COUNT IT ALL JOY
“Without trials, our faith is shallow and immature.”
Written by Patrick Flanigan | Current WC Eighth-Grader
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” James 1:2-4 (ESV)
The first thing to note in these verses is that the Christian should receive trials with joy. It is also important not to be caught off guard by trials. A common thought in times of trouble is: ‘Has God forsaken me?’ Or ‘Am I really a Christian?’ In times of trouble, (currently coronavirus) it is important to not lose faith in Christ.
These trials can be different things for different people. This is why James says: “When you meet trials of various kinds…”
Now the best part of this is that we know that, if we endure these trials, it produces steadfastness in us. Steadfastness is the ability to be unwavering in faith. God uses these trials to increase our faith in Him. Without these trials, our faith is shallow and immature.
James also says, “And let steadfastness have its full effect…” The word “let” means we have to permit God to do His work. If we resist God’s method of deepening faith, we cannot expect our faith to increase.
Lastly, James says that through this our faith becomes “perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” Our faith becomes complete through times like these. In the end, there is one thing to remember. That is, it is all about God and not us. We are blessed to have been enlightened as to God’s perfect work on the cross. Now, even when things are difficult, we must always pursue God first. Remember, endure, and remain faithful always.
[Editor’s Note: The Philippians 4:8 Project is a daily centering of the WC community’s collective hearts and minds on “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” ]