Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles 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

I believe one of the greatest fruits that we can develop is long-suffering. You see, long-suffering simply means patience to outstand the storm with a good attitude. The good thing about bearing this fruit is that no matter what comes your way, or how long you have to bear the burden, that means that you’re equipped to deal with it all.

I love how the scripture says when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. In other words, your endurance doesn’t grow when everything is going your way. Your patience doesn’t get stronger when nobody’s cutting in front of you in traffic or all the bills are paid and you have money left over for a rainy day. No, your endurance grows when you’ve spent your last dime. Your patience grows stronger when you’ve given it all you’ve got and you’re only half way through the fight.

That’s why the scripture tells us to consider it a privilege when hardships come our way. Without, the hardships we would never grow. We would all simply be toddlers with no wisdom or understanding. We would merely be weaklings with no back bones.

So next time you’re faced with a difficulty, count it all Joy! When the enemy comes at you and tempts you to get upset and bothered, fight Him with what the word says about you. Make a declaration that you’re going to count it all Joy even in the storm.

You should dig your heels in and say that you’re in it for the long haul. Make a bold statement that you’re exercising your faith not your fear. Remember, the enemy responds to your fear but God responds to your faith. Make a point today to rejoice in times of trouble and watch God perform a miracle on your behalf as you charge forth on your journey of life!

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