“Count it all joy, my brethren, when you meet various trials, 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).
It seems so counter-intuitive to talk about “joy” and “trials” at the same time, doesn’t it? But as people of faith, we understand the connection. We know that the love of God and the joy that comes from Him are intertwined with suffering and sacrifice. Sometimes, actually often, it’s challenging to hear the Lord in those moments of pain; we struggle to listen to Him and know He is present in the messiness with us. And yet, eventually, we know God is there. Jesus is always with us, calling us to see Him–calling us to more.
Sometimes it is easy for us to talk to Jesus about our trials. Other times, though, it is helpful to sit at His feet—at the foot of the Cross—with another who can witness how Jesus is inviting us into deeper relationship with Him.
Spiritual direction can help us reorient ourselves to God. It invites us to open and attune our hearts to His voice so that we might discern how and to what He is calling us.
Even in the midst of trials and sufferings, the Lord shows us that the deepest and truest joy ultimately and always comes from uniting with Him. And when we do–when we listen to Him, allow Him to carry us, and when we can see ourselves through His eyes–we are transformed and renewed, “perfect…complete, lacking in nothing.”
May we all find the path to becoming good and faithful servants of the One who created and loves us.
Are you interested in spiritual direction? Or are you wondering about it and want to learn more? If so, please text or email me so that we can connect. I would love to share the breadth and depth and gloriousness of this journey with you.
Text me at: 610-574-7779
Email: jnlindner68@gmail.com
Sistering to Sophia 