Whether a person is rich or poor, trials are no respecter of persons and happen regardless of an individuals status (1:9-11). The rich and the poor alike should be fully dependent on God to sustain them during hardship…the poor should rejoice in their riches in Christ and the rich should remember the lack of contentment riches provide during times of sorrow. Those who persevere can look forward to receiving the “crown of life” which represents eternal life. James was trying to remind the Jewish believers that their trials were only for a time and could not compare with the glories which awaited them in heaven (1:12). The next few verses are kind of a “set the record straight” commentary James provides so his readers have the right perspective of their trials. James writes “Let no one say when he is tempted, ‘I am tempted by God’; for God cannot be tempted by evil, not does He Himself tempt anyone” (1:13). Why does James mention this? There were probably some Christians who were questioning God’s involvement in their time of persecution; in other words, they believed that God must be responsible for this. However, James clearly states that although God allows trials, He does not cause them to happen. Sin and evil are only a result of man’s choice and were not a part of God’s plan. James goes on to explain the process of trials and temptations: “each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death” (1:14-15). These Jewish believers could become bitter at God during their persecution, but James was challenging them to see the greater evil behind this circumstance – the evil world’s system, sinful flesh, and the devil. God is only interested in providing “every good gift and every perfect gift” (1:17); therefore, we cannot blame God when trials enter our lives. Let us remember that evil is a result of our own choice and God cannot be held responsible for our willful act of rebellion against Him. Today, may we see trials as a direct result of man’s sin.
Dear God, I know You are good. Help me not to blame You for any trial I experience, but rather may I look to You for the strength to endure.
