Howdy, faithful readers! A question for you to ask yourselves this day. Will you still believe God is good? Will you still follow Him even when you can’t see how you could possibly take the next step?
Apostle James says that, “when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is being tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.” (James 1:2-4 NLT). But look closely, there and notice that it doesn’t say, “because the testing of [your strength, your hope, or your character] produces perseverance.” It says, “when your faith is being tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.”
Perseverance, character, strength, hope…they’re bi-products of what trials are actually putting to the test in us (Romans 5:1-4). James tells us that it’s our faith being put to the test when we’re facing trials.
Trials test the “will I still believe God is good?” in us. Trials test the “will I still trust that God is who He says He is?” and the “will I still follow Him when I can’t see how I could possibly take the next step?” in us. Trials test the “even if the worst thing I can imagine happens, will I still choose to praise God?” in us.
We can choose the joy found in knowing Jesus (joy that means being aware of, recognizing, and rejoicing because of God’s grace) when we’re walking through painful circumstances because the testing of our faith produces perseverance. Perseverance will help us trust God through whatever is still to come down the road.
Romans 8:28 reminds us that God works everything out for good for those who love Him. And it starts in our faith. Everything else we gain & grow in when we face trials is the overflow of the work He is doing in our faith. I’m so thankful that God is thorough and kind and good. I’m so glad that He won’t leave us in the struggle and that He knows exactly what we need.
Can we stand on that truth together, friends?
Suit_ Bespoke
Shirt_ French Connection
Bow Tie_ Perry Ellis
Shoes were handmade
