Trouble


Dear brothers and sisters whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has the chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed you will be strong in character and ready for anything. James 1:2-4

There is an old saying that goes like this…. “It’s an ill wind that blows nobody any good.” This says to me that though trouble comes, it’s likely that it will bring some good for somebody.

Generally we dread the thought of trouble knocking on our door, and though we shouldn’t expect it, we can be mentally prepared for it and we can look for how God will use it. As you look back through difficult times in your life can you see some good that has come out of it?

Many years ago in Papua New Guinea our home was burgled twice in 10 days. Not very nice, but at least we were not home at the time. What good could possibly come out of that? A few months later we changed employment and as a result we needed to buy our own little car. As missionaries at the time we had no savings but just as the time came to buy the car we received a cheque from the insurance company for the goods which had been stolen. It was the amount we needed to pay for the car! Yes, God can use even a burglary for good.

Verses 3 and 4 of James 1 encourage us to endure difficulties because it gives us opportunity to strengthen our character and our faith. With that in mind perhaps we can find it a little easier to let trouble be an opportunity for joy! If we are trusting that God is in control of our life, then we can commit the troubles to Him and expect that He will use it for good. (Romans 8:28).

If you want more faith food to help you towards “counting it as an opportunity for joy”, then look at Psalm 34:19. “The righteous (God’s people) face many troubles, but the Lord rescues them from each and every one.” Also in verse 39 of that psalm it says “The Lord saves the godly, he is their fortress in times of trouble.” These are promises to be received by faith. Take hold of them and you will be strengthened.

Add to your store Psalm 112:6-8 which tells again of the righteous who will not fear bad news because they are confidently trusting in the Lord to care for them. Commit these verses to memory – think on them, believe them and they will comfort and strengthen you in times of trouble. God is faithful.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for the promises of your word. Help me to sow your word into my heart and mind to strengthen my trust in you for whatever life may bring my way. You are my fortress and strong tower. Amen.