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)

¹³ When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; ¹⁴ but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own^(R) evil desire and enticed. ¹⁵ Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin;^(S) and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.^(T)

¹⁶ Don’t be deceived,^(U) my dear brothers and sisters.^{(V) 17} Every good and perfect gift is from above,^(W) coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights,^(X) who does not change^(Y) like shifting shadows. ¹⁸ He chose to give us birth^(Z) through the word of truth,^(AA) that we might be a kind of firstfruits^(AB) of all he created.