Read James 1:12 NIV
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those that love him.”
What is the “crown of life” that James is talking about?
According to Strong’s Concordance, the Greek word used for crown in this verse means an elaborate garland, like the one you might see on royalty or an Olympic athlete of the time. A crown of victory and status.
In 1 Corinthians 9:24, Paul says, “Do you not know that in a race all runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.”
It’s not a coincidence that both Paul and James use similar analogies for our perseverance in the faith. Prizes and crowns show that the person receiving them is set apart for the highest recognition.
Of course, the highest prize for a Christ-follower is to be welcomed into heaven by our Savior, Jesus Christ. James talks about the “crown of life” as a reminder to us that our suffering, the trials, and tribulations of this life, are not in vain. This is what he means in James 1:4 when he says, “Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
Pray:
“Father God, thank you for the promise of eternal life in heaven for all those that have accepted Jesus. Thank you for the reminder that in addition to your help on this earth, there is a reward for persevering through faith in our trials and tribulations. Amen.”
