When troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.
God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.James 1:2-4, 12 NLT
When we encounter trials… not if. When, meaning it is coming. Prepare yourself mentally. Choose now the attitude you will adopt when trials come. Rid yourself of the thought “Life should be easier.”
Difficulty, loss, sorrow, hardship – these things are simply a part of life.
Why should we do away with negative thoughts about trials?
When there is complaining, we self-sabotage. The reward is spurned, benefits evaporate. A trial is an opportunity to develop patience and deepen character.
It is easy to sign up for the “perfect and complete, needing nothing” part, but we must recognize that that result comes through facing trials with thankfulness.
An attitude of gratitude does far more in maturing us than anything else.
Friends, if life gets extremely difficult, with many tests, don’t be bewildered as though something strange were overwhelming you. Instead, rejoice… because then you can share in His glory as well.
1 Peter 4:12-13 TPT
Even in times of trouble we can have a joyful confidence, knowing that these pressures will develop in us patient endurance. And this will refine our character.
Romans 5:3-4 TPT
Choose gratitude, regardless of the circumstances you find yourself in. Whether the circumstances were or were not the direct result of your choices, in either case, choose gratitude. Gratitude opens pathways in the brain that contribute to emotions of well-being and problem-solving skills! If you find yourself in a pinch, choose gratitude; you’ll be amazed at the clarification this simple practice stimulates.
Make gratitude a habit. Start today: name five things you are grateful for. Do it again when you are feeling discouraged. Set an hourly reminder on your personal device that prompts you to pause and name five things to be grateful for until it becomes a habit.
Gratitude is one of the most powerful human emotions.
GK
Once expressed, it changes attitude, brightens outlook, and broadens perspective.
In everything give thanks, because it is God’s will for you to choose thankfulness.
1 Thessalonians 5:18