Joy In The Journey of Trials!

Scripture:

“My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.”  (James 1:2-4)

Devotion:

Trials are not enjoyable—but James challenges us to “count it all joy” when we encounter them. Why? Because God uses trials not to break us but to build us. The word “temptations” here refers to tests—those challenges and hardships we all face in life.

When our faith is tested, God is producing patience (endurance or steadfastness) within us. And this endurance isn’t just about surviving difficulty—it’s about growing stronger through it. Just as muscles grow through resistance, our faith matures through trials.

James urges us to let patience have its “perfect work.” That means we shouldn’t resist the process or rush through the pain but allow God to shape us into spiritually mature people—“perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” In other words, trials are the classroom where God develops Christlike character in us.

Rather than asking, “Why me?” in the face of trouble, we can ask, “What is God teaching me?” Our trials are not random—they are opportunities to grow, trust deeper, and reflect Christ more clearly.

Joy doesn’t come from the trial itself but from knowing what God is doing through it.

Prayer:

Father in Heaven,  Thank You for Your purpose in every trial. Help me to count it all joy, not because the trial is easy, but because You are at work within me. Give me the grace to endure, the faith to trust, and the patience to grow. Let every test refine my faith and draw me closer to You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.