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Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.
James 1:12
Chapter 1
The Christian life is fulfilling and satisfying. However, it is not because of the absence of trials and difficulties but rather the ability to face hardships from God’s perspective through faith that works.
Trials have the potential for us to mature and perfect our trust in God.
V1-4
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
James 1:5
•Wisdom is the ability to view life from a Godly approach.
Principle #1
Whenever we value trials by cooperating with the growth process of those difficulties we ask God for wisdom to develop, and grow, and endure.
Results: The testing period will be shortened.
Temptation is a deception of evil and has the potential of death.
V13-18
• Blames God V13 “I am tempted by God”
• Own Desire V14
How do you fight temptation?
21 Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. 22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
James 21-22
Chapter 2
Faith is the belief in God that demonstrates corresponding actions of mercy and works.
V1 My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory.
Favoritism: The Sin of Snobbery (2:1-13)
…”Mercy triumphs over judgment.” (V13b)
The practice of mercy is evidence that God’s grace has produced a transformation in your heart.
Genuine faith works!!
V14-26
For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead.
James 2:26
• God never intended for faith not to produce works for faith is corresponding actions associated with that belief/ trust.
Faith not genuine (V16-17)
• Worthless -not valuable
• Lip-service -not life service
• Powerless -not life-giving
• Deceptive -no change; no love for God, rebellion without repentance. (V18-20)
Faith genuine (V21-26)
• Steps out
• •Speaks out
Faith is the divine alignment to our divine appointment.