JamesSample

The book of James is full of practical ways and commands of how to live a life of holiness like Jesus. He talks about how we all have struggles and trials in our lives and gives us practical ways to deal with them. When going through these hardships, we often look for ways to solve them on our own. For instance, it is easy to be tempted to think or say, “If only I had this amount of money then I could do this” or “I would be much better off if I had all these things.” James is saying material things fade away and do not give real healing or bring solutions to our problems. In reality, rich or poor, we will always have trials and struggles. But take heart, Jesus has overcome the world. Notice that it says “take pride” in both circumstances. Be content in where you are in your situation rather than worrying about where you could be. God wants to use you in the circumstances you are in, but you will miss out on what God has for you if you are not present in where you are. We often do not feel blessed when going through hardships, but in reference to James 1:2-4 it says “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” Having joy during our trials does not come from our own will power. It comes from turning to God and being completely dependent on Him through the struggle. Those who do this and persevere through these trials will have the “Crown of Life”. Finally, it says we are tempted by our own desires. Often we tend to blame God for our struggles and temptations, but rather it is by our own desires and sinful nature. Know that we are all in desperate need of God because we alone cannot be trusted.

Prayer points:

• Begin prayer thanking God for being with you in your circumstances.
• Pray that God will give you wisdom in your trials and tell Him that He has full control over whatever struggle you are facing.