How we cite our quotes:
Quote #1
Brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance; and let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing. (James 1:2-4, NRSV)
My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. (James 1:2-4, KJV)
Everyone loves of a struggle. Strike that—no one does. James is definitely spinning hard times here by saying that these tests of faith have a silver lining and you'll come out stronger in the end. Here's hoping!
Quote #2
Blessed is anyone who endures temptation. Such a one has stood the test and will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. (James 1:12, NRSV)
Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. (James 1:12, KJV)
Okay, so you resist temptation, you get your crown. Sounds simple. But does someone who died for their faith get a nicer crown than someone who just casually defended Jesus in the bazaar on Thursday afternoon? We're thinking rhinestones are in order for some folks.
Quote #3
Be patient, therefore, beloved, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious crop from the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains. You also must be patient[…] As an example of suffering and patience, beloved, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. Indeed we call blessed those who showed endurance. You have heard of the endurance of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful. (James 5:7-8, 10-11, NRSV)
Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient[…] Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy. (James 5:7-8, 10-11, KJV)
So you've been persevering in the face of hardship, and you're pretty anxious for this whole crazy world to just be done with? Well, just preserve a little more, says James. Just look at Job. He did it and things turned out fine for him. Well, fine-ish.