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None of us like going through difficult times, whether it is from an illness or setback that we can’t control, or from our own mistakes catching up to us. But when we look back on the challenges that we have experienced and the mistakes we have made, we often find that they are the times that lead us to grow in wisdom, compassion, and grace.
For this reason, James writes in the opening words of his letter, that we can be joyful when we face trials, knowing that they will test our faith and produce perseverance, which makes our faith complete.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.
James 1:1-3
So we can look back with gratitude on the hard times, the mistakes, and the pain that have helped us grow into who we are. And when new trials come, we can approach them with joy, thankful that God is with us, prepared to teach us new lessons through them.
