Here’s what James has to say about trials and tribulations.
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.”
James 1: 1-8 (NIV).
Side bar: I should be among the most joyful Christians alive given that what we call trials in America pales in comparison to the sufferings of Christians worldwide.
Here’s my meditation for today. What do these of Jesus words mean to you?
“All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”
John 10: 8-10 (NKJV).
Let’s get this advice from the Apostle Paul deeply rooted in our hearts and minds. Our Christian walk would be so much easier.
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4: 4-7 (NIV).
Lord, help us to take delight in you and your promises. May our be lives filled with delight and adventure.
‼️Here’s a scripture I cling to when unexpected events happen that seem bad at the time.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been calledaccording to his purpose.”
Romans 8:28 (NIV).
ALL THINGS mean ALL THINGS. Think about your life. Do these words bring comfort and trust in the one who knows EVERYTHING? He loves us despite our warts.
