“Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” James 1:2-4.
It’s the truth about trials: they are good for us. But, who really welcomes the times of testing that come into our lives? Isn’t the trouble-free life to be preferred?
I greatly respect those who exhibit grace while under fire amidst life’s trials. To be unaware of their circumstances, one would think all was well with them. They exhibit kindness, patience, and peace. And yet, they work difficult jobs; some well past retirement age, they care for seriously ill spouses, and/or have adult children and grandchildren living, out of necessity, in their home. The heavy burden of circumstances is in no way indicated by their demeanor.
Life’s trials are not automatically beneficial. Unless we make the mental choice to “consider” them a source of joy, they will not be. The idea of joy amidst our most difficult times may see preposterous, but then perhaps we need to be sure we properly understand the word, “joy.” Often it is equated with happiness, and this is not necessarily so. A better understanding is that of abiding optimism - that there is ultimate benefit and a good outcome in spite of the pain of the moment. Joy is grinding through the difficulty with confidence in the results.
Endurance amidst trials is a prize in and of itself. The image of an Olympic distance runner comes to mind: watching them near the end of a long, grueling race, with the pained and yet determined look on their face as they press on to the finish line, their energy reserves long spent, as they strain to finish by sheer determination. Such are we called to do amidst trials.
The reality check to James’ words is that you may be going through a severe trial at this moment. However difficult it may be, mentally choose to allow it to be beneficial. Keep pressing on; endure and stand. Trust that the grace and Spirit of God will bring to fruition the kind of character that is precious in His sight. As the apostle Paul so well described, “we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed” 2 Corinthians 4:8-9. May this be our testimony as well.
©Steve Taylor, 2025 --Used by permission
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