Count it all joy

Hard times are a part of life. Trials, tribulations, and temptations are the common thread that links all of mankind, regardless of culture, age, gender, wealth, or status.

Our reaction to the tough times is of paramount importance. They can build us up, or they can cause us to tear ourselves down. It all boils down to our response. In the midst of trials and temptations (the same Greek word is translated as both), there is a choice between two diverging paths. The wide, common path is that of enticement and sin. This path leads only to death.

James 1:14-15 But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death.

The other path is narrow, and is found by few. It is the path is one of faith, obedience, and perseverance leading to completeness, maturity, and life.

James 1:2-4,12 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

We can have faith in God’s providential promise, for we know that we will not be tempted beyond what we are able to bear and He always provides an escape rout (1 Cor. 10:13). We can trust that after we have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish us (1 Pet. 5:10). We can have joy because we know the final outcome, the redemption of our souls. Yet rejoicing in tribulation is an unnatural (supernatural) act, and can only be accomplished through the strength of Christ. For through our weakness, Christ is strong through us (2 Cor. 12:10).

In trials and temptations we have a decision. We can count it all joy, rejoicing in the midst of the hard times, knowing and trusting that God is in control and that He is on our side for our ultimate benefit. Or we can continue to fall victim to our own lusts and depravity.

for His glory,
DJ