“God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward, they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12, NLT)
Recently, I had a chat with two individuals after a church service. One was in a wheelchair due to a severe disability, and the other was engaged in a lengthy discussion. After listening to the latter for a while, I turned to the woman in the wheelchair and asked, “How are you doing?” She replied confidently, “I am doing fine.”
However, her friend then shared that she had recently undergone two successful brain surgeries to remove cancer. I looked at this young woman facing such challenges, someone who had just endured such difficult times, and marveled, “And where is she now? She is here at church.”
Reflecting on this, I considered the various excuses people often make for not attending church—having a cold, the hassle of finding parking, and so on. Yet here was this young woman, with her significant disability and recent surgeries, in church, praising God and declaring she was doing well. Her example deeply moved me.
I remarked to her, “You know, the Bible promises special blessings and a crown for those who endure suffering in this life. Your faith is truly admirable. You inspire me.”
James 1:12 reminds us, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him” (NIV). Our sacrifices for following Christ will be richly compensated in the life to come.
Our earthly life is just a part of the bigger picture. Faithfulness to God will be rewarded.
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