Word for
the Day July 31
By: Evang. Cascille Hammack
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you face trials of many kinds, because the testing
of your faith develops perseverance." James 1:2,3
The Greek word for "trials"
above is peirasmoi, which refers to persecutions and troubles from the world or Satan. Out of perseverance of these
trials come mature hope. Our faith can only mature when we face trials and opposition. Scripture no where teaches
that these trials are an indication that God is displeased with us. They can be a sign that He recognizes our commitment
to Him. Job 1:1-3 says, "In the land of Uz there lived a man named Job. This man was blameless and upright;
he feared God and shunned evil. He was the greatest man among all of the people of the East."
Most know what happened to Job. God tested his faith with intense suffering and he came out victorious, never wavering
in his trust in God. His reward is eternal.
During the time of suffering remember
God said He will "wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death
or mourning or crying or pain." Rev 21:4 Our time on this earth is temporary but our spirits live forever.
One day if we are saved and do not lose heart, we live with the Lord forever. 2 Cor. 4:16-18 tells us,
"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed
day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs
them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen
is eternal."
