Passage:

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”

‭‭James‬ ‭1:2-4‬ ‭ESV‬‬

http://bible.com/59/jas.1.2-4.esv

Paraphrase:

Consider the various trials that come your way a blessing in your life as they will help you become complete. A faith that endures such trials with joy will lead to a sure and steady faith which is a sign of maturity. It is through trials that faith is integrated into your life completely.

Premise:

It is easy to look at trials and hard times as an enemy. Yet God can use such things in our lives to perfect us and grow us. Our roots become deeper and stronger when we are faced with all kinds of trials. Being joyful is a choice we make when hard times hit. We are not joyful because of what we are going through but because of what will come out of it. God will bring something good from it and we will be better because of it. Our faith will mature and grace and peace will become a second nature to us in times like that.

Promise:

Trials lead to a firm faith foundation.

We become mature and firm through the testing of our faith.

Ponder:

How do I respond when hard times come?

Would I say my faith is strong and firm in Christ?

How do others view my walk with God: secure? Unstable?

When times are hard, do I complain or exhibit trust and peace?

Do I act as though life is always unfair?

Principle:

Faith becomes stronger the more it is tested.

Maturity in Christ is a process that happens through time and testing.

Joy is a choice I make regardless of the circumstances.

Practice:

When hard times come, be joyful and prayerful.

Seek God in hard times and allow His Spirit to shape me and bring me peace and perseverance.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, it’s not easy to grow through trials and tests and yet they are part of life. Help me to grow in my faith and trust of you so that regardless of what is happening around me, everything within me can be at peace and I can be full of joy. May the roots of my faith and hope deepen and my joy be completed in you.