James 1:2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Some time ago, I became aware of a book entitled, “Don’t Waste Your Sorrows”. I was not able to read the book, but I somehow got an idea of its contents through the promotion and the positive comments of a fellow pastor. I love the idea of getting benefits from the pains and difficulties of life. Not every “negative” experience is sent by God. Sometimes, it’s just us reaping the consequences of our foolish or wrong choices. At other times, some trials are sent or allowed by God for a higher purpose. It’s controlled and temporary pain in order to bring a bigger and more lasting gain. A wise person will seek to learn from as many experiences of life as he or she possibly can. He or she will not waste his sorrows. Trials and tests come to every person. Regardless of what your background, social status, economic standing, or spiritual condition is, tests will come your way. They are unavoidable. The good thing is: tests can be beneficial. In fact, there are times when the benefits are so great that they are literally life-altering. And even the small trials (perhaps especially those who come steadily or almost regularly to us) can eventually transform our lives as we allow their cumulative impact to affect us in ways that make us better persons. Tests are to make you better, not bitter. May be you are going through some intense testing these days. Or maybe there are some long-standing issues that never seem to be resolved and they are irritating you to “the highest level”. Some may be in the middle of a “war” right now because they have decided to take the offensive because the situation seems unbearable and must be resolved ASAP. I understand that there are times when we also need to be tough, take action, and show some strength. But whatever you do, make sure that your heart is positive and not filled with hatred or bitterness. If you respond to tests with faith that God is at work even though you cannot always sense what God is doing or where your situation is going, you can and will grow and gain through the tests that you face. You will experience benefits now or in the future. You will become bigger, better, and stronger if you have a good and godly attitude about the trials that you face. The Lord loves you! He has a blessing for you and your family today. Open your heart to him. Let him heal you, restore you, and strengthen you. Receive his blessing for you today! Lathur Badoy