A Faith That Works When Life Doesn’t: Part 2Sample

It’s Your Choice to Rejoice in Trouble

Do you know that it’s possible to rejoice when you face troubles? The Bible says, “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy” (James 1:2 NLT).

It’s easy to misunderstand this verse. God’s not saying be a martyr. He’s not saying deny reality. He's not saying fake it ‘til you make it.

We don't rejoice for the trouble. But we can still rejoice during the trouble because of what we know is true.

And what is true? We know that God sees and cares about everything we're going through. We know that we're never alone, that God is always with us. We know that he will give us strength if we trust him.

One of the greatest comforts during troubling days is God’s promise in Romans 8:28: "We know that in everything God works for the good of those who love him" (NCV).

God has promised to bring good out of bad for us—in everything. That includes a pandemic! That's not a promise for everybody. It's a promise for believers, those who love him and are committed to living according to his purpose.

When you're facing a challenge, joy is a choice because you can rely on the goodness of God. Joy is not based on circumstances, and that’s why it's your choice to rejoice no matter what the situation.

Joy is not based on circumstances, and that’s why you are able to make a choice to rejoice no matter what your situation is.

Joy is based on what we know is true, and it’s based on our faith that God will fulfill his promise to work things out for good, according to his purpose.

In Psalm 34:1, King David said, "I will praise the LORD at all times; his praise is always on my lips" (NCV). Even now, we should thank God. Praise God. Rejoice in God—not just in good times. At all times.

Talk It Over

• What do you know about God’s character that can help you choose joy, even in troubling times?
• How can you praise the Lord at all times? What are some creative ways to “let his praise be always on your lips” (Psalm 34:1 NCV)?
• Why would being joyful in all things make you stand out in the world today?

This devotional © 2021 by Rick Warren. All rights reserved. Used by permission.