My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials.
James 1:2 NKJV
When the navy finishes a submarine, the integrity of the hull is tested on a “sea trial.” If there is any weakness, the pressure of the deep waters will expose it.
In the same way, when God applies a little pressure in our lives, it exposes our weaknesses. That’s often when the whining and blaming begin, and sometimes sin finds its way squeezing out in the form of alcohol, affairs, or just plain bitterness.
Most Christians know the story of suffering Job, but did you know Job’s righteousness was the reason God pointed him out to Satan (see Job 1:6–12)? Job was living exactly as he should, and God allowed Satan to take everything from him—children, livestock, lands, home, and health. And yet, “In all this Job did not sin nor charge God with wrong” (Job 1:22 NKJV).
What kind of reaction do you have during tragedy? Do you blame God? Turn to sin? Or hold fast to the truth, despite the pain?
First Peter 1:6–7 (NLT) says, “So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. ”
Father, as I walk through trials that inevitably come, remind me that through Your sovereignty, I will come forth as gold. Amen.
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Today’s reading was adapted from Daily Wisdom for Women: 2017 Devotional Collection with permission from Barbour Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reading was written by Sabrina McDonald.