"Blessed is anyone who endures through trials. Such a one has stood the test and will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him." (James 1:12)
We usually have two choices when faced with life’s trials and tribulations. First, we can choose to trust God through practicing patience. Second, we can choose to allow the dark storms of doubt and despair to cloud our hearts and minds, tossing us into a turbulent sea of uncertainty.
The enemy of our salvation is merciless and wants to destroy our faith in God at any cost. His tactic is to plant doubt in the hearts of believers so that their spiritual lives will be fruitless.
Of course, we cannot resist all of the forces and “schemes” of the evil one with our own strength alone, but as Apostle John says: “For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that overcomes the world, our faith.” (1 John 5:4).
If we cling firmly to the faith, hope, and love given to us at baptism, we will not be shaken by the waves of the sea of doubt, but we will be anchored in the divine virtues.
Life's difficulties could lead many of us to destructive despair, but the blessed are the ones who endure each trial because by being patient in the trial, they will receive the crown of life that the Lord promised to those who love him.
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