Submitted by Pastor Richard Boettner, Rock Port Baptist Church
For our Bible Study times at the Rock Port Baptist Church we have been studying the Book of James. For my own input and development of my spiritual life, I recognize that I need time in the Bible to provide spiritual nourishment, just as I would eat food for physical strength and good health.
Right away we encounter the reality of trials that come in life. Everyone has them, and no one gets an easy life all the time. Rather than complaining or giving into despair we are encouraged to “Consider it a great joy . . . whenever you experience various trials” (James 1:2). This often sets apart the godly person from a person who lives for self, or lives as if there is no God. We can find the joy in our trials if we can see what God is doing. The next verse explains “because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.”
The hope we have in life can encourage us to persevere if we focus beyond the material, physical world and live for what will exceed our own earthly lives. “Blessed is the one who endures trials, because when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12). This can start with simple praise, prayer, and worship, that God loves me in the trial. He even owns it with me as part of His plan. The crown of life motivates me to keep going when I could quit and give up. It will be worth it all when we see Jesus!
But our natural tendency will be to move away from God because the trial is too painful. This can lead to temptation and a heart problem of blaming God rather than loving God. “No one undergoing a trial should say, ‘I am being tempted by God,’ since God is not tempted by evil, and he himself doesn’t tempt anyone.” (James 1:13).
Another struggle is to allow natural anger to consume us or cause further damage than what has already happened. James addresses this by giving a very practical guideline for relationships: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for human anger does not accomplish God’s righteousness” (James 1:19).
The final exhortation is to “be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” (James 1:22).
If you are in a difficult trial today, enrich your mind and spirit with God’s Word, and take steps to obey Him. You can avoid any self-deceit and become more mature in faith.
I sincerely pray that this writing will help you to follow Jesus. If you have questions or comments please feel free to contact me at the e-mail tab with rockportbaptistchurch.com.
