Blessed

Blessed!

James 1:12 KJV

[12] Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.

It is a strange message to ponder on, when God calls you blessed because of temptation and tough times. That is not the way of the world, and it will definitely not sell with the world. Fortunately, it is not the opinion of the world that drives what is important to God. The world has its principles, procedures and practices, and they do not in any way, shape or form accommodate temptation. In fact, the word 'temptation' may not feature in the daily vocabulary of the world, as all things it may desire to get align with its principles and standards. The world will not resist evil, as it is part of its constitution. The world will strive to lay hold of whatever it desires by whatever means necessary, without a care in the world how anyone else feels. 

For the one who is under the control and influence of the Word, the focus and pressure are different. The Word knows that the things of the world are temporary. The Word knows that there is nothing the world gives you that it will not take away at some point. The Word also knows that what makes life truly worth it isn't monetary worth, but eternal worth. If I am truly under His authority, God will take me through the experiences I need to prepare me for all that is ahead. There are many lands to conquer and souls to impact; what better way is there than to be adequately equipped to meet the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of people? How would you be able to, unless you have been given the grace to also walk in their shoes, or being given the wisdom required to provide a word in season? 

That is why such a man who is able to endure these things is favoured by God. Men may call him/her stressed; God calls him/her blessed. Such a life will be a blessing down here on earth, while also waiting for the manifestation of the crown of life that will be given at the end of the experiences. As always, God is not one to lie; He can be trusted to do exactly as He has promised. The encouragement for me is also this: no matter how hard things get, God promises to be with me. That is the greatest blessing of all: the gift of His help and presence. He is the One who is able to hold and help me to the end, and also ensure that lives are impacted by the lessons of my life. It is a privilege to be entrusted with such great treasure. He makes the journey worth it. God's time of favour is here.