The book of James begins with the writer addressing those living in difficult times. He identifies himself as a servant of the Lord, and he wrote to those who had been scattered by persecution.
The first few verses contain the formula for coping with difficulties, particularly the testing of our faith. This is what he says:
“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 ESV)
The first thing James says we need to do is to “Count.” We need to first evaluate the situation. We need to look at our trials and temptations and evaluate what is happening. We need to look at those trials as a testing of our faith and know that trials will produce patience or steadfastness on our part.
In evaluating our situation, we can know that the Lord Himself was tempted just as we are. Matthew records some of the temptations Jesus faced in chapter 4. When the devil came to tempt Him, he used the same methods he uses on us today. Luke 4:13 says that after Jesus was tempted, the devil “departed from him for a season.” Jesus’ temptations did not end with this one event.
Hebrews 4:15 says, “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin” (KJV). Jesus is our high priest, and He knows what it is like to be tempted.
The second instruction from James is found in verse 3. James tells us to “know.” We need to have an understanding mind to discern when and how we are being tempted and to be assured that our faith will sustain us.
Paul tells us in I Corinthians 10:13, “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”
When we understand that our temptations and trials are common to everyone; and when we know that God will always provide a way of escape, we will look for that way of escape that He provides.
This brings us to number 3. In verse 4 of James 1, James says, “Let.” We need to cooperate. We need to allow God to sustain us in our trials and temptations.
Have you heard the expression, “Let go and let God”? That is what we need to do. We need to allow God to work in our lives.
The nature of the devil is to tempt, try, discourage, interfere, and throw roadblocks in our way. The fourth part of our formula tells us how to let go. In verse 5, James says “Ask.” Asking involves praying to the Father.
Rich or poor, young or old, male or female, all children of God have the right and privilege of speaking to the Father. We may speak to Him with requests for His guidance, His healing, and His support. We must do so with the understanding that He may not answer us in the way we want, but He will answer; and He will answer with what is best for us.
God’s people have always suffered persecution. God’s people have always had to cope with difficult situations. We are no different today, and the words of James are just as relevant for us as they were in the first century.
Sandra Oliver