Just for a while: Devotion for April 1, 2012

Just for a While

Text: James 1:12 – God blesses the people who patiently endure testing. Afterwards, they will receive the crown of life that God has promised those who love Him (New Living Translation).

People do not want to go through trials and temptations. Some Christians will spend time to bind every trial or temptation that may come their way. In school, examination is a prerequisite for promotion. In the same manner, it is through trials that we can demonstrate how much faith we have and thus be promoted to another level or realm of our spiritual life.

God’s crown of life is not glory and honour here on earth but the reward of eternal life. The way to be in God’s winners’ circle is by loving Him and staying faithful even under pressure. “A trial is an experiment or search made upon a man, by some affliction, to prove the value and strength of his faith” according to Henry. The way and manner we go through trials and temptations show how sincere we are in our faith and walk with God. It also shows how committed we are to the things of God. When we go through it faithfully and patiently, we receive a reward which is crown of life.

What trials are you going through at this moment? You may see that trial as a problem but it is just to test your faith (compare Exodus 20:20). There is light at the end of the tunnel. It is not forever. Above all, there is a reward for you. Note that in as much as God uses trials and not temptation, to test our faith, He goes through it with us (1 Corinthians 1:3 – 5) and does not allow it to harm us. Be patient in it. It is just for a while and soon it will be over. Then you will have cause to smile, as God will promote you.  

Food For Thought: There are good lessons for us in trials and temptations.

Prayer Points:
1) Worship God for the grace of coming into a new month.
2) Pray as you are lead in this first day of this month committing this month into the hands of God.
Just for a while, God, Henry, Trials, Temptation, Faith, Crown of Life, Christians, Tabu, Tabugbo Uzoma,