Easy As 1 2️⃣3️⃣

In this life, we can't avoid troubles and trials coming our way.

They can really catch us off-guard and throw off your entire day, week, month, or even year... but the Bible gives us the formula for dealing with... well, life and all its ups and downs.

Chapter 1 of the Book of James for example, offers some great practical guidance for living...

First, face the trials.  Don't cower in a corner as your obstacles rain down blows upon you and the light of your joy.  Gird up your loins, be strong and of good courage and stare that threat down.

Secondly, don't do this (face the trials) while at the same time harbouring fear in your heart.  Stare it down with a smile on your face and with joy in your heart.  Let the joy that springs up from within you shine through...  the joy that comes from the hope of knowing that God is in control and the outcome IS victory.

Then thirdly, allow this blessed assurance to push you across the finish line.  Etch a notch in your belt.  The belt of truth... and the truth is that as long as you trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding... you will be able to persevere... every time.  This time and the next... and the next.

So the next time trials happen across your doorstep, don't freak out.  Don't be overcome with anxiety and worry.  Just lean on the Word of God as it brings you through your journey.  It's as Easy As 1-2-3.