God Works Through Trials (James 1:1-13) : From The Series
God Works Through Trials (James 1:1-13) : From The Series
God Works Through Trials (James 1:1-13) : From The Series
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Purpose in Trials
(verses 2-4)
1. When difficult times come into our lives and we find ourselves unable to
comprehend/to understand; the enemy is quick to throw doubts/questions
into our minds.
2. We find ourselves questioning God's goodness/God's wisdom in allowing
these things to happen.
3. We may even be bitter and angry with God for allowing this to happen to
us and wonder if He really understands.
4. But God's word confidently reminds us that God does understand . . .
o
o
us:
o
To mature us.
He will use this trial to help us grow spiritually and to help us mature
and become more like Jesus Christ.
9. Trust Him! Keep your eyes on Him! And God will use even this trial for His
glory.
10. But James goes on to tell us that not only does Gold have purpose in
trials--but also that God gives wisdom in trials.
Wisdom in Trials
(verses 5-11)
(Read verses 5 and 6)
1. James recognizes that we may not always be able to see the purpose in
trials or see the good that can come from trials.
2. When we find ourselves unable to see the good and the purpose in trials
we are to:
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In faith.
And our God who loves to give will respond so that we can see the
good and the purpose in trials.
3. Then James illustrates and says:
That even a poor man has much good in his trial of poverty if he knows
God--the owner of the universe.
And a rich man through he lose everything can rejoice in the good of
having learned not to place his faith in riches which quickly pass away.
4. God has been very good to us in allowing us to see the good even in this
difficult trial.
And our generous loving God will give us the wisdom needed.
(But finally James reminds us that not only does God have a purpose in trials;
and gives wisdom in trials but thirdly there is comfort in trials.)
Comfort in Trials
(verse 12)
II Cor. 5 tells that when we are absent from the body we are present
with the Lord
And there rewards will be given for endurance through trials and for
faithfulness to God in difficult times.
5. So today we sorrow - but we sorrow not as others who have no hope.
We have the assurance of the word of God that (name) is with Christ.
(Name) had trusted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior from sin.
6. But I cannot help but think that perhaps some of you are not prepared to
face death and you are not prepared to meet Jesus Christ face to face. Nor
are you ready to face a trial like (Name) has faced with peace in your heart.
The strength that enabled this dear one to face her trial with
confidence and assurance was not her own.
It came as she allowed the life of her Savior to live His life through her.
It came from a confidence that she was ready to meet her Savior.
She had made her peace with God through faith in Christ and desired
above all else to glorify Him with her life.
7. I invite you right where you are sitting to invite Christ into your life as your
Savior from sin.
Jesus Christ died as your substitute paying the penalty for your sin.
But He asks you ;by an act of your will to trust Him as your personal
Savior from sin.
Conclusion
James (The Holy Spirit of God) in the quietness of this hour reminds us that . .
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l. There is purpose in trials:
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