Pure JesusShembull

Jesus - Your Fullness and Fulfiller

Choose Jesus as Your Source

At some point or another we have all heard, “What doesn't kill you, makes you stronger,” and though this is not necessarily true, or desirable, there is some wisdom to be drawn from it. In the opening of his New Testament letter, James, Jesus’ half brother, says that trials - the testing of your faith - produce perseverance. This perseverance that is ignited and built up in you doesn’t just sit there. It keeps growing and equips you with a more mature and complete faith. 

At the same time, in the midst of our trials and tough moments, James says, “Consider it pure joy.” Really, James? Joy? In the midst of a trial, you want me to be joyful? How is that possible? How can that be right? If my child is sick or I lose my job, joy is the last thing on my mind. I am filled with sorrow and pain. Can joy and pain truly co-exist? 

Yes! No one desires to go through an unpleasant time or feel the pain of loss. The goal of life for many is the pursuit of happiness, but it is possible to feel pain and joy at the same time, knowing that God is still at work. Now, that’s not always easy to accept, but the truth is, we can’t see the full plan like He can. His ways are higher than ours. He gives us peace that surpasses all understanding. We are not alone in our suffering. What looks like the end is not the end. God is not finished and He will use all things for His glory! 

So how do we find “joy” in the midst of a trial, or in the midst of the storm? We can find joy by choosing Jesus! When you choose God as the source of joy over your life, things take a different perspective. This world has too many flaws in order to give you an everlasting joy. But Jesus desires for you to live a life that is full, purposeful and meaningful. 

James says to celebrate when our faith is tested because if we are choosing Christ, we will walk out of these trials stronger, more mature, and more complete. We will walk in the fullness of a purposed life, fulfilled with His everlasting joy, peace, and love.