TRIALS - James 1:1-4

Scripture: James 1:1-4

Definition: a test; to put to the proof; means by which a Christian faith is proved.

Two Categories of Trials

1.       Cause & Effect – Galatians 6:7

Sometimes we receive trials because of our own sin and disobedience. We pay the consequences of our own faults. Many people would blame God but they are the ones responsible.

(give practical examples)

2.       Spiritual Purpose – 1 Peter 4:13 and Romans 8:28

Many times we are trapped by the thinking that only “good things” come from God who loves us, and these things are according to His purpose and will.

We only accept things that are favorable to us……of course, no man wants trials.

Methods of Divine Purpose

a.       By Demanding Great Sacrifice – Genesis 22:1-2

John 13:7

(give some real experiences in life or open for discussion)

b.      By Leading Men in a Difficult Way – Deuteronomy 8:2-3

(give some real experiences in life or open for discussion)

c.       By Giving Opportunities for Choice – 1 Kings 3:9, 10b

(give some real experiences in life or open for discussion)

d.      By Permitting Men to Suffer – Acts 16:19-24

Example: The Life of Job

                  (The blessings after suffering – Job 42:10-17)

By taking in trials for our betterment, we learn to walk with God. They are indeed painful and nobody wants them. But trials are not wasted whether in what category it belongs. God wanted to use them for our own good.

Most of our growth in Christian life does not come when everything is right and bright, but they come when the darkest hour comes and you learn to cast yourself to the Lord Jesus Christ.

Illustration:

-          A vehicle must be tested before purchase.

-          A battery has 2 sides – the negative & positive……and both sides are important.

Conclusion:

1 Corinthians 10:13

Quote: “Difficulties are God’s errands; when we are sent upon them, it is an evidence of His confidence.”

Rules from God

1. Wake Up!!    Decide to have a good day.
"Today is the day the Lord hath made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."
Psalms 118:24

2. Dress Up!! The best way to dress up is to put on a smile.

A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.

"The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at outward appearance; but the Lord looks at the heart."
I Samuel 16:7

3 .Shut Up!! Say nice things and learn to listen. God gave us two ears
and one mouth, so He must have meant for us to do twice as much
listening as talking.

"He who guards his lips guards his soul." Proverbs 13:3

4. Stand Up!! For what you believe in. Stand for something or you
will fall for anything.

"Let us not be weary in doing good; for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good..." Galatians 6:9-10

5. Look Up !! To the Lord.
"I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me."
Philippians 4:13

6. Reach Up !! For something higher.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, And He will direct your path."
Proverbs 3:5-6

7. Lift Up !! Your Prayers.
"Do not worry about anything;
Instead PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING."
Philippians 4:6

WHAT ARE PROBLEMS

Predictors – they help mold our future.

Reminders – we are not self sufficient. We need God and others to help.

Opportunities – they pull us out of our rut & cause us to think creatively.

Blessings – they open up doors we usually don’t go through.

Lessons – each new challenge will be our teacher.

Everywhere – no place or person is excluded from them.

Messages – they warn us about potential disaster.

Solvable – no problem is without a solution.