Happy is the one who endures testing, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life, which the Lord promised to those who love Him. Jacob (James) 1:12, TLV

Enjoying the Test?   The first time I rode a rollercoaster was like a right-of-passage moment.  Looking back, it reminds me of facing my fears. One of my younger brothers and my aunt (who was only 18 mos. older than me), were already frequent riders and they pointed out much younger kids getting in line, smiling in anticipation.

My decision was part peer-pressure and part believing that since they had survived their many rides, AND wanted to go again and again, I surrendered — to get in line. Perhaps my courage would grow as we waited our turn?

So, as we stood in the long line for the roller-coaster, I lived a thousand deaths. I feared every possible scenario. When the bar clanked across our laps, I tested it to be sure it was strong and secure, then considered, even at that point, retreating.

As the coaster clanked-clanked-clanked up the steep ascent into oblivion, my companions laughed and whooped and hollered in glee. I had a death-grip on that steel bar and had lost every drop of saliva in my mouth.

Then came the deep dive that made my stomach crash. I don’t know if it was the G-force or sheer terror, but a scream pushed out loud and clear.

Somewhere along the twists, turns, climbs, and dips, the screaming included laughter. And when the ride was over, I was a better person for having done it. I had overcome my fears, right?

Once we were on solid ground, my brother and aunt said, “Let’s do it again!” Most likely the adrenaline convinced me to nod my head, and before I realized we were back in line. After several more rides, I knew I could strap in and enjoy the ride, even though it was scary sometimes.

We can choose to live in fear as we face tests, but even if we begin that way, once we are “strapped in” by our loving Heavenly Father, we can ride it out and with the screams, maybe find some joy, and be a better person for it.

Hold on. Those who endure end up being happy? Maybe because we stepped out in faith, and He helped us conquer our fear. Then we could find happiness and blessings in that knowledge — at the end of the ride.