A Daily Devotional with Pastor Doug Crouse March 13, 2018 Not If But When Scripture Reading – James 1:2 - 3 (NLT) “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.” 

Let's be honest, since God likes that best. Have you ever looked down upon someone who may be going through a great time of trial and testing and like Job's friends quipped at least in your mind, 'something must be wrong with them, or this simply would not be happening!

'I suppose it may be possible, though not preferential to live in that kind of a bubble like that for some, and for some length of time. But certainly not forever. For when it comes to those unexpected, unpleasant and to be honest uncontrollable things that all at once seem to take the wind out of our sails and almost the air out of our lungs - today's text reminds us that these things come to all upon planet earth.

For when it comes to these troubles (note - not in the singular in today’s text) the truth is, 'Not If - But When'. And the text calls us as daughters and sons of the loving and living God to look up into His face. Of course this is the only way that we could ever consider such a thing as anything approaching joy whatsoever, leave alone great joy!

However, when we do have that perspective, we also will feel the warmth of His presence flooding our uncertainties, and begin to understand that this life is simply the dress rehearsal for the life to come, which will last forever. This type of a posture also allows us to be a comfort to those who are going through the same types of trials and testing's that we know, we too will one day experience.The result of that kind of living and loving towards others is that they and we along with them will experience growth and maturity in the Spirit of God. So remember wherever you are, and whatever you are experiencing right now that the Son is shining down upon you with His providential care. 

Prayer Heavenly Father I remember that You know what I need, even before I ask. Help me to look up to You, and trust You in all things. And make me a source of encouragement to all people, particularly those going through times of testing, I pray in Jesus name. 

Memory Verse:  Ephesians 4:2 NLT “Always be __________ and ________. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love.”