Life According To Jim - Lessons From Jesus' Brother, JamesНамуна
James jumps right into his letter with what seems like an impossible challenge in verse 2. He says, “when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.” All of us have found out that this world is full of trouble, but our culture’s response is that we can pursue a life of ease or luxury if we just work enough or just have enough money.
James’ response is completely the opposite. He says our faith grows when it’s tested. The only way for us to be complete and needing nothing is to let our faith fully mature. This only happens through the endurance we attain through hard times.
Any athlete will tell you that endurance doesn’t come overnight. It takes years of training and pushing yourself further and further to grow your endurance. This is how James views trials: they are a great opportunity for our faith to grow, for us to become more complete, needing nothing.
This is definitely not our natural posture; how does this challenge your perspective on trials in life?
Scripture
About this Plan
No one reads the book of James and thinks, “So what does that have to do with me?” Unlike many of the New Testament letters that were written to one specific church, James is writing instructions to Christians all over. During this 14-day plan, we will be challenged and encouraged by the book of James’ practical and timely message.
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