The Bible says, “Consider it pure Joy when you face trials of every kind” (James 1:2). That is a curious remark that certainly goes against conventional wisdom or logic. James goes on to say that, “the testing of your faith produces perseverance, and perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (James 1:3-4).
It is no secret to anyone that problems are a natural part of life. Yet, problems will help us to become more perfect by producing patience, perseverance and character in us as nothing else can. That is why we should be joyful when we face trials. Problems are not fun by any means. In fact, we try to avoid them at all costs. Spurgeon, a great theologian of the 19th century, said that when we have a problem, we usually ask, “How can I get out of this?” What we should ask instead is, “What can I get out of this?”
Problems are part of that résumé writing process that is preparing you for that “job position” that is to come. It takes trust to allow problems to change you into a better person, and trust means not worrying. Being thankful in all situations, because God has allowed our problems to help mold us into the person we were created to become. You are in very good company, because most of the characters written about in the Bible also went through the same problems, and were transformed into powerful men and women of faith.
You can only measure your level of faith in times of crisis. Anyone can have faith when there is money in the bank, the kids are doing well, and your marriage is awesome. But how much more difficult is it to have faith when you just lost your job, the house is in foreclosure, and your spouse just found out she has cancer? “Consider it pure joy.” Really?
Faith is a pretty amazing thing. “Faith is the assurance of things hoped for and the confidence of things not seen” (Heb. 11:1.) Faith is a gift that comes from God, and He has given each of His children a measure of faith, and that faith will grow every time we have a problem that we trust God will solve for us. After witnessing many miracles, our faith becomes stronger. It allows us to believe for even greater things next time.