READ

James 1 

“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 1:2-3

REFLECT  

How often have you experienced joy in hard times? Think back to when you’ve been in a trial, or maybe you’re in one right now. Perhaps a friend mistreated you, being sick or someone close to you going through an illness, or a week nothing seemed to go right. Whatever the case, it’s sometimes impossible to experience joy in hard times. So why is James telling us to consider it pure joy when you are going through trials? It’s because, in those trials, we should trust in God the most. He tells us that trusting God produces endurance, leading to spiritual maturity and inner peace. 

The trials we will go through in this world can be challenging, and it’s okay to feel sad as you go through them. Joy isn’t about feeling happy but knowing that even when bad things happen, God is with you and has a good plan for your life. That is the good news we can hold onto today! 

Questions 

1. How can you trust God more in your life today? 

2. What are some things God promised us that we can look forward to? 

3. How can you help a friend this week who is going through a hard time? 

PRAY  

Father, thank you for being with me and working in me to build my faith even during hard times. Help me to rely on You and to remember the promises and plans you have for me. I pray that I can find joy in You in trials. Amen.