Steadfastness

Thoughts for the Day June 18, 2020

 Trials and tribulations have the ability to make us miserable or create in us a character that produces the abundant life. We make the choice. Will our faith be steadfast or will we fold in the face of troubles?  In James 1: 2-4 we are  told:

“Count it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you meet trials of various kinds, for You know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”

What trials stand before you today? What emotion are you feeling as you approach your troubles? James tells us to count it all joy. Some of us want to run at the first sign of trouble.  But the scripture tells us to greet our trials head-on, not trying to get out of anything premature. 

 We hear the word steadfastness twice in this passage. Steadfastness—means to let your faithfulness grow and mature so you will lack nothing. This is key for experiencing the abundant life. According to James, we are to meet our trials very differently than the world around us suggests…for these trials can be transforming.  Have a blessed day!