Scripture: “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come
your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your
faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.” James 1:2
Why does God allow trials in our life? They
help build our faith and dependence on God. The Bible says our faith is like
gold that needs to be purified and refined in fire. The joy comes when we
realize the fire makes the end product more valuable and beautiful.
Expect Suffering
Our hope cannot be
based on a comfortable, trouble-free life here on earth. Jesus said, “In this world you will have troubles, but
have courage! I have overcome the world” John 16:33. Jesus tell us to expect it; He says you will
have troubles, not if you have troubles. Jesus’ promise is victory over the
things of this world, not happiness in them. The Bible warns against us loving
this world and its comforts (1 John 2:15-17).
This world is fading away, and so are the pleasures it holds.
Suffering Builds Faith
Jesus died to make us
holy and righteous. Our strength of character and faith is more important to
him than our temporary happiness. “We confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s
glory. We can also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that trials
develop endurance; and endurance develops strength of character, and character
strengthens our confident hope of salvation.” Romans 5:3-4.
When trials come, we are forced to trust in
God. We realize we cannot depend on our own strength and knowledge. Jesus wants
us to believe in his promises no matter what our current situation is.
Focus On the Joy
When we focus on Jesus and the things in
heaven, we see that our troubles here on earth are only temporary. They cannot
compare to the wonderful things God has ready for us in heaven.
“No eye has seen, no
ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who
love him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9. We can endure suffering when we have faith
in God’s promises for eternity. Jesus himself was able to endure the cross “because of the joy awaiting him.” (Hebrews 12:2)
Let our prayer be
this: “For
I want to understand what really matters, so that I may live a pure and
blameless life until the day of Christ’s return. May I always be filled with
fruit of my salvation--the righteous character produced in my life by Jesus
Christ--for this will bring much glory and praise to God.” Philippians 1:9-11
