“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because…the testing of your faith produces perseverance…” – James 1:2-3 (NIV)
It might seem counterintuitive, but trials and difficulties are often the very things that cause our faith to grow the most. No one enjoys hardship, yet it is in these crucibles that our faith is refined, strengthened, and proven. When everything is easy, we might not feel the need to lean on God as heavily. But when challenges arise, illness, financial struggles, relational conflicts, losses – we are driven to our knees, forced to trust God in ways we never have before.
These “tests” are not meant to break us, but to build us up. Just as a muscle grows stronger through resistance, our faith grows through the resistance of life’s difficulties. As we persevere through trials, relying on God’s strength and promises, we develop patience, resilience, and a deeper understanding of His faithfulness. Embrace these moments, knowing that God is at work, using them to mature you and complete your faith.
Prayer
Sovereign Lord, I confess that I don’t always welcome trials. But help me to see them through Your eyes, as opportunities for my faith to grow. Grant me perseverance, wisdom, and an unwavering trust in Your goodness, even when life is hard. May every challenge draw me closer to You and make my faith more mature and complete. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
Read: John 16:33; Romans 5:3-5
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 89:46-52; Romans 14:19-23; Romans 15:1-13; 1 Chronicles 11; 1 Chronicles 12:1-22