Rejoicing in the midst of trials seems like an impossible thing to do. How do we find joy and peace in the middle of suffering?
The first thing we must remember is Jeremiah 29:11 which says, “For I know the plans I have for you” declares the Lord, “plans to protect you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” That is a promise from our loving, heavenly Father that we can depend on.
Trials are temporary . Peter states in 1 Peter 1:6, “In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials.” In this passage we are being encouraged with the fact that our trials will last for just a little while, they are temporary.
Trials are necessary for spiritual growth. In our time here on earth trials are inevitable but the benefit in them is our spiritual growth. James states in James 1:2, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of our faith develops perseverance.” Not only perseverance, but Paul says in Romans 5:3, “Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance produces character, and character produces hope.”
Jesus is with us in the midst of our trials. Just as He was in the furnace with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in Daniel 3 and with Jospeh when he was sold as a slave in Egypt, He is with us. The three friends came out of the blazing furnace unharmed, and the Lord was with Joseph and gave him success at whatever he did. The Lord encourages us in Isaiah 41:10, “So do not fear, for I am with you, do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” At the end of Joseph’s trial he was able to say in Genesis 50:20, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
Through trials we share in the sufferings of Christ. I Peter 4:13 says again to rejoice. “But rejoice that you participate in the suffering of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.”
The trial will bring a positive outcome. Just like Joseph when we cling to and seek the Lord during our trials we become spiritually stronger and our faith increases. Not only do we benefit but those watching do as well. Others will see how we handle the adversity in our lives and how God works in and through us.
Lastly, we hold on to this promise from Romans 8:28, “All things work together for the good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose.” We can trust that God is in it with us, He loves us more than we can imagine and only wants good for us. He will make it all come together for the good.
