True & Beautiful Things About the Bible--New Testamentનમૂનો

The letter from James: Wisdom

Q: When do you need wisdom?

A: When things are big or hairy or hard. Any other time, we think we can handle whatever life throws at us without God’s help.

The letter from James was written first, before any other New Testament book, to people who were trying to figure out how to transition from the Old Testament way of doing things and follow Jesus Christ, who they believe is their promised Messiah.

It’s still by faith, James says. The way to walk with God has always been by faith. God sees your heart. You don’t have to do anything to prove you believe in the name of Jesus. But, since your neighbors can only see your life, then you need to live a godly life, like you’d expect someone who follows Jesus would live.

The neighbors will especially watch your life when you’re going through something hard. Will you still follow Jesus then? This is a beautiful time to let your life show them what is true.

Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, James begins. He knew these young believers were suffering, but didn’t think that was something odd, he said. Turn this troubling season into training. Be glad you have God, who promises to give you wisdom to know how to navigate these trials—if you’ll ask Him for help.

Trials are meaningless, suffering is senseless, and testing is cruel unless there’s some good purpose for them. God assures you there is. (See also Romans 8:28). God has permitted this trial for a purpose, so be confident He’s doing something in your heart. You may not understand His purpose, but tell Him, even if it’s through tears, that you trust Him.

Wisdom is to know how to live under something hard, or when you face problems or questions. We clearly need God’s wisdom to navigate them, and He is glad to pass it out “liberally.”

The suffering develops patience—which will then produce real hope and love in us. We’ll also grow in wisdom. You’ll be tempted to try to solve it on your own, but really, why risk it? Instead, thank Him for saving you for heaven and helping you today.

When hard times come, it would be easy to get caught in the “why me?” or “why this?” loop. But instead, look to Him for help. It’s what sets apart those who follow Jesus.

God sees it all. And those who keep their eyes on Him through the storm, God has a “crown of life” with their name on it, promised to those who love Him.

Next: Nothing will be lost.