52 Weeks of ForwardSample

Detour Ahead

By Pastor Matt Perkins

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." JAMES 1:2-4 (NIV)

Recently, Kari and I drove to San Francisco to catch a flight. Everything was smooth sailing until we got within two miles of the airport. A highway patrol officer passed us, turned on his lights, and shut the highway down completely! We managed to get off the highway in time but had no clue where we were going. We could see the airport right ahead of us but had to trust the GPS to reroute us to the destination.

Do you ever feel like you are being rerouted due to life’s circumstances? What is your first reaction? Is it to blame God or others? The next time you find yourself on a detour, instead of getting angry or frustrated, consider it pure joy! Here’s why:

1. Trials build perseverance.

Perseverance is the ability to withstand difficulties and continue despite setbacks. Everyone faces trials in life—it’s inevitable. But how we react to those trials determines whether we will move forward. Don’t get discouraged—use trials as an opportunity to build up your perseverance muscle!

2. Perseverance leads to maturity.

James 1:4 tells us that if we let perseverance finish its work, we will be mature and complete—not lacking anything. When we persevere through trials, we grow in maturity. So the next time you find yourself in the midst of a trial, push through and watch how much you grow as a result!

3. God uses our trials for good.

God can use hardships to grow our faith and make us more dependent on Him. He can use them as opportunities to show His power and provision in our lives. So even though trials are never fun while going through them, we can rest assured knowing that God is using them for our good! (See also Rom. 8:28.)

MOVING FORWARD

Don’t get angry or frustrated when you find yourself on a detour; consider it pure joy! Don’t waste your detours—use them as an opportunity to become more like Him!