Not Every Trial Is a Gift

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. - James 1:2-4

One of the things we talked about on Sunday is that there is so much to be learned from our trials. And at the same time, not all trials are a gift. James himself says that it’s only “trials of many kinds” that are gifts. Brenna shared a toxic work environment she was in once that, while in it, she’d said “I’m just going to learn what God has for me in this,” but afterwards she shared how clear it was that it was simply a toxic environment and she needed to leave (and she should have left earlier!)

And even for the trials in which we can learn from, so much depends on our attitude. As Anne Morrow Lindberg has written, “I do not believe that sheer suffering teaches. If suffering alone taught, all the world would be wise, since everyone suffers. To suffering must be added mourning, understanding, patience, love, openness and the willingness to remain vulnerable.”

So take some time today and ponder what trials you are facing. Can/should it be learned from? Or is it toxic and should be fled? And if there is something to learn, what is your attitude?

Talk with Jesus about these things. He has a lot of experience with suffering and can help you sort it out.