Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind 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)

“When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie,
My grace, all-sufficient shall be thy supply
The flame shall not hurt thee, I only design
Thy dross to consume and thy gold to refine.
~John Rippon 1787

Father,

Your word tells me that troubling times are joy-producing because they are productive in terms of my personal growth and character transformation. I’ve never much liked taking my medicine. Sometimes I’d rather be sick. If you say trials are not to be bemoaned but rather, in a sense, celebrated, then that shall be my perspective of this current struggle. So bring on the change of heart through this ordeal. Maximize this challenge for the good of my character. And Lord, return to me the joy of my salvation. Thank you for the outcome of this trial, for you have promised to help me, and by faith I am an overcomer.

In Jesus’ Name Amen