“Count it all joy, my brethren, when you meet various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness (patience.) And let steadfastness (patience) have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (James 1:2-4).

It almost seems like life was easier before we came into a personal encounter with Christ.  For no sooner did the initial honeymoon time with the Lord fade off, than it appears as if “all hell broke loose” soon afterwards.  Trials from within and without seemed to be the order of the day, often driving the young Christian to despair.  But as James says, patience is one of those golden virtues that God develops in us using trials as the means. Continue reading →