Our Scripture for this week in Crisis Counsels is this passage in the letter of James:

Count it all joy, my brethren, when you meet various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing.
James 1:2–4

As we have previously noted, James is encouraging us that there is a positive aspect to trials, in that they can be the occasion for spiritual growth. Trying times especially produce “steadfastness”; and James goes on to say, “Let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be mature . . .”

We observed yesterday that the original Greek word translated “steadfastness” – ὑπομονή (hupomone) – also can be translated “constancy” or “perseverance” or “endurance.” Often when we must endure a time of trial, our main interest is in moving as fast as possible through it! But when James says, “Let steadfastness (or endurance) have its full effect, so that you may be mature,” he is saying that our real focus should be on growing as much as possible spiritually!

During this pandemic, the question often arises, “When can we get back to normal?” But James would lead us to ask, “How can I become a better person through this? How might I deepen my faith and my commitment to God?” Then these trying times will produce lasting joy!

Prayer – Lead us, O Lord, to grow in spirit and in our service for Your Kingdom. Click To Tweet

If you missed Sunday worship, you can join with the recorded service of either the 9:30 or 10:30 worship hours at live.kentmethodist.org

About the Author

Dr. David A. Palmer has been the senior pastor at the United Methodist Church of Kent since 1995. He has a B.A. from Wittenberg University, a Master of Divinity from Duke University, and a Doctor of Ministry from Princeton Theological Seminary. A native of Wooster, Ohio, he has served three other churches in east Ohio before coming to Kent. He and his wife, Mavis, have three children.