November 23

Pain’s Proper Focus


God blesses people who endure testing. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

James 1:12 (NLT)


… whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy….

James 1:2 (NLT)


Few people enjoy tests … until after they discover they passed, perhaps with an A or an A+. Then it’s party time! While many of us dislike academic testing, we really hate life’s tests—the aches and pains of poor health, the rough edge of ruined relationships or the gut-wrenching reality of failure. No doubt, the test sometimes hurts. Life hurts, but it also provides us opportunity as we dig deep into our souls and show ourselves and others what’s really in there. Our tests, it seems, are best viewed as opportunities.

The troubles of this world provide us a chance to grow, to show God’s strength and to reveal a beautiful attitude of grace. And something more. The test accelerates our ability to lay up real treasure, and, don't forget, it allows us what we may need most—a wakeup, a nudge to adjust our focus.

While the here and now seems so important ... it will pass. Faith however, focuses on that which endures, and it is the test that brings life to that faith as it reminds us where to focus.


Father—help us to treasure what you treasure. Help us to love Jesus. Amen.