1. Consider trials as opportunities to shine (1:2)
The life of a true Christian is about displaying the superiority of the life lived in God. A trial is our opportunity to shine the light of Christ to those who observe us. Jesus says to us today, "Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16).
2. Know that trials develop spiritual maturity (1:3-4)
James encourages us to "remain under" our trials not for what they are but for what God can accomplish through them. In every trial, we should see our preparation for greater things God has planned for us. People who endure trials with faith in God can develop every trait needed for spiritual victory and full maturity.
3. Ask God for wisdom in the midst of trials (1:5-8)
We need wisdom and faith as we encounter trials. With wisdom, we can understand how our trials merge into God's plan for our live. But we must ask God for it. God promises to answer those who come seeking right understanding. The person who prayers in faith will receive wisdom from the Lord.
4. Glory in your promised heavenly reward (1:9-12)
God wishes to use trials to produce believers who stand their ground through a devout life shaped by the Word of God. Faith perseveres in the love of God, who promises eternal life. The testing is finished when the present life is over. These lifelong tests are relieved at the end of life with the reward of divine life.
Turning Trials into Triumphs
James 1:2-12
May 24, 2015 • Toby Henson
The Healing Ministry of the Church
September 13, 2015 • Toby Henson
1. Speak Truthfully (5:12) Healing requires believers to speak truthfully. "Speak truthfully" is not a license to say whatever is on your mind. It means that you are engaged in honest, real, transparent relationships. As believers, we are to search for the truth as a united body, loving, and caring for the needs of each member. 2. Pray Faithfully In times of trouble, Christians often fall victim to self-pity or anger. James directs Christians to pray rather than surrender to these wrong responses. James is quite clear that any form of suffering should lead us to pray. Prayer is to be our response in all situations of life. God delights to hear the prayers of his people and answer them, often in amazing ways. 3. Restore Lovingly (5:19-20) James describes a Christian who has strayed "from the truth" (5:19), one who has neglected his or her faith. This person is in need of spiritual restoration. Reconciliation with God can happen to anybody no matter how dark, broken, or twisted one's life may have become. God releases His power through prayer and loving ministry.
Mercy Triumphs
September 6, 2015 • Toby Henson
1. Be Patient (5:7) Patience requires waiting and enduring until the Lord takes action on our behalf. The problem is that we detest waiting. Is there as purpose in the Lord's delay? Always! We are to live with a positive, patient, eager anticipation in the Lord. 2. Stand Firm (5:8-9) The imperative "stand firm" could be literally translated "strengthen your hearts" (5:8). Trials are an opportunity to strengthen our faith. Our faith is strengthened as we: A. Stand Firm in Truth B. Stand Firm in Unity C. Stand Firm in Service 3. Be Amazed (5:10-11) There is an unseen battle raging over our heads. James uses Job as an example. The God who tested Job in the furnace of hardship finally brought him to an experience of "compassion and mercy" (5:11). This glorious reversal will be equally true of us. The final outcome will amaze us.
The Economy of God
August 30, 2015 • Toby Henson
1. Understanding Wealth We need to open our eyes to the reality that when most people in the world hear the word "rich," they picture us. Average, ordinary, middle-class, working Americans are extremely wealthy in a world surrounded by billions of extremely poor neighbors. 2. Convicting Judgments The possession of wealth is not evil. Abusing wealth by selfish living and by harming people dependent on you is. James addressed rich oppressors who used their wealth only for themselves. God cares about people, and we are supposed to leverage our wealth to bless others. 3. Loving Actions David Platt, in his book, "A Compassionate Call to Counter Culture", identifies five significant implications of the gospel for our lives in a world of urgent spiritual and physical poverty: A. Work Diligently B. Live Simply C. Give Sacrificially D. Help Constructively E. Invest Eternally