When a believer goes through personal trials, they discover the kind of faith they really possess. Trials not only reveal our faith, but they also develop our character. James is written to show us that God is trying to produce in us the kind of faith that overcomes. The trying of your faith worketh patience.
Patience is enduring faith, faith with staying power.
Verses 1-12 are speaking of the trials and tests that come into our lives from outside circumstances. Far too many Christians fall by the wayside when temptations and trials come. God is trying to produce an inward change by allowing and even ordaining outward trials to build in us an overcoming faith. He wants us to understand that trials in the Christian life are not unique. It is a joy that brings rejoicing because we can see through the trials.