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What is the appropriate attitude for a Christ-follower to take when faced with challenging circumstances? This is the first topic James tackles in his letter to the twelve dispersed tribes, (James 1:1) a theme that is echoed strongly in the Apostle Peter’s first epistle to dispersed believers, as well (1 Peter 1:6-9). Given what church history teaches of the treatment of the early church-including accounts recorded in Scripture (see Acts 7,8, 12, Hebrews 11)- we can assume that the trials that James illudes to at the onset of this Epistle were no light matter.

“My brothers and sisters, consider it nothing but joy when you fall into all sorts of trials, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect effect, so that you will be perfect and complete, not deficient in anything.” (James 1:2-4 NET)

Consider it nothing but joy when you fall into all sorts of trials.

Not many years before, Jesus had said that those who were persecuted on account of him were blessed, and promised a reward in heaven (Matthew 5:11-12), and now James encouraged those facing challenges they had not looked for, or perhaps even anticipated, to face them with an attitude of joy. The original Greek word carries an idea of cheerfulness, calm delight, and gladness. ₁ James gives two major reasons for this joy as he delves into the topic of suffering for the Lord. These reasons for a calm delight and genuine gladness rest in the confidence of the Sovereignty of God, and the assurance of sanctification through suffering.

Trials are not meaningless. How often do we face a crushing blow with the attitude of “Why, God?” as if our circumstance caught him unaware? Yet in vs. 2-4 James encourages the believer that God purposefully uses suffering as an agent to bring about sanctification in the life of a believer.

How is a suffering believer to act when facing a struggle?

Look at the action words listed in vs. 2-4. Consider. When you are faced by challenges, take the mindset that this suffering is to produce endurance, and bring about sanctification. You know (v. 3). Remember and hone in on God’s faithfulness to bring about goodness through your trial. Let (v.4). Allow your spirit to be soft to the Lord, so that you can grow in the way in which He wants you to.

But. Notice the sharp turn that James appears to take in vs. 6. The previous 3 verses encompass the importance of a God-focused attitude in the midst of suffering. Suddenly, it seems, James completely changes gears, talking about those seeking wisdom and the importance of faith. How do all these thoughts connect?

One Bible scholar suggested that wisdom is needed to understand the reasons behind trials. ₂ As James discusses the importance of seeking wisdom in faith, he also highlights the necessity of faith in seeking the Lord for anything. Is this faith not also the key to facing trials with an attitude of joy?

With a sweeping stroke, James sketches a caricature of one who is not sound in faith, one who is tossed about like a wave of the sea (v. 6). This person, James assures the reader, asks for wisdom in vain. As the writer of Hebrews reminds us, “Now without faith it is impossible to please (God)…” (Heb. 11:3a).  

What does this type of faith look like in the midst of a trial or temptation? It presents itself as a blissful release from the need for compulsive worry. It is an uncanny calm in the midst of insurmountable odds. This is perhaps best illustrated by our Savior as He slept in the midst of a raging storm (Mark 4:38). Elisabeth Elliot commented on Jesus’ freedom from worry when she writes:

“Jesus slept on a pillow in the midst of a raging storm. How could he?…He could because He slept in the calm assurance that His Father was in control. He was a quiet heart.” ₃

Do we have the same quiet confidence in the plan of God? Do we trust the heart of God? Later in this chapter, James encourages his readers in the goodness and sovereignty of God stating that:

All generous giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or the slightest hint of change. By his sovereign plan he gave us birth through the message of truth, that we would be a kind of firstfruits of all he created. James 1:16-17, NET.

Do we have the faith-filled eyes to see our trials accordingly? Do we understand that God gives good gifts and that even the hard gifts are for our good? Do we see sanctification as a gift? Do we trust that a God who is sovereign over our eternal life is also sovereign over our earthly life?

This is the attitude that we must take on as we approach trials of any sort. We must learn to see our life through the lens of Scripture, praising the Lord for His sovereignty, and the opportunity to grow in His image.

Homework: Read the book of James. Re-read and highlight in blue any major cause and effect relationships. Highlight in pink any direct commands. Write “Ex.” Above any specific examples James gives to back up major points he makes. What negative commands does James give? Mark these with a “-’’ sign. What positive commands does he give? Mark these with a “+’’ sign.

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Notes:

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₁Understanding for the original Greek word for joy was obtained through the Strong’s Greek Lexacon, Entry G5463, “χαρά”. Accessed March 30, 2021. Url as follows: https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=G5479&t=KJV

₂ Guzik, David. “Study Guide for James 1: A Living Faith in Trials and Temptations” Last accessed 12, April, 2021. Url as follows: https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/guzik_david/StudyGuide2017-Jam/Jam-1.cfm?a=1147005

₃ Elliot, Elisabeth. Keep A Quiet Heart. Grand Rapids, 1995. Pg. 1