Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
James 1:2-4 NIV

Trials and tribulations are not aliens in the Christian life. They are part of our experience as faithful children of God. No one, regardless of the level of his/her commitment and devotion to Christ is immune against adversity. Though, not necessarily because of sin but possibly because of righteousness.

Certainly, every growing believer will face many kinds of trials, possibly in marriage and family or, in jobs and career or, in the neighbourhood or even in the Church with fellow Christians. For some, it may be a health challenge in the physical body.

Whichever is your case at present, the Word of God prescribes the right attitude in meeting your difficulty, “consider it pure joy.” In other words, celebrate and do not be sorrowful, do not be depressed. Why? The trial, painful as it may be is God’s means of growing, developing and maturing you in the faith. The trial is to serve as a discipline and training necessary to remove every dross from your faith.

The basis of your rejoicing therefore is not the trials themselves but the outcome of the trials which is eternal weight of glory that surpasses the present pains and agony. The perseverance which the testing of your faith produces is not a passive resignation to fate but a positive steadfastness that bravely endures.

The result of your perseverance under trials is Christian maturity, perfection and holiness that win God’s approval and qualify you for everlasting inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. May the Lord gives you the courage to persevere under trials so that you may triumph at last. Good morning.

Your brother,

Olufemi Babalola