James 1:3-5 - Let perseverance finish its work

1:3,4

So why are trials and testing such a wonderful thing, given that all of us hate going through them? The hard fact is that they are one of the primary means that God uses to change our character, to make us more Christlike. Isn’t there an easier way? No. We do not realise, or do not want to admit, how deep rooted sin is in our lives. How utterly corrupted our soul is by sin. In the first of the five points of the Calvinist tulip, our total depravity. One of the most important Christian characteristics is perseverance. Conversely, lack of perseverance is one of the most common failings of most people. As it says here, we need to “let perseverance finish its work so that we will be mature and complete, not lacking anything”.

1:5

James then moves on to wisdom. His letter can be viewed as a collection of sayings, somewhat like Proverbs, and to seek connections between all parts of it may not always be justified. Unlike Paul’s letters where there is a clear train of thought to be followed. However, when we go through trials we need wisdom! We often don’t know how to react or respond to the situation. So James urges us to ask of God. Also when we are in the midst of trials we feel very vulnerable and are usually aware of all our sins, weaknesses and failings. James reassures us that God gives generously without finding fault. We fear that God will not answer because we don’t deserve an answer. This is true, but God will give generously.