I have been thinking about the following verse from James recently. Is there a more difficult command in the Bible? Perhaps…
James 1:2 (NIV) Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds,
Taking the opportunity to find joy in our difficulties is hard indeed! how do you do that? I welcome your comments.
One way that I do this is to try to take an eternal perspective. I tried to ask myself, will this matter in 1000 years, when I am in heaven? Usually, the answer is no…
Thank God in the midst of your trials, and take joy and comfort from knowing Jesus Christ is Lord.
Have a blessed day!
Andy Brown 
Nope. never easy.
And yet aspiring to these precious words is so very needed, and makes the difference between endlessly seeking happiness and finding joy everlasting.
Andy B
LikeLiked by 1 person
I had the opportunity recently to appraise my own thoughts on this verse, which I also find difficult. In my thoughts I came to the same conclusion as I did years ago in Edinburgh Western General; that trials are an opportunity for God to do something magnificent in our life for us but mostly for others. Basically in our trials at that time I needed to not look at my feet in the mud, and look up and forward to what lay ahead. It is looking forward in faith at our future in God’s Direction that gives us joy. As a family we were lifted at that time by other folks responses to our reaction to our trials; God used (and still uses) our brain tumour journey to encourage others – that fills us with thankfulness and joy in Him.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is clear that your many trials have made you an even better encourager to others in the faith, brother Alan. God Speed!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you brother David, you are a precious encouragement to me brother.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Andy, this post affirms my heart. I’ve been focusing and meditating on an “eternal perspective” in all I do. It’s not always easy (or successful)! God bless you and yours!
LikeLiked by 1 person
While in the midst of trials, I often lose sight of it, but here’s something I endeavor to keep in mind: “For it is God who works in you, both to will and to do His good pleasure.” Phil 2:13 My life in Christ is in partnership with God; it’s not just me groping blindly. Your 1000 year question is a good one, Andy B2. I’m going to use it now. Thank you, and God Bless!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I find that verse difficult too. Having an eternal perspective surely helps. It helps stay focused on Jesus.
LikeLike
The only things that will matter 1,000 years from now are those that Jesus will reward in heaven
LikeLike
This is a very challenging verse! I cope with trials the same way, by thinking about eternity. All we suffer on earth is temporary, if we keep that in mind we will find strength to sustain us through the trials that come! Thanks for sharing this challenging verse brother, God bless!
LikeLike