This is a tough one. Be happy for trials?
Most of us would say, “Don’t think so!”
In fact, we tend to blame God for whatever we are going through.
[The entire chapter of James 1 is worth reading.]
In order to accept James 1:12, we must acknowledge certain things:
1. We live in a world of sin – the devil was cast down to earth, remember? (Revelations 12:9) And His SOLE purpose is to make our lives miserable (Revelations 12:12).
2. God is ready, willing and able to comfort us during those difficult times. (Deuteronomy 31:6) But it is up to us to tap into that source. The Bible is peppered with promises. Do we know them?
3. Faith is a muscle which means it MUST be exercised in order to be strengthened. The more we rely on God, the more our confidence in Him will grow (Hebrews 11:6).
With these in mind, trials might appear more palatable; if we view them as opportunities for building our faith.
We are ASSURED that the richest reward awaits those who endure.
I want to be a part of that group, don’t you?