Maturing as Christians through Trials

"My brothers and sisters, consider it nothing but joy when you fall into all sorts of trials, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect effect, so that you will be perfect annd complete, not deficient in anything." James 1:2-4

You might be wondering what James means when he writes about trials and why would God want us to experience trials in our lives.

Trials are a part of everyday life. Trials would include staying up all night with a sick child. Trials would include problems that we are having at work. Trials would be running out of money. Trials would be living with the loss of a loved one.

During trials, our faith is tested by the temptation to stop trusting and obeying God. We are tempted to question God. These responses to trials should not be followed.

"When we fall into all sorts of trials," we are commanded to "consider it nothing but joy." We need to have the right attitude about trials. Trials can be opportunities for growth. With joy in our hearts, we can have no room for bitterness.

Trials are a way that God uses to make His followers into the kind of people who bring honor to His name. Having endured trials, with Christ's strength, we reach the desired effect. God's plan is for us to mature from baby Christians to adult Christians.

"The true nature of gold become evident when the refiner heats gold ore over a fire. Similarly the character of God within a Christian that is there because of the Holy Spirit's presence becomes apparent through trials, if responded to properly." Dr. Thomas Constable

Father,

Teach us to rejoice in our trials, not to rebel against them. Give us the strength to walk with you, rather than run away from the trials of life. Let us see trials as your instrument for perfecting us. Grant us maturity as we persevere. In Christ's name we pray.

Amen.