James 1:2-3
Everybody will go through a season(s) of temptations, trials, and tribulations. Believers, however, are in a most unique position for going through. Because we have a relationship with God through faith in His Son Jesus Christ, we put our trust Him. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Ps. 46:1). Know without a doubt we will need Him. Satan is the prince of the air; he knows when we are weak and struggling in our Christian walk. In Matt. 4:3 Jesus was not struggling in His faith. His hunger showed His humanity after a forty-day fast in the wilderness. Satan tempted Him saying, “If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread.” Satan knew Jesus was the Son of God and had the power to do as requested. However, Jesus showed us that believers must use the word to resist their temptations.
Here James told us to consider it nothing but joy whenever we fall into various trials (v.2). Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance (v.3). Children of God must be tested; testing leads to spiritual maturity and inner peace. We must not focus on what we are going through; we must focus on the goodness of God and all He has done. “Rejoice in the Lord always” (Phil. 4:4), no matter what the trial or tribulation – rejoice in the Lord.
Will you count the testing of your faith all joy today? Clap your hands and shout, “Glory to God!”