The one who perseveres under trial . . . will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. (James 1:12)
Expanded Passage: James 1:12
Our dear friend Dan has struggled with illness for many years. Yet, through his pain, he always testifies he wants Jesus to have the glory. He and his adoring wife, Sharon, minister to nurses, pray alongside doctors, declare miracles for others, and shine the light of Jesus wherever they go. I know that one day soon he will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised him, and when that day comes, I know he will declare it was worth it.
James tells us in today’s passage that if we persevere through life’s trials, we will receive a crown of life. It’s important to note that James does not say if we have trials; he says if we persevere through those trials. This life is going to have trials! Yes, it’s true; we all have our own brand of difficulty and missed expectations. It may be a lost job, a complicated relationship, a child who has chosen a path that disappoints you, or, like my friend Dan, an illness that cannot be overcome. But, no matter what you’re facing, this passage tells us that if we persevere and don’t give up on trusting Jesus to see us through, there will be a reward at the end of our journey. We will pass the test, and our faith will have been worth the battle.
Persevere and receive the crown of life!
Holly Atkinson is a graduate of Oklahoma Wesleyan University and Wesley Seminary (IN). She serves as an assistant principal at a private school in Florida and is married to Pastor Derek Atkinson. They have two girls.
© 2024 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
