Wednesday, July 1
Because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance; and let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing.
—James 1:3-4
Sometimes we
are left asking ourselves if we really should exercise endurance or
display patience, particularly in situations that we've not
created. Should we, for example, practice endurance
when wrongful deeds are instigated by others? Imagine the impact on our
souls if we offered others the same patience and endurance that God shows us—ev
en when we don't deserve it.
In today's uncertain society
and ever-changing economy, discerning when endurance is necessary is even
more critical. There are so many other emotions that rise quickly
to the surface when life is uncertain. When, for example, an
employer says, "We no longer have a position for you in our company,
and because of company stock losses, we will not be offering you
a severance package," life feels unsteady and bleak.
This is the time when our faith is tried and our spirit is tested. This is also the time, not only to make mature and wise decisions, but to practice patience and endurance when other emotions are struggling to take precedence. God never leaves us so empty that we cannot take a step forward. Even in the darkest of times, the endurance we show will be blessed by heaven.
Gracious God, allow my heart and my mind to open up so I know when to exercise patience and endure the storms that come my way. Let me trust that in you, I lack nothing.