James DAY 4 - How to Grow Through Hard Times (Pt 1)

DAY 4
HOW TO GROW THROUGH HARD TIMES (PT 1)
James 1:2-5
How do we grow through hard times?

James gives us five ways to persevere so obstacles become opportunities. We’ll look at three today and two tomorrow.

First, CHANGE YOUR MIND. When he says to “consider it pure joy” in v.2, he’s telling us to change the way we think. We’ve already talked about this. Step one of growing through trials is believing you can grow through trials! When you’re hurt, or you’ve hurt others, ask: What opportunity is now possible because of this obstacle?

Second, PRAY FOR WISDOM. James says in v.5, “If any of you lack wisdom, you should ask God.” Now, I’m very good about asking Google. I’m good at asking friends for opinions. I’m good at asking myself what I think. I’m still learning to ask God for God’s insight! Wisdom helps answer that question - what opportunity is now possible because of this obstacle? Wisdom helps chart a course through the obstacle. Wisdom helps you see yourself better. Wisdom also helps you understand God better.

Third, STAY THE COURSE. James says in v.3, “The testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work.” That doesn’t mean we should just suck it up and put up with anything and everything life throws your way. It means staying true to whatever course wisdom guides you to take through the trial. Because you’ll probably want to quit at some point.

Quitting might mean escaping what’s hard for what’s easy. Quitting might mean giving in to temptation and sin. Quitting might mean losing trust in God. Quitting might mean quitting faith altogether.

But God gives us wisdom and strength to persevere.

REFLECT
What does it look like to seek wisdom from God? How does God get wisdom into us?

PRAY
Father, I want a faith that works - faith perseveres through trials, faith that makes me better and stronger. Help me to see opportunities to grow, give me wisdom, and help me to endure. Amen.