Trying and difficult seasons are not always fun. In fact, for many of you today, trying and difficult seasons are not something you will ever consider fun. I don't think I've ever had someone come to me with a problem saying, "Yes! God is testing me today and I'm excited for this suffering!"
The process of going through hard times may feel like a tough stretch. We all deal with times where there is very little promise and a whole lot of difficulties. But James 1:2-4 exhorts us with this: "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
It may seem absurd that James tells us to "count it all joy" the trials that we face, but that's exactly what he says. How is it that trials can be something worth rejoicing instead of being something worth scorning? The answer isn't as obvious at it should be, but here it is - because we need bad times too.
So many Christians think that being with God means receiving a promise of unending good times, blessings, provisions, abundance and various good things that will bring only good times. We don't think we need bad times to define us. But as followers of Christ, we are defined not just by our moments of comfort and plenty. We are just as or even more defined by our trying moments.
Good times are wonderful. God wants us to live in seasons where things go our way, finances come in when we need them, we don't experience relational tensions and can enjoy other favourable circumstances. But the danger that comes with getting everything we want is that it can turn us into complacent and unchallenged believers who do not step out in faith and do not challenge ourselves to newer heights in our walk with God and in our purpose.
That's why bad times serve their purpose - because they're meant to teach us important lessons that good times cannot. Bad times exist to stretch our faith, perseverance, patience and compassion, so that as James said, we would "...be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." (James 1:4)
The idea of being a Christian that lacks nothing is exactly what Jesus wants for all of us. He wants us to be a complete package built up in character, hope, wisdom, knowledge and every good thing that is of Christ. In other words, Jesus wants us to be more like Him. The only way we will ever see that happen is if we are tested and tried. One major way that God tests us is by allowing us to go through bad times just as much as He will allow us to go through good times.
