Profiting from trials

“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials.” James 1:2

 

A man came home one evening and told his family that his business partner stole the assets of the firm. Bankruptcy was inevitable. Instead of despairing, the wife went out, pawned some jewelry and prepared a delicious dinner. When family members protested, she replied, “The time for joy is now when we need it most, not next week.” Their trial was a test of their faith. 

 

Every hardship holds the potential to become a temptation and a trial. Trials are sent by God to test our faith, holiness and character. It provides a different kind of experience when compared to temptations. while Jesus tells us to pray that we enter not into temptation (Matt. 26:41), James tells us to rejoice when we go through a trial.

 

It is in the time of trial that God’s purposes are realized, for there the conditions are right for us to grow into spiritual maturity. This growth not only equips us for living, but it also enables us to more accurately reflect Jesus to a world that desperately needs Him. In the hands of our Father, our trials can achieve His purposes for our good and for His honor. They can shape us into the likeness of His Son.

 

Let us refrain from complaining every time a trial hits us. Welcome it. It is a time for spiritual development, a time for joy, and a step closer to God.

 

O’ Lord, teach me to trust You for the strength to endure difficulties and the faith to wait for Your good purposes to be accomplished in me.

 

-Joshua Ankiah