Developing a Faith That Works! (2)

James 1:2–4 (NKJV)

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

James 1:5–6 (NKJV)

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. 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.

How Can You Profit From Your Problems?

I. FOUR "FACTS OF LIFE" YOU NEED TO KNOW

"Consider it pure joy...because you know..."

1. PROBLEMS ARE INEVITABLE

"...wheneveryou face trials..."

2. PROBLEMS ARE UNPREDICTABLE

"...whenever you facetrials..."

"peripipto": fall into

3. PROBLEMS ARE VARIABLE

"...trials of many kinds..."

4. PROBLEMS ARE PURPOSEFUL

"Realize that they come...to produce in you..." (Phillips)

3 PURPOSES OF PROBLEMS (vs.3-4)

· Problems purify my FAITH

"You know that the testing of your faith..."

· Problems fortify my PATIENCE

"...the testing...develops perseverance..."

· Problems sanctify my CHARACTER

"…so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything!"

God's #1 Purpose in my life: TO MAKE ME MORE LIKE JESUS

II. HOW TO HANDLE YOUR PROBLEMS

1. REJOICE

"Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials..." (vs. 1)

2. REQUEST

"If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." (vs. 5)

3. RELAX

"But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt..."(vs.6)

The result: James 1:12

James 1:12 (NKJV)

Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.