The Joy of the LordSample

Am I Complaining or Celebrating?  by Pastor Pat McFall

Senior Pastor of New Hope Hawaii Kai - Oahu, Hawaii

Scripture

James 1:2-4, "Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So, let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing."

Observation

In this scripture, James addresses a community undergoing various trials, from being persecuted for their faith to other hardships like poverty or sickness. Amazingly, his response is to think of it as an opportunity for joy. Not even regular joy but ‘great’ joy. Why? He explains that when their faith is tested in this way, it’s their chance to grow, to grow so deep and strong in their faith that ultimately, they wouldn’t need anything at all! James even introduces himself with a title associated with suffering by saying he is a ‘slave’ of God. It’s almost like he’s saying, “Hey guys, we can actually celebrate troubles because if we have Jesus, we have everything we need.” 

Application

A few years ago, I met a man born without arms or legs, and was amazed at his sense of identity in Christ and his joy. He explained, “I often pray that God would heal me and give me arms and legs, I even have a pair of shoes if and when it happens. But, I will always be grateful and amazed at how God has healed other broken bodies and hearts through me and my story. A new pair of legs won’t ever make me as happy as Jesus does.” I was both inspired and humbled by his character. I was confronted by my own complaining attitude when things don’t go my way and how I limit what I even think God can do because of a personal trial or a ministry trouble. I don’t want to ever forget that the God who spoke the universe into existence can certainly work in and through any hardship or pain I’m facing. In fact, that just may be where He does His best work. I want to live in such a way that says, “Even if I’m facing trials, as long as I have Jesus, I have everything I need and that’s worth celebrating.”

Prayer

Forgive me Lord for being so quick to complain about trials from a distance, instead of bringing them to Your feet and celebrate the opportunity to grow more deeply in relationship with You and those around me. Help me to celebrate my trials, knowing that You use everything to grow me closer to You. 

Reflection

What is one trial, test or trouble that you are experiencing right now that you can thank God for?