Live-fire training

James 1:2 tells us to “count it all joy” when we experience various trials. Trials meaning what, exactly?

Think of it like this… live-fire training. The primary mission of the U. S. Army, according to the Army themselves, is “to fight and win our Nation’s wars…” Victory over our enemy.

Trials =  training. Tests are part of the training. The soldier’s appropriate response to a test is not to take the attacks lying down, but to make use of the arduous training he’s received to achieve success on the battlefield.

Live-fire training proved essential when United States troops came under heavy attack on Pacific island battlefields during WWII. As did hand-to-hand combat training, and weapons training, and physical fitness training. The enemy was determined to kill every US soldier, and yes, many died.

They died fighting for their fellow soldiers and for their country.

When they faced live fire, they did not lay down and weep because the General wouldn’t come fire the rifle for them.

The purpose of training, the purpose of testing – trials –  is not complicated. Victory over the enemy. John 10:10.