When James encourages us to “consider it pure joy” to go through trials, there is an implicit assumption that we will go through trials. The universal human condition is that suffering is either a present reality or will soon be one. In moments of pain, it is hard to get our heads around why God would allow that pain, much less how we could even consider it joy. But fortunately for us, James gives us a reason; it produces perseverance.

It would seem that God values our perseverance over our comfort. Like a good trainer or coach, He allows us to go through trials so that we might develop the strength to finish the race and keep the faith. It is that endurance, that ability to finish the race and keep the faith that will prove the foundation of our faith. Therefore, joy comes from knowing that despite what is happening right now, we will finish this race one day and spend eternity with Christ. This is the Good News of our salvation and cause for us to worship, regardless of the circumstances.

Identify how God has built endurance in you from previous trials.