My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. (James 1:2-4)

The Problem With Patience

James has a positive view of life when he suggests having joy in the face of various trials, testing the faith of the faithful. This would be radical language in a time when the persecution of the church was a reality for so many. James addresses his letter to the saints that were scattered abroad. There were many undergoing the trials of persecution because of their allegiance to Jesus Christ. James wants them to have joy in the face of such trials, letting it produce the character of patience in them. The need for steadfastness has always characterized the people of God. Enduring life’s hardships and remaining faithful to the Lord was why Jesus told those who desired to follow Him to take up a cross. There is a price to be paid to be a Christian.

It is impossible for trials not to come when one desires to live godly in an ungodly world. James wants Christians to have a proper view of the trials of life. Trials will come, and the people of God must accept the character-building trait of their trials, producing patience. Then, patience should have its perfect work in the heart of the faithful to be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. So, the conclusion is that trials are good for the soul. Suffering for the cause of Christ is not only expected but desired. Patience comes from the trials of life so that the heart can be made stronger than it was. That is the problem with patience. It comes from trials.

Vincent’s Word Studies defines patience as “the heroic, brave patience with which a Christian not only bears but contends.” The trials that come upon the faithful develop a character of joy to face whatever the world brings against them. Jesus did not stoically go to the cross. He bore the cross with faith and courage, knowing the end result. His suffering was but a brief time compared to eternity. Death was the door that opened the miracle of resurrection. Suffering for Christ is a brief trial compared to eternity. Facing the trials of life with faith and courage and knowing what fruit is born from those trials is where joy comes.

The problem with patience is that it requires trials so there can be a perfection that molds the heart and soul to the love of God. Those who endure the trials of life with faith find their lives complete, not empty. There is a fullness of God’s grace that fills the heart of the suffering to know that God has not abandoned them. No greater love can one find than that given by the Lord God. During those trials, wisdom from God is liberally given to those who seek the favor of the Lord. There is a crown of life promised to all who endure temptation. God has promised a crown to those who love Him. Courageous faith moves the soul to trust in God’s will to endure life’s trials. Finding joy in patience is not easy, but the reward is eternal. It puts life in perspective to know the true value of living for Jesus Christ. The problem with patience is what it takes to get it. Thank God for His grace that rewards those who wait.