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Glory Seed Devotionals, 2015: Year of Promise
On being glad when tested…
“Any of God's people who are poor should be glad that he thinks so highly of them.” (James 1:9 CEV)
If that scripture doesn't cause you to scratch your head thinking, “What's that all about?” You better go looking for your head because you've misplaced it somewhere! I know I've read it before but when I read it last night it was like I was reading it for the first time and I had to read it 3 times to be sure I was reading it right. After I determined I was reading it right I immediately said to myself, “Well, God must think very highly of me then!”
When you first read it did you think James was writing about money? I did. After all when I think about myself I don't consider myself poor in spirit so he must have been referring to money. No sooner had my mind circled around that thought when the Holy Spirit reminded me, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, because theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3 LEB)
OOPS! How could I have forgotten what Paul wrote? “For by the grace given to me I say to everyone who is among you not to think more highly of yourself than what one ought to think, but to think sensibly, as God has apportioned a measure of faith to each one.” (Romans 12:3 LEB)
After considering my OOPS thoughts! I began thinking (a dangerous thing for me at times) the reason I need God and his Kingdom is because I need them. I am convinced that when an individual comes to the point where they KNOW without a doubt they NEED God and his Kingdom, God will be there for them! Remember? “When you search for me, then you will find me, if you seek me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:13 LEB)
Here's how I think it works – going through difficulties and adversities (trials) is very “spiritually draining” causing us to become “spiritually poor” and because God is the only one who can fulfill our “true” spiritual needs he provides us with the Kingdom and the Holy Spirit! James writing out of experience gives us this promise - “God will bless you, if you don't give up when your faith is being tested. He will reward you with a glorious life, just as he rewards everyone who loves him.” (James 1:12 CEV)
And finally, “My friends, be glad, even if you have a lot of trouble. You know that you learn to endure by having your faith tested. But you must learn to endure everything, so that you will be completely mature and not lacking in anything.” (James 1:2-4 CEV)
If you, like me still find it difficult to “be glad, even if you have a lot of trouble” then – Believe in God! Anticipate his presence! Experience his blessings! Be transformed by the Holy Spirit!
Grace and PEACE, Amen!
Gary
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“I pray that the Lord will bless your life and will be kind to you.” (2 Timothy 4:22, CEV)
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Scriptures marked CEV, “Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991, 1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.”
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