My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
James 1:2-8 (NKJV)
This is a well known scripture in the church. We hear, “count it joy” or “consider it joy” depending on the translation you’re reading. James is instructing the church to find joy in trials. What’s interesting to me is, this is not an individual instruction. This instruction is for the entire body. James begins with, “My brethren.” His letter isn’t being written to an individual, but to the entire assembly. It’s also important to note that church at the time was suffering much persecution. They didn’t have the liberty to join to together for worship. They were separated out, hiding in hills and caves.
We are most definitely facing trials today. Unable to meet together, an unstable economy, and many having the doors to their jobs closed as well. If we’re going to follow God’s instruction, given to us from His Word, let us find our joy in the Lord during this time. May this be a time the church seeks Him in isolation… the way Jesus told us to (Matthew 6:5-6).
Brethren, this present situation has the ability to weaken and distract our faith, and it possesses the opportunity for the church to be perfected (James’ words… not mine) like never before in our lifetime. Seek Him.
Joshua 1:9 (NKJV) “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”—