“Consider it pure joy, my bothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.  Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1:2-4 NIV)

           This scripture instructs us to consider trials as opportunities for joy, as the testing of our faith develops perseverance.  I don’t know about you, but I need a break from all this testing. Have you ever noticed that some people’s lives are harder than others?  

I remember as a young minister, my parishioners would say to me, “Because you have been through so much in your young life, you are a better minister for it.”  Those words really didn’t make me feel better, but their statement was true.  For God was able to take those very difficult tribulations and turn them around for good—to help others who had experienced what I had.

This scripture gives us a different perspective on trials and tribulations.  Rather than despairing, we are encouraged to view various trials (hardships, troubles) as reason for “pure joy” because of their productive outcome.  

For when our faith is tested it produces perseverance, which means endurance.  The ultimate goal is allowing the perseverance to have a “perfect result” leading to maturity and not lacking in anything because our strength comes from the LORD.  For God can use any situation for good, if we allow it.  It is something to remember the next time life gets hard—focus more on God than on yourself—and how hard you think your life is.  Because the bottom line is this—this tribulation will pass and with God’s help you will get through it.  You will be OK!  God Bless.  Amen.

denise