James 1:12  Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.

Have you ever started out strong doing what you know God would want and then fizzle out because of the road blocks? Strong’s Concordance defines temptation in this verse as “adversity, a putting to proof, to try.” We tend to look at this word as meaning being tempted to sin. However, that is not always the case. In fact, temptation can take on various forms, encompassing trials and challenges that test our faith and resolve. We often forget that these tests are not merely obstacles but opportunities for growth and deeper understanding of our walk with the Lord. By recognizing the similarities between today’s verse and the following, we can gain insight into the nature of our struggles and learn how to navigate them with perseverance. Notice the use of the word in:

Revelation 3:10  Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. Neither of the verses refer to being tempted to sin, but refer to a time of testing or trial.

God allows trials and adversities in order to test our mettle. Your courage and strength of spirit is what pulls you through the different “battles” you encounter along the way. Is your mettle strong when adversity strikes? Or do you crumble and fall apart at the seams? Each of our battles is an opportunity to see God’s strength and power. I have a dear friend whom I led to the Lord that lost her husband right before Thanksgiving. She shared how her husband had left her without a secure future, leaving her in a state of uncertainty. Yet, within just a few days, an anonymous donor stepped in to pay her mortgage for the next year, providing her with the breathing room she needed to collect herself and plan for the future. This remarkable act of generosity shows us how the Lord provides for us in our times of need, often in ways we least expect. There is no need to fret when our mettle is being tested because the God who owns the cattle on a thousand hills is our Father! He is faithful in all things; we are His child, after all. In moments of struggle, we can find solace in knowing that every challenge presents a chance to grow and deepen our faith, ultimately revealing the love and support we receive from our Creator, who walks alongside us through every storm. It opens new meaning to:

Proverbs 3:5-6  Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  (6)  In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

If you want to soar as eagles in your Christian life, turn your frantic response into one who knows that there is a crown of life waiting to be given to you when you meet your Saviour in face-to-face! If you are not 100% certain that you will go to Heaven when you die, please take a moment to read the Bible verses on this link! It will change your life and the course you are walking in this life!