Trials from God, Temptation from Satan pt 1

This week we will focus on a single verse that will tie verses 2-12 together in one concise message from James. James uses a technique called “inclusio” to eloquently tie these verses together. The message is this, if you endure the trials that are sent your way, you will be blessed with the crown of life. Whether these trials are personal, in the church, at home, on the road, or in the public square, the message is the same. Endure to the end because the alternative is to give up and fall back into the world. Christ never promised it would be easy to pick up our cross and follow Him. What God promises is this, if we love Him, follow Him go through trials with Him and pass the test we will find heaven.
As we get into verses 13-18 in the coming weeks, we will see a shift from trials to temptation. James is very clear of who tempts us, and it is not God. Temptation comes from two places: 1: Satan’ 2. Our own desires.