Consider it Joy!

James 1:2-3 (NIV) “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.”

What are some surprising emotions you feel about your situation? In the beginning, I was surprised by how much anger, even rage, that I felt. The little chirpy comment, “Count it all joy!” used to ring in my ears and make me even madder. But, things are different now. I finally looked up that nagging little piece of scripture and read the REST of the sentence. James 1:2-3 (NIV) “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.” Looking back, our family has developed amazing perseverance, not just when it comes to seizures and disability, but for so many trials that we all face. When I see my challenges as opportunities for growth instead of punishment for failing, I can “count it all (well, most of it) joy!”