There are certain passages in the Bible that I’ve really had no intention of obeying. For example, James writes, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds…”

Pure joy? Come on. Really? Not even just “joy”, but “pure joy.”

To be honest, I really don’t want to. At best, trials (pain, difficulties, uncertainty, conflict, unanswered questions…the list goes on…) are to be avoided all together. At worst, they are to be grudgingly endured while hoping, wishing and praying them away as fast as possible.

And yet the rest of the passage says, “…because you know the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

When I’m finished writing this post, I’ll head to the Fayetteville Athletic Club to workout. While there, I will experience a trial of my own doing. Running and lifting weights is painful, but I will endure the pain and persevere through it, because of the good results.

Do I like the pain? No, but I know it’s necessary to give me what I want. The painful process isn’t joyful, but the results are.

I want stronger faith, a greater capacity to believe God, but it doesn’t come instantaneously. It comes from persevering through trials and experiencing God’s power and presence in the midst of them.

Is the pain joyful? No, but the result of it is.

How about you? Are you in the midst of something painful, difficult or confusing? Most likely you are. Nothing about it seems joyful, but take a look down the road. Consider for a moment the stronger faith and greater intimacy with God that will result.

Consider it (the result) pure joy.