Thank you for reading the sermon this week. I pray each day for all who will read the blog. I hope you are all doing well.
Our section for study today begins by speaking about a crown of life that will be given to those who love the Lord and pass through the trials they are facing.
I believe that there are two ways to look at this. This crown may refer to eternal life that is granted to those who follow Jesus as Lord. After the trials of life are past, the believer in Jesus will be with Him for all eternity.
I believe that there is another meaning to this crown of life. Some people face extraordinary struggles as they try to remain faithful to the Lord and His calling on their life. In spite of difficulties, these people persevere, and they will be rewarded by the Lord in a special way in the world to come.
James goes on to stress the point that God does not send trials and temptations into people's lives in order that they might fail or fall away from the faith. Instead, people fall into sin when they are drawn into sin by their own desires that are the opposite of what God wills.
I also believe that this means that the Lord doesn't bring bad things into our lives. James makes it clear that the Lord brings good things for us. He doesn't try to hurt us. He works to help us.
A lot of the bad things that happen are just part of living in this world. Some really good people have a lot of bad things happen to them. Even in bad times, God can bring good for us.
Our Lord is the Father of lights. He doesn't bring the darkness. His light drives it away. Amen.
Prayer Requests
My car is having serious problems. Please pray about this situation. I am not sure what I am going to do. Also, please pray that I can make it through the terrible cold spell that we are having.
Please pray that the coronavirus vaccine will be distributed quickly.
Pray for peace this week with a special emphasis on Afghanistan.
For our prayer focus countries, let us pray for Bahrain and Uzbekistan. Pray that many will come to know Jesus.
Next week, we will continue in James. I will post verses on Monday. I will post something on Wednesday. May God bless you all.
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