June 12, 2020 – James 1:2-5

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. James 1:2-5. 

For your steadfast love is before my eyes, and I walk in your faithfulness. Psalm 26:3. There is no end to His faithfulness, it never changes.  The Joy of the Lord often arrives through tears and suffering.  

What brings joy?  What kind of joy continues on for a life time? The world offers comfort, laughter, and times of happiness that do not last. Only understanding our perfect gift of Jesus and salvation through His death and resurrection is all we need.  Trusting Jesus through trials, brings us a surety of faith in Him.

Wisdom gives us the ability to make decisions in life to grow steadfast faith and ability to love others.  A perfect gift cannot be purchased. It comes from the never-changing Father of Light.

Dear Father of Light,  Strengthen my resolve to follow you and know You in all your splendor.  Teach me to trust You, and give me the wisdom to understand the Joy of self-control.  Shape my heart to be pleasing and perfect for You, not just for today but for an eternity.  I praise You, Oh, Lord!  I love You!  In Jesus’ Name, I pray, Amen.

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of His creatures. James 1:17-18.