Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 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 1:2-4
Certain experiences are very painful and disappointing. They mostly make us feel hopeless and sometimes angry with God and ourselves. Nevertheless, these situations are common to all men (1Cor10:13).
James, the brother of Jesus, admonished us in his epistle to count it all joy when we face many trials. James is a good example of a believer who experienced trying moments. At least, we know that his brother(Jesus) died at 33years unexpectedly, and that was the will of God. I think James would find it difficult to believe that God\’s will was to allow his elder brother to die. But later, James realized that the death of Jesus was for a glorious purpose. He understood that God meant well even when it seems the situation is not friendly. The result of this understanding was that he became steadfast in his faith in God.
As believers, we must possess the same understanding that God is working out something in us. God has a purpose for everything we experience, including the ugly ones. We need to hold firm our faith as our trials test the patience and steadfastness in us. Let us remain patient with God and count it all Joy.
