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"Blessed is the man who endures temptation..."

Text: James 1:12

THE CROWN OF LIFE

James wrote to encourage his readers to persevere when they are faced with testing in life.

“Blessed is the man who endures temptation;
for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life
which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.”
James 1:12

1. “Blessed is the man”

a) The word “blessed” was used by the Lord Jesus in the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-10).

b) It describes the state of the person.

i) There is blessing from the Lord.

ii) There is honour given to the individual.

iii) There is acknowledgement of the faith of the individual as well.

2. “Who endures temptation”

a) The word “temptation” may also be translated “testing”.

b) The true believer has the ability to endure and persevere despite testing.

c) Testing is a necessary part of life.

d) It is also a necessary tool that tests the authenticity of a person’s declaration of faith.

3. “When he has been approved”

a) He is being watched even as he undergoes testing.

b) The sign of approval awaits the person who endures well.

c) The Lord Himself will be the One who gives the nod of approval.

4. “He will receive the crown of life”

a) The “crown” is a reference to the victor’s laurel.

b) The believer will be recognised by the Lord.

c) This imagery was added to bring some encouragement to the heart.

d) Testing can sometimes be very daunting and so this word was given as an encouragement.

5. “Which the Lord has promised to those who love Him”

a) This crown of life was promised by the Lord.

b) The person who endures temptation is also one who loves the Lord.

c) Love for the Lord goes a long way to bring encouragement to the soul that is tested.