Joy in trials...

"Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance."

James 1:2-3

To extrapolate on the truth that joy is not situational (told you I'd bring that up a lot), we must look first into the hard stuff. And there is nothing harder, in my mind, than to keep your joy radiant when you are in the middle of difficult situations in life. Nothing takes more focus; nothing takes more energy; and nothing in life can bear greater witness!

Paul is a great example of this teaching from James, as he was whipped and chained and sang hymns the entire time. He praised God for the blessing to be counted to suffer like Christ, for Christ. And we should do the same.

It's no secret that what I am typing about is not easy. But if we put ourselves into the shoes of those who see us, and then imagine a few things, it may be helpful in this task. First, realize that those around you should know you are a Christian. Second, acknowledge that anyone can tell when someone else is having a bad day. Third, imagine what would happen if you had been witnessing successfully to someone for weeks, and then you had a bad day and lost your temper and your joy (outwardly, at least), and that person you were trying to help saw how easily you faltered. Please remember, also, that even though there could be many, many reasons for the failing in attitude that day, no one else may be privy to them. They still see a change in attitude from a seemingly controllable incident... even though it was the last incident of many, in reality. So what they percieve is an easy departure from the Way.

Be certain, today, that you are not letting external circumstances ruin your internal joy. For those of us that are married, pay extra attention to the joy that you show in front of your spouse, as it will... IT WILL... be an encouragement for them to follow suit. And for those who are not married, the same is true for your friends or your significant other.

Sometimes the only Jesus some people ever see is in us, as Christians and witnesses. Make certain you honor the Lord by showing that we can be joyous in all things!

God bless you all!!!