JOY IN THE TOUGH TIMES

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Used with permission of my husband, Ronnie Knight (James 1:2) “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds” Note that these trials are not the temptations to sin as some may be inclined to believe. These trials are hardships that test our faith. It seems almost counter intuitive to think that one would be joyful in the midst of difficulty, however, it is through the difficulties of life that muscle of faith is worked and strengthened and attains that long term endurance that James calls steadfastness. Moreover, it is the consistency of steadfastness in our trials that builds our faith to the point that it is perfected in Christ and we find our faith to be full and lacking in nothing. Thus we can face the difficulties of life without wavering or questioning the integrity of God. Once our faith is seasoned in such a way the circumstances of life will not determine our faithfulness to God or our faith in Him. This does not necessarily make the difficulties easy it simply means that we are resolved to trust the God of our salvation even in the difficulties. We come to the place that we understand that He is for us and not against us. We come to see that He is with us and has not forsaken us even when the way looks difficult. So, let us “Count it all Joy” when our faith is strengthened through difficulties because we know that it will strengthen us in our relationship with the Father in order that we may be a help to others who will face similar trials. https://ronniejknightjr.wordpress.com/2018/04/18/journey-through-james-day-1/