"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness." James 1:2,3
In an article titled, "Tough Runs Enable Us to Tackle Life’s Challenges", Cindy Kuzma wrote, "Our willingness to do hard things while running makes it easier to overcome obstacles in our non-running lives. As runners, we willingly do hard things. We run hills, chase PRs, wreck our feet, endure bad weather and crushing setbacks. So when life gets tough, we’re not in unfamiliar territory." In other words, by constantly testing and pushing through our pain limits, we become more resolved, able and determined to handle the trials that life throws our way.
And it's this same type of resolve, or steadfastness, that James says is produced in us each time we, by faith, overcome obstacles in our spiritual lives. It's no wonder then that we are told to "count it all joy" when we "meet trials of various kinds" because we know that these times of suffering or pain are only working to make us stronger, more committed and better able to withstand the bigger "trials" that might be coming our way.
So if life has gotten overwhelming for you today, won't you smile and have faith that these tough times have a purpose? This trial, and each one to follow, is producing a steadfastness in you that will enable you to keep your joy as you endure to the end.
Heavenly Father, although no one likes trials, thank you for the perseverance and steadfastness that they produce in every believer. Help us to remember that it's only during tough times, when we trust you to see us through, that our faith grows stronger. Help us to always keep our joy Lord that we might press on and endure to the very end. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!!!
Old Church Choir - Zach Williams
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