Collateral benefits! A person decides to work out daily and discovers they begin to have greater stamina for their activities and work throughout the day. A disciplined weight loss program not only results in improved appearance, but borderline diabetes improves and activities that were once a tremendous effort become easier! The effort and discipline expended, although painful and unpleasant, was worth it! How does the adage go? … “No pain – no gain!”
Much better than any adage, however, is Biblical truth! Here’s what the Bible says about the “collateral benefit” of trials that we may face if we respond to them correctly…
“Count it all joy, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (James 1:2–4 ESV)
Just this morning I had a bit of a struggle with some trials… They were nothing compared with some I have faced. It’s good to know though, that God is at work in them all to produce the collateral benefit of character… Steadfastness (or endurance), spiritual maturity, completeness, and ultimately “lacking nothing!” Sounds good to me – the collateral benefits of trials! Lord, help me to cooperate with you in the trials that come my way. Your work within my life through the trials you allow is worth the pain!
