An Enduring Faith

James 1:1-8 (NKJV) 1 James, a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad: Greetings. 2 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

I. Count it all joy

II. Let patience have its perfect work

mature and complete: Those who are suffering should have joy (Jas 1:2) because trials serve as a path to Christian maturity. Complete and mature individuals show integrity and single-minded devotion to God; they are characterized by godliness. John D. Barry et al., Faithlife Study Bible (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2012, 2016), Jas 1:4.

III. If anyone lacks wisdom, let him ask of God

Wisdom: Refers to the knowledge of God’s plans and purposes and the ability to live accordingly. Wise people can identify the nature and purpose of their trials and understand how to overcome them. John D. Barry, Douglas Mangum, et al., Faithlife Study Bible (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2012, 2016), Jas 1:5.

IV. Let him ask in faith, with no doubting

In what ways can we actively 'let patience have its perfect work' in our lives?

Why is it important to ask for wisdom in faith without doubting according to James?

What does it mean to be 'double-minded' as described in James 1:8?

How can understanding the purpose of trials help us maintain joy in difficult situations?

Can you think of a recent trial you faced? How did you seek wisdom from God during that time?