How do you handle your anger when someone has purposefully wronged you?  Let’s look at three options the world likes to give:

Option 1:  Move on, let it go or suck it up.  This recipe is often considered the “mature way” to handle anger, but often ends in bitterness and broken relationships.

Option 2:  Let your anger fly and have a tantrum.  This is considered immature and scares others, so they become afraid – and often ends with broken relationships.

Option 3: Justify your anger with entitlement.  Punching a hole in the wall is too scary, so you find a hidden place like a closet, use your stud finder to mark a spot on the sheet-rock where there are no studs.  When no one is watching, you tape your hand (so your hand doesn’t get hurt) and punch a hole in the wall.

What if the Bible gave us a joyful fourth option!  What would you say to Jesus’ brother James if he said to you, “Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance so you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.  And when you have stood the test, you’ll receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” James 1:2-4

James is saying I should consider it pure joy when I face trials and trouble.  And when I do, my perseverance and maturity grow and Jesus rewards me!

This is like an athlete who chooses to work through the perseverance of training – but who wins the reward of victory.

Consider it pure joy, persevere, grow and Jesus rewards me!!  Consider it pure joy!  Imagine how this one choice can change our lives.