MAKE ME THE FOCAL POINT of your search for security. In your private thoughts, you are still trying to order your world so that it is predictable and feels safe. Not only is this an impossible goal, but it is also counterproductive to spiritual growth. When your private world feels unsteady and you grip My hand for support, you are living in conscious dependence on Me.
Instead of yearning for a problem-free life, rejoice that trouble can highlight your awareness of My Presence. In the darkness of adversity, you are able to see more clearly the radiance of My Face. Accept the value of problems in this life, considering them pure joy. Remember that you have an eternity of trouble-free living awaiting you in heaven.
- Jesus
Scripture Insight: Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 139:9-10 and James 1:2-3
(Jesus Calling / Sarah Young)
James 1:2-3 - "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance"
ReplyDeleteJames doesn't say "if" you face trials, but "whenever" you face them. He assumes that we will have trials and that it is possible to profit from them. Sounds crazy right? The point is not to pretend to be happy when we face pain, but to have a positive outlook because of what trials can produce in our lives. James tells us to turn our hardships into times of learning. Tough times can teach us perseverance.