James’ letter is a stark reminder that “the wisdom of God is not the wisdom of man.” James reminds us that God uses problems (i.e. struggles) in a believers life for the purpose of maturity and growth. Burdens and trials are permitted in our lives to make us stronger and keep us humble. James instructs us on what to do when we face trials. We are to ask the Lord to help us see our situation from His perspective. If we “lack wisdom” (that is if we don’t really understand why God allows us to struggle in order to mature us) we are to “ask in faith” and we will receive an affirmation from the Lord that the trial is intended to make us stronger.

I want you to know this principle is so true in life. Every Christian soon realizes that “a little rain falls on us all.” We each face our own problems, our own struggles, but as believers in Christ we can rest assured they have a divine purpose. Not one problem slips through the Father’s fingers without a reason. Do you know what the purpose is? I’ll tell you, they are intended to make you more like your Lord.

Do you know how Jesus endured trouble and suffering? Listen to the writer of Hebrews in chapter 12:2:

He said we are to be “looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.”

Notice that he said, “for the joy set before Him.” Joy, what joy? How can a cross and suffering be joy? Can you answer this?