February 4th, 2010
James 1:2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations.
Trials and tribulations are not considered a positive experience in life. In fact, we dread ever having to go through them. Leave it to the Lord to teach us that we should not look at our trials through negative eyes but to count it all joy! You’re kidding, right? There is no joy in sinning for the believer. Therefore, the word temptation in this verse does not mean temptation to sin but a “trying” – a trial – adversity.
peirasmos
pi-ras-mos’
From Strong’s G3985; a putting to proof (by experiment [of good], experience [of evil], solicitation, discipline or provocation); by implication adversity: – temptation, X try.
Why should we count it joy, though? James answers this question a few verses later saying that these same trials will give us patience. If we are patient and we do not give up, our trials will turn into blessings. God will teach us something with every trial. Whether the trial was for our own personal benefit or for the benefit of another, there is a blessing to be had!
James teaches us to look at our trials at the git go as an opportunity to witness an upcoming blessing. Rather than be fearful of the trial its outcome, be thankful – be at peace – be joyful in your heart knowing that the King of Kings has your back. Your Shepherd is on the job, keeping you. Once your thoughts are off the circumstances about you, you can now share that peace and that joy with those who are watching you as you go through your trial. People are watching, you know. Your children are watching – your relatives are watching – your friends are watching – your co-workers are watching! You may not realize it but the way you conduct yourself, spiritually, will clearly define your faith in your God.
This is important for two reasons. The unsaved do not want to believe in a God that cannot prove Himself in someone’s life. In other words, how can your God help me if you are falling apart at the seams during your financial crisis? The second reason is that our trials help other believers to grow – we are a living testament of God’s abilities. If a young believer is watching you as you go through a severe trial and he sees you falling apart, he is not learning to run to God in all things. Instead, the babe in Christ is learning to run to his friends and family before running to God. He does not have the opportunity to witness God’s mighty hand in your life.
What a testimony it can be to all who are around us when we radiate peace and joy in our hearts! This same peace and joy brings with it gracious words, praises to the Almighty and the believer glorifies God in his actions!
What kind of living testament are you of the Living God to those around you?
February 5th, 2010 at 4:46 am
the Pastor here preached on this very same thing not long ago
February 10th, 2010 at 7:59 am
I come by regularly, but don’t comment enough to let you know how much these devotionals mean to me. It is uplifting to read God’s word, and a blessing to find those walking the same strait and narrow path. Thank you for sharing.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:37 am
Thank you so much, Grammy Blick
I appreciate the words of encouragement!!!
February 23rd, 2010 at 3:09 pm
Sis Kate, thanks for posting this devotional. It was an excellent reminder of what our mindset is to be in the midst of trials.
Recently at the Mission, I was sharing my testimony of overcoming depression, and this poem is one I included in that testimony:
Count It All Joy
Count it all joy, my brethren, for the trials in this race.
Count it all joy, my brethren, as you seek the Saviour’s face.
Jesus is with you through every trial.
He will stand by you all the while.
Count it all joy.
Count it all joy, my brethren, for the trials that you’ve seen.
Count it all joy, my brethren, for nothing can come between,
And separate you from the Lord.
Just cling to Jesus and His Word.
Count it all joy.
Count it all joy, my brethren, this trial is but for a season.
Count it all joy, my brethren, the Lord has planned it for a reason.
He is working out all things for your good,
As only our Heavenly Father could.
Count it all joy.
Count it all joy, my brethren, for the trials that you go through.
Count it all joy, my brethren, for the fires that purify you.
As He molds this vessel to perfection,
Someday Jesus will behold His reflection.
Count it all joy.
March 12th, 2002
Jerry Bouey
My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
But let patience have her perfect work,
that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
James 1:2-4
February 23rd, 2010 at 3:48 pm
What a wonderful poem, Bro. Jerry! Thank you for posting it! It goes well with this post!