17 Nov - Ezekiel 35-36; James 1:1-18; Psalm 116; Proverbs 27:23-27
The subject mentioned in James is about our faith. How shaken will be our relationship with God despite bad time and in good times? In both situation, our faith in God will weaver.
But first why is the need to test our faith? God examines our heart - He knew us, so there is no need for Him to test us to check whether we can pass the faith test. On the contrary, it is God who permits these test, for by going through, we check our balance, we check our stability and we deepen our relationship with God. I am talking about both good and bad times. For in good time we forget God and in bad time, we blame God. v2 says - Count it all joy and v4 answer why the need for such test - that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
In time of testing and trial - remember God is the answer, the given solution. v5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach. Yes indeed, some of us will try to go through bad times with our strength and should a solution be found - tends to forget that it is God. Similar, during good times, we forget that it is the blessings of God and tends to 'enjoy' life without a need for God.
like a flower of the grass [5] he will pass away. 11 For the sun rises with its scorching heat and withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beauty perishes. So also will the rich man fade away in the midst of his pursuits. Therefore James said - let not only the rich, but the lowly.
James 1: 13-15 mentioned about temptation by God - under trial of or faith (especially during bad times) - we tend to put blame that God is tempting us.
Like wise in v16-17, James mentioned about good gifts tht comes from God (especially during good times) we tend to forget that these are from God.
Finally..
12 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life
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