Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, James 1:2 NIV

James begins his epistle with a very brief introduction. He identifies himself as a servant of God and the Lord Jesus Christ. He then gives greetings to the twelve tribes of Israel scattered among the nations. Without further formality, James shares his message, encouraging his readers to label the difficulty of overcoming trials as pure joy. Like a coach instructing an elite athlete, James teaches the faithful to get excited about the challenges they encounter. 

The reasoning behind this statement is clear. As we read the completion of this statement in James 1:3-4, the brother of Jesus says, “knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. Let endurance have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. WEB” In this, James teaches that the difficulties and temptations we encounter provide opportunities to overcome and mature in our faith. The trials of life are opportunities to grow in strength and understanding. 

Jesus Overcame the World

Notice that James does not indicate that our trials are happy experiences. Rather, he instructs his readers to label them as pure joy. In doing so, James encourages us to reframe the difficulties of life. Instead of becoming bitter and disappointed with our struggles, our trials are opportunities to trust in the Lord while developing endurance. 

James’ challenge to the believer is to take a godly attitude in response to our troubles. As Jesus says in John 16:33, “I have told you these things, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have trouble; but cheer up! I have overcome the world. WEB” When we encounter difficulty, it is reasonable to consider it pure joy because we have the assurance of salvation and eternal life from our Lord and Savior who overcame both sin and death.

Yesterday’s Devotional: The Disciples of the Lord