Daily Bible Reading – 9.8.2021
James 1:12, 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.
We will discover in this series that, in his letter, James covers several themes multiple times. Even within the first chapter he repeats several themes. So, we will begin each week with a passage from chapter 1 and then add other similar-themed Scriptures from other parts of the book.
So, today’s Scripture continues the theme of trials and testing. In the previous Scripture, we were told what to do: Think about trials and testing with joy because it produces perseverance.
This Scripture gives us the ultimate promise of faithful endurance. It is the most compelling reason to persevere through all of the tests of life. We will receive the crown of eternal life. It is given to all who love Jesus. Our refusal to give up no matter the troubles that come speaks to how much we love Jesus.
We know Christians around the world are experiencing life and death tests with the horrible circumstances they are finding themselves in. Their undying motivation to endure death is nothing short of having the absolute assurance that their faithfulness will end in eternal life in God’s loving presence. If this was taken away, there would be no reason to endure to the end.
Question to Consider:
In the midst of all the troubles of life, what keeps you going to faithfully persevere in Christ?
Weekly Memory Verse:
James 1:2-3, Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.