Falling in Love with Pain
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”
- James the Just
A Critical Re-Frame
Much of our growth and well-being in life hinges on how we perceive and respond to pain. Challenges—both expected and unforeseen—along with stress, setbacks, and struggles, are unavoidable companions on our journey. Moreover, everything of value we pursue demands some degree of sacrifice, discomfort, or hardship. For many, such obstacles become insurmountable deterrents, leading to stagnation or despair. Yet for others, these trials serve as a blueprint for refinement, a fire that fortifies, and the crucible where perseverance is perfected.
Remember—suffering is inescapable, and our perspective on these challenges defines not only our resilience but also the measure of our development as individuals. By intentionally reframing our trials not as a destructive force, but as a refining fire—an essential step in life's process of strengthening and elevation—we equip ourselves not only to pursue growth but also to endure and flourish through the inevitable difficulties that shape our existence.
The Smith & The Furnace
A powerful illustration of this truth can be found in the work of the blacksmith. This ancient trade brilliantly highlights the transformative process of life. The smith begins his work by selecting raw material—impure and seemingly worthless scraps of metal. These fragments are placed in a crucible and are subjected to the extreme heat of the furnace, where the transformation begins. As the fire intensifies, the metal melts, and its impurities (dross) rise to the surface, only then to be burned away and completely removed.
Once purified, the smith removes the molten metal and moves to the forge, where it is hammered with great force into its destined shape—each strike refining its form and strengthening its core. With every blow, the once shapeless metal begins to take on its destined purpose. Finally, the metal is quenched in oil, rapidly cooling and hardening it to solidify its new structure. But the process does not end there. The smith then puts the metal through a tempering process—controlled reheating that ensures flexibility and durability, preventing it from becoming too brittle.
At last, the smith polishes the metal, grinding the surface until it becomes smooth and reflective. When it becomes reflective enough that he can see himself in its surface, he knows the work is complete.
What was once discarded scrap has now become something of purpose and value—not in spite of the fire—but because of it.
The Smithing Process
Can you see the parallels? We all undergo our own smithing process—seasons where life feels like we’re being beaten down, subjected to intense heat, and relentlessly tested. But in these moments, we face a choice: to see the pain as a force that breaks us or to embrace it as the refining fire shaping us into something of greater purpose and value. It’s imperative that we zoom out and take a macro perspective to truly understand what’s unfolding during these times.
From a Christian perspective, this process takes on profound meaning. The Smith is God Himself, who allows trials not to destroy us but to purify and strengthen us, shaping us into His image—His reflection. Just as a blacksmith knows his work is complete when he sees his reflection in the polished metal, so too does God refine us until we reflect His character, His strength, and His purpose.
Think of the words of James: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter various trials.” When was the last time you viewed your suffering as pure joy? Perhaps the fire you are enduring is not breaking you—it is making you.
The Obstacle is the Way
The great Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius wrote in Meditations (Book 5, Chapter 20): "What obstructs the path becomes the path. The obstacle is a tool for progress, not a barrier. It is in our power to use resistance as an advantage." In other translations, this idea is expressed as: "The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way." Both versions highlight his emphasis on reframing obstacles as opportunities for growth and progress.
Those who master this mindset do not merely endure suffering; they harness it. They step forward, not in defiance of adversity, but because of it. They come to understand that obstacles are not roadblocks to progress but rather the very road itself. It is in the fire that we are formed. It is in the struggle that we are strengthened. And it is through overcoming that we discover the depth of our purpose and the heights to which we are called.
The Science of Viewing Pain as Pleasure
Renowned neuroscientist and professor at Stanford University, Andrew Huberman, has provided deep insight into the brain's mechanisms and the role of neuroplasticity in pain and perseverance. He explains, “The biggest changes in brain function happen when we are in a state of effort and even frustration.” He also emphasizes that “Neuroplasticity is triggered by effort, focus, and errors. You must make mistakes and struggle for real learning to occur.” Additionally, the prefrontal cortex, which governs decision-making, focus, and resilience, strengthens when we push through difficulties. This process is deeply tied to dopamine, the brain’s reward neurotransmitter, which can be reshaped through effort and perseverance. Research suggests that by consistently engaging in challenging tasks, we can rewire our brains to associate struggle with progress, allowing effort itself to become a source of motivation rather than discomfort.
Think about this for a moment—the idea that we can rewire our brains through perseverance in challenging situations is absolutely fascinating. One may even consider it a superpower. Consider the process of studying or learning a new skill—it can feel uncomfortable to sit and concentrate for extended periods of time. However, by persisting through that discomfort—the moments precisely when we should be pressing in—we can reshape our dopamine response, linking pleasure to effort and focus—the very tasks we once perceived as unpleasant. As Writer Robert Greene puts it, “The moment you are most frustrated is precisely when you are about to learn something new. Do not flee from this feeling. Lean into it.” In doing so, we train ourselves to associate difficult experiences with progress, unlocking new levels of growth and performance.
Self-Reflection Questions
Based on the concepts just covered, challenge yourself this week to reflect on the following:
How do I typically perceive challenges, pain, and suffering? Do I see them as meaningless and destructive forces, or as opportunities for growth?
What impurities (bad habits or limiting beliefs) have been revealed and perhaps even shed during my recent moments of significant suffering?
What would it look like to view my current challenges as "pure joy," as James puts it? Selah.
Suggested Actions
This week, choose one challenge you are currently facing and intentionally reframe it as a refining process that is strengthening you.
Write down and list the ways this trial could be making you stronger, more resilient, or sharpening a specific skill.
Take one small action that leans into growth— whether that means stepping outside your comfort zone, addressing a weakness, having a difficult conversation, or simply committing to consistent study and effort.
Legacy Impact
Reframing pain is one of the most powerful and profound lessons one can pass down to future generations. Make it your intention to master this perspective yourself—to embody resilience, strength, and purpose in the face of adversity. When your children and those within your circle of influence look to you, let them see an example worth following. Your ability to transform hardship into growth doesn’t just shape your present—it forges the legacy you leave behind, influencing both your future self and the lives of those around you.
