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: 2-4
The trial
For the most part, it has been a rough winter – lots of snow storms, ice rain and very cold days. The thing is, we don’t have control over the weather, but we do have control over our attitude and reaction towards the weather. We can decide if we are going to be happy or upset every day, for the next few weeks of winter. Everyday is not cold and dark, nor is it always sunny and mild. Some people love when it snows, while some don’t. Summer comes around and some days it becomes unbearably hot and the cycle begins again.
We are always being tested. Right now you are either heading into a Storm (trial or test), in the eye of a Storm, or coming out of a Storm. Sometimes the trials come one after the other. Sometimes they feel like they are never going to pass. God has a purpose for every trial that comes into your life.
God has a Purpose
God’s purpose for us is that we grow and become more like the Lord Jesus Christ in our daily lives. His intention is never to harm us but to help us. Nothing happens to you without God’s approval and divine purpose. Regardless of the circumstances you are facing God can make all things work to your good and to your benefit. God’s perspective is not the same as ours. Sometimes, because of the pain and the problem, we don’t see clearly. Our vision becomes limited to the present but God sees the purpose and outcome of each trial. God sees the future! God promises His presence in the time of trial. He promised that he will never leave us nor forsake us.
Faith and Endurance
After we go through the fire (trials), we will come out like pure gold. When difficulties come we can be at peace and rest in God’s love no matter what we are facing. Weeping MAY endure for a night BUT Joy comes in the morning.
Let your faith be strengthened knowing that when you are weak, he is strong.
Let your faith grow by knowing that God will make a way were there doesn’t seem to be a way.
Let your faith be built up knowing that God is all powerful and more than able to work out every detail in your situation.
Thoughts to ponder:
How do you respond to trials?
Do you see opposition or adversity as an obstacle to climb over and keep going or as the end of the road?
Does your trial drive you away from God or closer to God?