THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus
Tuesday, December 17, 2024

Lord, I’ve read and said those two words without giving them a second thought. You know we unconsciously use these two words multiple times daily, never paying attention of their constant use. It must have been your Spirit that revealed the significance of these two words, [you know] to me while skimming the Scriptures. In the book of James, chapter one, verses 2, 3:

[2] “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. [3] For [you know] that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.

James warns being a Christ follower comes with a price. “Don’t be surprised. [You know] life happens. Trials and troubles come. But rejoice! It’s party time!” He reminds Christ followers these trials and problems must come, so get ready, for [you know] when our faith is tested, we grow in maturity as believers. There is no other way. Jesus, you made this point clear when you warned your followers they must deny themselves their wants, their wishes. Instead, we daily pick up our cross and follow you, (Mark 8:34; Matthew 16:24).

Lord, you test all your followers. You desire to strengthen our faith. [We know] this. Still, most times, we’re surprised when troubles come our way. In our humanity, [you know] we immediately ask ourselves are we being punished? Did we do something wrong? Did I act contrary to your teachings? Maybe I have, but you, Lord, are using these troubles to refine my faith, like a goldsmith refines gold through the fire.

May I always know and remember these tests are to make me more like you, Jesus. Amen.