This week, I’ve had my share of “troubles”, from internet disconnection for 3 days (meaning missed conference meetings and inability to work from home), to ATM dispense error and a trapped ATM Card (meaning I had to visit a banking hall for retrieval). It has felt like things were working against me. Or as we say in local parlance, my “village people” were at work….hahaha. But I count it all joy!

You see, I’ve been studying the book of James, and the writer envisions life as a series of tests to mature our faith and prove its sincerity by measuring our religion on many practical scales: right living, good deeds, controlled speech, impartial behaviour, strife-free living, persevering character and a prayerful attitude. He paints our lives as a daily choice to either respond with godly or earthly wisdom.

So when trying situations came my way, not only was I challenged to practice what I have been learning, I was forced to acknowledge that even “little” trials place a demand on our Christian profession. The first challenge was remembering to depend on God for wisdom as opposed to rushing to get results. The second was seeking the learning in every situation, even if it was orchestrated by the Enemy to confound me. The third challenge was staying joyful and peaceful even when the results were not coming in quick.

I love quick fixes. I love things going away as quickly as they came. But I am reminded that God allows trying or testy situations to mature my faith, to teach me endurance and school me in the correct approach to respond to different situations. I am also reminded that trials and temptations expose my flaws and give God an opportunity to address hidden heart issues brought to the fore by trying situations. So in all things, I give thanks to the only wise God!

I hope these notes encourage you and remind you that God is with you in your own trials and is working all things together for your good, teaching you how to live for Him while handling pressures from within and without. By the way, the bank said they did not find my card in the ATM…so I had to hotlist (block) the card, and will be requesting another one as soon as I can. Thanks for coming by…would love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Remain blessed!