Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. Jacob (James) 1:2-3, TLV

Oh, Joy?       When those challenges and disasters arise, is our first response, “Yippee! Praise the LORD!”? Probably not. I know my natural inclination isn’t.

However, we aren’t confined to our natural dispositions. We have a choice. We can seek our Heavenly Father — the Creator of the Universe — for wisdom and comfort.

Will the joy arise then? Maybe.

Joy truly arises, I believe when we reflect on what we have learned through those challenges. When we take the time to see His hand and miracles in the midst of it all.

We choose to remember all that our Heavenly Father has done for us — beginning with the breath in our lungs to what His Son sacrificed on our behalf.

As our former Rabbi Joe said in his distinctive Philly accent, “An a-tti-tude of gra-ti-tude.”

This is the day that ADONAI [the LORD] has made!
Let us rejoice and be glad in it!  (Psalm 118:24, TLV)

These reflections—remembrances—are so important. Taking the time to meditate on the goodness of the LORD and what He wants us to learn helps us to grow and deepens our relationship with Him. And that’s worth being joyous over, no matter the circumstances.

Think More About It

What does joy look like for you when you go through trials and tribulations? Love your insights and testimonies.

May we count it all joy, my friends.

Praying for Israel—Prayer Prompts

May He grant you your heart’s desire
and fulfill all your plans.
We will shout for joy in your victory
and lift up our banners in the Name of our God!
May ADONAI fulfill all your petitions. Psalm 20:5-6, TLV

Amen? God bless you for your continued prayers for Israel.