Are you getting in the way of your own sanctification?

Count it all joy, my brothers,when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4


We're always wanting to move on from our current circumstances, aren't we?  "When I am finished with "this", or when "that" gets settled, or when this is over, then..."  Then what?  These and other statements like them are made with the all-too damaging assumption that we're in control.  But we're not. And we don't like it when we're not in control.


When it comes to matters of faith, our natural self wants it to be easier.  Sure, we know that trials are necessary, but are long ones? What about months or years of difficulty? What if we toil for an entire lifetime and never see results? 


Many believers, even ashamedly some pastors, would respond to this reality by setting forth a plan for improvement masked as spirituality. Do this, do that, you know the rest.


Part of this passage strikes me. "Let steadfastness have its full effect..."  Let the difficulty run its course.  Don't cut it short. We might even say, dwell in it. No, don't dwell on the difficulty itself. Dwell in the truth that God is refining you, transforming your heart and mind. Don't cheat a trial of its full effect: to transform you more and more into the image of Christ.

Reflections on James

1:4 - One of God's ways of building maturity in us is to lead us through tough times.
1:6-8 - If you ask for it, ask in confidence.
Traits of a double-minded man:
1. He uses the right words but has no conviction
2. He acts on impulse
3. He is easily influenced by deceitful people
1:14-15 - How sin takes its course. First a desire. Then a temptation. Then a sinful act. Then, when not dealt with, death. Take hold of a thought before it kills you (2 Corinthians 10:5).
1:19 - We would much rather be quick to speak, slow to listen. God is often heard in complete silence.
1:27 - What would happen if we used most of our time, resources, etc. to reach out to them?
2:14: Works are a result of faith
3:3-12 - The NT consistently leads us to look at our hearts and our words. Matthew 12:34.
3:17 - Wisdom is pure. True wisdom is never sought after for personal gain. Wisdom from God finds expression in the service of others.
4:1-3 - We often look for external reasons for conflict (something that was said or done). They begin inside of us in a war between good/evil.
4:5-6 - We are inclined to be envious but grace always wins.
4:17 - Knowing what to do and choosing not to do it is self-deception. We begin to believe we are right even after making a wrong decision.
5:13 - If you are in trouble, don't look for reasons why. Pray instead. If things are going well, give God the credit. Seek God in the good and bad.
5:15 - There is an attitude we are to bring to prayer - God will hear us and respond.
5:16 - Confession is for our benefit.