“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” -James 1:2-3 ESV⠀
American sisters and brothers in Christ, as we approach Independence Day during this unique time in history, with so many issues coming into the light – division, injustice, hypocrisy, hate, spiritual blindness… SIN – let’s not forget God commands us to rejoice in trials and suffering.⠀
In Christ, we can still celebrate and rejoice because we know that trials of various kinds are used by God to produce steadfastness – unwavering loyalty, faithfulness, deep commitment to our God and to loving people. ALL people – even people who look different than us, people who hold different political beliefs, people who might genuinely hate us and Christ.⠀
When we rejoice in trials and suffering, we are opening the door for the Holy Spirit to move in our hearts to make us more like Christ. This is such a gift and a huge reason to give thanks!⠀
This Fourth of July, let’s be grateful for the good we see and experience. Let’s praise God that He is trustworthy! That He keeps His promises! Let’s walk through this season in humility – praising, confessing, and asking… seeking wisdom in the Word of God.⠀
Because Jesus came to us, offered His own life as a sacrifice for sin, and overcame all sin, death, and the depravity of the world through His resurrection, there is always hope! He is ALIVE today! He is with us and He will return one day to restore all things! 🙌🏻🙌🏽🙌🏿⠀
In God, We Trust. 🇺🇸⠀
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