Trials

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds.” James 1:2 (NIV)

Perfection and completion are accomplished through the practice of patience. Patience, in turn, is developed through trials—the often tedious and rigorous experiences that stretch us beyond our natural ability to change our circumstances or endure their pressures. Trials come with no time limit and no guaranteed relief, yet they teach us something invaluable. Out of desperation, a deep dependence on God is born, and a measure of patience is gained.

Trials are opportunities entrusted to us because God knows they will train us to trust Him instead of ourselves.

They disrupt the norm in our lives—they threaten our peace, comfort, protection, and happiness. Yet in this disruption, trials teach us to cast our cares on Him, release our expectations, and even surrender our dreams when necessary.

Trials are the means by which we learn endurance and perseverance.

They prepare us to go the distance with joy, refining us along the way. Through these challenges, the supernatural work of perfecting and completing us is taking place.

Consider your own trials. Can you thank God for them?

Are you embracing them as expressions of His desire to mature you as His beloved child? He doesn’t save us to leave us incomplete—He saves us to make us perfect and whole.