Trials as Spiritual Strength Training

So much of our attitude towards life depends upon our perspective. Two people can go through the very same difficulty and one comes out the other side wiser and more resilient, while the other is dejected and defeated. One saw the difficulty as a challenge to be overcome and a learning opportunity; the other saw it as a punishment to be avoided and complained about. All the difference was in their perspectives. As children of God through faith in Jesus we have a point of view unlike any other in this world. We believe that our God is in absolute control of all that happens. We trust that his love for us is infinite, his mercy is unchanging, and his forgiveness is new every morning. Because of these inalterable truths promised us by God, we have an upside-down view, a heavenly perspective, of the hardships that come into our lives. James would have us see our trials as spiritual strength training.