Little Gems

Count it All Joy

There are times when it is difficult to be consistent in our Christian Lives. When things are going well, it is easy to be happy and thankful to the Lord. However, when trials come our way, sometimes we are too quick to say "why me Lord?" or "I don't deserve this." Actually, we do deserve this and much more. We deserve to spend an eternity in hell, and except for the Grace of God we would.

As long as we are breathing let us thank God! In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, God says, "Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." I know this is not always easy, but God says it and that makes it a command. However, here is the good news: The Christian's happiness is not dependent upon circumstances.

I like to use the analogy of a candle. When there is movement of air near the candle, the flame flickers. It is not extinguished, but the flame is not constant and becomes dim. As Christians, we sometimes react in the same manner. When the wind of adversity comes our way, we flicker. We do not lose our salvation; but we lose our joy, and our light for Jesus becomes dim.

God's Word says "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of our faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does" (James 1: 2-8).

Remember, believe--do not doubt. This is a big one. First of all, we won't get wisdom. Secondly, I don't know about you, but I do not wish to be considered double-minded or unstable!

Now here is the good part. We are to count trials as joy! You say I am supposed to be happy if my in-laws come to live with us, happy if I lose my job, or worse, my health. Yes, you're getting the picture. You might just as well count it as joy, because God is Sovereign, and what He says goes.

In James, it also says that trials and temptations work perseverance, and perseverance will make us into mature Christians. God allows trials in our lives for many different reasons. Having been through a number of challenges in my own life, I can personally testify that I have been made stronger, more sensitive to the needs of others; and I have a greater peace within.

Let's make this fun. I do believe that God wants us to have fun. Thank God for everything. Thank Him for those trials and tribulations that you are going to get anyway. Say "Lord, I count everything for Joy," and don't just say it; act it out. Get on your feet and jump up and down, saying "Praise God." This will definitely let others know you are a stable person (a little humor never hurts).

We serve a great God who gave us His only Son to die for our sins. What a small matter it should be for us to give thanks in everything, and count it all joy.

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