“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” (James 1:2-4).
Main Scripture passage: James 1:1-12
There are three components to the nature of tests: 1) tests are inevitable and will occur repeatedly throughout our lives, 2) tests are mysterious, meaning we may not always know when we are being tested, and 3) tests are universal–every Christian will be tested. The purpose of tests and testing through trials is to refine that thing which is being tested. That is, the purpose of testing is to perfect our faith and character. Lastly, our response to tests ought to be to endure them (not to abort the process). The only way to get past the test is to go through it. And not only are we supposed to endure them, we should not take matters into our own hands. This means we should not try to smooth things over when God is doing a deeper work in our lives. As James says, “Let patience have its perfect work.” Then, after we have been approved, we will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him (v. 12).