Courageous Joy

"Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him....." James 1:2 -

Consider - a conscious choice of my will, deliberate decision to count

All - every bit of life

Joy - not happy; but a deep trust and satsifaction in Jesus, in where He leads and in what He provides

my Brethren - Christians aren't exempt

when - not if you encounter trials - you WILL encounter them and you don't have to search for them

various - varigated - multi-colored a RAINBOW - a Rainbow of trials

trials - tests....

endurance - ability to stand up under pressure

Let endurance work - and I will be made perfect (mature) and complete.....

And when I need wisdom while walking through a trial - He's there, I need only ask in faith. He doesn't consider my frailty with reproach!

Two weeks ago my very best friend in the world, my sweetheart and lover left. Tomorrow two daughters of my very heart will leave. And...yes....life is good. They are all following the heart of Jesus. They are all walking in the path He set them upon.

And me? I'm making a conscious CHOICE...to be content with where Jesus has led...to leap into His arms and draw strength and I can feel endurance growing.....and I'm praying for wisdom as I walk through these goodbyes because they are very hard on the little ones.

I have to run and teach. I'd appreciate prayers for tonight and tomorrow. For safe travel for the girls. They'll be traveling until Sunday. That they'll be able to talk to Mike before they leave....and for His sweet peace and comfort to flood our home....

Thanks ya'all.

Choosing Joy - in this season of rainbows! {g}