Real Trials

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; temptations: or, trials Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. - James 1:2-3

    David said, “It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes.” Martin Luther declared, “I never knew the true meaning of God’s word until I came into affliction. I have always found trials to be the best schoolmaster.”

1. Real trials touch us personally—our flesh, our hearts, our homes, our children! This is not something we read about concerning others and then offer high-blown advice, but something we experience.

1. Real trials go to the root of the matter and reveals the truth of our nature. It shows whether repentance, faith, love for Christ, and confidence in his purpose and providence are realities or whether they are pretense. Trials do not produce faith; rather, they either reveal the faith that is there or they reveal sham and hypocrisy.

1. Real trials tests a man’s graces. We talk of love for one another, but not until real trials come can we be sure that we do love. We talk of forgiveness and mercy, but not until forgiveness is needed and mercy is required can we be sure that we have it to give! Some of the best religious “talkers” are the poorest “doers” when it comes to putting their theology into practice.

1. Real trials gives us an opportunity to minister to others: first, by equipping us with necessary abilities. None can enter into a brother’s sorrow like one who has actually been in the same situation. Second, by bringing us to the brother’s side at this particular time. “I’m sorry that you are burdened in such a way, but I rejoice that the Lord affords me the opportunity and privilege of helping you bear your burden.”

    My brethren, don’t fumble the opportunity to relieve the distressed, forgive the fallen, or feed the hungry. You just may not pass this way again. (Read immediately Matthew 25:41-46).