27 | January | 2018 | His Perfect Timing

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
‭‭James‬ ‭1:2‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Happy Saturday! I’m a little late posting today, because I’ve been enjoying resting. This afternoon I plan to take a walk outside and just rest and refresh my soul. If you have had a tough week, take a few moments, hours, or maybe a day to refresh. When we take care of ourselves, we are able to help others more.

Have you ever been tempted to do or say something that you knew was wrong? On more than one occasion, I have quickly responded before thinking. Later I wondered, why did I say that! I have looked to food for comfort, knowing that our comfort is always in our sweet Lord. I have been tempted to sleep in on Sundays, and have actually followed through too many times to count. I have become angry, held my tongue, and in the presence of a few friends or family spewed angry words.

In the Message Bible, James 1:2 says “Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.” It’s difficult to think of trials and temptations as a joy or gift. Yet, when we are tested, we grow spiritually, emotionally and physically. It may be difficult to understand at the moment, but opportunities for growth are a blessing. Have you ever prayed for patience and found yourself needing more? That’s an example of being forced to mature as a Christian.‭‭ Every day is new, and there is always something to be thankful for, especially when it’s spiritual growth.