September 14

Mark of Divine Approval

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him. — Jas 1:12 BSB

Yes, the one who endures trials is blessed. This truth is invisible to most until their eyes are anointed with heavenly vision. But a person must endure trials without rebelling against God or abandoning their integrity. The one who has gone through the fire without being consumed as counterfeit is truly blessed.

When the test is over, divine approval comes in the form of “the crown of life.” It’s as if the Lord says, “Let him live; he has been weighed in the balance and not found wanting.” Life is the reward—not just existence, but a holy, joyful life, fulfilling God’s purpose for us. Already, those who endure the hardest tests of faith and love experience a higher form of spiritual life and joy.

The Lord has promised the crown of life to those who love Him. Only those who truly love the Lord will endure trials to the end; others will either give up or drift back to the world. Come, my heart, do you love your Lord? Truly? Deeply? Completely? Then your love will be tested, but neither floodwaters nor fire will destroy it. Lord, may Your love sustain mine to the very end.