Trials and difficult times will surely come but the Bible reminds us of the mercy, love, care and faithfulness of God and provides all Christians need to confidently face challenges with the assurance that they will overcome them. James 1:12 - Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. The followings are discussed: Persevere in Trials; Acknowledge God's goodness, and Hear and Obey God's word.
Persevere in Trials: The book of James was written by James the brother of Jesus; it is rich in inspirations that will help Christians succeed through life's journey. James made it known that Christians who understand and live by the word of God are blessed through trials of life (James 1:1-8 ). Trials can come in various forms: temptation toward sin, persecution, hardships and test of faith; and they bring confusion, pain and sorrow. However, God seeks to accomplish a purpose when our faith is tested. As we depend upon God trials will serve to develop our character and strengthen us. Difficult times will come and go, but our character, perseverance, endurance and trust in God will help us succeed. We need spiritual maturity and the wisdom of God to understand and face trials, and must not allow our hearts to be divided by doubt and become unstable. God is in control and will see us through.
All believers, the wealthy and the poor will experience trials and test of faith, but will overcome if they endure in faith and maintain proper perspective. Believers should rejoice in their ability to fulfill God's purpose for living. God's purpose survive beyond this world while material things have lifespan and can become useless at any time (James 1:9-12). The word of God emphasizes perseverance during trials to remind and assure us of the eternal rewards. Those who overcome will see God and receive the reserved promise.
Acknowledge God's Goodness: In all trials God remain faithful and will uphold those who put their trust in Him. Trials can come as a common experience over matters that affect all people or as suffering for sin of disobedience to God. People can also experience problems as a result of their rebellious actions. God is good and holy and doesn't lure people to sin (James 1:13-15). It's Satan that tempts people to do evil, thus causing them to suffer its consequences. We are responsible for our actions if we allow lusts to draw us toward sin. Temptation to sin has horrific spiritual consequences. It seeks to separate sinners from God and destroy them.
God is good and the only true Source of good. He provides good things for His children as the Heavenly Father and the Creator (James 1:16-18). He is unchangeable God, therefore His goodness is unchangeable. He provides comfort and assurance during times of difficulty. Christians must trust God fully in order to enjoy His goodness and mercy and live with the experience of His salvation.
Hear and Obey God's Word: We should approach God with humble hearts as we respond to His call . Pride deafens ears and hardens hearts to the call of God, but humility will make us hear His voice and lead us through the way of holiness and righteousness. We must hear and obey God to receive from Him and experience His faithfulness (James 1:19-25). True religion involves practices that are good in the sight of God. These include humility, sincere worship and devotion, love for God and others, and behaviours that shape characters in response to what God expects of us. Pure religion prompts people to help and meet needs of the needy, sets lives free from distress and makes believers live to please God. Lesson texts: James 1:1-27.
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