The book of James was penned in the middle of the first century in response to professing believers whose half-hearted commitment to Christianity did not reflect a true love for Christ and proper Christian living. James gives instructions to the Christian community how best to conduct themselves when under the cross. He begins his epistle by encouraging his fellow Christians:

"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 steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." (Jas 1:2-3)

But the natural inclination is to do precisely the opposite. It is easy to sink into a state of depression and to feel sorry for oneself, and it is even easier to become overwhelmed with the tumultuous events of life. We are inundated daily with the stress of work, financial pressure, conflict with others, persecution, physical ailments and a host of other difficulties. When confronted with each crisis we can respond in one of two ways. We can become despondent and think of ourselves or we can heed the words of James and count our tribulations a joy.

Some might be wondering how we could honestly count death, disease, financial ruin and persecution a joy. Is it a matter of showing stoical apathy? On the contrary. All trials, regardless of difficulty, can be considered a joy when we realize that God designed every trial that comes our way for a specific purpose. No matter how tremendous the test of faith is, God has ordained each and every one in order to develop perseverance which in turn produces mature Christian character.

It should not come as a surprise that God would keep his word when he tells us that our faith will be tested. With that said, not everyone will face similar trials. Some may never experience persecution or disease, but each will be given the opportunity to respond to trials biblically. That part is up to us. How do we respond when God sends tests our way? Do we react with melancholy and self-pity or do we put our faith in Jesus Christ and count each trial a joy knowing that God has chosen that particular trial for our benefit?

So the next time you face tumultuous times know that God has specifically chosen that trial for your benefit. That way, we can rejoice in knowing God has brought that test to us -- just as he has also given us the Holy Spirit to help in our time of need. And when we persevere, we can rejoice even more so in knowing that we are being sanctified.