A. Making Tests Work for You (1:2-4)

Most scholars feel that the last word of the salutation (chairein, “greetings”) suggested the second word (charan, “joy”) at the opening of the initial homily. But the connection may lie deeper than this. In constituting the people of God, after the miracle of the Exodus, God subjected them to testings in the wilderness. Numbers bristles with trials confronted and too often failed. It would be no different for the new people of God, given identity through the resurrection miracle.

There is wide agreement that the trials in mind rise out of deliberate persecution of Christians. But the modifying adjective (many kinds) and the later discussion of the subject (1:13-15) suggest a much broader setting. Many experiences come in the guise of testings. It may be in the home (sickness), in the workplace (competition), or even in the Christian community (jealousy). They come in many sizes and shapes, often irritating, always unplanned (Adamson, 54), and always demanding a response. We prefer not to have to contend with them, hoping to be spared the strain and stress.

The stark realities of opposition, discrimination, and resentment, however, become the rule rather than the exception. James charges the reader to turn these difficult, trying experiences into spiritual profit. When he commands them to consider it pure joy, he challenges them to take a definite positive stance in the midst of trials. “Take charge!” he shouts, “Welcome the challenge!” This testing of their faith will begin to generate endurance, which serves as a basic ingredient in the development of Christian character.

James challenges the readers to be open to the ultimate effect of endurance—a mature and complete Christian life. The word perfect, a favorite of James, describes “a fullblown character of stable righteousness” (Davids, 69). It comes by making trials work to the advantage of the believer. It sounds great, but it is not easy to do. Each situation requires perception, evaluation, and an informed response. Who has that kind of resourcefulness? It is within reach through prayer.