-December 19, 2024-
Good morning beloved, happy Thursday,
“Blessed is the man who endures temptation (or trials); for when he he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.”
(James 1:12).
We have so far we have covered the Imperishable Crown and the Crown of Rejoicing. Today we will consider the Crown of Life. Invariably, trials come into our lives to test and grow our faith in the Lord.
Men and women in the Scriptures experienced a plethora of trials. God uses our trials to test us, teach us, and train us to make us more like Christ.
To receive the Crown of Life, we must endure trials, without complaint. James 2:2-4 says, “My brethren, count it all in joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
We gain so much through trials, and without them we would not grow as we should. On top of all that, the Lord promises to give us the Crown of Life. The life mentioned here is not eternal life, we already have that; this life is life in heaven. This crown will give us a greater appreciation and enjoyment of heaven.
Paul wrote in Romans 8:18, “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” We share in our Lord’s sufferings and will share in His glory as well.
2 Corinthians 4:17 also says, “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.” Our trials may not seem light or momentary, but they are compared to eternity.
May the Lord help us to endure our trials with faith, trust, and thanksgiving. Have a blessed day. Stay safe and healthy.
Crowns befit the faithful children and servants of God.
Dean
Dean Allen's Daily Devotional 