What brings you the most joy?
This is an essential question because we live in a time filled with societal vitriol. It’s easy to become a joyless curmudgeon who constantly complains about all the ills in life. Some people are born with a contrary mood, but many of us grow into a contrary person over time. It’s understandable why this happens.
We’ve been burned by friends, family, or even the church. We’ve been wounded by extreme financial challenges or unforeseen sickness. Life regularly crushes in, and it seems like we can’t catch a break. It’s easy to fall into cynicism when you are constantly feeling weary and heavy-laden.
So what is a Christian to do when faced with the unrelenting challenges of life? The Word of God has the answer. Look at these powerful verses from the letter of James
So what is a Christian to do when faced with the unrelenting challenges of life? The Word of God has the answer. Look at these powerful verses from the letter of James
The word James uses is “count,” which means to consider, reckon, or think of as true. This is an amazing thought. You and I, when faced with exceedingly difficult challenges, are to “consider it joy.”
How is this possible?
It’s only possible when we view our trials through the lens of who our God is. Our God is good. Our God is love. Our God is our heavenly Father who desires His children to grow and become like Jesus. According to these verses, that is precisely what trials are meant to do for the followers of Christ. Trials make us complete and mature, so we lack nothing. In other words, trials are a direct route to Christlikeness.
So, whatever you are facing today, no matter how difficult, look at it through the eyes of a loving heavenly Father who is shaping you into the image of His glorious Son, Jesus Christ. With this perspective, I can fight off my inner curmudgeon and walk in the joy of the Lord, come what may.
So, whatever you are facing today, no matter how difficult, look at it through the eyes of a loving heavenly Father who is shaping you into the image of His glorious Son, Jesus Christ. With this perspective, I can fight off my inner curmudgeon and walk in the joy of the Lord, come what may.