Who's fault is it?

We have heard it again and again; we as christians have heard over and over again that when we look in the mirror we should see God. How often do we ask how do we got there? How can a person smothered in sin get there? I go through hardships and I have sinned like it is no ones buisness, how am I suppose to be like Christ? In James 1:2-4 it says to consider it joy when when face trials because that enrichens our faith. Does that mean that God put us through trails to makes us stronger. God does not put you through trials becaus ein him there is no darkness. I think he just allows them to happen and with his light show that he is the way.Don't ever say God is tempting me.