Count it all joy?

Read James 1:1-8

  I have always found it interesting that James chooses to start off his letter with such a depressing topic.  I mean, he barely introduces himself before diving straight into "trials" and "testing of your faith". There is no warming up the audience, no easing into the subject.  But rather, there is a very direct, "this is life", start to his letter.
  Truth is, James is right. Trials and faith testing events are exactly what make up this life.  There is no way to hide from them, and therefore no reason to dance around the subject.  So I think it is very fitting that James starts things off cold, harsh, and real.
  "testing of your faith produces steadfastness" - We have the tendency to look at tests as a bad thing.  I know in high school and college, tests were often very stressful events.  I can remember spending many sleep deprived nights trying to make sure I knew everything about everything I thought might be on the test.  Seven years after graduating college, I still have nightmares about arriving at a classroom for a test that I didn't know I had that will prevent me from getting my degree.
  But the truth is, tests are given for our benefit.  In school, a test is given after a set of curriculum has been taught in order to gauge how well the curriculum has been learned.  From that, proper decisions can be made about whether more review is needed or if the next set of curriculum can be explored.
  With chains and ropes, manufactures will test every item produced to twice its listed strength.  This is done for both the safety and the confidence of the customer.  If you buy a chain that claims to be able to hold 500lbs, it has already been tested by its maker for any weak links and proven to be strong.
  Athletes and weightlifters will test their strength periodically during their training.  This is done by pushing their body to its absolute maximum effort and capabilities.  Once they know their absolute max, then they know what changes need to be made to their training regimens.  These changes will allow the athlete to continue to grow and improve.   
  Life's tests and trials allow us to know where we stand, how strong our faith is, and what changes need to be made so that we can grow and improve.  And the most encouraging thing about this whole text is the fact that we are provided with the ultimate cheat code.  We have a father in heaven with all wisdom and knowledge who is ready and willing to walk us through each test.  He is waiting for us to seek His wisdom, and ready to "give it generously" today.