09 10 07 Faith, Patience and Wisdom

“My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into diverse temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be give him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. (James 1:2-6)

We are going to face all sorts of trials and testings in our lifetime. Three key words are echoed over history here by Jesus’ brother James, the leader of the Jerusalem church. He knew a little about doubt, faith, trials, and the wisdom it took to persevere. He at first doubted who Jesus really was, then after the resurrection he came to trust Christ as the Savior and Lord. Oh, did he go through trials, even to give his life for the faith he claimed in Christ! His wisdom was founded in Christ and the Word of God. His life was lived to completeness, the perfect work of Christ through him.

It is our faith, the conviction that God exists and is the Creator and ruler of all things, the provider and bestower of eternal salvation through Christ, which is the foundation we build upon to live this life. A strong faith allows patience, an enduring, sustaining perseverance, to grow us according to the will of God. But if we find ourselves weak and in danger of falling at times (and we will) we have the permission of God the Holy Spirit to seek wisdom, the wisdom of God Almighty, and expect to receive it.


The true test of a Christian comes when we are faced with the storms. When the waves of trials are cresting at our hearts and we are in danger of going under the pull of the waves, where do we turn; what do we do; whom do we trust? God is right there for us He wants to walk us through the storm and through the lonely valleys. He has also put others around us to strengthen us and buttress us with prayers, acts of kindness, and wise counsel. We are not alone! Faith in our Savior is our foundation. Patience is the tool He uses to perfect us. His wisdom teaches us how to carry it through. All to His glory and for His honor, so others may see Him at work and come to know Him as well!

Count it all JOY!!!