In Joy

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. (James 1:2-4 KJV)

Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations. (Psalms 100:1-5 KJV)

If God loves us, why do trials and temptations and difficulties come? We know that our heavenly Father could protect us from them all. But doing so would not accomplish His purposes.

Read James 1:2-4. How does James want us to view our trials? When? Looking closely at this passage, think through the progression and end result of a godly response in difficult times. 

Can you recall a time when you were in a trial that seemed unbearable, but when it was over you saw an eternal result _ perhaps a real change in your strength, your peace, and your character, or similar changes in another person because of what God was doing in your life?

Yesterday I mentioned it, but today I want to emphasize that in the midst of trial, trouble, or tribulation, the best thing we can do is give thanks. We enter the gates of safety, truth, and peace when we enter God's courts. 

James counsels us to consider our trials all joy; so give thanks and praise to your God who knows you and loves you! 

Read Psalm 100.

Take the truths of God's love, grace, and mercy to heart and believe them! Apply them to your heart like a balm. Confess any sin of unbelief or desire for the things of the flesh or the world. They will be a snare, a lure, and a pitfall. 

Five points to help you remember these truths:
1. Pray for help. (Grab the red phone!)
2. Proclaim your position IN Christ. What enemy can defeat Him? You are covered by the blood the Lamb and hidden in the strong tower of His name: God Most High, Ruler of All, King of all kings. 
3. Plunge your sword. Know the Word of God and use it. Target the enemy's lies with the truth. 
4. Position yourself and stand firm in the truth. 
5. Proceed forward believing that He is God, thanking Him, and trusting that He is in control.

Choose one scripture from today that the Lord is using to renew your mind and transform your heart. Take this truth to heart and bring it to life throughout your day.