Made for This MomentSample

MADE FOR THIS MOMENT: JAMES

One step at a time - Perseverance

WARM-UP

“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” James1:12NIV

ON THE PITCH

Imagine growing up with siblings. Most of the time, there’s a golden child. The rest of the kids feel somewhat slighted by this. Meet a fellow not golden child, James, one of Jesus’s brothers. This proximity to Jesus might have contributed to his lack of faith in Jesus until after His resurrection. I’d venture to say James had a tough childhood.

To add more difficulty, James is leading the Jerusalem Church when writing this. With Jerusalem being the Mecca of Jewish religious leaders and the Romans still ruling, this would have been a hostile environment for Christians. But Jesus’s call is clear. Go and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). James answers the call and encourages us to do the same.

How do we persevere when everything is against us? Trials will come. It’s not if they come, but when they come. Buckle up; it’s about to get wild. When it gets wild, what will you do?

We must remember Jesus’s promises. When we do this, our perspective grows. Our vision gets longer. The goal becomes clear. It’s simple. To stand before God and hear Him say, “Well done, my good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). He will give us the crown of life for those of us who know and love Him. Similar to our sport, the goal is to win the game. There are many different ways and styles to win. Find a way to get it done.

God is giving us perspective for when the wild times, the trials, and the tribulations come. Despite so much against him, James preserved well. Will you? Will you widen your perspective? Will you stay focused on Jesus? Will you choose to rejoice in the face of trials?

EXTRA TIME

James 1:1-5; Romans 5:1-5

PRAYER

God help me to embrace my trials. Fill me with resolve to persevere. Remind me of Your promises. Keep me focused on Your promises. In the name of Jesus, amen.