Paul counted his blessings. If you need a refresher on his multiple trial-trails look up 2 Corinthians 11:23-33. In 2 Corinthians 12:7-8 he had asked the Lord to remove a trial. The Lord introduced him to His way through. Verse 9 says, “…My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness…”

James 1:2 in the J. B. Phillips says, “When all kinds of trials and temptations crowd into your lives, my brothers, don’t resent them as intruders, but welcome them as friends!” Think for a moment how you welcome a friend into your home that you haven’t seen in a long time.

We count our trials as joy because they are not purpose-less but purpose-full. Every trial tests our faith, probing deep to expose anything hidden. The dross remains hidden from us, but is like a buried landmine.