If you're like me, you don’t like trials. The idea of being tested doesn’t appeal to me in the least. I wouldn’t mind going back to school to gain more knowledge, but the thought of taking tests keeps me from doing so. Trials and tests create adversity in our lives. I am adverse to adversity. The problem is that in this life there is plenty of adversity for all of us, especially those who follow Christ.

James writes some interesting words to some early believers. He writes in James 1:2-4 these words...

“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.”

I can summarize it with this insight: adversity is necessary for maturity. You can’t grow without undergoing tests and trials. So when they come my way, I should think of them in a positive manner and let them bring a smile to my face. Every test and every trial I experience is designed by God to make me whole.

Grace,
Chris