“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” ~ James 1:2-4, NKJV

“Dear brothers and sisters, 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.” ~ James 1:2-4, NLT 

Count it All Joy, Especially the Hard Places

Lord, what a joy You are. Your blessings are abundant. Your faithfulness astounds me. You remain steadfast, even when I don’t — especially when the flames of trial are fierce. I want to count it all joy, but, honestly, Lord? Honestly, my attitude stinks sometimes.

It’s easy to become self-absorbed. It’s easy to see only circumstances and not focus on You instead. Forgive me, Lord. That is my downfall! When I take my eyes off You, my bad attitude towards the difficult place takes over. Please forgive me.

Renew a right spirit within me, Lord. Create in me a clean heart O God so that I might truly count it all joy when what I really want to do is scream.

I get so frustrated! I am easily overcome by the difficult places in my life.

BUT, when I count it all joy as You have instructed, things change. My circumstances remain the same, but my heart changes. My attitude … and my behavior.

Help me in my weakness, Lord. Be my strength. Be my joy. Remind me there is purpose in my pain and maintaining a thankful heart — joy in the trial — reveals the purpose and keeps me on the narrow path You have created just for me.

This day, I choose to do my best to count it all joy.

I choose to confess my bad attitude as soon as it rears it’s ugly head — for I know that I know a bad attitude will try to invade my joy in the trial.

You know what Lord? My joy is not in the difficult place. My joy is in YOU because You are in the fiery trial with me.

When my eyes are fixed on You, I am satisfied.

 When My Eyes Are Fixed on Him My Heart is Changed

When my eyes are fixed on You, the flames of trial will not burn me.

When my eyes are fixed on You I can sincerely count it all joy because I trust You and love You.

Blessed be Your Name. You alone are worthy of all praise.

In Jesus’s Name I pray,

Amen

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Please don’t carry your burdens alone. I would be honored to pray for you. You may contact me directly at nan@nanjones.com

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Thank you so much for stopping by. I would love for you to share what’s on your heart in the comments below. Scroll a little farther down and you’ll see where you can leave your comments. Together, we can find the nearness of God in our darkest moments.

Sweet blessings to you,

NAN