Bagatelle: An unimportant or insignificant thing.
Trivial: Of little significance or importance.
Blip: A temporary or insignificant phenomenon.
For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us. (Romans 8:18)
When our focus is on the trivial, the bagatelle, the blip, ourselves, our suffering is even harder.
Joy!
Instead, we are commanded to consider our trials, our suffering, all joy.
Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials. (James 1:2)
We can have a joyful attitude as we go through trials.
Why Joy?
Near Term
James and Paul give near term reasons why trials can be considered joy.
knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. (James 1:3–4)
And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope. (Romans 5:3–4)
Eternal
In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 1:6–7)
Near and eternal
[Persecution] will lead to an opportunity for your testimony. (Luke 21:13)
Be glad in that day [when persecuted] and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven. (Luke 6:23)
Hebrews 11 gives many examples , both near term and eternal for considering trials as joy.
How Joy?
Look beyond
In order joyfully consider trials, we have to look beyond the trial for the results, both near term and eternal. We have to determine in advance that we will look at the Lord and not ourselves, not our suffering (see The Big Picture).
Trust God
And… we have to determine, in advance, that we will trust God and do what He says in our difficult situation. (See Mad Enough to Die and Point of View) Remember that, for Christians, God is our loving sovereign. God is in control and promises to bring good out of all things (Romans 8:28).
Obey God
Obedience always, ALWAYS, brings blessing.
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Father, help me, help us, continually look to You in love and trust. Help us honor You through whatever comes our way.
