Trials and tests: God's crown of victory for the afflicted

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12

Are you under a trial right now? Do you realize that God is testing you through it?

Standing the test is not easy - heck, some days it even seems downright impossible. Those of us living with chronic pain know the struggle well. We face days of isolation, loss of friendships and the roiling emotions that come with it. Some days, we struggle just to get out of bed.

But my friends, our struggle is not without gain. Look at the promise God's made to us if we remain firm in our faith.

We get a crown. Not just any old crown, but the crown of life!

Our Lord Jesus, was given a crown of thorns by a mob of brutal Roman soldiers right before he was crucified. In ancient days thorns symbolized a curse, but the crown is a symbol of power and victory. These men, in their attempt to mock and humiliate, unwittingly bestowed a great honor upon him.

And this is the type of crown we will receive when we've stood firm in our time of testing. Oh, we may not see it in this life, but we can be certain we'll receive it.

Why?

Because God has promised it to us and our sovereign king always keeps his promises.

So stand firm lovely ones because our blessing is on the way!

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 1 Peter 4:12, 13