Having joy in trouble

Impossible, y ou might say and I would agree with you if it weren't for this verse in James 1 verse 2, "my brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials." To have joy in trials and that means any trial...all kinds, requires great faith, more than just a mental assent, it requires faith like the grain of mustard seed, faith that will grow, unwavering faith like James talks about, faith that comes by hearing the Word of God and that includes reading it every day. It requires faith in a God Who is able to give joy in sorrow or whatever test may come your way. Just like the wisdom that Jeames talks about in verse 6, joy must be appropriated in the same way; "let him ask of God." Just as God will give you wisdom if you ask Him, God will also give joy and real joy does not depend on circumstance, it depends on God who never changes. Earthly, sensual, carnal joy(if there is such a thing ) depends on the circumstances at present It is transient, fleeting, a kind of happy feeling that only lasts while circumstance is in your favour. It is not real joy. That real joy only comes from God and it comes as we spend time in His presence. If you lack joy, perhaps you have never excperienced Jesus in your heart and life. You need to turn your life over to Him and He will give you joy and peace and happiness. A Spirit filled life should be a model of a joy filled life. Material blessings may bring a certain amount of contentment, if circumstances are just right, but they do not produce joy. Only Jesus can satisfy your soul. He will give you joy and peace like you have never known. Let Him come into your heart today, just ask Him and He will.