Today’s Devotion
Topic: Changing Your Trials Into Triumph (Part 2)
Text: James 1: 2
Yesterday we established that so far as satan fights us and the world opposes us, trials and temptations are inevitable. Today we want to look into some practical ways to “count it all joy” even when the odds are against us. Come along:
Precious one, we all know that it’s never easy to feel proud and happy during our difficult moments but it is not impossible.
The first step to turning trials into triumph is to: IMMEDIATELY THANK GOD AND ADOPT A JOYFUL ATTITUDE! Bible exhorts that “in everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you (1 Thessalonians 5: 18). To be able to thank God for your storm, you will have to acknowledge:
i. That God exists
ii. He is Almighty, bigger and stronger than all your challenges.
iii. He will not allow a temptation beyond your ability.
Secondly, we must acknowledge that trials only come to test our faith, and faith when tested, can bring the best in us just as fire purifies gold – (1 Peter 1: 7)
Thirdly, it is much easier to smile at your storm when you keep in mind that all things shall work together for good for those who love God. All things; the good, bad and ugly…. all of them are for our good.
Another practical approach to turning your trials into triumphs is to remember that your trials must lead to spiritual maturity and not otherwise. When we realise how helpless we are, we tend to depend more on God. This produces in us such virtues as PATIENCE, PERSEVERANCE and HUMILITY; all of which are necessary for Christian MATURITY.
Finally, to remain joyous even in the full glare of adversity, we must always trust that We Are Not Alone. God says “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. (Isaiah 43: 2).
Apostle Peter summarizes all the above in 1 Peter 4: 12-13. He says “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.” Wonderful.
Child of God, just begin to pray. Ask for the strength to withstand every fiery ordeal that comes your way. For by flesh shall no man prevail.
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