4 And let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing. -- James 1:4

Trials and Maturity (James 1:4)

Today, we continue our journey word by word, verse by verse, through the book of James!

James 1:4 continues James' encouragement about what trials and tribulations produce in us! As a reminder, what it produces in and through us is why we have an attitude of joy!

The text says that endurance (or perseverance) has its full effect so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing. “Mature” (teleioi, τέλειοι), often translated as “perfect” or “finished,” is coupled with “complete” (holoklēroi, ὁλόκληροι from holos, “whole,” and klēros, “part”) to give the idea of perfected all over or fully developed in every part.

The Christian will become all that God wants them to be as trials are faced with joy-producing perseverance and that perseverance goes the distance to develop a fully mature follower of Jesus.  

Brothers and Sisters, be encouraged today: God is not finished with you. He is continuing to do mighty things in and through you. God's grip on you is far tighter than your grip on Him. May we trust him and the process of sanctification!