James 1

“Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (4). James links going through hardships with the development of wisdom (5), when we allow God to work in us during our trials. As we develop godly wisdom, we learn the difference between short-term satisfactions that lead to trouble (13-15) and the true good gifts of God (17). Rather than reacting irritably to criticism, provoking conflict, we learn to be “quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (19).

“Every good and perfect gift is from above ...” (17). God, who brings life from death, can take the suffering of our trials and bring about good - such as increased patience, wisdom, and maturity.