Before we move forward, I want to pause for a moment and look back at where we started last week.
James opens his letter with an instruction that feels anything but natural.
Count it all joy when you meet trials (a putting to the proof, and by implication, adversity) of various kinds.
That phrase can sound heavy until we slow down and look more closely at what James is really saying. The word James uses for joy carries the idea of a calm delight, an inner awareness of God’s grace that is not dependent on circumstances. It is not excitement. It is not denial. It is a settled confidence that God is present and faithful.
That same word for joy is used in Hebrews when it speaks of Jesus.
“For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross, despising the shame…”
(Hebrews 12:2)
Jesus did not endure the cross because it felt joyful. He endured it because He trusted the Father’s purpose beyond the suffering. His joy was anchored in what He knew to be true about God.
That understanding reframes James’ instruction. Counting it all joy is not pretending trials are easy. It is choosing to remain aware of God’s grace in the middle of them.
And that awareness changes how we endure.
If diving in to the meaning behind Scripture like this feels helpful and you want to grow in studying the Bible for yourself, I’d love to invite you to explore the DEEP Verse Mapping Toolkit.
This toolkit includes the LIGHT and SOAKER verse maps—simple tools designed to help you slow down, notice what the text is actually saying, and sit with God’s Word more intentionally.
Let Endurance Do Its Work
James continues by telling us not to rush the process.
“Let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.”
(James 1:4)
Endurance grows when we stop resisting what God is forming in us. It develops when we trust that He is at work even when we would rather move on. This kind of endurance allows us to become mature and complete, more fully formed in our faith.
But James also knows that living this way can feel confusing. Trials raise questions. Waiting tests our patience. So he gives us another clear instruction.
Ask God for Wisdom
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
(James 1:5)
God is not annoyed by our questions. He invites them.
Scripture reminds us that wisdom does not come from striving harder, but from trusting God’s heart. When we ask for His wisdom, we are to ask in faith, without doubting.
Pause for a moment. Often when we hear this passage quoted, it is in reference to asking God for things like healing or miracles. While that is still relevant, James is specifically talking about asking for wisdom in faith, without doubting. What might change if we truly asked for His wisdom and then chose to walk in it?
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.”
(Proverbs 2:6)
Humility, Testing, and God’s Character
James speaks to both the humble and the wealthy, reminding us that circumstances shift, but God remains steady. Trials reveal where we place our confidence.
He also makes something very clear. God does not tempt us.
“When tempted, no one should say, ‘God is tempting me.’”
(James 1:13)
James goes on to explain that we are tempted when we are lured and enticed by our own desires.
He offers both a reminder and a warning:
“Do not be deceived (Or Do not be led astray, my) dear brothers and sisters.”
(James 1:16)
God tests our faith to strengthen it. Temptation pulls us away from Him. Knowing the difference protects our hearts and guards us from believing lies about who God is.
Every good and perfect gift comes from God. He does not change. His grace remains steady, even when life feels uncertain.
This Week’s Practice
Read:
James 1:1–18
Reflect:
Where do I feel unsure, overwhelmed, or in need of direction right now?
Practice:
Ask God for wisdom this week, trusting His generosity. Notice where He may be inviting you to endure rather than rush the process.
Prayer:
“Lord, I need Your wisdom. Help me trust You as You work.”
Reflection Questions
- How does understanding joy as an awareness of God’s grace change the way I view my current trial?
- Where might God be asking me to trust His heart rather than push for quick answers?
Scripture Memory Check-In
If you are memorizing Scripture with us, this week’s passage is Lamentations 3:22–23.
How is it going?
What stands out to you about God’s character as you spend time with these words?
Next week, we will continue in James and look at James 1:19 and how God’s Word shapes the way we listen, speak, and live.
This week, don’t just read the Word. Let’s do it.