James 1:2-4, 12 ESV - 2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. ... 12 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.
Consider this a blessed opportunity . . .that is definitely not the first thought into our minds when the trial comes . . .hence consider (count it); intentionally decide how to think about what has happened or is happening.
God is so merciful to tell us the purpose in this “upset”– steadfastness, strength of character, sanctification, becoming mature in Christ. But it’s not microwave sanctification or maturity. No, we have to give the time necessary (and no, I can’t tell you how long that ‘time’ is). God even tells us the final outcome of this trial — the crown of life (life eternal) from a God who always keeps his promise.
Look at this example from the life of Joseph, son of Jacob. . .
Psalm 105:16-22 ESV - 16 When he [God] summoned a famine on the land and broke all supply of bread, 17 he had sent a man ahead of them, Joseph, who was sold as a slave. 18 His feet were hurt with fetters; his neck was put in a collar of iron; 19 until what he had said came to pass, the word of the LORD tested him. 20 The king sent and released him; the ruler of the peoples set him free; 21 he made him lord of his house and ruler of all his possessions, 22 to bind his princes at his pleasure and to teach his elders wisdom. Psalm 105:19 LSB - 19 Until the time that his word came to pass, The word of Yahweh refined him.
Joseph was in Egypt 13 years as a slave and in prison. During that time God was refining and maturing his character. (see Genesis 37:2 and 41:46 for timeline)
Will I submit my will to God, and allow Him to refine and mature my character in His way and in His time?
Perspective . . .
Pray for the Persecuted Church–OpenDoorsUSA
Day 3: Pray that Open Doors training programs will
equip believers to withstand persecution and serve
Jesus in the places where they live.
Daily Wisdom Psalm 24, 54, 84, 114, 144 Proverbs 24
Plea for Grace 