JAMES 1:2-3 AMP
“Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials. Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance [leading to spiritual maturity, and inner peace].”
The Bible is loaded with intances of God’s wisdom moving his people through the most difficult times to the most beautiful and wonderful ends.
Although Abraham is known in Scripture as the “the friend of God”, he was capable of some unacceptable behaviour.
On one occasion he actually compromised his wife’s chastity (Gen. 12:10-20).
Also submitted to her pressure and fathered a child by Hagar, their maid (Gen. 16:1-16).
Then, seeking to avoid Sarah’s uncontrollable accusations, he allowed her to drive Hagar away from their household (Gen.
21:8-21).
Suffice to say that Abraham was not a man of strong principles.
There were many weaknesses in his character.
But God in wisdom dealt with this man and brought him through some great trials until he was changed to a true man of God.
The same wisdom which navigated the path Abraham walked is navigating our lives.
We should never be unsettled when unforeseen and unpleasant things happen to us.
We should recognise that no matter how hard the trial, God’s power will be there to get us through, and God’s wisdom will ensure that the trial will be worth more than it costs.
When God allows us to go through trials, he may be strengthening us in patience, endurance, meekness compassion and in maturity.
Have a blessed day.
Shalom.
