An Opportunity for Great Joy
We read in James 1:2 some very interesting words: "Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy." (NLT). In this passage James, the brother of our Lord Jesus, tells us to respond to life's troubles in a way that is directly opposed to our natural reaction. This is one of the hardest commandments in the Bible because instinctively we want to get rid of troubles or trials as quickly as possible, instead of welcoming them.
This approach to trial, tribulations, temptations, and troubles, whatever your translation may be, is only possible and attainable if we look at the good results behind it: it produces patience in us (James l:3). A joyful attitude is a result of our knowledge of our G-d and His divine desire to mold us into His Image; as we read Isaiah: "He was oppressed and treated harshly, yet He never said a word," Isaiah 53:7.
A difficult process that will yield a blessed result in our lives should always be welcomed with great joy. It is not a test of strength, rather a check on our beliefs. Therefore, instead of the natural reaction that we may always have (sadness, disbelief, perplexity, anger or anxiety), let's give the Lord our G-d a chance to show us what He is capable of accomplishing through troublesome and difficult times in our lives; after all, we are still a work in progress!
In His service, your fellow servant, Pr. Paul Santos