You know that verse in James that tells us to rejoice when we’re going through a tough time?

You know what I’m talking about. A guest speaker (actually, the former pastor of my church and our current lead pastor’s father) mentioned this verse last Sunday and referred to it as “that pesky verse in James.” Hearing it reminded me of how I have been wanting to blog about it. Check it out:

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kids. James 1:2

If you’re reading that verse for the very first time, you’re probably thinking, “Huh? Seriously?”

Yes, seriously.

The NIV words it like so: “Consider it PURE JOY whenever you face trials of many kinds.” The reason we’re told do so comes in the next two verses (ESV):

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. James 1:3-4

The greatest good that can come of our lives, according to Romans 8:28-29, is to be conformed to the image of Christ. That’s what Paul meant when he wrote, “For those who love God, all things work together for good.”

So…when you face a trial, God allows it because he’s perfecting your faith. He’s also molding you into the image of his Son, if you let him. Those are pure joys.

Today, let go of your hurt and give it to God. Do it every day if you have to! I encourage you not to dwell on your trial, but to look to God and allow him to heal you. Ask him for strength. Consider this time in your life a pure joy. You might not see it now, but when you’re on the other side of this, you’ll be grateful that God allowed whatever you’re facing to happen.

Jen

All things work together for good Christianity Consider it pure joy Faith god James James 1:2-4 Jesus Christ Joy Pure Joy Romans 8:28 Trials