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And then, one day, these scattered believers received a letter from James, their pastor back home. They gathered around with excitement to hear his words read aloud.
"My brothers and sisters, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith works patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing."
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So, what's the truth about trouble? I've jotted down a few references from God's Word to consider, truths to help us think about our trials differently. I hope you'll take some time to look them up this week, maybe just a few each day.
Psalm 23
Psalm 119:30, 50, 67, 71, 75, 92, 93
1 Corinthians 10:13
2 Corinthians 12:7-10
1 Peter 1:3-9; 3:17; 4:12-16, 19, 5:10, 11
2 Peter 1:3-8
Warren Wiersbe writes, "In the Bible, patience is not a passive acceptance of circumstances. It is a courageous perseverance in the face of suffering and difficulty."
"The only way the Lord can develop patience and character in our lives is through trials. Endurance cannot be attained by reading a book, . . . listening to a sermon, or even praying a prayer. We must go through the difficulties of life, trust God, and obey Him. The result will be patience and character."
Whatever the week ahead brings, let's remember to hold on to the truth of the promises of God. He's trustworthy, no matter what happens.
Choose joy!
What a wonderful message God put in your heart and mind to share today. It really spoke to me... and considering it was kind of a last minute thing for me to be in attendance, I know God had that all planned for me. Thank you! And so nice to meet a fellow writer! :)
ReplyDeleteIt was great to meet you, Julie. So glad you could attend the seminar. I spent some time on your blog today and really enjoyed it (happystronghome.com). I pray God's blessing on you and your family!
DeleteWonderful post, Sarah. At the end, your exhortation/reminder of God's faithfulness really spoke to me. God didn't ever promise us a trouble-free life, but He did offer us victory in the midst of adversity through His Son. As you said, "He is trustworthy, no matter what happens."
ReplyDeleteThanks, Cheryl, for your insights. They remind me of a verse my mom liked: "Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ . . ." 2 Corinthians 2:14.
DeleteYou are a joy bringer, Sarah. Thanks for this important truth.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Sarah, fo encouraging us to count it all joy.
ReplyDelete