Consider it Pure Joy

James 1:2-3 says “Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials of any kind…”
I’ve often struggled with this verse, how can anyone be joyful to hear they have to face, especially one like I am facing now?

The rest of the verse says “…the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” I’m not joyful that I must go through this trial. But what this verse says to me today is…

Rather than fearing the trial, focus on the value of the trial.
I don’t rejoice that I’m facing this, but I rejoice that because of His grace, power, presence, and strength, victory will be achieved!

What’s the value of this trial? There are so many intangibles I have gained that I could not have learned otherwise. And while my current trial is the big C, I believe these are things that we all can experience no matter what the trial is, and we don’t get the blessing of experiencing them without the trial;

*Gods love, presence, and guidance shown more evident than ever before
*Bible verses with new and special meaning
*Reminders is what is most important in life
*Learning to run to Jesus for every step
*Closer intimacy in my marriage as we support each other
*Seeing the hands and feet of Jesus in action from our friends and family as they support us

John 10:10 “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
I don’t rejoice over this trial. But I rejoice over the value and the victory of the trial. And because of Jesus, we will not simply survive this season, but thrive. And that’s worth celebrating!