From Trials to Joy: Stories of Hope

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 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

The gift of worship, prayer, and praise to our great God is something we can all cling to as believers. These verses from James are often the foundation of my own prayers. Yet if I’m honest, “Count it all joy” rarely feels natural when I face struggles in my work, ministry, or personal life. My first reaction isn’t joy; it’s usually anger, worry, or disappointment.

 

But Scripture reminds us that perseverance, patience, and determination are forged in the testing of our faith. Some of the most challenging seasons in my life have become moments of lasting joy—not because the trials were easy, but because God proved faithful. The knowledge that He strengthens us through hardship becomes the true joy. I once had a friend who answered his phone with, “Joy Central.” That phrase reminds me that through Christ, even the hardest trials can be transformed into a testimony of joy, making us complete and lacking in nothing.

 

This truth is also the heartbeat of Heartland International Ministries. Every day we hear stories from across the globe—persecution, disaster, poverty, child trafficking, and heartbreaking loss. Just this past month in Nepal, the worst monsoons in years unleashed mudslides that buried entire villages. Survivors were difficult to find, and many families were left without hope.

 

We know we cannot erase trials from this world. But we can stand with those who suffer. We can bring hope to one child, one family, one community at a time. Through the steadfast faith of our partners and the generosity of friends like you, lives are being restored. Together, we provide education for children, business opportunities for families, safety for the vulnerable, and spiritual encouragement for communities who desperately need to know they are not forgotten.

 

This is the mission of HIM—turning trials into testimonies of God’s steadfast love. Will you join us in that mission today?

 

To God Be the Glory.

Byron

 

Our partner in India is racing to bring aid to villages devastated by catastrophic monsoon floods, where entire communities have been washed away and survivors are in desperate need of help.

Please help us bring hope and relief to devastated communities, reminding them they are not forgotten.