Trials in life are inevitable for all of us, and will come in many forms. James encourages us to “count it all joy” when we encounter trials, and reminds us that God can use them to test our faith, which can produce in us the valuable characteristic of patience. He also instructs us that God can give us the wisdom we need to navigate our trials, and that He can lift us up when we’re feeling down because of them. Responding to our trials in faith with this knowledge will not only help us get through them, but will also allow us to experience God as He works in and around us.
James 1:2-11
“Faith and Trials”
May 5, 2019
More from
James
James 5:13-18
July 28, 2019 • Bruce Zachary
James, was nicknamed “camel knees” because of the callouses on his knees from countless hours of prayer. James was a man dedicated to prayer, who knew the significance of passionate prayer by a person who is yielded to Jesus. Seven times in these few verses, James refers to prayer. Let’s discover together the connection between prayer and restoration, and the benefits are likely better than you expect…
James 5:1-6
July 14, 2019 • Bruce Zachary
Your attitude about money reveals your attitude towards God. James cries out against using wealth for self-indulgence and luxury. The failure to use resources to advance God’s kingdom, relieve suffering, and honor God reveals a lack of faith and spiritual maturity. Genuine faith in Christ is revealed by attitudes that trust God, and actions that honor God with your money. Someone might have a distrust of institutions generally, or the Church specifically. If that is the case, ask questions. You’re likely to get very reasonable answers. However, don’t use a claimed distrust of institutions as a smokescreen for not trusting nor honoring God.
James 4:13-17
July 7, 2019
Every day each of us makes decisions, choices, and plans for our lives. Some are minor, like what restaurant to go to for lunch. Others are major: whom to marry, which house to buy, what job to take. Oftentimes, regardless of the scope of the decision, we neglect to consult God to determine His will. Living life without considering God’s will is choosing to be in charge of our own lives, and is essentially placing ourselves in His role. Instead, we should seek and submit to God‘s will in every circumstance, knowing that it is always best.