Happy Adversity?

Read: James 1:1-12

Count it all joy when you fall into various trials. --- James 1:2

The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 31-33
Mark 9:1-29

On the back of a wedding anniversary card were some wiggly lines drawn by our 3-year-old grandson. Alongside was a note from our daughter explaining that Trevor told her what he had written: "I'm writing a letter for your love and happy adversity."

Trevor's "mistake" has become our watchword, because "happy adversity" embodies the biblical principle of facing difficulties with joy: "Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience" [James 1:2-3].

From our perspective, adversity is anything but happy. We have the idea that the Christian life is supposed to be trouble-free, and we see little value in hardship. But God sees it differently.

J.B. Phillips' translation of James 1:2-3 reads: "When all kinds of trials and temptations crown into your lives, my brothers, don't resent them as intruders, but welcome them as friends! Realize that they come to test your faith and to produce in you the quality of endurance."

Affliction does not come as a thief to steal our happiness, but as a friend bringing the gift of staying power. Through it all, God promises us His wisdom and strength.

So don't be offended if I wish you "Happy Adversity" today --- David McCasland

Be assured beyond all doubting,
In the trial you're passing through,
That the Lord's great love and mercy
Is at work for good in you. --- Anon.

LIFE'S BURDENS ARE DESIGNED NOT TO BREAK US BUT TO BEND US TOWARD GOD.