It doesn’t take much to impress God. You don’t need a big house, fancy car, or an enormous bank account. In fact, you’re far more likely to impress God without those things. Those who get by with very little have a special place in God’s heart.
“Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position.” James 1:9 (NIV)
God is aware of every moment of your life. He is watching you and evaluating how you respond to your specific situation. There will be rewards in heaven, and those who endure great difficulty in this life may be singled out by God for special recognition.
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” James 1:12 (NIV)
You can count on God being there when you need Him. You can count on God delivering on His promises. Every moment of joy experienced in this life was provided by God. Those moments of joy are only a tiny fraction of the great reward that He will deliver when Jesus returns.
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” James 1:17 (NIV)
Our mission in this life is to cling tightly to the teachings of the Bible. A true believer will fill their heart with the Word of God. We need to seek out trusted teachers of the Word and pray in fellowship with other believers that our hearts and minds will be filled with the love of God. Beyond all else, our most important mission is to take what we have learned and put it into action. Serving God by serving others is the path to blessing in this life.
“But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.” James 1:25 (NIV)
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