Consider it pure joy? You have got to be kidding? Consider it pure joy when you face trials of all kinds is what the opening verse of chapter 1 says. What? Are these authors of the bible in cahoots? Did we not just hear this from the author of Hebrews? Yes, indeed. The bible is very consistent in its message.
We are to consider it pure joy when we face trials because of what it produces in us–it develops patience that makes us mature, complete, lacking in nothing says verse 4. If you reverse the verse it is easier to respond positively. Ask yourself the question, “Do I want to be mature, complete, and lacking in nothing?” “Of course,” anyone would answer! Then, says James, when you encounter trouble of all kinds, think about it, act on it, believe it as pure joy. This is the route to mature and complet faithful living that lacks nothing.
Hmmm. I wish it were different. I wish the consistent biblical message was, have faith and there will be no trouble. Believe in Jesus and all your problems will go away. That is not the biblical message. Consistently the bible teaches that faith is tested and purified through trouble and that we are accomplishing the exact purpose of God when we face trial and trust him through it. I can do “tolerate trouble.” I am still working on “consider it pure joy.”