Trials of Life

One of life’s most commonly asked questions is, “Why does God allow His children to go through difficult, trying, painful times in life?” We recognize that God is all-powerful and could prevent these trials if He chose to do so. Yet, He often does not. Therefore, there must be some purpose for them, some divine reason for not sparing us these hardships. Once we begin to understand God’s purpose for these things, we will be able to stand strong through any storm of life.

James 1:1-12 issues a serious challenge to every believer. The first thing we should notice is James’s assurance in verse 2 that all Christians will in fact face trials of many kinds. This leaves no room for doubt; he alludes to “when you encounter various trials,” which indicates the inevitability of such ordeals. Therefore, we should not ask how we can avoid trials–because we cannot–but rather we should ask God to show us how to deal with them when they appear.

Another thing we should notice in verse 2 is the seemingly ridiculous instruction to “count it all joy” whenever hardships assault our lives. This is a silly statement; trials and joy simply do not go together. Tears, discouragement, disillusionment, despair . . . these are the things that we associate with trials. But joy? James must have known that this would be a contradiction to our natural human reasoning; so, there must be an answer beyond what we perceive.

In James 1:5, in the midst of a discussion on trials, the subject changes mid-stream. It has just been explained how trials produce spiritual endurance and maturity, and then he says, “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God . . . and it will be given to him.”

Rather than switching topics, James is actually making a consistent argument regarding trials. In order for us to be able to “count it all joy” in the face of trials, we must view the matter from God’s perspective. This is what wisdom does. Beyond simply understanding God’s reasoning, we also must actively apply that wisdom. When we do this, we become more able to evaluate people and circumstances and are then better prepared to make sound decisions.

As we strive to live in a godly manner, Satan will begin looking for new ways to attack us. 

Another uncontrollable source is the simple fact that we live in a fallen world. 

A troublesome issue for many people is that, regardless of their specific source, God allows each and every trial that we encounter. Beyond that, He sometimes sends the trials Himself. This is why James instructs believers to ask God for wisdom in the midst of their hardship. Wisdom enables us to clearly see the source of the trial, and when we know the source, we are better prepared to evaluate, handle, and grow through the specific issue.

Once we understand the source, we need wisdom to enable us to discern the purpose for the trials. In this, wisdom helps us to question the heart of God by asking, “Lord, why have you allowed this? What would you have me learn through this?”

Unproven, untried faith is practically worthless. How do you know what you can face in life if your faith has not been tested? 1 Peter 1:6-7 explains this valuable aspect, “In this you greatly rejoice . . . you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith . . . may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”

Our trials give God an opportunity to demonstrate His sustaining power for His children in tough times. This is an amazing testimony to unbelievers, who may witness you going through a horribly difficult situation while still maintaining the peace of the Holy Spirit. (a great reminder of strength for those watching)

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