READ: JAMES 1:1-3; 12
For you know when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. (V. 2)
Ten years ago, Dave, a neighbor, friend and golf-buddy, was diagnosed with multiple cancers throughout his body. He was counseled to get his affairs in order as in Dave’s words, “I’ll be soon popping off.” But the doctors and the disease had little insight into the endurance and perseverance that were at the foundation of Dave’s character. Here was a man that left home just after high school, hitch-hiked and rode a bicycle from Maine to Key West; served 25 years in the Navy; obtained a college degree in computer science; worked for an aerospace firm for 20 years; and took loving care of his wife who had major health issues. In spite of the wicked toll his cancers and their medications took on his body, Dave continued to play golf and work part-time at our community’s golf course. He also took the time to teach returning wounded veterans to fly fish as part of Project Healing Waters. Dave never drew attention to himself preferring to ask about others who were struggling with major health issues. Dave knew in his heart he was being tested like never before, but he chose not to leave his circumstances define his life– for he knew where he was going. Twelve years after his first diagnosis, Dave was extended a heavenly invitation to play golf and fish with Jesus on February 11, 2024!
Based upon his own experience, James understood that each of us would undergo faith testing times in our lives. James, one of six siblings of Jesus, did not believe his brother was the Messiah. (John 7:1-4) His conflicted view changed when Jesus appeared to him just prior to his ascension confirming his heavenly status right before his eyes. (1 Corinthians 15:7) Now that his doubts were erased, James began a journey of faith that led him to be one of the founding pillars of the early church. (Galatians 2:9) Despite continual persecution and controversy between the Jewish and Gentile members, James became the managing director of the main church in Jerusalem. Demonstrating profound wisdom, extreme patience, and complete fairness, James unified the early church, remaining its leader until his death in 62AD. His steadfast work produced a Biblical Book that bluntly teaches us how to live faith-based lives of action in the face of our worldly trials, temptations and challenges. This is done by humbling yourself before God and continually drawing close to him. (James 4:7-8) Your faith-based endurance and strength flows directly from this intimate relationship.
PAUSE FOR REFLECTION AND PRAYER
Dave would have gladly forgone the setbacks that dramatically affected his life. Yet, his journey, marked by faith and endurance, produced a strength of character that modeled James’s writing.
Dear Father God, thank you for being with us when we experience the inevitable problems and trials of life. You give us the strength to endure fueled by the confident hope of salvation.