The Spiritual Dynamics of Trials (1:2-5)
Life’s situations and events are only the surface. James tells his readers to look for the deeper meaning, thus the challenge in verse 5: “ask God for wisdom.” We’re not to focus on escaping the surface hardship. “God, please help me through this harsh condition.” James is encouraging us to go deeper. Ask God for wisdom. “God, what am I to learn from this tough time. Why and how is this adversity a good thing for me?
We can see a progression of events in this passage that can lead to personal growth if we cooperate with God’s arrangement of circumstances for us.
Adversity => Testing => Cooperation – not resistance => Rejoice => Perseverance => Maturity (perfectly complete, needing nothing.) So, someone says, “I’m not a perfectionist – I am perfect.” Not! But I believe as we walk with God daily, obedient and yielded, the sanctifying process develops us into becoming more like Christ who was/is the epitome of perfection.James seems to be saying that joy is available to the Christian no matter how severe the adversity. However, a word of caution. Don’t spiritualize the pain involved by quickly rejoicing. Allow yourself to feel the normal feelings when experiencing great trauma. Fear. Anger. Guilt. Whatever. Process those with God through prayer and sharing with another person you trust. Then, instead of focusing on the circumstances, look for the spiritual dynamics of trials. “Father, what are you wanting to do in my life through this trial? Are you testing me in any way?”
Tomorrow's post: testing
