Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. James 1:12
Today is the last of our series of devotionals on how to overcome the trials of life. We’ve discussed how God is not in the storm; he is with us against the storm. We’ve talked about the power of choosing joy in the midst of a storm, of growing in patience and of pursuing wisdom.
To close this series, I’d like to cover one more thought. During the storms of life, we’re going to be tempted to sin, make wrong decisions or quit. We need to resist these temptations to stay on the path toward our destiny.
If you’re looking back and can see now that you made a wrong decision during a time of high stress, it’s not too late. You can turn things around. With God, it’s never too late! But if you’re at that fork in the road right now and you’re tempted to quit, today’s verse is for you. You can persevere.
If you’re feeling depressed and you just don’t think you have the strength to go on, fill your mind with God’s Word. Find some great Christian programs and listen to them every chance you get. Read your Bible or a book by a great Christian author. Go to a Bible study or a course at your church. Turn on some Bible promise-based worship music and sing it loud!
Chances are, you’re not going to feel like doing any of the things I just mentioned, but don’t let that stop you. Now is the time to persevere and be patient; you’ll reap the reward!