Sometimes life’s challenges come unexpectedly. Out of the blue we find ourselves facing injury, illness or loss. We’re stunned; we’re taken aback. It takes time to absorb our new situation, to react appropriately to this unexpected turn of events.

But sometimes challenges are on our schedule. It may be weeks ahead that the date of surgery is written on the calendar. It looms ahead bringing up different emotions each time we see it: uncertainty, fear, anxiety. We’ve long since determined that it’s the right decision, yet don’t we wish we could erase it from our calendar and our life.

The epistle of James offers sound advice. “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” James 1:2-4

Who is this James? He begins by identifying himself as “James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ.” Many scholars agree that the book was written by James the Just, brother of our Lord and leader of the mother church at Jerusalem. Paul called him one of the “pillars of the church.” The exact date the book was written is unknown, but it was before the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD.

James addresses his book, “to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad,” which indicates that he was writing from Jerusalem to the Jews of the “dispersion” and “my brethren,” indicates that these were Jewish Christians living away from Jerusalem. It was a book of practical advice.

In Chapter 1 he writes about faith tested by trials. Aha, now that sounds like good advice for us as well. In the centuries that separate us, much has not changed. We still face trials and our faith will still be tested by these trials.

“Count it all joy!” Yes, we’ll struggle with that one. But let it be our goal, for the God of love walks with us on each step, whether expected or unexpected.

Remember, our God loves you unconditionally. He loves me unconditionally. And for that we can confidently “Count it all joy!”

Judy