Be Still . . .
Devotionals for Daily Living ©
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
(James 1:2-4 (NIV))
You may realize that James 1:2 -3 was recently used. I cannot stress enough the importance of perseverance and joy in the midst of trials. With the uncertainty in the world, in our nation, and in our communities, we must be an example to all that we see. Even our personal lives must be approached with the joy and perseverance that is written of in James.
You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.
(Matthew 5:14 (NIV))
If we are the light of the world, the world will look to us to see how we react. We must always point to the true light, Jesus Christ. Satan attacks both believer and nonbeliever. God uses there attacks to mature us and to show the world how we should face things.
God would not allow us to have trials if they did not produce fruits of the Spirit. If we did not have trials, we would never mature in our faith and our walk with God. As a small child, you faced trials: dressing yourself, feeding yourself, tying your shoes. At the time, it seemed almost impossible to make it through the trial. But, now, looking back, you realize the benefits gained from those trials – maturity and growth. The trials that we face that test our faith are the same. God knows that we will mature as a result of these trials. Do not regret the trials. Welcome them for what they are – a way to get closer to God and to grow into the image of Jesus Christ. Also remember that the world is looking at you during your trials. The world is looking to see if what you profess is true.
Do you face your trials with joy? Does the world see that joy even when all around you is crying out for relief? Does the world see your joy as true?
Copyright 1998 – 2010 Dennis J. Smock
Daily Living Ministries, Inc.
http://www.dailylivingministries.org
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