In life, it isn't a question of if we will have storms and trials, it's a matter of when. Jesus was clear in this fact: These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world. - John 16:33
The life of the person born of the Spirit is eternal. The question of where we will go after we die has been answered. But still, the tremendous difficulties of life's trials can be painful and we must have an eternal view of our situation to keep life in perspective. More than this, we must continually keep our focus on our Lord, Jesus Christ. As the great preacher Ravi Zacharias said recently: "Sorrow to the Christian is peripheral. Joy is central." In reality, as Christians, we are living eternal lives. So, this perspective should give us an eternal viewpoint. This viewpoint should also give us a great amount of liberation in a world in which conformity is encouraged so vigorously. We should remember that this world does not have a hold of us. We have the freedom to live an incredible, courageous life, grabbing hold of an abundance that can only be found in our relationship with Christ.
Contrary to some teachings found in today's mega-churches, the Christian life does not guarantee a smooth journey. You will encounter difficulties. You may be faced with hardship today. You may have medical problems, family strife, pain from a broken relationship, job problems or you may be suffering from loneliness.
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. James 1:2-4
James encouraged the 1st century Jewish Believers to remember where they came from. The Israelites had enjoyed great prosperity during the time of King Solomon and during the time of the other kings that followed. However, during that time, they turned away from Yahweh, built altars to false gods, and abandoned their covenantal relationship with the Holy One of Israel. Their prosperity as a nation had distracted them from the reality that they were dependent on God for their needs. They turned their attention away from Him. However, during the hardship in the time of Israel's Exile and during their difficulties encountered while rebuilding Jerusalem, the Jews turned back to God.
Now therefore, our God, The great, the mighty, and awesome God, Who keeps covenant and mercy: Do not let all the trouble seem small before You That has come upon us, Our kings and our princes, Our priests and our prophets, Our fathers and on all Your people, From the days of the kings of Assyria until this day. However You are just in all that has befallen us; For You have dealt faithfully, But we have done wickedly. - Nehemiah 9:32-33Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up. - James 4:8-10
Remember, even though the pain is great right now for you, God is molding you into a masterpiece.
Take away the dross from silver, And it will go to the silversmith for jewelry. - Proverbs 25:4
God is burning away your dross and impurities, refining you and bringing out the qualities in you that He desires. It may hurt like crazy right now but rejoice because the Lord has His attention on you. Just look at it this way, the King of the Universe is taking you through these tough experiences but His attention is squarely on you! How flattering is that? And how awesome is that? Remember, whatever you are going through, you are not alone!
Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. - Matthew 10:29-31
Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. - Matthew 28:20
If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? - Hebrews 12:7
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. - James 1:5
Frequently, this verse in James is taken out of context, but it really means that if you find yourself going through trials and tribulations you can prayerfully ask God what He wants you to gain from the experience you are enduring. He will give you wisdom and insight to understand what God wants to accomplish through the storm you are experiencing.
God's will for your life is to conform you to the image of Christ. So, whether you came to saving faith when you were 16 or 60, His purposes still stand. Sometimes only during the toughest of times can the character be formed in you that He desires.
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. - Romans 8:28-29
Rejoice even in the tough times because God's purposes are being served and He is getting you ready for a greater work for Him!