April 23 - Count It All.

James 1:2-3
“My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.”
 
For those times when it seems like our adversary is working overtime on us, James tells us that we should count it all joy! Easier said than done, right?
 
When our faith is tried, it gives us patience. We’ve all heard not to pray for patience, because God is sure to bring something into our lives to teach us to be patient as we wait. This is one lesson that is very hard for our flesh to learn.
 
There are no coincidences within the Word of God, so it’s interesting to find that there are three words to describe how much of our temptations and trials we should turn to joy… Count. It. All. Not just a few of our trials or some of them, we are to count them ALL.
 
I Thessalonians 5:17
“In every thing give thanks.”
 
As hard as it is sometimes we can find the good whether we can see it or not. Look for the bright side of your situation. The rainbow in the midst of the storm. Ask God to show you His purpose. Ask Him to help you learn from the circumstances and allow you to grow in His grace.
 
Not only are there three words to describe how much, there are three letters to describe what to turn our trials into… J-O-Y. Wondering how to find real joy? Put Jesus first in your life, others second, and yourself last.
Jesus
Others
You
J-O-Y
 
When you find yourself struggling to find the good, wondering what purpose God could possibility have in the midst of your surroundings…count to three. 1-2-3.
 
Where can you be reminded of this Truth? James 1:2-3
1-2-3. Count it ALL J-O-Y today.
 
 
Bible Reading:
Judges 13-14  |  Acts 25  |  Psalm 83
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