Ever felt like life is falling apart and wondered if God might be behind it? Maybe you’ve asked, “Is God out to get me?” When the pressure is on, it’s easy to question His goodness. But James makes a bold statement: “God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation” (James 1:12).

And that’s not the answer we always want to hear. We’d rather have the quick fix, the easy road. But blessing doesn’t come through shortcuts, it comes through endurance. Standing strong for what’s right, staying faithful in your marriage, raising your kids in the faith…these are long-game commitments.

Still, endurance doesn’t mean God is setting traps for you. James also writes, “God is never tempted to do wrong, and He never tempts anyone else” (James 1:13). In other words: the tests you face are not the same thing as temptations. Testing comes from the outside—stress, finances, relationships. Temptation comes from the inside—pride, lust, anger. One reveals your faith; the other exposes your heart.

And that’s why life is hard. 

Under pressure, it often feels like both are working against you at once. But here’s what you need to know: God isn’t plotting against you. He’s not handing you bait to watch you fail. James reminds us, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows” (James 1:17).

The good that shows up in your life doesn’t come by accident—it comes from a God who is steady, generous, and good. He isn’t planning to sabotage you, He’s planning a blessing for you.

So when the pressure rises, ask yourself: How would my response change if I really believed God is for me, not against me?