We all have experienced the challenge and frustration of learning something new at some point in our lives, algebra, a foreign language, a new piece on a musical instrument, a trick on a skateboard, tennis backhand, or one of a thousand other skills. The learning process rarely happens with one try and then we have the skill mastered. Most of the time, it takes many attempts to get it right once, then many repetitions of doing it correctly before we can do it right, at will.

In a way, this is what James is describing in James 1:2-4, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

James is saying we build up our skills as faithful Christians by going through the difficult practice testing our faith, but when we do this enough, we will have these “skills of faith” mastered.

Dear Lord, You are always giving us the opportunity to face challenges that improve our skills to serve you. Help us see these challenges as the learning and development that they are, and not irritants for us to complain about. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.