Patience From Trials

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. (James 1:2-3 KJV)

2022 seems to have already been filled with all kinds of temptations to be upset; to be angry; to be anxious. Crime has skyrocketed over the last few years. Wages have gone up; but, as many of us predicted, inflation has gone up even higher.  The supply chain has gotten incredibly slow.  

Our vehicle went into the shop yesterday. There is something wrong with the gear shift that caused the key to get stuck in the ignition on accessory when we try to take the key out. The mechanic was able to clean it up a bit so hopefully we can continue driving it until the part comes in. The part is expected in about four weeks.  For this kind of test, patience is required. We will attempt to not drive it unless necessary and hopefully it will last until they can do a more permanent fix. We are retired so this is probably doable for us. But, what about those who have to go to work every day? What happens when their only means of transportation goes down and they can't get the part to fix it? That would definitely be a temptation to much frustration, anxiety, and even anger. It would be a very trying test of one's faith.

As I've gotten older, I have noticed that generations below me have much less patience than I had at their ages. I accepted the temptations as reality and dealt with them. Yes, I would get upset at times; but, not usually enough to take it out on the world around me. 

It would be very wise for those who get so anxious that they can't function when they are faced with trials and temptations to remember that this will all pass and a new trials will come. That is the way of the world and until we learn to patiently deal with whatever comes our way  the anxiety that comes with trials and temptations will be compounded.

With faith; rejoice for God is with you in whatever you are going through and this too shall pass.

God's Peace - Pr. J.