Joy. Is it really something I can attain? Is it something to strive for? This world tells me to seek out anything that feels good because I deserve it. This stands in stark contrast to God’s word that tells me to consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds (James 1:2, NIV). Wait, what? Joy in trials. And not just a trial, but trials of many kinds. I admit that joy is not what I feel when I face trials. I feel frustration, sadness, worry, if I’m honest – anger, and a host of other emotions. But I am reminded that God is not finished with me yet. Because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything (James 1:3-4, NIV). Another way that I like to say this is…the more times you put your trust in God, the more you trust God. He is so good to me, even in my doubts, frustrations, and anger. He is patient with me, leading me to the right person, song, or place in His word for better understanding. So, is joy something I can attain? Yes, it is. As long as my focus is on my faith and where my help comes from rather than all the trials, I can have joy.
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for loving us, being patient with us, and forgiving us even when we doubt, even when we’re frustrated, even when we’re angry. Please give us hearts and minds that consider it joy to face trials of many kinds. Let perseverance finish its work in us so that we may be mature and complete, lacking nothing. We love You. We trust You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
I Will Cling 