“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.” (James 1:12)
Much of what is called shallow Christianity can be attributed to the successful retreat from testing and the running from trials which believers often face.
James is ending this section on testing under trials to tell us that it is a blessing to endure trials. When one is tested and remains faithful he will receive the “Crown of Life,” which is one of the believer’s rewards at the Judgment Seat of Christ.
The “Crown of Life” is mentioned again in Revelation 2:10. It is the Martyr’s crown, also called the “Victor’s Crown,” for the person who stands firm under adversity. It is not to be confused with salvation, which is a gift from God. The “Crown of Life” is a reward. Rewards are earned and are in the future tense. Salvation is free and is in the present tense, that is, it is given immediately upon one’s repentance and faith in Christ Jesus.
Fellow believer: Don’t give up, and don’t quit. “…be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.” (Ephesians 6:10)
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