Dealing with trials
James 1:1–11; Psalm 118; Mark 8:11–13
When dealing with trials or confronted with tribulations, James exhorts us to consider them pure joy since they produce persistence and spiritual maturity. See trials as chances for growth and refinement. Today’s psalm says, “It was good for me to be afflicted.”
James also encourages us to ask God for wisdom, for God grants wisdom to those who ask. Beloved, it is important to seek spiritual guidance and wisdom when managing life’s obstacles and decisions. With divine wisdom, we can overcome every kind of trial.
Again, we are encouraged to pray with faith, without doubt, because doubt causes instability and inconsistency. Let us have steadfast confidence in God’s capacity to answer prayers and provide wisdom in moments of trial. Without such confidence, we shall be overtaken by the trials we face.
Similarly, the gospel tells us that true faith is proven by a sincere desire to follow and believe in God, even when there is no tangible evidence. Thus emphasizing the necessity of genuine faith, discernment when dealing with skeptics, and reliance on God’s timing and wisdom. True Christians don’t seek confirmation through signs or miracles (Mark 8:11–13).
Let us pray
O God, who taught us that you abide in hearts that are just and true, grant that we may be so fashioned by your grace as to become a dwelling pleasing to you. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
