James 1:12 "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."
In addition to gaining patience and wisdom, the third reason why a saint can consider joy when facing a trial is because the one who is victorious over his testing will receive "the crown of life." The word "crown" in this verse is the Greek word stephanos; this crown was a wreath or garland of leaves, usually associated with an athlete who was victorious in a competition. The winner of the contest experienced elation and honor. Some have suggested that this crown is associated with the trial of life. When the believer lives victoriously, he has great gladness and a feeling of satisfaction and self-respect, comparable to wearing a stephanos. This gratification and joy for overcoming a trial is part of the abundant life that JESUS promised (John 10:10 pictured above).
All saints should seek to avoid the actions of Ananias and Sapphira, who failed to beat their testing and brought to themselves sorrow and regret. They could not fully embrace the abundant life because of their lust. Hebrews 12:1, which is pictured above, instructs us to "lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us." How many people have experienced sadness and self-disappointment because they did not cast aside the besetting sin in their life ? Conversely, how many others have understood authentic joy and true contentment because they sought, through faith, to do that which is right ?
The Scriptures mention another "crown of life" in Revelation 2:10, pictured above. This crown is also a stephanos of life, but it will be given specifically to those saints who faced persecution that may have ended in martyrdom. In either life or in death, those who obey and honor the LORD can experience the joy and honor of the "crown of life." KGL
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie
Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.
Used with permission. www.featoday.org
https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation
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