“When it stops hurting, it will feel better.” Our kids did not find this observation very helpful when they were small. What do you say to people who are hurting? In our scripture reading in Job this week, I see that his friends actually did better when they were quiet. Opening their mouths confirmed their insensitivity and unawareness of Job’s need.
James is not engaging in platitudes with the scattered believers of the first century. They are suffering and he wants to encourage them. “Consider it pure joy . . .” Trials do not tend to evoke joy for me. “Make it stop!” is a common prayer for me when I encounter pain. Why would believers treat suffering differently than others? We see the bigger picture. When trials test our faith, God is working in them to produce perseverance.
You have heard that it was said, “God will never give you more than you can bear.” But I say to you, “God will always give you more than can you can bear. But he will never give you more than he can sustain you through.” God is working in our pain. So we pray with my friend, “God, do not waste this pain.”
