What if our faith was never tested? Would we still grow?

Probably not.

Consider James 1:2–4 (ESV):

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.

We might laugh or scream at the words “count it all joy” when we face a trial – unless we understand the meaning of the rest of the text. Only when our faith is tested (when we’re feeling mistreated or facing a devastating ordeal) will we experience firsthand God’s power and intervention. And, consequently, discover how strong our faith is.

“But let’s be real,” you say. “Counting it all joy when a loved one faces a terminal illness or when a dream dies goes against human reason.”

I agree. But we’re not talking about human reasoning.

Although I still struggle with anxiety when I imagine the worst-case scenario, my faith is growing because I know God will continue to carry me and change me for the better in difficult seasons.

This is where joy comes in.

The devil loves to entice us to think about the worst-case scenario. He loves to make us forget that God is far greater and much more powerful than he (the devil) ever could be. Therefore, I meditate on Scripture that reminds me of God’s love, mercy, power, ability, compassion, etc., etc., etc.! (Take that, Satan, for messing with me!)

Being joyful in tribulation isn’t about being happy when bad things happen. Rather, we can have confidence that, through it all, we can grow in spiritual maturity by abiding in God’s presence through prayer and Bible reading. Furthermore, finding joy in trials sets a believer apart from the rest of the world. It allows those around us to see the gospel hope within us.

Let’s pray to our heavenly Father now:

Father, show us how different we can be from the person we are today. Give us a glimpse of what we’ll be like when we mature in our faith. And, if we can handle the truth, show us what our future self will be like if we don’t change.

In the meantime, Lord, remind us how important it is to count it all joy as we trust that You are in control – no matter what we’re going through, especially when we can’t “feel” You. Amen.

What about you?

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