~James 1:2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;

Worry … trials … hurdles … problems … burdens! The Christian is not promised to be problem-free just because he has accepted Christ as his Saviour. Life would be easy, if that were the case. Instead, the Bible teaches us that the Christian is allowed these trials so he can learn to trust God through it all. The word temptation here means “trial,” not an actual “tempting.” James continues to say in the next verse:

~James 1:3 Knowing [this], that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

Looking at trials in a scriptural light encourages the weary soul. James tells us that these trials “try” our faith. When we are young in Christ, we fret at the first sign of trouble. As we see the Lord working, it builds our faith in Him. Then, as we grow in Him, we turn to Him at the first sign of trouble rather than as a last resort. That is the part that “worketh patience.” We know that we can set aside any worry and rely on the Lord to take care of it all. As a result of this peaceful reaction, we become a testimony to a lost and dying world when they see the power of God in our lives!

I was reading about Thomas Edison’s experience when his house and lab went up in smoke. He lost everything, including everything relating to his inventions. But his response to all this was:

“There is great value in disaster. All our mistakes are burned up. Thank God we can start anew.”

Praise the Lord for Mr. Edison’s testimony through it all! So, am I that way? What effect do I have on those around me when the walls come caving in? How does my reaction appear to those closest to me? If I “lose it” they will think, “Where’s her God?” But if I “count it all joy” then the world sees victory! The joy that comes from that peace during a storm is priceless!

I love this quote by Corrie Ten Boom:

“If you look at the world, you’ll be distressed. If you look within, you’ll be depressed. If you look at God you’ll be at rest.”

Amen! Glory!