3 Tools for Finding Joy in Adversity

James 1:2-4—My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance; and let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing.

The command in this Scripture is entirely at odds with our natural human response during difficult times of adversity.  I don’t know anyone who shouts for joy when something goes wrong.  Who is happy when navigating the political climate at work?  Who rejoices during an argument with a family member?  Who is thrilled about financial difficulties?  The truth is, though, that God uses times of adversity to grow our spirits and prepare us to receive richer blessings in this life and the one after.  Even so, to get to a place of true joy in the midst of adversity takes effort and complete reliance on the Holy Spirit.  Let me offer you three tools for following His command to consider your adversity nothing but joy.  1. Acknowledge to yourself that whatever difficulty you are dealing with in your life is too big for you to handle alone; 2. Say it out loud to God that you cannot handle the adversity alone and that you need His intervention to guide you through it; 3. Be honest with God about your pain, your confusion, even your anger—God can take it, and He wants to take all our burdens from us.  Avoid getting so wrapped up in your own emotions that you can’t see the potential for growth and spiritual renewal, and don’t judge yourself for feeling these natural human emotions.  Christians are still human, after all—the difference is that we have a Savior who can really comfort us during times of pain and adversity.  By being honest with God about how we are feeling, He can help us work through any difficulty with a spirit of joy that passes all understanding.

Today as you pray and meditate on His Word, consider those areas where you are experiencing adversity in your life.  Pray to God and acknowledge your human weaknesses in resolving these problems. Ask for His intervention, guidance, and peace in these areas.  Speak with Him honestly about your emotions and trust that He is listening.  Thank Him for the opportunity to grow in your faith, and pray that He would bless you with a joyful spirit as the adversity evolves and resolves.