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.