Pure Joy

James 1:2-4 - Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. Keep Reading...

Is this possible…. to consider the trials in your life as pure joy? Does this mean that we deny the reality of what is going on? Just put a smile on and think happy thoughts? How can we be joyful in the midst of suffering - whether great or small?

When you understand the bigger picture… when you see that your trial is not in vain, you can have hope - even joy. It is when there is no sense behind the suffering… no real purpose at work, that is when the darkness can seem overwhelming. God says that nothing is wasted with him. No moment of trial goes unnoticed or is in vain. It is all leading somewhere.

God is not the author of your pain or trial. But, he can use every event, whether good or bad, for your ultimate blessing. He is developing faith, perseverance and maturity in you. That might not sound wonderful in the moment. But, the point is this. God cares. He has not left you, and he's using everything for your good… even the worst circumstances. Romans 8:28

In the midst of your trial, how does God practically bring his joy to you? Keep reading the following verses of James 1:5-8. When you do not have wisdom (which is typically within your difficult circumstance), you can ask God. He has promised to give it to you. God's joy comes to you through his wisdom in the moment.

How do I act in my trial? How do I pray? What about these emotions that are threatening to undo me? Ask God for wisdom. He has promised to give you exactly what you need in the moment. It will come through hearing his voice.

Now that is a reason to have joy in any circumstance! You are never left alone to suffer. The Holy Spirit will give you his wisdom in the moment, if you ask. Joy comes through his wisdom.