Message Notes
Consider it a great joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you experience various trials, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4 And let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing. —James 1:2-4 CSB
1) WE NEED A BETTER
keeping our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. For the joy that lay before him, he endured the cross, despising the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. —Hebrews 12:2 CSB
Consider it a great joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you experience various trials, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4 And let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing. —James 1:2-4 CSB
Blessed is the one who endures trials, because when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. —James 1:12
Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God—who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly—and it will be given to him. —James 1:5
2) WE NEED BETTER
2 PRACTICES WE NEED
1)
Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God—who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly—and it will be given to him. —James 1:5
WHERE WE
“If we say about someone, he knows his bible really well, so far we have described a knowledgable person. But if he also knows how to use his bible to understand life and the world around him, and to guide his conduct and the conduct of others in the maze of life’s problems, then knowledge has passed over into wisdom.” —John Stott
WISDOM PRAYERS
GOD HELP ME TO
GOD HELP ME TO
GOD HELP ME TO
But let him ask in faith without doubting. For the doubter is like the surging sea, driven and tossed by the wind. 7 That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord, 8 being double-minded and unstable in all his ways. —James 1:6-11
2)
Let the brother of humble circumstances boast in his exaltation, 10 but let the rich boast in his humiliation because he will pass away like a flower of the field. —James 1:9-10
For the sun rises and, together with the scorching wind, dries up the grass; its flower falls off, and its beautiful appearance perishes. In the same way, the rich person will wither away while pursuing his activities. —James 1:11
DON’T HITCH YOUR
Instruct those who are rich in the present age not to be arrogant or to set their hope on the uncertainty of wealth, but on God, who richly provides us with all things to enjoy. 18 Instruct them to do what is good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and willing to share, 19 storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of what is truly life. —1 Timothy 6:17-19 CSB
Blessed is the one who endures trials, because when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. —James 1:12
Study Guide for Further Reflection
DISCUSS
What does it mean to consider trials as a great joy, as mentioned in James 1:2-4?
Context
The message emphasizes the idea of having a God-centered perspective on life, especially concerning trials and challenges.
Application
Can you think of a recent trial or challenge you faced? How can you change your perspective to see it as an opportunity for growth?
DISCUSS
Why is seeking God’s wisdom important when facing tough situations?
Context
The message discusses how trials can be confusing, and James encourages us to ask God for wisdom to navigate through them.
Application
In what areas of your life do you find it most challenging to seek God’s wisdom? How can you make it a habit to turn to God first?
DISCUSS
In what areas of your life do you find it most challenging to seek God’s wisdom? How can you make it a habit to turn to God first?
Context
Dean mentions that being double-minded means wavering between obedience and disobedience, and this affects our trust in God.
Application
Can you identify areas where you may be double-minded in your decisions? How can you commit to being more consistent in your faith?