When Affliction Arises
- Bishop Keith Butler
- Apr 21
- 2 min read
James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting. (James 1:1)
Have you ever considered to whom James wrote his letter and why he began it this way? It’s easy to overlook introductions in the epistles, letters, and books of the Bible. However, every greeting, every word, and every Scripture carries meaning. You shouldn’t read the Bible like a textbook or some spiritual self-help guide.
The Bible is the living, breathing Word of God, and the people in it faced real struggles, had real families, and endured real conflicts as they trusted and followed God. When you read the Word, you should understand what was happening, place yourself in the Scripture, and feel what they felt.
James was writing this letter to the Jewish believers who had been scattered due to severe persecution. They encountered hostility and uncertainty as they faced a challenge they had not anticipated.
Thousands of believers were forced to abandon their homes, businesses, communities, and even places of worship as they fled. They received terrific revelations, thousands of people were being added to the church daily, and the power of God was strongly manifesting in their everyday lives. Yet, they continued to face attacks in every way.
Believers should not be surprised by the enemy's attacks; this is precisely what Jesus promised would happen. In His parable of the sower, Jesus explained that one way Satan attempts to steal our faith is through afflictions. These scattered Christians faced an intense, immediate trial of their faith. Their comfort and stability had been taken from them, leaving them to question whether Jesus was worth it. James encouraged them to look beyond their challenges and focus on God’s promises and plans.
Practical Application
Take some time today to encourage someone who is struggling. The enemy may be attempting to steal their joy, focus, or determination to continue in the things of God. Encourage them, as James did with the scattered church, to concentrate on God’s heavenly perspective.
