July 17

James 1:2-4 ESV
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.

Can't I take a vacation from trials? Sure - it is called heaven! That is the only place of trial free living that we will be, otherwise it is trial after trial! So get joyful about it (trials), because they perform an important task - completeness! If we could only remember this in the middle of being yelled at or having a flat tire or being laid off or... It will produce fruit - if you let it.

We have had 3 babies born in the last month in our church. Every one of those precious ones came forth from great trial! I haven't experienced it, but I have observed it enough to know that it is a GREAT trial to labor and deliver a child - do I hear an amen? Yet there is so much joy from the fruit of it - right? That is evident, but perseverance isn't so obvious so God in His wisdom provides us with strength and courage to not only endure trials, but to go through them with a joy in our heart in regards to His hand bringing a great outcome! It is right here in these verses!

James 1:12 ESV
Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.