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“Joy Amidst Trials...”
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“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.” (James 1:2-8,ESV)
The book of James is sometimes called “the Proverbs of the New Testament.” In this relatively short book, James gives Christians a plethora of practical reminders concerning their everyday life. This book aids readers in living wisely and faithfully for Christ.
It is no accident James begins his book by addressing the matter of trials. No one is immune to trials. The problem arises when we succumb to feelings of failure that sometimes follow a difficult experience. Often we feel persecuted and “singled out” because we have to deal with hard times. This feeling can be caused by a number of factors. However, the root of the problem lies in our tendency to look inward for solutions to problems. We often do not have the knowhow or ability to cope without some form of help.
Consider this: James does not suggest we simply rejoice because we face various trials. He instructs us to look beyond the present to see the outcome of the future. The blessing of facing trials lies in the fact they will produce a desired effect if handled correctly. The life of a Christian is aimed at perfection and completion; we are working toward spiritual maturity. The trials of life are intended to be used as a catalyst to produce a determined, immovable, and un-wavering faith in Jesus and His saving gospel.
One challenge to developing this desired way of thinking is having the wisdom to look beyond the present distress to see how one’s faith can benefit. Wisdom involves knowledge, insight, discernment, and judgment. When properly applied, wisdom enables one to assess the trying situation, discern the possible ways to cope, and the ability to judge the possible outcome(s) of the course of action being contemplated. James says wisdom is given to the one who asks God to supply it. However, the expectation of receiving wisdom must be based on that person’s confidence in knowing God can and will supply it freely and generously.
As you read the first words Jesus spoke when He began to preach in the land of Galilee, you will notice He did not hide the fact His disciples would experience trials. Jesus said His disciples would experience blessedness while experiencing verbal abuse and persecution for following Him and His teaching. Jesus wants His people to successfully make it through those tough times. He encourages His followers by telling them their reward for faithfully enduring trials is citizenship in His kingdom and ultimately an eternal home in heaven. Now isn’t that something to make you rejoice!
