By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
James 1:2-4 "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." - NIV
The apostles not only experienced severe trials of their faith, but also encouraged others to stand firm through the same. James brings out one of the key reasons why God allows suffering. They test our faith and lead to a much needed quality of perseverance, maturity and being complete in Him, not wanting in any way. This only happens if we don’t give up along the way amidst the trials and sufferings.
Suffering is a good teacher, refiner and establisher of our faith. Growth through hardships yields the quality of resilience. People who grow in soft life are easily shaken off when tried and tested. That’s like the seed that fell on the rock with little soil. Their roots are shallow, their patience limited and their stand is brief. But those who have been through the fire and all sorts of trials will laugh at challenges, not be intimidated and will stand against all odds.
God is not a sadist who enjoys seeing us suffer. As He allows these sufferings our way, His aim is to develop in us a character that reflects Himself. The refiners fire ultimately brings out the pure gold everyone admires, but it doesn’t come easy. May we gladly go through trials as we yield to the molding and shaping hand of God to make us grow into the fulness of the stature of Christ and so truly glorify God. Paul understood it and had this to say;
"Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." (Romans 5:3-4)
Shalom children of God.