We are coming to the end of 2020 and it is truly difficult to even know what to say. It has been a difficult year around the world. Unfortunately, the ramifications of this year are likely to continue to plague us. It would be nice if we could just hit the reboot button and get a fresh start. However, our very existence on this Earth means that we will have to deal with the happenings on it. None of us can fully avoid it no matter how much we might like to. So why is it, that even with all the turmoil this year has brought, some still hold their heads up high unfazed by the struggles? That question may not be answered the same way by all but let me tell why Christians have the ability to do this year after year.

In the book of James, he states early in the first chapter, “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials,” (James 1:2). To many this is an insane concept. Why would you ever be happy or joyful to undergo trials in life? First, think about what it says. The word “consider” in this verse has a awesome notion built into the root of the word that means ‘lead’ or ‘leadership.’ This means that James is telling us to lead our minds in this way. Simply put, it means we have to decide to have this type of attitude in our lives. God does not promise us that our lives will be easy, in fact, there is plenty said throughout Scripture that would prove otherwise. What we are asked to do is to have the right perspective in life. Bad times will come and go but we are told what these trials can bring IF we have the right perspective.

Continue looking at James picking back up at verse three, “knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let that endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:3-4). What we can see is that these trials or struggles that we deal with has value. Think of exercising, you put your body through difficult training so that your body will be strengthened. Your muscles may hurt and be sore but slowly you will see the benefit of that labor. From a spiritual standpoint this is what James is getting at. With the right perspective the struggles or trials that come are way can make us stronger rather than tear us down. This can lead to us becoming complete (mature) Christians that can endure what this world throws at us.

Maybe now it is easier to understand why, even when life is tough or the world seems to be falling apart around us, those who believe in God can continue pushing forward with a positive outlook. If you need a little more insight look at what James 1:12 says, “Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” We can push forward with joy because of what we look ahead to, what we have been promised.

I wish I could promise that life would get easier or better just because a digit changes on the calendar. What can be promised is that struggles and trials will always be a part of life. What perspective will you choose to view them through? If you want to walk through life with hope and joy ever before you then align yourself with God. If your really have a desire for 2021 to be an amazing year, then I suggest that your prepare your mind with a fresh perspective. One that will hopefully lead you back to God’s open arms. May this new year bring peace and joy to all, but especially to those of the faith.