By Theodore Epp

      James 1: 1-8

      The more often faith is tried, the easier it becomes to endure trials because they produce patience. And through trials, the believer becomes more steadfast in his faith.

      Endurance is the ability to withstand hardship or stress. Patience is the ability to bear pain without complaint, evidencing self-control.

      In a sense, both of these ideas are involved in the statement of James that "the trying of your faith worketh patience" (James 1:3).

      The Greek word translated "patience" is made up of two words that literally mean "to remain under." When a person remains under a testing, he endures that testing, and the testing itself produces patience as the believer remains under the burden.

      Self-control, which is so closely related to patience, is part of the fruit of the Spirit mentioned in Galatians 5:22,23. Thus, if we wish to acquire more patience and self-control, it means we will have to endure more testings.

      Even though the testings are severe, the Christian who has total confidence in Christ can have joy in the midst of the testings. And the patience we develop will enable us to wait until the Lord fulfills His promises to us.

      Hebrews 10:36 says, "ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise." Galatians 6:9 says, "Let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not."

      Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer" (Rom. 12:12).