Count It All Joy

Last Sunday we kicked off our new series on the New Testament letter of James called, Faith that Works. I love the wisdom we find in James’ words to the early church and how it reaches through time to meet us in our lives and applies to us today.

What’s important to remember is that we’re never alone in the midst of those fires. Here are four quick truths you can hold on to.

1. God is good. “For the Lord God is brighter than the brilliance of a sunrise! Wrapping himself around me like a shield, he is so generous with his gifts of grace and glory. Those who walk along his paths with integrity will never lack one thing they need, for he provides it all!” (Psalm 84:11 TPT) Don’t forget this one: God is good. Even when our circumstances aren’t, He still is.
2. Life is hard. Jesus: “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) Jesus never said life would be easy but He did say that He would be with us always, even unto the ends of the age (see Matthew 28:20). Knowing this is to know that, even in the struggle, we’re never alone.
3. God is sovereign. Take a note from the Apostle Paul: “So we are convinced that every detail of our lives is continually woven together to fit into God’s perfect plan of bringing good into our lives, for we are his lovers who have been called to fulfill his designed purpose.” (Romans 8:28)Just because you don’t see His plan, it doesn’t mean His purpose isn’t at work.
4. God is all-powerful. Love this from Jeremiah: “Ah, Lord God! It is you who have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you!” (Jeremiah 32:17) Keep that verse close by when you’re engaged in battle. Nothing is too hard for the Lord!

This Sunday, I’m teaching from James 1:12-18. Let’s talk about Understanding Temptation. It’s going to be another great Sunday! I hope you’ll join us!