James doesn’t waste much time getting into the meat of his message. Take a moment, tune everything else out, and read James 1:2-3.
You may not even see it coming. It could arrive today. In the next few hours you might become intimately acquainted with a trial unlike any you have ever faced. If not today, odds are that it won’t be long. It’s not a question of “if” really, but “when.”
Will you be ready? How have you dealt with the trials of your past? Let me encourage you to take James’ challenge seriously. “Count it all joy.” Be mature enough to see the distant goals at the end of the difficult journey. Your faith will be tested. You will react in a certain way. But remember, the painful testing refines doubts and fears into a precious steadfastness that only the veteran of the battle can discover.
Lord, help me to be ready. Grant me wisdom and perspective. Measure the portion I can bear and help me to carry the burden joyfully. Do what you must to ensure that my weaknesses grow to reflect your glory.
I plan on making those words a part of my prayers today. How about you?