Caution Work in Progress

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12 ESV)

We know that our lives as Christians will not be easy ones. Jesus told us that when he spoke to the apostles about persecution. There is more to this, though, especially when it comes to being steadfast and immovable in our faith.

God does not orchestrate our tests, Satan will try. We are called to lead a purer, holier life, and we often find ourselves challenged by our desires, whether they are virtuous or sinful. It is important to remember that we cannot overcome these challenges alone. We need our Savior, Christ, who we have already acknowledged in our devotion to Him, to guide us and provide us with the strength we need.

James also wrote, “Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire.” (13-14). Overcoming our sinful desires means remaining steadfast or having endurance in our God. Keep in mind that no matter how much one or two desires make us trip and fall into sin, Jesus Christ can overcome that desire. Place your hope and reliance on Him.

What I mean is that we are all growing in our sanctification, cleansing, and holiness. We will continue to sin; it is unavoidable. As we grow in sanctification, we turn more and more from our sins. It is not God who tests us; we test ourselves. Yes, the evil one does test us, but more often than not, we can be our own worst enemy. Remember, you are not alone in this struggle.

Do you have that one sin that is prevalent in your life? I do, and I repent over and over. I ask for forgiveness for my weakness, knowing full well that as my heart fills with Christ, the room in my heart for sin is becoming less and less. It is a struggle. Adding this burden to life's challenges, health, finances, and society can sometimes become a giant wave crashing upon us. But as James said, persevere and remain steadfast in faith.

Here is what is truly inspiring. Steadfastness works both ways. Though we are sinful and repent, asking for forgiveness for our weaknesses, God is also steadfast in His love for us. The writer of Psalm 136 wrote, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.” The writer of this Psalm repeated this phrase in the first three verses of Psalm 136. Not only that, but the following 23 verses end with “for his steadfast love endures forever.” Twenty-six verses are in the Psalm, and the word steadfast is in every single one. God is steadfast in His love for those who abide in Him.

It is okay to be frustrated with our weaknesses. We should be if our love for the Lord is strong. It hurts to be convicted by the Holy Spirit in our sins. It pains our hearts because the love of the Lord is so strong. I do not know my own heart, and neither do you. So, we must trust in our Savior, who knows our hearts. Christ knows our love for him. He sees our sin and hears our repentance, and best of all, Jesus remains steadfast in His love for those who love Him.

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind.” Can we do that? I believe that as we grow in sanctification, this commandment grows with us until we are empty of sin and standing before the Lord. Others will argue otherwise, but that is okay. I am a work in progress; are you not the same?

Grace and Peace.