“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” - James 1:2-3

The moment you begin stepping into who God has called you to be, it’s going to come with opposition. When you choose to live fully surrendered to Jesus, you become a target. The enemy sees a life on fire for God and wants to put it out. And when that opposition comes, your response matters.

Instead of looking to God and asking, “Why is this happening to me?” try thanking Him for the reality that your surrendered life is a threat to hell. If the enemy is coming against you, it’s because you’re walking in purpose. It’s because your faithfulness is causing damage to his plans. So when trials come, it’s not always a sign you’re doing something wrong. It’s often proof you’re doing something right.

But let’s be clear. Not every bad day is an attack from the enemy. Sometimes the struggle you face is a result of your own lack of discipline. If you slept in and missed an important meeting, that’s not the devil’s fault. It’s a choice you made. You have to own those moments and make better decisions moving forward.

But when you’re truly locked in and living for God, the trials and tribulations you face are part of the journey. James 1:2-3 reminds us to “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” God isn’t trying to crush you. He’s strengthening you.

Don’t be discouraged by the adversity. Let it confirm that you’re moving in the right direction. Let it fuel your passion to keep pressing forward. The enemy wouldn’t be coming after you if you weren’t doing something powerful for the Kingdom. Keep going. Stay faithful. God’s not done with you yet.