Trials and Temptations

² Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,^[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds,^{(A) 3} because you know that the testing of your faith^(B) produces perseverance.^{(C) 4} Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature^(D) and complete, not lacking anything. ⁵ If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God,^(E) who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.^{(F) 6} But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt,^(G) because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. ⁷ That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. ⁸ Such a person is double-minded^(H) and unstable^(I) in all they do.

⁹ Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position.^{(J) 10} But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower.^{(K) 11} For the sun rises with scorching heat^(L) and withers^(M) the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed.^(N) In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business.

¹² Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial^(O) because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life^(P) that the Lord has promised to those who love him.^(Q)

Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount

5 Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, ² and he began to teach them.

The Beatitudes^(A)

He said:

¹¹ “Blessed are you when people insult you,^(M) persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.^{(N) 12} Rejoice and be glad,^(O) because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.^(P)

Do Not Worry^(A)

²⁵ “Therefore I tell you, do not worry^(B) about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?