Pure Joy~

Good morning:)

James 1:2-4

² Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, ³ because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. ⁴ Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

Yesterday's DEVO was one of those that really got a bunch of us thinking. I will confess that I don't think I have been as proactive as I should in having joy in the middle of difficulties, which is why I want us all to do something that we as a DEVO group have never done before

But first I want to clarify something: The joy we are supposed to be having is not because of the actual trial we face, but because we face the trial with Jesus on our side. We don't ever say, "Jesus, thank You that my house is being foreclosed on." Rather, we say, "Thank You that You are with me in this circumstance and because You take care of me I can be calm and happy."

There's a big difference!

Nevertheless, the perspective God wants us to have means we have to make an effort. The word "consider" is a verb. It requires action on our part. When we find ourselves feeling anything less than joy, it's time to re-direct our thinking.

On to our group assignment. Think about what trials you are facing today. If it is hurting you or bothering you or if it has you down--no matter what it is--God wants you to consider this as an opportunity to have joy. Even if you don't feel like it, take a step faith today and pray:

Dear Lord, Thank You that this trial I am in is an opportunity for me to have joy and stronger faith. I admit the concept seems foreign to me, but I take a step of faith today and thank You that I am not alone. Help me to really not only believe that joy is possible while I struggle, but that because I am praying, You will help me have it. I need it! In Jesus' name, AMEN~