My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. (James 1:2-3)
Rejoicing is joy in action, and it is the response God expects from us when we are visited by difficult circumstances. We not only rejoice in times of abundance and favor, but also in times of trials and hardships. It is doubtful any of us would choose joy through suffering, but the Lord has chosen it for us; it is His most useful tool for purifying our hearts. This is where the Spirit of God gives us the blessing of an overcoming and victorious life. Remember, it is impossible to please God without faith, and we must be purified through trial and fire. So, rejoice. Perfection and completion await.
Patience comes from God's expert use of time, and if we allow, He uses that time to produce glory and perfection in us. Through time and wisdom, we are rightly fitted for every good work. This is not born out of any human effort or ingenuity, but by our growing appreciation of God's goodness through every season. He desires that we lack nothing, and that we feed on His faithfulness always. The Lord trusts us with these "various trials," and His reputation hinges on how we handle them. So, we must prove worthy of that trust. Are you trustworthy?
Let's Pray – Dear Father, thank You for challenging me to grow through my trials. Purify my heart, and lead me in the everlasting way, even through difficulty. If Jesus learned obedience through suffering, so must I, and I do so gladly. Amen.
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