Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind 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. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.
James 1:2-4 NLT
Why should we count it joy when trouble comes our way? It's all about the fruit. Trials and tests aren't fun, but they are rewarding.
Peter says it this way: "When life gets really difficult, don't jump to conclusion that God isn't on the job. Instead, be glad ... it's a spiritual refining process with glory just around the corner (1 Peter 4:12-14 MSG). How often do we get offended or draw conclusions before even understanding the situation or the context? Life involves pressure; it's normal! Anything we do to progress our lives increases pressure: school, work, starting a business, giving birth. Those who handle the responsibility lean into and face the squeeze. Instruments are fine-tuned with the right amount of pressure. The sound of an orchestra happens through tuning -- a powerful testament to the beauty that comes from unity and harmony.
The issue isn't whether you'll face trials or pressure, but how will you respond? Instead of getting offended or jumping to conclusions, what's one thing you can do today so you don't run from it but embrace it! Diamonds are made when carbon deposits are subject to high temperature and pressure. You can't raise a family, have a strong career or go through life without pressure. You have more in you, and he's producing diamonds out of crisis.