Temptations and trials

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. When tempted, no one should say, " God is tempting me" For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. Don't be deceived, my dear brothers. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created. - James 1:12-17

Temptations and trials are not necessary bad things unless we choose to wave a white flag to them. Perhaps they can bring out good qualities like creativity and perseverance as we endure and eventually triumph over them. Too often, they also show our dark sides and weak points like impatience, greed and pride. I heard somewhere that adversity does not make a character, it simply reveals it. Should it reveal any cracks, I pray that the big hand of the Potter will mend the cracks and strengthen the instruments/ vessels through which His glory shines.