Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. for you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. James 1:2-3
When trouble comes and hits us out of nowhere we should consider it an opportunity for great joy. What? Wait a minute. Sometimes the verses we read contain two opposites. How do we have the opportunity to experience great joy when trouble comes? When I experience a time of trouble I don't feel any joy. At least not right away. I am learning to change my thoughts and pray about it, but I don't always do this right away. Take it from me the sooner we do this the better!
Our faith is often tested. Don't you want your endurance to grow? I know I do. I want to be able to endure whatever comes my way and walk through the fire knowing God is with me, Sounds crazy right? If this is what it takes I will endure it. I want to learn to be content as my faith is strengthened.
Even during trials we can still find joy. Our circumstances shouldn't dictate the way we feel. Our joy comes from the Lord! So, no matter what is going on around us, we can stand on the truth that God is in control. We can either focus on our problems which can be very exhausting or we can choose joy. The choice is ours to make and I hope you choose joy.
Sometimes you might feel like you see God working in the lives of others, but you don't see Him at work in your own situation. I know how you feel and I think we have all experienced this at one time or another. I assure you God is working on your behalf and mine at all times. God is on the move doing so many wonderful things that we aren't aware of.
I will tell you something that helps me. I praise His name through it. I have a song I listen to when I need joy. It is upbeat and always makes me feel better. Try listening to I Choose Joy-For King and Country. When we feel the presence of God that is definitely a reason to be joyful. Even if we just take the time to become close to God and make that connection we will be overcome with joy. The fact that we are not alone should bring us joy.
I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
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