Read James 1:12
Blessed are those who persevere under trial, because when they have stood the test, they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. (James 1:12)
“The head that once was crowned with thorns is crowned with glory now.” These wonderful words from the famous hymn by T. Kelly teach us that no cross, no crown. The crown of thorns that Jesus wore whilst on the cross was both horrendous and unique. Jesus, the sinless Son of God, “himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.” (1 Peter 2:24)
We too are told by Jesus: “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” (Matthew 16:24). The cross we have to carry, or the trials we have to bear, can never be compared to the cross of Jesus Christ and the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual agony He experienced as He bore the punishment of our sins and cried out: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46). When we face our trials, whatever they may be, God has promised: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5). Jesus Christ was forsaken so that we might never be forsaken.
If we persevere we will receive the crown of life. “Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10).
Why should we persevere under trials? Is it just to be blessed (happy, fulfilled) and to receive a crown which symbolizes victory, celebration and majesty? Surely our chief motive must be love for God. “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.” 1:12
Let us remember – No Cross, No Crown
This meditation is extracted from “Transformation from Belief to Behaviour: 39 Lenten Meditations on the Letter of James” by Peter Young and used with permission by the author. It may be used solely for personal, noncommercial, and informational purposes. Republication or redistribution of this devotional is prohibited.
