Background from the NT: James 1: 2 - 12
Memory Verse: My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations -- James 1:2
Working faith stands tall in the midst of trial and temptation
This is the kind of faith that has feet and hands.
It brings patience -- James 1:3-4
Patience is defined as a state of steadfastness, constancy, endurance
You have to let it work. Don't run from trials -- let God use them to increase your patience through faith in Him
It asks for wisdom -- James 1:5
Rather than ask "why is this happening to me?" ask instead for wisdom for daily living.
God delights in giving wisdom. (2 Chr 1:10-12) Believe that, and live it each day.
It's stable -- James 1:6-8
It's never wishy-washy, it never hangs over the rail, sea-sick.
If you're double-minded, don't expect to receive anything from God
It's humble -- James 1:9-11
Jesus preached on spiritual paradox in the Sermon on the mount (Matthew 5)
The poor in spirit would receive the Kingdom, mourners would be comforted, the meek would be exalted, the persecuted would be rewarded, etc
James borrows from that sermon in this verse to describe the paradox of humility -- the greatest will be the least, and the least will be the greatest.
Working faith accepts that paradox and puts it into practice.
It's ultimately victorious through the Grace of God -- James 1:12
"For when he is tried" means shown to be approved. We are approved through our acceptance of Jesus.
The crowns we'll lay at the feet of Jesus (Rev 4:10)
Crown of Life for those who endure trial & temptation -- James 1:12
Crown of Righteousness for those who look for His return -- 2 Timothy 4:8
Crown of Glory for those who spread the gospel of Christ -- 1Peter 5:4
Crown of Rejoicing for those who are saved -- 1 Thessalonians 2:19
No comments:
Post a Comment