Who is to Blame?, Part 2

“Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death.”  James 1:12-15

As you read James’ epistle, you see at once that his words reflect Jesus’ own word from the Sermon on the Mount. Christ’s principles were translated into life itself for James. To consider the trials of life as joy, he must either have been misdirected, or he must have had a different (Christ-centered) view of life.

His key was that he saw far beyond the present trial to the effect it would have on his life; it would build the character of endurance. His was a faith that endured - a perfect faith which was complete, lacking in nothing. How often do we chide ourselves for having so little faith? Faith, like an athlete’s ability, is strengthened through exercise. Our faith is exercised in trials and in temptation.

There is a monumental promise given in James 1:12: “Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” Instead of destroying faith - allow temptation to build faith.

Our faith is exercised through trials and temptations.