James 1:2-3
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.
James is one of my favorite books in the Bible. I once memorized the entire book. I hate to confess it, but I have forgotten much of it. The joy is that with just a little effort I can still bring those precious words back to mind with very little effort.
Recently I was greatly impressed by a thought that David Jeremiah shared. It was in reference to the words, “- -count it all joy.” I have taught for years that we are to give thanks for everything. It often seems impractical to count it all joy when we are experiencing the tough times of life. There is an interesting passage in Hebrews 12:1-3: “Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
As I read these words I am struck by the thought that Jesus endured the cross with joy. It is clear that the suffering of the cross was anything but joyful. So where did this joy that Christ experienced come from? It came from Him fast forwarding His heart and mind to the glory that was waiting for Him.
An athlete who endures the horrible rigors of training does not find joy in the pain in the stressing of muscles to the breaking point. The joy is in fast forwarding the mind to visualize the race and crossing the finish line as a victor. I choose to count everything I endure in this life as joy, because I fast forward to what awaits me at the finish line. Even so, come quickly Lord Jesus!
Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing!
—Pastor Cecil