Joy Challenge

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, 

because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 

Allow perseverance to finish its work, 

so that you may be mature and complete,

 not lacking anything.

James 1:2-4 

Do we count it pure joy to suffer for faith’s cause

Or do we let the test destroy untried verbose applause

When trial’s lot employs the disciplining rod

Do we consider it pure joy and give glory to God

And do we let the test complete its sacred task

In ways that human wantonness would never care to ask

Do we gladly endure the cross that is our call

So that our faith will be mature and lack nothing at all

Do we with meek belief reckon Mercy’s consent

To try the wily, smiley chief of double-minded bent

Do we trust sorrow’s joys and suffer willingly

So faith is more than shallow noise lacking maturity

Do we suffer the thorn or simply want the rose

 When from time's flicker we are borne what proof will death expose

Will faith with steadfast gaze endure that last travail

As joy is turned to endless praise for He who did not fail

Dare we with wings untried rise up to meet our Lord

When Heaven's Groom Gathers His Bride dare she be smooth, un-scarred

When faith turns into sight as its armour grows cold

How sweeter then, the pure delight as we His face behold

© Janet Martin