Blessed is the Man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. Let know man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death ~ James 1:12-15, KJV ~
There are two powerful incidents that I recall from growing that showed how powerful temptation is. First, I was walking with my cousins and two younger sisters. We were crossing the bridge that stretched over the canyon. Across from the bridge stands the Grand Coulee Dam. We stopped to gaze at the majesty of this human ingenuity. Suddenly, a rush of sensation to jump off the Bridge and free fall gripped me. For several minutes, I stood frozen in sheer fear and shear desire to feel the air and sensation of falling. It soon passed.
A second incident involved my weekly attendance at the boy scout meeting with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons). My scout master wanted to make a lesson, I am pretty sure about temptation, and had drawn a circle. The challenge was that one of us volunteered to stand in the circle. He then pulled out his wallet and began counting out money. I do not recall how much. What I do remember is that I had the choice of either staying in the circle or step out and take the money and it would be mine.
Both incidents had powerful influence over me at the time. Unfortunately, I had forgotten how powerful temptation was and have fallen into its wiles. The beauty. The lust. The desire. All are designed to cause our fall from grace. Temptation has brought many great men and women to their knees.
Grand Coulee Bridge is about 150 ft above the water and is dwarfed by the Canyon and the Grand Coulee Dam
Had I given into the one temptation - I may not have survived. Had I given to the second temptation, I'd had much explaining to do with my parents about the recent money lining my pockets.
The Temptations of Christ
James uses the same style of language that is familiar to us. The familiarity is the way the Gospels introduces the Beatitudes.
What we also are familiar with is the temptations of Christ. Three of them occurred while having fasted forty days and forty nights. The fourth temptation occurs when Christ is in the Garden of Gethsemaneand praying to the Father.
In each temptation - Christ responded with truth. This truth established on God's word and law of obedience.
Temptation of Desire and Appetite
In his sermon, published at Truth in Love, Archbishop Eitenne shares this insight:
Here, Satan is taking bread or food, as representative of all the appetites of the body as a means of temptation. Here we can easily relate. Jesus’ response puts the human need for food and all the other appetites in their proper order. We are not to use the natural appetites of the body for pleasure or self-satisfaction, but for their proper means of sustaining us according to God’s will.
For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life is not of the Father, but is of the world.
The world offers us all the desires and appetites that leave our bellies full, and our flesh satisfied. Unfortunately, it is only temporary, and we continue to remain hungry and thirsty for more of those things of the world. When we are tempted, it may come in guise of satisfying some desire. We develop an appetite for it. Eventually, it leads us to experience death of our sense of self through Jesus Christ.
Temptation of Power and Authority
Archbishop Eitenne continues and shares the following on Christ's second temptation:
Satan is a master of deception. It is only by Jesus' obedience to and service of the Father that will make him King of Kings. What do the scriptures tell us? Psalm 2 says: “The LORD said to me, ‘You are my son; today I have begotten you.’ Ask and I will give you the nations as your inheritance, and as your possession, the ends of the earth.” The Letter to the Colossians tells us: “For in him [Jesus] were created all things in heaven and on earth”. (1:16) Perhaps this temptation reveals that Satan is the most deceived of all of us. Never-the-less, we all know the power of his deceptions, and the Gospel today is teaching us that Jesus is our only power against him. Ultimately, this temptation shows the corrupting nature of power.
We are familiar with the phrase: power tends to corrupt: absolute power corrupts absolutely. This is an observation made by British Historian Lord Acton. The idea is that as a person gains authority and power, their sense of morality appears to lessen.
As we pay attention to how Christ interacted with the religious leaders - He challenged their power and authority they had exerted in oppressing those who came to seek refuge. They had fallen short of the application and spirit of the Law of Moses and conformed it into a legalistic form of religious piety.
Temptation to Become 'a god'
The third temptation of Christ is the deception that we ultimately have the authority and have no need for God. Or, we have need of God, however, only when he serves our needs and best interests. Archbishop comments as follows:
This is the great human temptation: we want to be God. We want God to serve our needs rather than humbly recognize that we are created for God. Our greatest glory is our love and service of God. Our greatest good is giving all the glory and praise to God.
Our desire to manage our lives and to live according to our own desires leads us back to fulfilling the lusts of our hearts. It becomes a vicious cycle. We become manipulative and calculating. In the Movie the Book of Eli starring Denzel Washington - a dystopian warlord is looking for a specific book. In one line he says: It's a weapon - Of course, the book referenced is the Bible.
Quick Relief in Times of Difficulty
I mentioned there is a fourth temptation of Christ. This temptation occurs while Christ is in the Garden of Gethsemane and praying to the Father. He is soon to face betrayal, torture, and the inevitable crucifixion. This temptation appears to come at a time of extreme difficulty and suffering.
It was not death on the cross that Jesus agonized over in Gethsemane. In fact, He stated very emphatically that He came with the purpose of dying. His concern here was that He might not get through this struggle as the Son of Man. He was confident of getting through it as the Son of God— Satan could not touch Him there. But Satan’s assault was that our Lord would come through for us on His own solely as the Son of Man. If Jesus had done that, He could not have been our Savior (see Hebrews 9:11-15). Read the record of His agony in Gethsemane in light of His earlier wilderness temptation— “…the devil…departed from Him until an opportune time” (Luke 4:13). In Gethsemane, Satan came back and was overthrown again. Satan’s final assault against our Lord as the Son of Man was in Gethsemane.
We are tempted to get through our times of difficulty when we forget God. The Letter of James starts off with teaching us the importance of genuine faith during times of trials. Here, he is teaching us that genuine faith also delivers us from the temptations of Satan.
Facing temptation because of the lusts and desires of our hearts
Facing temptation because of power and authority
Facing temptation because of our desire to be above God
Facing temptation to find quick relief through times of difficulty
Satan Knows Our Weaknesses and Tempts Us
The blessing comes when we endure temptation. When we are tried and resist the adversary. And how do temptations beset us?
The goal of the fly fisherman is to catch trout through skillful deception. The adept fisherman studies trout behavior, weather, the water current, and the types of insects trout eat and when those insects hatch. He will often craft by hand the lures he uses. He knows these artificial insects embedded with tiny hooks need to be a perfect deception because the trout will identify even the slightest flaw and reject the fly.
M. Russell Ballard continues:
The use of artificial lures to fool and catch a fish is an example of the way Lucifer often tempts, deceives, and tries to ensnare us.
And like the fly fisherman in this analogy - we succumb to the snares of Satan. This is because as much as our Heavenly Father knows us. Satan knows us as well - to some extent. M. Russell Ballard shares this insight as well:
Like the fly fisherman who knows that trout are driven by hunger, Lucifer knows our “hunger,” or weaknesses, and tempts us with counterfeit lures which, if taken, can cause us to be yanked from the stream of life into his unmerciful influence. And unlike a fly fisherman who catches and releases the fish unharmed back into the water, Lucifer will not voluntarily let go. His goal is to make his victims as miserable as he is.
The Apostle Paul warns us what happens if we continue to pursue our passions and desires to fulfill the lusts of the flesh:
Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful: but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools. .. Wherefore, God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts...
Romans 1:21-22, 24 (cf: Romans 1:18-32) KJV
Working in the field as a seasoned substance use disorder professional I have seen the devastation and powerful hold substance use has on a person's life. The impact and suffering individuals endure is not just from the withdrawals. There is significant damage and death a person experiences.
According to the book Refuge Recovery: A Buddhist Path to Recovering from Addiction by Noah Levine shares this insight:
What usually starts as a search for happiness and pleasure almost always ends in tremendous sorrow, loss, confusion, and suffering.
Levine also shares this:
Addiction to drugs, alcohol, sex, people, gambling, money, food, or whatever the addiction creates an almost unbearable amount of suffering, confusion, and harm in the life of the addict and the lives of the people who love the addict.
This unbearable suffering is entrenched with false beliefs and values. It also creates imbalance in our lives:
Emotional and Mental well-being compromised
Relational well-being is compromised
Physical and nutritional well-being is compromised
Financial well-being is compromised
Spiritual well-being is compromised
And when we continue to cave into our insatiable cravings and lusts - we become further dependent, and our suffering increases all the more.
Our Final Temptation and Battle with Satan
The reality of this mortal life is how we will face times of adversity and difficulties. We will also face times of temptation. When we fall into temptation. When the snare of the devil is set, and we are caught up in those trespasses. There is hope through Jesus Christ. Our own personal, and final temptation, battle with Satan concerns the forgiveness offered through the infinite atonement of Jesus Christ.
Submitting ourselves over to God is a battle in this mortal existence. When we fall from grace, Satan does all he can to keep us ensnared. In the Book of Mormon, Moroni 7:12, 17 shares this:
... that which is evil cometh of the devil; for the devil is an enemy unto God, and fighteth against him continually, and inviteth and enticeth to sin, and to do that which is evil continually. ...But whatsoever thing persuadeth men to do evil, and believe not in Christ, and deny him, and serve not God, then ye may know with a perfect knowledge it is of the devil; for after this manner doth the devil work, for he persuadeth no man to do good, no, not one; neither do his angels; neither do they who subject themselves unto him.
We were to control our urges and desires, master and control our passions, and overcome our weaknesses, small and large. We were to eliminate sins of omission and of commission, and to follow the laws and commandments given us by our father
The power of Christ's atonement cleanses us and places us back into a right and true relationship with Jesus Christ. Yet, the adversary wants to convince us that we do not need to repent. Satan's desire is for us to be just as miserable and suffering as he is.
Deception is the first appeal
Delay repentance is the second appeal
Fear is the third appeal
Pride is the final appeal
When we dwell in the power of Christ's righteousness. Dwell in the refuge of our Heavenly Father's love - Satan has no power or authority over our hearts, minds, and souls (see, 1 Nephi 22:26).
Blessed Are We When We Endure Temptation
Genuine faith increases when we are tempted, resist the temptation, and endure. Our glory is eternal life through Jesus Christ. Genuine faith is also increased when we come to understand that God's divine gift is Love and Forgiveness. James speaks on how our temptations do not come from God. What comes from our Heavenly Father is the Light of Christ and all good things that motivate us to love God and others (see Moroni Chapter 7).
Through Jesus Christ - we receive forgiveness and eternal life. We also are endowed with power and authority to resist temptations. As we endure - we increase in our faith. As we come to seek forgiveness and repent of our sins - because we have fallen prey to the temptations and wiles of the Adversary - our faith increases and grows.
Our Heavenly Father blesses us in this life and in the life to come. Jesus is the Christ - the only Begotten, and through Him, we are saved.
Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted:
But the rich, in that he is made low; because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away
For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth: so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways.
~ James 1:9-11, KJV ~
My father was a Vietnam Vet and served 2 years in the Navy. He spent 16 years in the Army. He also grew up from the school of hard knocks. Overcoming alcoholism and doing his best to provide for his family. He worked hard - despite any pain and suffering. As I grew older - he'd say to me: Son, you are going to leave this house the same way you came into this world. Bare ass naked and broke. Of course, I shrugged it off and chuckled at the thought. Never occurred to me the ring of truth of what he said in that statement. I now realized that I had left naked and broke many occasions.
Everyone is born without riches, glory, prestige. Our life begins with nakedness and lacking any adequate means to care for our own needs. As we age, we become dependent on others to care for our own needs. In life, we are born naked and broke. In death, we're buried naked and broke. How we live our lives determines our eternal destination and legacy.
Our Nakedness in Birth, Life, and Death
When you think of nakedness it is of the image where a person has no clothes. Yet, naked refers to something uncovered, lacking means of support, without protection. It also refers to something that is without additions, ornaments, disguises, or embellishments. Something that is plain or stark. Our birth is without any addition, ornaments, disguises or embellishments. We are uncovered, lack any means of support, and without protection. Nakedness of birth, life, and death is our mere vulnerability to those adversities that come our way.
Leaving the protection of the family home - I am left vulnerable to the world. Without the protection of my parent's hard work to keep food on the table, roof over head, and providing transportation to scouts, camping and fishing trips, family vacations. I left bare and lacking any means to stand on my own two feet. It was a real struggle for me.
Yet, God does not leave us naked. He does not leave us without means of support. Our Loving Heavenly Father does not leave us vulnerable to the cares and whims of the world. He knows we are going to face our challenges. And this is what I believe James is sharing with us today.
The previous verses focused on facing our times of adversity with joy. Finding purpose and meaning in storms that come our way and not be of double-mind. It seems that when we get to verses 9-11, James takes a detour. This is not the case. For James is keeping up with how everyone experiences their seasons of difficulty. James warns us of the problems associated with the love of money (1 Timothy 6:10) compared to being in a position of humility. Here, James is contrasting the difference between being exalted in our poverty compared to being prideful and fallen because of our love for prestige and prosperity.
James is illustrating that regardless of our status in life - we all stand naked before God as broken vessels. We stand naked in life before God because He sees us for what we have become and how we have lived our lives. We either live with envy and jealousy of those who have attained some level of affluence; or we live with pride and ego where we oppress those who are in poverty. Either way, our nakedness is revealed. Our brokenness is exposed. And the best way for this to happen is for us to experience adversity.
Adversity Exposes Us to the Reality of God's Plan of Salvation
Our Heavenly Father's desire is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of each and every one of us. He already laid forth this plan prior to creation.
He also knew we are going to face difficult times during this mortal life. Before us is the choice to faithfully seek Him during those seasons we experience adversity. Or we merely seek our own ways to manage and deal with adversity. The right way leads us to a life that is fulfilling, strengthening of our faith, and spiritual growth. Unfortunately, the other path leads to suffering, destruction, and despair.
Adam and Eve had the Tree of Life in the midst of the Garden. They also had the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. Both stood in opposition to one another. Had they not partaken of the fruit from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, they would not have experienced any adversity. A state of innocence with no growth. No faith. All needs are met. Yet, they fell in disobedience and were exposed to their own nakedness and awareness of their vulnerability. They were stripped of any divine vestige.
Central to the gospel of Jesus Christ is the Father’s plan of salvation for the eternal progress of His children. That plan, explained in modern revelation, helps us understand many things we face in mortality. My message focuses on the essential role of opposition in that plan.
Today, we experience the same. Adversity strips us of any vestige of pride and self-righteousness. Strips us of our envying and covetousness toward others. Whether rich or poor, adversity strips us of all but our realization of God's divine plan and purpose for us. If we are poor, we boast in our poverty as a means to exalt ourselves. If we are rich, we boast in our own glory and confidence.
James uses the imagery of the Sun and how it causes the grass and the flowers to wither of their grace and beauty. The same happens to those who are wealthy. Their life fades away. The beauty, the grace, and the fashioned trends that once adorned a person no longer has any affect. They are brought low to the dust of earth. And to the one who is impoverish, God alone exalts and to which we have reason to boast.
Whether in Poverty or Wealth - Humility is the Virtue of Rich Faith
Humility is the way we see ourselves. If we see ourselves as superior, we will treat others according to our mindset. If we see ourselves as nothing, we will debase and demean ourselves out of our emotional instability, and unfortunately, we will demean others, because that is how we see ourselves. Humility is neither a superior attitude, nor is it self-demeaning, rather it is an attitude that finds joy in the joy and transformation of others. ~ David Delp June 2018 ~
As we experience adversity in our lives, we stand in sheer reverence of God's sovereign grace. Andrew Murray says this:
The call to humility has been too little regarded in the Church, because its true nature and importance has been too little apprehended. It is not a something which we bring to God, or he bestows; it is simply the sense of entire nothingness, which comes when we see how truly God is all, and in which we make way for God to be all.
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"The condition of God's blessing is absolute surrender of all into His hands. If our hearts are willing for that, there is no end to what God will do for us, and to the blessings God will bestow." --from Absolute Surrender
Greatly concerned for the spiritual guidance of new converts, and for spiritual growth in long-time Christians, Murray penned some of the most enduring devotional classics of Christian literature. The two beloved works in this volume reflect Murray's longing for a deeper life in Christ and his prayer that others would long for and experience that life as well.
Genuine faith stems from genuine humility. Our humility and faith are shaped from those trials we face in our lives. We are richly blessed beyond measure. The challenge is to keep ourselves humble regardless of how blessed we are. I also want to add that humility is the means in which we shore up treasures in heaven and not here on earth (see Matthew 6:19-20). It is not one of many Christian Virtues. It is the root of all Christian virtues. Humility is the root of genuine faith in God.
How do we find strength in our own sufferings? How do we boast and be exalted? Let us turn to Paul's example when he wrote to the Corinthian Church (see, 2 Corinthians 11:16-33). He boasts of his sufferings and infirmities. Clifford M. Yeary says this:
For Paul, his sufferings, which he calls weaknesses, are boast-worthy precisely because they leave so much room for God’s strength to be revealed in Paul’s life. Three times he had asked God for release from a particular (but not explicitly named) affliction, only to be told, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). For that reason, Paul goes on to say, “I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and constraints, for the sake of Christ; for when I am weak, then I am strong” (12:10).
Through humility, and the adversity we experience that shapes our faith in God, we glory and are lifted up in our weaknesses and poverty. Our very own nakedness is clothed with the righteousness of Christ in that we are favored of God. Through our faith, we do not wither away. Nor do we perish. Our faith does not cause us to fade away.
Words of Truth Redefined
It used to be that when I reflected on what my dad said about how I'd leave the family home had typically resulted in deep rooted bitterness and resentment. It was not until Heavenly Father had opened my heart and mind to the reality of truth hidden in those words. For me, God had redefined my father's words to fully understand the truth.
I had left the home naked and broke. I have left many places naked and broke. Each time, it was God bringing me to a place of humility. Through my despair, hopelessness, and even nakedness was I receptive to His grace and truth. And when I pass from this life to the next - it will be through nakedness and without riches of the world. I will, like many who have and will, leave this world bare ass naked and broke.
Today, there is a choice before you and me. We either choose to spend our lives chasing after those things that we believe will bring our own sense of peace and happiness, found our own means and ways to manage through difficult times. Or we choose to humble ourselves before God and seek His will for our lives. He has a plan and a purpose. We just need to be humble. Our wealth or poverty is short lived. The love and glory of God's grace and salvation is enduring.
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.
~ James 1:5-8, KJV ~
Yes, faith is a choice, and it must be sought after and developed. Thus, we are responsible for our own faith. We are also responsible for our lack of faith. The choice is yours.
October 2016, Hurricane Matthew struck the Carolina's with heavy rainfall. This caused severe flooding. What is interesting to note is how a video went viral of a shirtless man holding the American Flag and standing his ground while rocking out to Slayer. This was picked up by all major news networks and had approximately 11 million views on YouTube. Talk about going viral. The trials and tempests we face in life brings us into that calm part of the storms when we faithfully seek God
October 2016 - Lane Pittman Head banging to Slayer Raining Blood - Fox News
The courage to stand in a downpour and the coming hurricane for 9 seconds leaves one to wonder: would that be something I'd do? Most likely, most of us will seek shelter and safety in order to wait out the storm. And, as devastating as they are, Hurricanes actually serve a purpose. According to Weather.com, here are five reasons Hurricanes are beneficial and what purpose they serve:
Bring rainfall to areas that need it
Break up bacteria and Red Tide
Provide a Global Heat Balance
Replenish Barrier Islands
Replenish Inland Plant Life
More importantly, if you were in the eye of the storm, you are in the calmest part of the Hurricane. The trials and the tempests we face in life brings us into that calm part of the storms when we faithfully seek God. This is what I have learned over time. In my own personal life - I have faced many storms that have turned my world upside down. And all I concerned myself with was finding some place to hunker down and let the storm pass. Unfortunately, those were the missed opportunities for me to grow in faith. It takes courage to face our storms. It also takes wisdom and understanding that there is some purpose for those hurricanes in our lives. Yet, we stand in fear and lack wisdom. This is what James is teaching us.
If Ye Lack Wisdom - Let Him Ask of God
Facing the storms in our lives means we develop a meaningful and genuine prayer life. How are we able to come to God and ask Him for something we lack when there is no meaningful relationship? James is speaking to Jewish and Christian believers. The implied understanding is that they are engaged in praying and seeking God. And it is not merely a simple heartfelt prayer we offer. We listen for His voice. Prayer encourages us to wait upon the Lord in order for our strength to be renewed (see, Isaiah 40:31).
As we come to our Heavenly Father, we are seeking His guiding counsel and wisdom. Let us revisit Proverbs 9:10 where it says:
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding
Fear is the word yirah in Hebrew. It means to stand in awe and reverence of God (see James 1:1-4 | Genuine Faith and Trials). Wisdom is interconnected with knowledge and understanding.
As finite sentient beings, we do not have perfect knowledge and understanding. If we had, we'd not need faith in God. Alma teaches us this important truth:
...Behold, I say unto you ... for if a man knoweth a thing he hath no cause to believe, for he knoweth it.
Faith teaches us to act in a manner to which we believe God will help us, strengthen us, and give unto us what we need to withstand the storms in our lives. Scripture is firm on the nature of our faith as it relates to God. Christ constantly chastised the disciples - O ye of little faith. Christ commented on the simplest acts of faith - I have not seen such great faith. Faith even may bring healing into our own lives - Thy faith has made thee whole. Each time Christ ministered to those individuals it is because they had sought him out.
Christ teaches us the principle of faith:
And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, if ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.
Matthew 17:20
The power of our faith comes when we step out of our unbelief. When we step out of our fears and our doubts. When we move closer to our Heavenly Father through prayer. As our faith increases, so also does our strength and wisdom increase. Our knowledge and understanding strengthens and grows.
We are not Called to be Double-minded Christians
It is one thing to lack wisdom, understanding, and knowledge. We deal with this through humility, genuine prayer, and listening to the counsel of our Heavenly Father. It is natural to not fully understand the reason and purpose behind the storms in our lives. However, what is devastatingly harmful to us is when we are double-minded.
A double minded man is unstable in all his ways ~ James 1:8, KJV ~
Occasionally led by the spirit while being led by our other influence
Real peace comes when we walk in obedience to God
Easily prone to falling into old habits
Desire to be drawn to God
Being double minded means, we are operating our lives out of insincerity, living out of hypocrisy, and we waver between having a relationship with God and having a relationship with the cares of this world. It causes an imbalance in our lives. And rightly so. There is a spiritual reason behind how we are sometimes double minded. It comes down to the two natures we possess. Our human nature and that of our spiritual nature.
One of the most enigmatic scriptures is that of the Apostle Paul:
For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.
Romans 7:15-20, KJV
I know, it is a head scratcher. Confusing. What I do believe Paul is saying is that he desires to do that which is good in the sight of God. However, he has a natural propensity do that which is contrary. This is how our two natures operate. The flesh and the spirit. The challenge is to move us from this double-minded aspect and toward a more single-minded person.
John Stange does a good job at providing some wisdom on this; Why do I do What I don't Want to do? Stange shares how our sinful nature is constantly deceiving us. He also shares how we sometimes are not fully understanding of our own behavior. These two aspects create instability in our lives. Therefore, when we come to God, we come to seek wisdom in how to deal with our lack of understanding of our own behavior and to find wisdom in order to overcome our natural desires and tendencies.
All of this is a process. To move from being double minded toward a single-minded Christian who grows in faith. It is something that we cultivate over time.
Storms Have a Purpose and Benefit Our Faith in God
There are five reasons the trials we face in life are beneficial. They serve a purpose in how we grow in faith.
Brings a freshness to those areas in our lives where we are experiencing spiritual drought
Breaks up the toxicity of our sinful nature and desires that keep us sick
Provides a balance so that we are not double-minded and unstable
Replenishes our spiritual barriers
Replenish fresh faith in areas where there is loss of growth
When we lack wisdom. When we are of a double-mind. Our faith dwindles with fear and doubt. Instead of facing the storms, we shudder and coward - hoping it passes us by without any damage.
1. Refreshing our life where there is Spiritual Drought
When it comes to lacking wisdom and being unstable because of a double-mind set has to do with those areas in our lives where we are experiencing a spiritual drought.
Derek J. Brown writes this insight over at Southern Equip:
Spiritual drought, though a persistent and unwelcome visitor, is not something with which we must constantly live. There are biblical means by which we can, by grace, put ourselves in the way of refreshment; we can be restored to once again feel the joy of our salvation. But this can only happen if we are able to discern why we might be experiencing spiritual dryness so we can take the appropriate action.
His 9 reasons we may experience a spiritual drought in our lives are:
Unchecked Lusts (see 1 Peter 2:11)
Pride (See John 5:27)
Love of Money (see Matthew 6:19-23)
Lack of Scripture reading, prayer, and meditation (See Psalm 1:1-3)
Too Much Time Indoors (See Psalm 19:1)
Lack of Exercise (See 1 Corinthians 6:15-20)
Neglect of Responsibilities
Morbid Introspection
Forgetting the Gospel and living in Legalism
Those storms we experience brings a fresh rain of faith into our lives as it brings us to a place of humility to reveal unto us those areas that are spiritually dry. God wants us to be perfect. This may only occur when we are shaken to our core and see what He sees.
Ask yourself this question: The trials you are facing today - are they the result of some spiritual dryness in your life? Seek God's wisdom and meditate upon what areas need your focus. Bring those areas to your awareness and develop wisdom and knowledge.
2. Breaks up the Toxicity of our Sinful Nature that Keeps us Sick
One of the main reasons we experience storms in our lives is because there is sin. Our natural man is in opposition to the things of God. Scripture is very clear on this. And many times we have come across where God has used trials to bring people to a place of humility. We see this in the Old Testament with YHWH's relationship with Israel. In the Book of Mormon, we see this as the people increased in their pride and abandon God for their own selfish and sinful pursuits. These storms we face bring us to a place of brokenness and contrition. We are humbled.
I say unto you, it is well that ye are cast out of your synagogues, that ye may be humble, and that ye may learn wisdom; for it is necessary that ye should learn wisdom; for it is because that ye are cast out, that ye are despised of your brethren because of your exceeding poverty, that ye are brought to a lowliness of heart; for ye are necessarily brought to be humble. And now, because ye are compelled to be humble blessed are ye; for a man sometimes, if he is compelled to be humble, seeketh repentance; and now surely, whosoever repenteth shall find mercy; and he that findeth mercy and endureth to the end the same shall be saved.
When we are brought to a place of repentance (for it only occurs when we are humble before God) we learn wisdom in God's divine mercy, grace, and forgiveness. Where we once lack wisdom and understanding, we gain insight and faithfulness that He stands ready to forgive us.
3. Provides a Balance in Our Lives so that we are not Double-Minded
Unlike breaking us free from our sinful attachments and bringing fresh rains to those areas in our lives that are spiritual dry: Sometimes we face trials because our life is not balanced. What I believe this too mean is that we learn to rely on God and not our own understanding and will power.
Proverbs 3:5 shares this insight: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Our Heavenly Father's grace knows no bounds. He is gracious and patient with us when we are growing and learning. This includes helping us find balance in our lives so that we are able to live a more enriching and spiritually mindful Christian life.
When we discuss spiritual barriers - it is always about how to break down those barriers that inhibit our spiritual growth. However, there are some good things about spiritual barriers we establish through our faith in God. Unlike those spiritual barriers that prevent our spiritual growth, healthy barriers protect us from the fiery darts of the adversary (think of the Armor of God - that is a spiritual barrier). So, what are these spiritual barriers that adversity replenishes?
The Apostle Paul writes to the Christians in Ephesus where he discusses the Whole Armor of God. This armor creates a spiritual barrier between us and the temptations that come from Satan. These spiritual barriers also are replenished when we face those trying and difficult seasons in our life. What are these spiritual barriers?
Truth and Righteousness
Gospel of Peace
Genuine Faith
God's Word that contains Salvation
Prayer
We may lack understanding and wisdom as we face adversity. However, when we stand with truth and righteousness, understand the Gospel of Peace, exercise real genuine faith, know of a surety of God's word and how it is the power to save, we pray diligently and stand in the eye of the storm. A place where there is calm and peace. When the difficulty passes. When we withstand the storms. Our understanding of truth and righteousness is replenished. This is how we grow spiritually.
5. Replenishes Areas in our Lives Where Faith Lacks Growth
The final purpose and benefit adversity serves in our lives is where it concerns the lack of growth in our faith. The Apostle Paul writes:
For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, the just shall live by faith
Romans 1:17, KJV
God's righteousness is revealed as we grow from faith to faith. As we spiritually mature, we are going to face trying and difficult storms in our lives that help us increase in our faith. Areas in our lives that lack spiritual growth.
Along with this, we also face those times where we feel burned out. The adversity reminds us that God loves us and is not through with molding us into His Image and Likeness. When we reach a point where we feel burned out, God reminds us that we are to (see Billy Graham - 5 Ways to Replenish a Burned-Out Soul):
Seek Refuge
Remain Calm and still
Listen
Meditate
Be Present focused
These times of difficulties enlighten us to an awareness where we need to grow and find a fresh new perspective on life. We may feel weary, weighted down, and overwhelmed. It is during these times that our Heavenly Father reminds us to slow down, rest, be still, listen, meditate, and focus on what we have in the present moment.
As you meditate on James 1:5-8, think about those times in your life where you lacked wisdom. Times when you faced difficult circumstances and were unstable and of a double-mind. What were times where God has revealed to you that there was spiritual drought in your own life? In what way has God helped you increase your faith and resilience in order to establish a strong spiritual barrier against temptation? What about having your faith replenished where faith was lacking growth?
The hope is that as you and I prayerfully read through and meditate on the words of James, we find greater insight into our Loving Heavenly Father and gain greater wisdom and understanding as to why we experience trials in our lives.
One thing I have come away from this is that I had always thought James was speaking about the difference between faith and doubt. On the contrary, he was speaking on understanding where our lack of wisdom stems from and the reality of how we may sometimes operate out of two conflicting worldviews.
I'd love to hear your thoughts on how this week's study has impacted and influenced your own spiritual life.
My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers 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.
There is an important concept here: patience is not passive resignation, nor is it failing to act because of our fears. Patience means active waiting and enduring. It means staying with something and doing all that we can—working, hoping, and exercising faith; bearing hardship with fortitude, even when the desires of our hearts are delayed. Patience is not simply enduring; it is enduring well! ~ President Dieter F. Uchtdorf - April 2010 ~
"You don't know what it is like to be homeless!"
He sat there blankly staring at me. "You don't know what it's like being homeless!" He quickly looked away. Shame in his eyes.
"I'm sure I understand what it is like being homeless." A soft response to a harsh statement. "It was not easy for me. Nor do I believe it is easy for you or others that are experiencing homelessness."
For a moment, he simply looked at me with another blank look in his eyes. "I don't really think you do." He paused and sucked in some air. "I think you're just blowing smoke up my ass!" He gathered his things, shoved them into his pockets and scurried away.
I wanted to speak with the gentleman more. Share a cup of coffee with him. A hot meal. Share my story with him about my own personal struggles and experience with being homeless. Would he, or anyone for that matter, take the time to really listen to my story? We all experience significant trials in our lives. Looking back on those years I spent as a vagabond and dealing with my own personal demons helped me understand something I wished I had understood then. Be patient and vigilantly faithful to God.
Between mid-1990's to early part of 2000, I had experienced homelessness numerous times. Either being asked to leave a place I was living at, having lost employment and not able to pay rent, or various other reasons. Much of my homeless stint was around Bellevue and Seattle, Washington area. I've stayed at local Churches with a group of others who were homeless as well. Stayed at shelters, lived out of a pickup truck, a Mazda 323, etc. The last time I experienced homelessness was when I was left in Seattle and given $50.00. All I had was a backpack, pair of work boots, 3-cartons of Carnival Cigarettes, and a couple of day's worth of clothes.
It was the lowest point in my life. Sense of confidence and resilience - gone. Most depressing time of my life. What did I do and How I managed to survive even surprises me today. One thing my father taught me was to work hard no matter what the circumstances were. He always worked hard to provide for his family. Despite his health issues.
So, I had found a day labor hall. I showed up every day and was sent out. The kicker was, I still had no place to live. And, with only making $50.00 per day - there was only enough to get a simple meal, a pack of smokes, and coffee. When I was not working, I pretty much walked all over Downtown Seattle - daring not to lay my head down. I also attended some of the community meals that were offered at various locations. If I was able to afford the $5.00 cost to stay at a shelter, I would. Then, someone told me about a transitional housing program that helped people. I was able to get connected. Within that week, I made my call and was informed that a bed opened up. I was able to get in.
For the past week to almost two weeks, I had little sleep. Suffering sleep deprivations, thirsty, stressed. I pretty much looked liked death warmed over. Slowly, I rested and followed the program and was able to get back on my feet. This was the last time I had experienced homelessness in my life. Since then, I have made significant progress in my life.
Count it all joy when you fall into various trials
What the heck does this mean? How do we find joy when faced with trying circumstances? One of the stark contrast of true authentic Christian faith and that of a False profession of faith is determined by trials. Real genuine, and practical, faith is sustained by joy and patience. The First Century Christians (Jewish and Gentile) were experiencing external and internal sufferings and difficulties. Some of these were:
Oppression by those of wealth and affluence
Dissension due to lack of self-mastery and control
False teachings
Inappropriate and possible vulgar speech
Favortism and self-promotion and ambition
These same struggles and difficulties abound within the Christian community and within the secular society. Faced with these challenges, the author of James utilizes Hebraic wisdom traditions and teachings. Coupled with the principles of Wisdom - one will also find the letter treating the subject of Ethics and social justice.
To understand what it means to find joy - we must understand the nature of suffering and adversity. In the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew 13:1-23; Mark 4:1-20; and Luke 8:4-15) we read the parable of the sower.
In the interpretation of the parable of the sower - Christ expounds to his disciples the meaning. The first is that regarding the seed that fell on the wayside and being snatched up quickly.
When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.
~ Matthew 13:19, KJV ~
Sometimes, we may hear something. It may be an inspirational spark. However, it is quickly taken away by the cares and worries of this world. A person lacks understanding and not able to cultivate real faith. Their joy in life appears to be diminished quickly. And hearing something is not the issue. Allowing it to take root is at issue. Our lack of understanding, faith, joy, and patience has no foundation and is easily snatched before it is able to secure itself within our hearts and minds.
Easily Offended
The second part of the parable is where Christ expounds on the seed that fell into the stony places.
But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it; Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.
~ Matthew 13:20-21 KJV ~
In the NASB, the word anon is changed to immediate. This is keeping with the Greek context. Here, the seed does take root. However, it is not able to fully root itself in the ground. Our faith may be immediate. Our joy may be even received with great enthusiasm. However, when life happens - we falter and become offended. Our faith and joy diminishes - so does our patience with God. We become easily offended and angered.
Joy and patience comes when we hear and understand. Through our trials, we bear real fruit of our faithfulness to God. We persevere and endure. Our faith grows and becomes a well-spring of blessings.
Selfish Pride and Ambition
The third part of the parable deals with those who appear to blossom and do well. They may appear to be quite successful. Yet, at what cost?
He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful. ~Matthew 13:22, KJV ~
Without a genuine and authentic relationship with our Heavenly Father - our faith is weakened and choked by the cares of this world. We prefer the accolades of men rather than submit with humility to a divine and providential God who shows us mercy and grace. We strive to prove ourselves to the world that we are something. There is great success - yes, but to what cost? How many have relied on deceitful tactics and manipulations to attain their status? Faith, Joy, and Patience are choked and the person has no fruit of righteousness, love, or compassion.
Genuine Faith, Patience, and Joy bear real fruit
The final aspect of the parable that Christ expounds upon is that of the seed falling on good ground.
But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. ~ Matthew 13:23, KJV ~
Joy and patience come when we hear and understand. Through our trials, we bear real fruit of our faithfulness to God. We persevere and endure. Our faith grows and becomes a well-spring of blessings. Through our joy and patience - our faith strengthens us, and we become resilient. It is how we choose to respond in those times where we face our trials.
The term "count" simply means to consider. It has to do with what you choose to do with what is presented to you. In context, the issue is what to do when bad things happen. When a person is confronted with suffering, he or she can choose how to respond. Some might "count it injustice," that is, they may consider it to be unfair and they will respond accordingly. Some might consider it to be the judgment of God and therefore despair that God is angry with them or has turned against them. Others might count or consider it an opportunity to demonstrate their own resilience. They might determine to fight back and overcome in their own strength. When trials come, the way we respond is more important in determining the outcome than the actual trial itself.
The consideration is given over to our power and ability to choose how to respond in trying circumstances. Quite easy to find joy when we are experiencing good things. Yet, when pressed down by the storms of life - we are far from wanting to experience joy. Yet, that is our Christian virtue. To find joy in life. Experience joy.
Ligoiner Ministries shares this insight in their devotional: Counting it All Joy:
In order to count earthly afflictions joy, we have to be able to take into account the future. Sometimes a Christian’s hope for heaven is ridiculed in our day. The lost mock those whose lives are characterized by hope. But sometimes this is all we have. When our lives are filled with sorrow and grief, we must be able to look to the future—to heaven—to find the joy that can soothe our troubled souls. Our joy must be based on looking to God and to the inheritance we will receive in heaven. This is exactly what Jesus did. He was able to endure the cross because of the joy that was set before Him (Heb. 12:2). We, too, must realize that the suffering we endure in this life cannot compare with the joy that is laid up for us in heaven.
See, our joy does not come from the people around us (while they may have a great influence to our sense of joy). Nor, does our sense of joy come from the things we strive to attain, or the accolades of men (and there is nothing wrong with setting goals and accomplishing them). No, our greatest since of Joy comes from our Heavenly Father, through His Son, Jesus Christ, and bestowed upon us by the power of the Holy Spirit. When we walk in obedience to God - we are walking in enduring faith, trusting in Him and in His guiding hand and divine plan. I have come to realize that it is not my happiness that was at stake. It was my sense of joy and how I needed to live and grow in faith.
It took a really long time for me to come to terms with this simple, and yet, practical truth. See, I had this false bravado ideal understanding that my own sense of worth. My own sense of power. My own sense of freedom and fun. My own sense of belonging was diminished by other people. I invested in other people to help me feel happy. It took a lot of energy and effort to do everything in my power to simply get some sympathy and admiration. Blaming other people out of my own angry disposition fell flat. My life was fruitless. What I thought faith was really was no more than a weak-minded immature individual who failed to root himself into the good ground of faith.
Every season that I experienced homelessness, was because of my lack of faith in God. How I got through most of it was only because of some aspect of cunning resourcefulness. Unfortunately, it never created an enduring and longevity of stability. I thought there was joy and happiness. However, it was mostly riding the merry-go-round and going nowhere fast.
Breaking Pride and Ego was the only way for me
Shipwrecked. That is probably the best description for how I felt the last two times I've experienced homelessness. Prior to this, my experience was merely a "here we go again. Ain't my first rodeo!" Why? Because my faith and trust were only in my own sense of resourcefulness. One learns how to quickly adapt and make do in the course of dealing with a revolving door of facing the same trials. However, it started weighing down that something was not working. No matter the effort put in. I kept missing something. I really wanted to get off the merry-go-round. End the cycle, and for once in my adult life have some type of stability.
Attending an Assemblies of God Church, I had permission to park my Mazda 323 in the parking lot. Clothes in one bin. Books in another. I'd go to work at a day labor. Work with a buddy of mine at the time. And, when we were off, we'd head out to get something to eat, hit up the library, engage in some online debates, and then pal around to have a few drinks. Fridays or Saturday nights, we'd hit up the Karaoke place. Life wasn't really all that bad right? Well, I complained about how unchristian some of the Christians were.
I possibly can't fathom how I lived in a compact car like this for about a year
In fact, one of the gentlemen that I had become acquainted with helped me get hired on as the janitor of the Church. I no longer had to go to the day labor place. Stable employment and still living in my car. Today, I possibly can't fathom how I lived in a compact car for about a year.
As I worked, the gentleman would also come around and speak with me. One night, he listened to my ramblings and rantings. He paused. Then, he said something so profound that it angered me at first. I was not able to respond to it. All I remember was how angry I was in that moment.
"Tim, I believe I know what your problem is." He paused as I drank my coffee and smoked a cigarette. "You feel entitled that all those people that come to Church owe you something. That it is their Christian duty..."
I attempted to interject with my doctrinal and scriptural prowess on this. He continued.
"The reality is this - no one owes you anything. The only person who owes you something is yourself. "
I finished up my janitorial duties that night. I walked from the Church to my parked car. Seething mad and angry. Thoughts racing like a hamster on a wheel. Climbed in, laid the seat back, and mulled over what he said. This is probably one of the few times I've heard that audible voice. Not the typical feel good still small voice. A firm and audible voice.
Look where you are at right now. Who's responsible for being where you are right now?
Nothing quite likes a powerful inquisition to bring you to a place of sincere humility. He was right. Most of my life was spent focusing on what I believed others could do for me. Entitled to their kindness, compassion, and generosity. When it did not happen - or, when it failed to meet my unrealistic expectations did, I slip and become resentful. Bitter. Arrogance and pride were dashed against the harsh jagged rocks of reality.
My faith in God became real. However, it took another bout of homelessness to shake my world upside down. It was how I ended up in Seattle. It was another real encounter with how I needed to choose. All I know is that I really placed my faith and trust in God. To this day, I am still uncertain how I made it through a week to a week and a half with little to no sleep. Working and focusing on following God.
However, little by little, I was led out of homelessness. Worked to rebuild my life and to secure a more stable and right way of living. Am I perfect today? Not by a long shot.
What it took, on that night in early 2000, was the breaking of my own ego and pride. Because sometimes the trials of our faith really are to test us to see if there really is any genuine faith. Otherwise, it is mere profession of faith and when we face those times of difficulty, we lack the understanding and wisdom in how God will guide us through.
Trial of Faith works Patience
One thing I have learned is that when faced with difficult circumstances - there is a needed response. From the Christian perspective, our response is to be patient and rely on God's divine and providential will. This is expressed numerous times throughout scripture. This does not mean we sit down and do nothing. It means we stand with a resolved intent and purpose in seeking God's divine direction and counsel. Placing our concerns, worries, and anxieties on the alter. Consistently, and with contrition and humility, pray and meditate on what course of action we may need to take. Sometimes it calls for our faith to be tried when people mock us. Speak in vain toward us. Discourage us. Sometimes, it is dealing with the loss of employment, loved one, family pet, freedom, or even housing. Sometimes, it is dealing with getting older and health related issues that may come our way.
Whatever the circumstances are - we face trials every day. Our faith in God gives us the strength we need to withstand the storm. It is our faith in God's divine and Sovereign grace and mercy that gives us the ability to be patient.
Patience may well be thought of as a gateway virtue, contributing to the growth and strength of its fellow virtues of forgiveness, tolerance, and faith.
Robert C. Oaks - October 2006 General Conference Speech
Patience undermines our need for instant gratification. However, we live in a society filled with instant messaging services, instant photos, social media, accessible and instant information through the internet. Growing up, one either had to wait until they got home to make or receive a call. Wait for the letter to come in the mail. Wait for the daily newspaper to be tossed onto the front porch. Or wait until one got home to watch the evening news.
Robert C. Oaks - Patience may well be thought of as a gateway virtue, contributing to the growth and strength of its fellow virtues of forgiveness, tolerance, and faith.
"The lessons we learn from patience will cultivate our character, lift our lives, and heighten our happiness." President Dieter F. Uchtdorf speaks at the Priesthood session of the April 2010 General Conference. Read the entire talk
If we are ever going to grow and mature in our relationship with Heavenly Father - we must learn to be patient. The natural tendency is to want our circumstances to be removed quickly so that we lessen the blow of suffering. Yet, if this were a possibility - think of what one may miss out on.
What I have learned is this: I had to get my heart and mind right with God. See, I was operating under a profession of faith. Meaning, I believed in God. However, as with the parable of the Sower, my faith dwindled with the cares of this world. My faith was snatched up right away before it could ever take root. And there were times when my faith did take root, however, it was shallow and became scorched and not able to bear any fruit. Today, I do my best to faithfully rely on God in all that I do. Unfortunately, I still struggle with pride and ego. The antidote to this spiritual dilemma is understanding what it means to live a more mindful and spiritual life within the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
The stripping away of pride and ego also meant dissolving unrealistic expectations on God, others, and myself. It meant that I had to become completely emptied out and cleansed in order to be filled with newness and hope.
In one conversation with a patient, I likened the process of recovery to that of a cup full of dirty water. It does not matter how much you empty out the dirty water. The entire cup is still filthy. So, whenever you fill it, the water will still be dirty and disgusting.
...I felt the Spirit of God ask me: "How often do YOU try to get away with cleaning the OUTSIDE of YOUR cup?" It was then I looked at this verse as a verse for me. How often do I pretend to have it all together, how often to I make my outside look nice, all the while my insides are screaming with pain, or sin. I talk a lot bout authenticity because it's important, but have I been listening to my own sermons, or simply "looking like it"? ~ Marv Nelson - Cleaning Your Cups ~
In condemning the religious leaders - Christ had something to say:
Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess. Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also.
Matthew 23:25-26, KJV
My profession of faith was more of an outwardly expression of how I wanted to be seen and thought of. It was not until realizing that the inside of me was still full of filth and grime. What needs to happen is that the cup needs to go through the process of cleansing before it is able to be filled and used. This takes faith and patience because of Christ's infinite atonement. We may be redeemed and justified before God. However, our work begins by cleansing ourselves of ungodliness. We endure. As our faith increases, so does our ability to become resilient. Spiritual maturation does not happen overnight. It takes work. It takes obedience.
Made Complete, Perfect, and Lacking Nothing
It is unimaginable to reach a place in mortal life where an individual proclaims they are complete, perfect, and lack nothing. Yet, a handful of scriptures ask that we are made complete, perfect, and lack nothing. James simply makes the statement as a blessing that occurs once our faith is tried, and we endure those difficult times.
One thing is true - scripture does not mislead us in false hopes and desires. And here is how I have come to understand this within my own life and experience - especially experience of being homeless and lacking stability. Furthermore, it is the idea of understanding our own inadequacies in life.
In the book Refuge Recover - A Buddhist Path to Recovery from Addiction, we read this entry.
We are all born into bodies that are ruled by a survival instinct that is out of harmony with reality. The normal state of human beings is a sleeplike state of Non wisdom. The evolutionary process of human beings is dictated by a natural desire to live and to pursue happiness. But our survival instinct, which influences the body and mind, is really just the unrealistic expectation that life is always pleasurable and never painful. Our bodies naturally crave pleasure, which we think equals happiness, safety, and survival. We hate pain, which we think equals unhappiness and death.
Refuge Recovery The Cause of Addiction Is Repetitive Craving, p. 11
In our natural state - we desire anything that brings pleasure and happiness. Anything that removes happiness from our lives appears to be a threat and we do everything in our power to manipulate and extort to bring about our own sense of happiness. It is the external attachments we perceive to be the root of either our happiness or misery. If it is something that brings misery, something that is challenging, something that is difficult: we don't want anything to do with it. Root of our ongoing suffering is not only our attachment to our need to control. Our root of suffering is attached to fear of our own inadequacy and potential loss.
What I personally believe James is relating to us is that we are made complete and perfect in Wisdom. Scripture speaks about wisdom numerous times. In the Serenity Prayer, one seeks wisdom regarding knowing when to accept things we are not able to change, and the courage to focus on changing those things we are capable of changing. Proverbs says that our wisdom begins when we fear the Lord and that the knowledge of the Holy is understanding.
According to Hebrews for Christians website, we understand that this means:
The word translated "fear" in many versions of the Bible comes from the Hebrew word yirah, which has a range of meaning in Scriptures.
One of those meanings refers to:
... it can also mean "awe" or "reverence". In this latter sense, yirah includes the idea of wonder, amazement, mystery, astonishment, gratitude, admiration, and even worship (like the feeling you get when gazing from the edge of the Grand Canyon). The "fear of the LORD" therefore includes an overwhelming sense of the glory, worth, and beauty of the One True God."
What is also interesting to note is how yirah may be linked to the word for seeing:
When we really see life as it is, we will be filled with wonder and awe over the glory of it all. Every bush will be aflamed with the Presence of God and the ground we walk upon shall suddenly be perceived as holy (Exodus 3:2-5). Nothing will seem small, trivial, or insignificant. In this sense, "fear and trembling" before the LORD is a description of the inner awareness of the sanctity of life itself (Psalm 3:11, Philippians 2:12).
As we face our struggles. Navigate difficult seasons in our lives, we are gaining a greater sense of awareness of how God sees us. Faith and patience gifts us with greater insight in our own sense of adequacy. From our struggles, we gain greater sense of worth. We also gain a greater sense of freedom because of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the infinite atonement. Patience works when we live our lives devoted to God. The power of wisdom influences how we make decisions in the face of adversity.
Here is what Dr. Alex Lickerman, M.D. says about the power and influence wisdom has on our lives:
Wisdom is so powerful, in fact, that it can even put a halt to suffering without changing the circumstances that cause it ... Most of us deem a problem solved when it no longer confronts us, but from a Nichiren Buddhist perspective a problem is solved when it no longer makes us suffer, our escaping or overcoming oppressive circumstances representing only one particular means to that end.
The Undefeated Mind: On the Science of Constructing an Indestructible Self, p. 21
Hence, when we begin to rely on God. When we begin to see life for what it really is - and the beauty that abounds - we begin to stand in reverence and awe of our Heavenly Father. He created us for a purpose. This mortal existence has a definitive meaning and purpose to it. Without suffering, there is no joy. Without adversity there is no growth.
What is it that we are made perfect and complete - where we lack nothing?
Know that without sorrow we are not able to experience joy
I believe that these are the things we are made perfect and complete. Principle truths that give us a sense of worth, freedom, fun, and a sense of belonging. Through our struggles - we grow and mature in our faith.
Do I know what it is like to be homeless? To face the struggles of not having a place to rest? To feel drained and exhausted day in and day out? The overwhelming shame and guilt? Unequivocally yes!
A seasoned captain does not know how to navigate a ship in still and calm waters - he learns how to navigate in the midst of raging tempests
James 1:1-4 teaches us the simple and practical truth. That through our faith, patience helps us endure suffering, and the wisdom we gain helps us make the necessary changes and adjust according to the circumstances. Yes - it is true. In the storms of life, we do not have the power and authority to change the tempest. We are empowered to adjust those sails.
We learn about God. We learn about ourselves. We learn about our stalwart faith and patience because of the storms of life. Without these tempests. We have no opportunity for growth.
As you go throughout this week, turn your thoughts and minds over to those difficult times in your life. How did you fare? Were you prone to manipulate, exploit, and use the situation for your own grandiose desires and sense of fulfillment to create happiness? Or have you come to the reality and humbly sought after God with awe and reverence to learn and grow from those storms?
Maybe you are experiencing an insurmountable storm in your life right now. Circumstances weighing you down. Pressing upon you and there seems to appear no relief in sight. Fear only God and trust in Him and He will guide you through the storm.
I pray this has helped you. Inspired you. Challenged you. Please leave a comment and share your insights in how you've grown in your faith through those storms in your life. Share what you are struggling with so that we may be able to pray with you. And feel free to share this with others. Do not forget - your donation helps keep this website up and running to provide devotionals, Scripture studies, and essays.
