What does it mean to count it all joy (James 1:2)?

Answer

In some English translations of the Bible, James 1:2 includes the phrase “count it all joy.” It is the initial directive James provides in his epistle. To comprehend his intention, we must examine the entire passage and adjacent verses: “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you encounter 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).

The term “count” is a financial term, signifying “to evaluate.” When James instructs to “count it all joy,” he urges his readers to assess their perspective on trials. He urges believers to cultivate a renewed and enhanced attitude that views trials from God’s perspective. James desires believers to anticipate “trials of various kinds” «My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; », (James 1:2) in the Christian journey. We should be prepared and not caught off guard when an unexpected trial arises. Trials are an integral part of the Christian walk. Jesus informed His disciples, “In this world you will have trouble” «These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.», (John 16:33).

Typically, a trial is not a cause for joy. James is not proposing that we actively seek trials or welcome hardship; nor should we feign enjoyment in enduring trials. Trials are arduous and distressing. However, they serve a purpose. Trials have the potential to yield positive outcomes within us, and thus, they present an opportunity for experiencing joy.Knowing there is a broader perspective, we can view trials as reasons to rejoice. Even though joy may not be our initial reaction, James encourages us to transform our mindset towards challenges from fear to positive anticipation, faith, confidence, and even joy.

James doesn’t just say “consider it joy,” but he emphasizes “consider it all joy”; meaning, we can regard trials and tribulations as pure, unadulterated, complete joy. Frequently, we perceive trials negatively, or we believe that joy cannot coexist with adversity; even worse, we interpret difficult times as God’s punishment or curse upon us for our sins, rather than what they truly are—opportunities to joyfully grow into Christlikeness.

James 1:3 clarifies that God uses trials to examine our faith and cultivate spiritual endurance. Trials are akin to training exercises for an athlete. They enhance physical strength and resilience. Athletes eagerly anticipate physical and mental challenges due to the rewards that ensue. If we were to lead an effortless life without encountering hardships, our Christian character would remain unchallenged and undeveloped. Trials strengthen our spiritual fortitude, providing us with the resilience and stamina to persevere (Romans 5:2-5). We can find complete joy in trials because through them, we learn to rely on God and have faith in Him. Faith that withstands trials becomes authentic, robust, unwavering faith: “In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed” (1 Peter 1:6-7).

God also employs trials to discipline us: “God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness” «For they ve

Truly for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. », (Hebrews 12:10). Trials help to purge our spiritual shortcomings and mature our faith. They promote joy because they produce holiness in the life of steadfast believers.

James encourages Christians to embrace trials not for what they presently are, but for the outcome God will accomplish through them. James 1:12 promises, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”

When Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers (Genesis 37:1-38), he could not see the beautiful, life-saving outcome that God would accomplish through his years of suffering and perseverance in Egypt. After his ordeal with Potiphar’s wife, Joseph spent long years forgotten in prison. Eventually, God’s plan came to fruition, and Joseph was raised up to the second most powerful position over Egypt. Through many trials and tests, Joseph learned to trust God. Not only did Joseph rescue his family and the nation of Israel from starvation, but he saved all of Egypt, too.

Joseph’s faith had been tested through trials, and perseverance finished its work. After coming through the trials victoriously, Joseph understood God’s good purpose in all he had endured. Joseph was able to see God’s sovereign hand in it all. Mature and complete, Joseph spoke these words of forgiveness to his brothers: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives” (Genesis 50:19-20).

James 1:4 says a believer who perseveres through trials is made “perfect.” This does not mean he or she becomes sinful.Unless or without moral failings. Perfect speaks of maturity or spiritual development. Christians who face trials with a joyful outlook—trusting God to accomplish His good purpose—will develop into full spiritual maturity. They will be equipped with everything they need to overcome every trial they encounter. That’s certainly a good reason to rejoice.

To count it all joy when we face trials, we must evaluate the difficulties in life with eyes of faith and see them in light of God’s good purpose. The translation of James 1:2–4 by J.B. Phillips aids our understanding: “When all kinds of trials and temptations crowd into your lives, my brothers, don’t resent them as intruders, but welcome them as friends! Realize that they come to test your faith and to produce in you the quality of endurance. But let the process go on until that endurance is fully developed, and you will find you have become men of mature character with the right sort of independence.”