Studying the Book of James - Joy In the Midst Of Trials

The Book Of James Chapter 1 verses 2-3

Verse 2

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds".

Part 1
The word 'pure joy' means 'total joy, joy that is full and unmixed'.

It is important to note that James encouraged the Jewish people who are facing trials among the Gentiles to be joyful not for the trials but in the trials. He called them 'my brothers' to show that he identified himself with them and had compassion on them.

The word 'face' (Greek word :'peripesete') means to 'fall into', like one falling into a bad and possibly dangerous situation like a financial crisis or a family fight/quarrel.

It is important to note here that the 'trials' referred here are external trials(Greek word: peirasmois) or tests of stamina and not internal ones welling up from within oneself like lusts and greed. This form is being told in verse 13 of the same chapter but not here.

Part 2 : How Can A Person Find Joy in Trials? By Understanding the purpose and advantages of it

Verse 3

"Because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance".

Christians can be joyful when facing trials when they know the advantages and blessings that comes out of it.

James here says 'because you know..' indicating that this is no new revalation to the people but a simple reminder for them. The already knew it, just that they need encouragement.

The word 'know' (Greek word:ginoskontes) means 'knowing from experience.

The word 'testing'(Greek word: dokimion) refers to 'approval' rather than 'proving'.
Faith is like gold standing in the midst of the hot fire, produces perseverance as one goes through trials. And it seems very important that this perseverance be developed in ones life to God.
True Faith will stand and has the staying power despite the great heat from the fire.

The word 'perseverance' (Greek word: hypomonen) means 'steadfastness or endurance in the midst of difficulties'

Important Note :
I have chosen based on my study from 'The Bible Knowledge Commentary' by John F.Walvoord and Roy B.Zack and selectively re-typed some of the more important parts, together with some of my own additional explanation to make this study simpler to digest and understand. My re-phrasing does not show a different meaning to what was originally written.