Consider it pure joy

James 1 v 2-4 says "Consider it pure joy, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of you faith produces perseverance.  Let it finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything".

I find that sometimes it's hard to see your own growth and maturing.  Recently, a year on from my Dad's cancer diagnosis he had another operation, but I found myself responding differently to how I might have done before.  I was more peaceful, more trusting of God, I was able to take a step back, let go of control and pray.  "See how much you've grown", I felt like a child being measured on a doorpost by God the Father.  

This is is a picture of God measuring me on the doorpost leading into my Dad's hospital room.