Joyful Trials

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James 1:2

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials.

 

Bible Reading for a Year [bible]psalm7[/bible]; [bible]revel13[/bible]; [bible]nehem6-7[/bible]

 

The Bible teaches us to respond to the difficult circumstances in a way contrary to the human nature. One of the challenging commands from the Bible is “count it all joy when you fall into various trials.” ([bible]james1:2[/bible])

In other words, we should look at hardship and then consider it all joy and happiness. We should not refuse the tests and trials or take it as a troublemaker, but rather welcome them as a friend. I do not know about you, but I can never think straight.

This biblical view may seem weird and unattainable, as we see the explanation that follows: “knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience” ([bible]james1:3[/bible]). Joy comes not from our feelings, but from our knowledge of God and His work in our life. Therefore, process of suffering for reaching the desired purpose should be hailed as a friend.

More than merely a test of our strength, it is a proof of our faith in God which can build our resilience. In all our troubles, God promised to give wisdom ([bible]james1:5[/bible]), and the crown of life for those who persevere ([bible]james1:2[/bible]).

If our current natural human response while facing difficult situation is, “Oh, no!”, then God wants us to see what He can do through difficult situations, so that we can say, “Oh, yes!”

 

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