Responding to trials

When faced with trials there are two basic choices…..a Godly response or a self/worldly one. We try to blame others and/or circumstances, but the truth of the matter is, WE control our reactions-it is our responsibility-WE are held accountable for ourselves. Look at the example in Job 1:20. A response of WORSHIP in times of despair/struggles! That is not natural to me, I tend to complain or throw a pity party with myself as the center of attention. This is a great example of needing God’s word on our hearts, studying and being steeped in the WORD (2 Timothy 2:15). How else can we have the faith and trust we need to face trials. They are going to happen. They prepare us to become more like Christ, a life-long pursuit/molding by our Heavenly Father who loves us so much to discipline His children-just as we do our earthly children. Our response needs to become so we react to God and His love, character, compassion and not a rejoinder of the circumstances. Do I really believe that what matters most is what happens ‘in’ me' rather than ‘to’ me? Wow! What constant work my heart and attitude needs-a daily supply of God’s word. Check out the following examples from God’s word: James 1:2-4 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. 1 Peter 4:1-2. Since Jesus went through everything you're going through and more, learn to think like Him. Think of your sufferings as a weaning from that old sinful habit of always expecting to get your own way. Then you'll be able to live out your days free to pursue what God wants instead of being tyrannized by what you want. Romans 5:3-5, Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. Hebrews 12:11, "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." 1 Peter 4:12-13, Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. An attitude/response of Worship & Rejoicing during trials!!! I have a long way to go! Blessings in your pursuit…….TO