JOY IN THE HOUR OF TRIAL

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.  (James 1:2, 3 NKJV)

We are called upon to count our trials as pure joy, since our patient endurance leads ultimately to the finished product of a holy character. All the trials and afflictions that come upon us are seen and shared by our heavenly Father. God did not save Israel from the ordeal of affliction, but passed through it with them (Exodus 3:7-9; Isaiah 63:9). Evidently there was a wise purpose to be served by those bitter Egyptian experiences. So it is with us.

There is a reason for our trials which we do not understand now, but we will some day, when we stand in the light with God. Afflictions are not always chastisement, though in some cases that may be so; but more often we are in grief through many trials, that the proof of our faith, being much more precious than of gold that perishes, may be found unto praise and honor and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Let us therefore rejoice, and magnify His loving-kindness. What a theme is here for praise! Sweet psalms and hymns have floated down the ages, bearing comfort for many, because those who wrote them passed through searching discipline. And it may be that we who have passed through great trials will be able to contribute notes in the heavenly music that the angels could never sing. The songs of eternity could not be complete without the reminiscences, set to music, of the grace that ministered to us in our earthly trials, and brought us up out of the furnace of pain.

Then we shall tell how God's glorious arm went also at our right hand, as at the right hand of Moses; of how the stony paths became soft as mossy grass; of how He led us out of the scorching heat into green pastures and waters of rest; and how He provided for us to make for Himself a glorious name. Yes, we will make mention of the Lord, according to all that He has bestowed upon us, according to His mercies, and according to the multitude of His loving-kindness. We will tell the story of how the angel of His presence saved us; how, in His love and pity, He redeemed us; and how He bare and carried us all the days of old. We shall have a great story to tell! "My heart and my flesh fail, but You are the strength of my heart and my portion for ever! None of them that trust in Him shall be desolate.'"

PRAYER

Give me, Lord, a steadfast heart, which no unworthy affection may drag downward; give me an unconquered heart, which no trial can wear out; give me an upright heart, which no unworthy purpose may tempt to do wrong.  In Jesus’ name I plead, AMEN.

God's Daily Promise

Promise #51:
You can know and depend on the love I have for you.

1 John 4:16 (WEB)
We know and have believed the love which God has for us.
God is love, and he who remains in love
remains in God, and God remains in him.