if we don't agree with it. 

1 Corinthians 10:13

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.