"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance" (James 1:2-3)Joy whenever we face trials? What is James talking about? How come someone rejoices when obstacles are before them?
At least those were what my human mind questioned when I saw this passage. But if I think about it again now, somehow it makes sense. The pastor said that trials we face will shape us. Yes, it's true. When I think about how the obstacles I faced have helped me grow to become who I am now, there is nothing more I can do besides being thankful for those trials.
As an overseas student, there were many difficulties I faced. From adapting to new environment to moving to another environment when you have felt settled, these experiences were not easy ones. Having to survive alone in a foreign country, adapting to new schools and classes, and many more real life experiences really taught me how God is grace and love. Besides, if these challenges had not come to me, would I still be able to persevere greater things and be entrusted with much?
It's like comparing a child who grows up being protected in every single thing he does and never been hurt versus a child who falls so many times and hurt his body. I will let you decide which child will grow up stronger and which one will be weaker. The same thing applies to trials. We are to be stronger in God every time we persevere through our trials and put our faith in Him, just like Job was.
Realizing how trials are for our own good, isn't it better for us to rejoice in each challenge?
