“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials” – James 1:2 (NKJV)
Imagine being dressed for church one rainy day in one of your ‘Sunday best,’ only to be drenched with muddy water by a speeding vehicle. Or imagine purchasing takeout food from your favourite restaurant, but just as you reach the road, the container with food falls, scattering your delicious meal all over the road. Moreover, imagine responding to each situation with a smile on your face and joy in your heart.
Now, let’s return to reality. Would you really respond in the manner described above? Some probably would; others would explode, needing to approach God’s throne of grace in repentance afterwards. Many times, I too find myself among the latter, but God has called us to count it all joy when we fall into various trials.
According to the Bible Hub Topical Encyclopedia, trials refer to the various tests, challenges, and hardships that individuals encounter in life, which can be of a physical, emotional, spiritual, or moral nature. We all experience trials. They are just a part of life. However, God wants us to find reason(s) for joy in every circumstance.
The truth is that trials can drain us in every way possible, especially if we don’t have the right mindset. Nevertheless, don’t be discouraged. It is often through trials that God refines us, teaches us patience, and strengthens our faith, drawing us even closer to Him. So, we are to count it all joy knowing that the Master is shaping us, His masterpiece.
As we seek to count it all joy when we fall into various trials, we understand that joy is not because of the circumstance. Instead, joy lies in knowing that a more patient and refined version of ourselves will emerge, for the glory of God and as a testimony to the world. Yes, count it all joy!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, trials aren’t pleasant, but help me to understand that You are shaping me for Your glory. Help me to develop a posture of counting it all joy. I love You and praise Your name, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Read: Romans 12:12; Philippians 4:4
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 132; 1 Peter 2:4-25; Ezekiel 43; Ezekiel 44