James, a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad: Greetings. My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. (Jam 1:1-4 NKJ)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, (Galatians 5:22. NIB)

This James is thought to be the brother of the Lord, and though he didn’t follow Jesus, he became an Apostle in the same way as Paul. James becomes a leader in the Church  in Jerusalem, and both Peter and Paul regard him as a pillar and key person in the church leadership.

After the death and resurrection of Jesus, there were several rebellions and several people claiming to be a reincarnation of Jesus or claimed to be the Messiah.  This continual acts of rebellion against the Romans resulted in persecution and oppression against the Church by both the Romans and the religious leaders.  It was in this environment that James addresses the church with a word of encouragement. His words might seem strange to the modern-day Christian as James tells us, “My brothers and sisters, think of the various tests you encounter as occasions for joy.” (Jam 1:2 CEB) When the trials of life come your way, rejoice, it is God way of perfecting us.  James says it actually produces fruit—patience. I have to confess that I am not the most patient of people, but neither am I asking for more trials.  The reality is, we don’t have to, trials will come by themselves. 

Hold on, stay calm, God has everything under control.