Tuesday, April 18, 2017

Want to be happy? (James)

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

Blessed: happy (In congratulations, the reason why one is to be pronounced blessed is expressed by a noun or by a participle taking the place of the subject)
Endureth: to endure, bear bravely and calmly
Temptation: specifically, the trial of man's fidelity, integrity, virtue, constancy
When he is: become, come about, happen
Tried: properly, accepted, approved
Shall receive: to gain, get, obtain absolutely
Crown: the eternal blessedness which will be given as a prize to the genuine servants of God and Christ
Life: real and genuine
Promised: to announce that one is about to do or to furnish something
Love: love to a master, God or Christ, the word involves the idea of affectionate reverence, prompt obedience, grateful recognition of benefits received

Want to be happy? Start loving God — with reverence, prompt obedience and grateful recognition of all God gives. Following Christ doesn't come with a promise of "easy street". There will be hardships along the way. But through it all, God remains faithful! 

Blessed—happy because no matter what happens, I choose to love God and obey Him with a thankful heart.