James 1:12 Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

I quote verse 22 of this chapter very often, because it is an admoni­tion to me, but this verse is a comfort and encouragement. James’ letter isn’t very long, but it is very dense, no at all in the sense of being hard to understand, but rather that every verse is filled with meaning. This verse could be rephrased as, “Don’t complain, because it will all be worth it in the end.” Paul said the same thing as, “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” (2 Corinthians 4:17) Believers down through the ages have gotten tripped up by complaining, when it does them no good, and rather tears them down. Jeremiah is an excellent case in point, so it’s not something to be accusing ourselves or each other about. Rather, we should encourage each other with these verses, because trials can indeed be difficult. After all, Jesus Himself said, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) When we get caught up in complaining, to God and to those around us, we lose our peace, and the only one happy about that is the devil.

I feel very blessed that God has given me this insight – though I don’t always live by it! Just recently someone was saying in my presence, “In just a week or two it will be rainy season here. So hot and humid! How uncomfortable!” I called him on it, saying, “Aren’t you Japanese?” He responded, “Do you like rainy season?” I didn’t really answer his question, but I pointed out that rainy season is an annual event and we certainly should be used to it, and bitching about it just drags us down. I wasn’t meaning to slap him down, but he looked like I had really given him something to think about. I have experienced assorted trials, both personal and general (like rainy season). I have learned the hard way that complaining indeed drags me down, without solving the issue. I am always to seek to improve whatever situation I find myself in, but if nothing presents itself, then I am to thank God for the opportunity to grow in patient endurance. Right now I am being reminded that the older we get, the longer our bodies take to recover from stresses. I did some yard work a couple of days ago and continued it first thing yesterday morning, and my back is still talking to me about it. I’m thankful I’m not used to that slow a recovery! Yesterday I was given the opportunity to talk with a lady who is in a difficult work situation, pointing out that we need to focus on the blessings we have, and she seemed to be greatly encouraged. I need to keep listening to what God says through me, and rest, relax, and rejoice in Him!

Father, thank You for this reminder. Thank You for the rain this morning that keeps me from going walking, but gives me the opportunity to take care of some things here. Help me indeed give You thanks for everything, as You made it so clear through Paul that You want all Your children to do, (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!