Devotional by David Craig
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 2
TESTS ARE OPPORTUNITIES

Count it all joy when you fall into various trials. James 1:2 (NKJV)

Do you enjoy taking tests? Most people don’t. In fact, the word test generally carries a negative connotation, but perhaps it’s because we’re looking at it all wrong.

What if we shifted our perspective when it comes to difficult circumstances we dislike or challenges we have to overcome? What if we viewed uncomfortable situations as less of a test and more of an opportunity for the grace and power of God to shine through us?

I’m not suggesting you put on a fake smile and pretend you’re enjoying grief, heartbreak, or a hard time in life because that’s not reality. But if you’re going through a tough season, there is something you can do: imagine yourself on the other side of it. You’re wiser because of it and better equipped mentally and emotionally than before. Your endurance and faith have grown. You have increased compassion for others in similar situations, and perhaps newfound knowledge to help lessen someone else’s suffering. Would viewing problems this way not totally change how you go through trials?

That’s why James 1:3–4 (MSG) sees problems through a positive lens. It says, “Under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colours. 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.”

When the next problem inevitably comes along, reframe it from a negative test to an excellent opportunity to trust God and let Him work through it and you. Then, as you walk through life’s various trials, you’ll understand how to count it as joy!