by Pastor Savenit Polo

 “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 NIV)

A few days ago, I had a conversation with the senior pastor of my church, whose assistant I am. In our conversation, he stopped for a moment and asked me a question. “Have you ever thought about leaving the pastoral ministry?” That question made our conversation very personal.

The Holy Spirit led him to tell me that trials need to come. Trials not only come in the lives of pastors and people who hold positions and have great ministries, but they also come in the lives of those who are making the effort to follow Christ as his disciples.

That is why James says in his chapter 1:2 “My brothers, count it all joy when you find yourselves in various trials”. The author uses the word “when”, which ensures that the trials will come. They will also be diverse but if we trust in the Lord, the result will always be favorable.

As long as we are in the world, we will face trials, but we can count on our God whose power can help us walk in victory.

Question to ponder: What trials are you facing today?