As Christians, we too are persecuted, and we “meet with various trials.” But if we remember that trials endured strengthen our faith, we will “consider it all joy” when they befall us. If we maintain our integrity to God during trials, this will bring us lasting happiness.

5. What may our trials include, and what happens when we successfully endure them?

⁵ Our trials include adversities common to mankind. For example, poor health may plague us. God is not now performing miraculous cures, but he answers our prayers for the wisdom and fortitude needed to deal with illness. (Psalm 41:1-3) We also suffer for righteousness’ sake as persecuted Witnesses of Jehovah. (2 Timothy 3:12; 1 Peter 3:14) When we successfully endure such trials, our faith is proved, becoming one of “tested quality.” And when our faith triumphs, this “works out endurance.” Faith made stronger through trials will help us to endure future tests.

6. How does “endurance have its work complete,” and what practical steps can be taken when we are under trial?

⁶ “But,” says James, “let endurance have its work complete.” If we allow a trial to run its course without trying to end it quickly by unscriptural means, endurance will do the “work” of making us complete as Christians, not lacking in faith. Of course, if a trial exposes some weakness, we should seek Jehovah’s help to overcome it. What if the trial is the temptation to engage in sexual immorality? Let us pray about that problem and then act in harmony with our prayers. We may need to change our place of employment or to take other steps to maintain integrity to God.—Genesis 39:7-9; 1 Corinthians 10:13.

Happy Are Those Enduring Trial

11. What are the prospects for those who cling to their faith in the face of trials?

¹¹ Rich or poor, we can be happy only if we endure our trials. (James 1:12-15) If we endure trials with our faith intact, we can be pronounced happy, for there is joy in doing what is right in God’s sight. By clinging to their faith unto death, spirit-begotten Christians receive “the crown of life,” immortality in the heavens. (Revelation 2:10; 1 Corinthians 15:50) If we have earthly hopes and maintain our faith in God, we can look forward to everlasting life on a paradise earth. (Luke 23:43; Romans 6:23) How good Jehovah is to all who exercise faith in him!