James 1: 12-17
“I don’t care and I want it now!” -Veruca Salt Willy Wonka
As I’m writing this, I’m becoming increasing impatient with how long I’m spending writing this and how my wifi isn’t fast enough to stream Apple Music. My life is constantly in a state of irritably looking at the clock and wondering, “Why is this taking so long?” “Cars get out my way now! “The “Uberization” of the world is in full-swing, but at what cost? Even dating is becoming streamlined and hassle-free with Tinder. Relationships must be quick, convenient and less time-commitment. Let’s get real: We don’t care and we want it now, but what is this doing to us spiritually? To be clear, Uber and Tinder aren’t the problem, we would have this problem regardless. We all have a little Veruca in us, but the Christian life is about rolling up our sleeves and daily pursuing God and asking Him to make us more into the Image of Christ.
James 1:12
Even in Biblical times, James is writing to believers and encouraging them to remain steadfast during trials and that those who remain faithful will inherit the crown of life. Passages like this are a struggle to read. They are in complete opposition of what we experience. Let’s be honest, remaining faithful is boring. It’s antiquated language. Following through with commitments is becoming uncommon, but how our hearts must yield to scripture.
James 1:13
This is one of my favorite verses because it speaks to the human psyche. The thought pattern is: When temptation happens, it’s God’s fault. Why would God allow temptation into my life. Or well I just can’t stop doing….[fill in the blank]. James is very quick to correct this. God is not upstairs playing some sick game with humanity. The story of Job is the most accurate depiction of how God allows, but does not cause.
James 1:14-16
Bad things happen because of our sin, which originates in our desires, which ultimately leads to death. You’re the problem!!!! I’m the problem!!! My temptations come from the depths of my black heart that’s constantly wrestles with my spirit for control. Temptation is the elusive carrot dangling that our heart yearns to reach for. It’s the soft whisper of deceit that edges us one step too far. James is warning believers to stop thinking temptation is out of our control and start taking control. Be responsible for your relationship with God.
James 1:17
In contrast of our own ugly, sinful desires, God is good. He’s a God that gives magnificent treasures. He gives perfection. Unlike our ever-changing state, God is unchanging. God doesn’t turn his back casting a shadow on anything. He is a patient God.
In a world of. “I want it now,” we must fight the temptation of thinking our relationship with God is temporal, immediate, and can be completed. “I am spiritually in it for the long haul” must be the response as genuine Christ-followers.
Photography: @jacobnnorris