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Joy in Trials: Standing Strong When Life Hits Hard

A man stands in the pouring rain with a peaceful smile on his face, eyes closed and head tilted upward. Lightning strikes in the dark sky behind him, but a soft golden light breaks through, illuminating his face. Bright orange wildflowers grow at his feet, symbolizing hope and growth amidst the storm. Text reads, “This is what joy in trials looks like.”
Even in the downpour, peace is possible. When we fix our eyes on God—not the storm—we find joy that defies circumstance. This is what joy in trials truly looks like.

Today’s scripture is one I felt led to share—an encouraging reminder we all need from time to time.


Finding joy is all about perspective. It’s about where we choose to focus. And the opportunity for joy? It’s all around us—even in the middle of our struggles. That’s the beauty of joy in trials.

Take trials, for example. Joy in trials doesn’t come from the pain itself—it comes from understanding the purpose of the trial and who is in control. God doesn’t waste a single hardship. Every problem and challenge we face is shaping us into the warrior He’s called us to be.


But that transformation can’t happen when our focus is locked on the trial instead of the purpose— on the pain rather than the growth. Joy in trials is found when we shift our eyes to what God is doing in us and through us.


Still, despite it all, overwhelming victory is ours through Jesus. Don’t let the enemy rob you of your joy by shifting your focus. Stay locked onto His promises. Trust His plan. Keep your eyes on what He’s doing, even when it’s hard to see—and you’ll begin to find joy in trials you never thought possible.


Amen.


Romans 5:3–9 (NLT)

[3] We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance.[4] And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.[5] And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.[6] When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners.[7] Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good.[8] But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.[9] And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation.

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