Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

Have you ever felt as if life isn’t going your way? Maybe you made plans that didn’t work out, set goals that still escape you, or had a moment where you acted in a way you would describe as ‘out of character’?

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James, who was the leader of the Jerusalem church, is writing this letter to people who felt exactly this way. The early Christians were scattered throughout the Eastern Mediterranean region and didn’t have much contact, if any, with the apostles. They were experiencing some struggles – or “trials” – as James calls them.

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This word for trials means both difficulties that come from others (like persecution or oppression caused by the rich on the poor) or inner moral tests (like temptations to sin). James uses this word for both in this chapter. But rather than commiserating with them, James encourages them to find joy in these trials!

The reason these trials are to be considered grounds for joy is because they are capable of developing perseverance in the life of the believer. You see, the trial is a test of their faith, not a test of their worth. These threats to their comfort or even life were to be seen as opportunities to demonstrate to themselves and the world around them that God can be trusted to care for us and salvation can be secure even if it’s situationally difficult to endure the present moment.

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Many things that I want to find joy in prove to be fleeting. My possessions wear out or depreciate in value, my best relationships are strained by distance or sometimes death, my physical ability has even waned over the years. None of these things are enduring. But the joy I find in salvation – the knowledge that I am eternally united to Christ – never fades or diminishes. That is a reason for joy. Growing in that relationship with him always brings about joy because I know that growth will never be lost or replaced. He is the one investment that lasts. And so I find joy in that, even if it comes through an outward or inner struggle in this present moment.

It sounds weird to cherish struggle. But what many intend for evil, God uses for good. (Genesis 50:20).

Father, struggle is not comfortable, and I naturally wish to avoid it. Please adjust my perspective and help me see how it brings about perseverance and the character that makes me more like you. Help me to joyfully endure the trials, that the world may see you through me. Help me to believe that things don’t need to go my way, so long as they are going your way. Amen.