Today I read and studied out of James 1:2-8. And I needed to hear theses familiar words once again. Every time, I read these verses I am convicted of my own double-mind. My faith mind wants to say, "Yes, lord bring it on! I know you can conquer every mountain and mole hill." However, running right beside me is my human/flesh side that shouts, "Not again, can you please give me a break God!?!" Honestly, sometimes my human side wins and I fall flat on my face.

That is the point of this passage though. We need to be flat on our face in the first place. Yes, the passage is a reminder that trials and tribulations are a part of the human condition and a promise for the Christian life, but there is more than just this important revelation. God does not allow trials and testing in your life that He has not already provided or offers the tools to make a away in a through. James, and of course God, wants us to understand that we are immature and we don't possess what it takes to get past difficult times. We need to ask for His resources and trust that He will answer.
When you and I rely on our own power, think we have enough, or just give up because we know we don't have it all together, that is when we fail. I have even seen my own arrogant side crop up and try to show God how good I am by going it alone. Just like a kid on their first bike ride without training wheels showing off to a hopefully proud parent, we think we can handle it. Good image, but more often than not it results in a crash.

Don't get lost in the first few verses and start criticizing yourself for not shouting for joy when trials first arrive. You will learn to do that in time as you, in humility, realize that you don't have what it takes in any shape or form to handle what this life throws at you. Humble yourself at the first sign of a trouble. Go to Him and ask for the needed strength, truth, wisdom, and guidance only He possesses. He will provide, generously and freely, everything you need in your time of need. Remember, though it may not always be what you want, but it will be what you need. This is the process of perseverance James is referring to. Real Perseverance, today’s redefining moment, is not necessarily about tightening the coat and facing the wind in defiance and personal victory. It is about crying out to the one who created the wind and storm and asking for His resources; while trusting in His love and timing. It is in these times that

Perseverance does its work rather than us trying to work perseverance from our old and worn out worldly understanding. Let go of what you think you know about strong willed examples and tough people. That is only a shadow of the real Perseverance God wants for you.
Whatever trial and struggle you are in right now, read and reread this passage. Are you ready to be a person of Perseverance? What it will take then is your firm and complete willingness to surrender your whole life to him. Ask Him to reveal and provide what you need. In big and small situations, repeat this process over and over. He will put Perseverance to work and then make it complete. You will get it wrong, but when you do forgive yourself as He has and begin again. Only with Him will you, in maturity, persevere.

James 1:2-8