Socially Acceptable Disobedience – “Rejoice in Trials.” …What?
by Jared on Sep.18, 2011, under For Christians
I noticed there appear to be some things in the Bible that Christians know full well about but then say “yeah that’s a hard one,” and then go on to live in disobedience (me included – I am posting my learning by experience here!)
Not worrying is one, as I mentioned in a previous post. Another one is: “Do not be anxious about anything” (Phil 4:6), and to rejoice in times of trials:
Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. – James 1:2-4 NLT
So God is making it so that you have more character and endurance, so that you will be perfect. Awesome! But for many, it is all too easy to resist trials by being sad about them. But this is disobedience. Isn’t liking the pain masochism? No! Paul says “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” (Ro 8:18), and Jesus “for the joy set before him endured the cross.” The discomfort should pale in comparison to the expectation of reward, hence the joy we should have. See the reward. Keep it in sight. Love going through the process of getting that reward, because hey, there is a reward, and it is awesome!
“But correct the wise, and they will love you.” – Proverbs 9:8b
“the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son” – Hebrews 12:6
“And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” – Romans 5:3-5
Imagine if every endurance building trial, every correction, was a joyful and peaceful, and love-inspiring experience. It can be.
To me, having joy in good times and joy in bad times is part of the hope of salvation. Salvation and its fruit is for all the time.
Obey and be free!
(And remind me to do the same.)
