Steadfastness

Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing (James 1:2-4)... The steadfastness of mind You will keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in You (Isaiah 26:3)... Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope...In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trial, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:3-9)!

A friend reminded me of this truth in James. I'm not being persecuted at all (I've usually thought these verses only apply to those being persecuted), but I've definitely have been twisted and molded this last year...encountering various trials involving my relationships that have really been testing my faith. But now, to consider it all with joy, knowing that God has the outcome in His hands, is wonderful. I want to be perfect and complete, and this brings praise to God. Steadfastness is a beautiful thing, and I must admit, I haven't been steadfast in much at all. Well, not true. I've been stubbornly steadfast on the wrong side of the issue. But, since thinking on these things, and accepting them and living by the joy that God provides, I think the last couple days have been my best so far this summer!