THANKFUL

Monday, August 21, 2023

Lord, your earthly brother, James, wrote how testing our faith is vital if we are to live fully as a Christ follower. “For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow” (James 1:3).

James is speaking to me. To paraphrase, You’re a Christ follower. You should know that trials and problems will come to test your faith. So don’t gripe or complain.

How else will I develop endurance to continue following you, Jesus, and learn of your grace as a Christ follower if I’m spared difficulties in life? Doesn’t Christ develop his character in me through trials and problems?

The psalmist knew God’s dependability in all phases of life. “God is our [my] refuge and strength, always ready to help [me] in times of trouble” (Psalm 46:1).

How strong is our faith, or do we have faith at all if our dependency on God is never tested? How do we know God is who he says he is and will do what he says he will do unless we allow him to test our faith? How shallow is faith that is never tested?

James addressed our human tendency to complain when troubles come our way. “When troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy” (James 1:2).

Lord, help me consider these troubles and trials as opportunities to see you working situations and circumstances for my good. Life presents issues that are greater than me, so I must trust you to do what I cannot do.

One day, when I reflect on this time of testing, I will see how your hand covered me all along. Amen, Jesus.