Good Morning “Joyful Sufferers.” Today we start the book of James - chapter 1.
One of Jesus’ half brothers was named James. After Jesus death, burial and resurrection he became a very respected teacher in Jerusalem. It’s widely accepted that he was the “James” who authored this book - full of wise teaching.
Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble.” It’s a fact. From the time sin entered the world… it, and its people (us) - have been broken. Broken people do things that hurt each other. As a result of Adam and Eves sin, the earth and man was cursed. Life would now be hard. Sin; ours or someone else’s, is the root cause. Just a couple days ago, the writer of Hebrews reminded us that our sin brings discipline from the Lord as well. “Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father?” Hebrews 12:7
When something we deem bad happens in our lives, God is often the first one we blame. Why me God, what did I do to deserve this? We automatically look at whatever is happening as if it is “bad.” It may seem that way at the time for sure, but remember our perspective is not the judge of good and bad before our Holy Perfect God. He is Good! Period! And knows what’s best and what we need - even if that means a kick in the pants. We understand that tough stuff makes us stronger, and modifies behavior. Scripture goes so far as to teach that blessing actually comes through suffering.
To that point James begins his letter by reminding us to be joyful when things get hard.
“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.” James 1:2-4
Trials / suffering actually play a role in our maturity. I’ve been privileged to Pastor for more than 22 years now. I can personally attest to the reality that those who live life with less than ideal circumstances, are more grounded, more solid, more durable, than those whose lives have been without major struggle.
Be joyful in the struggle! Blessing and growth is coming!
Love you all! Dig in! There is so much more in this chapter. The book of James is awesome!
One of Jesus’ half brothers was named James. After Jesus death, burial and resurrection he became a very respected teacher in Jerusalem. It’s widely accepted that he was the “James” who authored this book - full of wise teaching.
Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble.” It’s a fact. From the time sin entered the world… it, and its people (us) - have been broken. Broken people do things that hurt each other. As a result of Adam and Eves sin, the earth and man was cursed. Life would now be hard. Sin; ours or someone else’s, is the root cause. Just a couple days ago, the writer of Hebrews reminded us that our sin brings discipline from the Lord as well. “Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father?” Hebrews 12:7
When something we deem bad happens in our lives, God is often the first one we blame. Why me God, what did I do to deserve this? We automatically look at whatever is happening as if it is “bad.” It may seem that way at the time for sure, but remember our perspective is not the judge of good and bad before our Holy Perfect God. He is Good! Period! And knows what’s best and what we need - even if that means a kick in the pants. We understand that tough stuff makes us stronger, and modifies behavior. Scripture goes so far as to teach that blessing actually comes through suffering.
To that point James begins his letter by reminding us to be joyful when things get hard.
“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.” James 1:2-4
Trials / suffering actually play a role in our maturity. I’ve been privileged to Pastor for more than 22 years now. I can personally attest to the reality that those who live life with less than ideal circumstances, are more grounded, more solid, more durable, than those whose lives have been without major struggle.
Be joyful in the struggle! Blessing and growth is coming!
Love you all! Dig in! There is so much more in this chapter. The book of James is awesome!
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