Trials Are Just A Part of Life

"My life is but a weaving between my Lord and me;. I cannot choose the colors He worketh steadily. Oft times he weaveth sorrow, and I in foolish pride;  forget He sees the upper, and I the underside. Not till the loom is silent, and the shuttle ceases to fly; shall God unroll the canvas and explain the reason why."   -Source Unknown

James reminds us of the reality that even in the Christian life, there are trials and temptations. However, the Christian does not have to be a victim of his circumstance, but can have victory even in times of trials and testings. James tells us No matter what the trials on the outside, we can experience victory through faith in Christ. Allow me to share a few considerations regarding trials in life with you.

Consider the facts about trials. James does not say if trials come, but when they do come. Expect them! Do not hide your face inn the proverbial sand. Notice that just because you are a believer, you are not exempt. The Proverbs tell us that "rain falls on the just and the unjust alike." Satan fights us, the world opposes us and makes this life full of battle!

Consider many different trials: James says we face trials of many kinds. This can refer to two things. Firstly, it can refer to types of trials. Emotional trials, trials at work, physical trials etc. Or it can refer to the source of trials. Trials generally come from one of two sources. 

There are the trials that we experience as a result of living the Christian life. For example, there are still many in our world who are experiencing persecution for their faith. Christian World Report, says that in China alone, 1100 people are executed monthly just because of their faith. The other source is the unknown, unexpected experiences of life. For the most part, people do not have control over such experiences. 

Consider your response to your trials. James says, "Count it joy when you face them." The Apostle Peter also says, “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through as if something strange were happening to you. Instead be very glad (rejoice) because these trials will make you partners with Christ in His suffering, and afterward you will have the wonderful joy of sharing his glory when it is displayed to all the world.”

Warren Wiersbe made this observation -  that the trials of life are not all alike. They are like multicolored yarn that the weaver uses to make a beautiful rug. God arranges and mixes the colors and experiences of life. The final product is a beautiful thing for His glory.

The only way God can develop patience and character in our lives is through trials! (not reading, prayer, sermons) When we go through trials, when we trust God and obey Him, the result is patience and character. This is how we can face trials with a positive attitude –– we know what trials will do in us and for us –– that the end result will bring Glory to God.

Scripture: 1 Peter 5:10; James 1:12; Romans 12:12; 1 Corinthians 10:13; John 16:33; Romans 5:3; Proverbs 3:5-6; Philippians 4:6-7 

Prayer: Dear Lord, sometimes I just want to give up. I feel that no matter what I do it is not good enough. Please give me the wisdom to know that it is okay to feel these things but remind me that giving up will never get me to where I need to be. Amen

God loves you!

Erica