What is the Crown of Life?

12 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. 13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. 14 But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. 15 Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.

James has already said something about trials earlier in this chapter. He tells the early church to not be surprised by them, and ultimately they will shape them and mold them to maturity. Today he talks more positively about trials and their ultimate reward. He calls a man "blessed" if he can endure through the trial. And the promise is when he withstands the test, he will receive the crown of life. If we study the word "crown", we see it in five different usages, such as "crown of glory" and "crown of righteousness".

In Paul's writings the crown is given to the victory in athletic games. The runner receives first prize, which was a garland of flowers they wore around their head as the victor. There are other uses of this word, as it is also worn at wedding feasts, and also put on royal kings. So what is its meaning here? Regardless of how you interpret which type of crown it is, it symbolizes something of earthly value. While it brings happiness and honor in the present it doesn't have any enduring value.

Also it means the crown of life. A victorious life lived by the power of Christ is the most joyful life we can live here on earth, with the promise of eternal life in the future. Dallas Willard calls our life here as believers, "the eternal kind of life". Meaning eternal life starts the moment you come to faith in Jesus and receive the Holy Spirit. So what is the application here?

We will all have trials. They will be hard to endure. But the promise of God is that, as we persevere and remain steadfast, we will receive the crown of life. Victory here on earth in daily trials is but a mirror of the crown of righteousness Jesus has put on the heads of all who believe and trust in Him for salvation. And one day, we will receive a crown of glory in heaven, which will never fade away.

Pray for whatever trial you are going through today, asking for the strength to persevere and receive the crown of life!!!

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