Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life, which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

James 1:12 uses the word "love" as a reminder of covenant.  There is a relationship on display here.  The Greek word translated into love is, "agaposeen", from "agape".  "Agaposeen" is in the present tense.  We have to ask ourselves, to whom is this promise made?

Verse 2 reminds us that we should consider it joy whenever we fall into trials.  Verse 12 takes us another step up by showing  us that we are blessed (or happy) when we persevere (or endure) those trials.  Once these trials are endured, two things will happen:

We will find ourselves approved.  Look at the context through the chapter.  This does not mean that God will approve of us because we endure, it means that we will approve of us.  Loving God changes my view of me!

We will receive the crown of life.  A crown is for a ruler.  The word life is "Zoe", which can mean more than just vitality.  Zoe can mean full life - abundant life.  What does it mean to be a ruler of abundant life?  What does it mean to be the authority on living?  The buck stops here when it comes to being alive!

In a nutshell:  When trials come, and you face them with endurance, you will learn something about yourself.  You will learn that this love you have for God has changed you, made your character stronger.  And you will use that strength to tackle every life lesson to come.  The Lord promises that to all who take an active, present part in loving Him.

What must we do to have eternal life?
(John 3:36, John 4:14)