JAMES 1:1-27

James doesn’t say it is supposed to be fun, he only says our faith and fortitude are strengthened through hard times and challenges. Knowing that God is not only walking through these valleys with us, but He is also perfecting us – literally, “completing us” – allows us to see a good purpose in bad times. Therein lies joy.

Even the best of us dilute God’s joy

I’ll just meet God halfway on this one. I sense the joy that comes from personal improvement, but I still need to grumble and complain about the things that trouble me. Right? James was inspired to write “all joy”, not “joy” alone here for a reason.

God cannot complete me when I withhold from Him

Part of the completing process is in my mind. God gives me wisdom to go with me newfound endurance. With wisdom, my faith is better equipped to endure the next tsunami or hurricane. I must see the wind and the wave for what it is and what it is not. At my core, I must see God for who He is and what He is accomplishing during these times. Therein lies some joy.

The goal is the crown of life, not the easy life

Another part of my endurance training is the strength to overcome temptations. Sometimes when life wears us down, our resolve seems to go first. When we are weakest Satan becomes much more effective. He took his best shot at Jesus after 40 days and 40 nights without food. Jesus was prepared. In tough times, God is preparing us. Therein lies much joy.

Trials prepare us for opportunity

When we exchange the word’s promises for the world’s deceptions, God’s preparation and completing process takes us to a higher plane. Lifting our eyes from our own circumstances and temptations, we see the needs of others. Hearing the truth of the law of liberty we have the strength to assist those around us in their dark days. Therein lies ALL joy.

Discover … His Joy

Access … His Joy

Share … His Joy