A Devotional for the Anxious Heart: James 1:2-4 

Scripture: “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness . And let that steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (James 1:2-4 ESV) 

Thought: God is wise and all-knowing. He allows us to encounter difficult circumstances to mold us and shape us, but he is never far away. We should rejoice, even in our difficulties. God is using those difficulties to grow us. By our faith, we will emerge victorious. 

Application: It is hard to rejoice in suffering. The flesh wants to engage in self-pity and justifying worldly solutions. But, if we focus on the goal, Christ, we can see the suffering as a great blessing.  Prayer: Dear Lord, Help me to be worthy of my suffering, only in that I rejoice that it is leading me closer to you. Amen.  

Contributed by Liz Hunt