In James 1:12 we are given three motives for remaining steadfast under trials. First, exercising steadfast faith is the place where God’s blessings lay. Second, steadfast faith results in eternal life, which is the greatest reward conceivable. Third, exercise steadfast faith out of a love for God. The third is not so much a promise, as a reminder that those who exercise steadfast faith and inherit eternal life are those who also love God. Pray that God would cause your love for Him to grow, that the appeal of rebellion against God would diminish, in order that you will continue to remain steadfast in trials. To listen to this sermon, please click on the following link: James 1:12.
Both poverty are wealth are trials. Yet, they are so in different ways. One makes a person think too little of himself, the other makes him think too much. Yet, in light of the Gospel, there is no difference. The Gospel is the Great Equalizer. It makes no difference if you are rich or poor, all are equally deserving of punishment and in need of a Redeemer in light of the Gospel. To listen to this sermon, please click on the following link: James 1:9-11.
We need wisdom for God in order to walk in the right way. Yet, those who ask for wisdom must believe that God’s ways are best. God is not calling you to ask for wisdom in order for you to have yet another option to weigh among many other options. His ways are best and He is willing to generously give wisdom where it is sought, yet the one who asks for wisdom from God must believe that he needs Godly wisdom. More than that, God gives wisdom to the one who seeks it because he intends, having determined God’s will, to obey God’s will. To listen to this sermon, please click on the following link: James 1:5-8.