STRENGTH AND DELIVERANCE FROM GOD'S WORD.

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James 1:2-4 (NASB) 2  Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, 3  knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4  And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

JAMES THE HALF BROTHER OF JESUS IS WRITTING TO JEWS WHO ARE SCATTERED ALL OVER THE WORLD.

CONSIDER IT ALL JOY WHEN YOU ENCOUNTER VARIOUS TRIALS.

THIS GOES AGAINST A LOT OF EASY GOSPEL TEACHING GOING ON TODAY.

THERE ARE SOME WHO TEACH THAT AS SOON AS YOU COMMIT TO CHRIST ALL OUR TROUBLES WILL GO AWAY.

SOME HAVE EVEN WRITTEN BOOKS LIKE YOUR BEST LIFE NOW.

WE HAVE THE HISTORICAL ACCOUNT OF THE APOSTLES AS THEY BEGAN THE CHURCH   WHERE ALL BUT ONE WERE MARTYRED FOR CHRIST.

JOHN DIED AN OLD MAN AFTER BEING EXILED ON A PRISON ISLAND AND BEING BOILED IN OIL.  HE DIDN'T DIE BECAUSE GOD KEPT HIM ALIVE FOR HIS PURPOSE.

BUT I WOULDN'T CALL HIS LIFE EXPERIENCE HIS BEST LIFE NOW.

PAUL WROTE

Philippians 1:22-23 (NASB) 22  But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose. 23  But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better;

James 1:2-4 (NASB) 2  Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials,

THE WORD FOR TRIALS IN ORIGINAL WAS PI RIS MOS  WHICH MEANS A PUTTING TO PROOF.   SOME TRANSLATIONS USE THE WORD TEMPTATION.

WHICH TO ME IS CONFUSING BECAUSE IN VERSE 13

James 1:13-14 (KJV) 13  Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: 14  But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.

THE WORD FOR TEMPTED IS THE SAME ROOT PI RA DZO. WHICH MEANS   TO TEST OBJECTIVELY,   ENDEAVOR SCRUTINIZE OR ENTICE.    THE BEST WAY TO DETERMINE TO USE TEST OR TEMPT IS THE CONTEXT.    WE KNOW GOD WILL TEST US OR ALLOW TESTING.

WE ALSO KNOW THAT GOD WILL NEVER TEMP US TO DO EVIL.   HE ALLOWS TEMPTATION BUT LIMITS THE STRENGTH AND PROVIDES AN ESCAPE ROUTE FOR US IN EVERY TEMPTATION WE FACE.

SO AS A CHILD OF GOD WHY MUST WE BE TESTED AND GO THROUGH DIFFICULT SITUATIONS?

SCRIPTURE GIVES US SEVERAL REASONS WHY WE ARE TESTED.   IN ALL OF THEM THE RESULTS ARE NOT FOR GOD BECAUSE HE KNOWS ALREADY.

THE RESULTS OF THE TESTS IS FOR OUR OWN BENEFIT AND KNOWLEDGE, OR SOMEONE ELSES.

GOD WANT US TO KNOW THE STRENGTH OF OUR OWN FAITH IN HIM.

Exodus 16:4 (NASB) 4  Then the LORD said to Moses, "Behold, I will rain bread from heaven for you; and the people shall go out and gather a day's portion every day, that I may test them, whether or not they will walk in My instruction. GOD TESTS US TO ALLOW US TO SEE HOW OBEDIENT WE ARE TO HIM.

2 Chronicles 32:30-31 (NASB) 30  It was Hezekiah who stopped the upper outlet of the waters of Gihon and directed them to the west side of the city of David. And Hezekiah prospered in all that he did. 31  Even in the matter of the envoys of the rulers of Babylon, who sent to him to inquire of the wonder that had happened in the land, God left him alone only to test him, that He might know all that was in his heart.

GOD DOESN'T HAVE TO TEST US TO KNOW OUR OBEDIENCE.  THE TEST IS FOR US TO KNOW OF OUR OBEDIENCE TO GOD.

GOD TEST US TO KEEP US HUMBLE AS WE GROW MORE AND MORE CHRISTLIKE.  PAUL THE WRITER OF OVER HALF THE NEW TESTAMENT SPOKE OF HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST.

2 Corinthians 12:7 (NASB) 7  Because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me—to keep me from exalting myself! PAUL NEEDED HIS THORN IN THE FLESH TO REMAIN HUMBLE.  GOD WANTS ALL THAT WE DO TO BE FOR HIS GLORY AND NOT OUR OWN.    THIS IS WHAT HAPPENED TO LUCIFER/ SATAN

WE HAVE TO DEAL WITH OUR OWN PRIDE LIKE BARNEY SAYS    NIP IT IN THE BUD.

John 6:5-7 (NASB) 5  Therefore Jesus, lifting up His eyes and seeing that a large crowd was coming to Him, *said to Philip, "Where are we to buy bread, so that these may eat?" 6  This He was saying to test him, for He Himself knew what He was intending to do. 7  Philip answered Him, "Two hundred denarii worth of bread is not sufficient for them, for everyone to receive a little."

GOD ALLOWS US TO BE TESTED TO CAUSE US TO DEPEND UPON HIM AND NOT WORLDLY THINGS.

ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE WITH GOD.

Philippians 1:23-24 (NASB) 23  But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better; 24  yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake.

GOD WANTS OUR FOCUS TOWARD HEAVEN AND ETERNITY WHICH WILL HELP US IN OUR OBEDIENCE AND OUR ATTITUDE HERE AND NOW.   WE HAVE MUCH BETTER AHEAD OF US.

GOD ALLOWS US TO BE TESTED TO HONESTLY REVEAL OUR OWN HEARTS TO OURSELVES.

Genesis 22:1-2 (NASB) 1  Now it came about after these things, that God tested Abraham, and said to him, "Abraham!" And he said, "Here I am." 2  He said, "Take now your son, your only son, whom you love, Isaac, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I will tell you."

WE KNOW WHAT HAPPENED HE WENT SET IT ALL UP.  BOUND ISAAC ON THE ALTAR AND WAS READY TO KILL HIM AND GOD PROVIDED A RAM CAUGHT IN THE THICKET.

GOD NEVER ENDORSED OR WANTED HUMAN SACRIFICE. THIS WAS ONLY A TEST TO PROVE ABRAHAMS LOVE FOR GOD ABOVE HIS LOVE FOR HIS SON.

JESUS EVEN SAID IF WE LOVE FATHER MOTHER MORE THAN HIM WE AREN'T WORTHY OF HIM.    WE ARE TO LOVE THE LORD FIRST AND BEST.    GOD WANTS US TO GIVE OURSELVES AN HONEST ASSESMENT.   GOD WANT US TO KNOW FOR SURE THAT HE IS ON THE THRONE OF OUR HEART.

GOD ALLOWS OUR TESTING TO VALUE GOD'S BLESSINGS OVER THE BENEFITS, THINGS, ENTICEMENTS OF THE WORLD.

Psalm 63:3-7 (NASB) 3  Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, My lips will praise You. 4  So I will bless You as long as I live; I will lift up my hands in Your name. 5  My soul is satisfied as with marrow and fatness, And my mouth offers praises with joyful lips. 6  When I remember You on my bed, I meditate on You in the night watches, 7  For You have been my help, And in the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy.

HE ALSO ALLOWS OUR TESTING TO STRENGTHEN US FOR GREATER SERVICE TO HIM.

2 Corinthians 12:10 (NASB) 10  Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.

Hebrews 11:33-34 (NASB) 33  who by faith conquered kingdoms, performed acts of righteousness, obtained promises, shut the mouths of lions, 34  quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, from weakness were made strong, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight.

HE WANTS US AS WE ENDURE OUR TESTING TO BE AN ENCOURAGEMENT TO OTHERS IN THEIR OWN TESTING.

Luke 22:31-32 (NASB) 31 "Simon, Simon, behold, Satan has demanded permission to sift you like wheat; 32 but I have prayed for you, that your faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned again, strengthen your brothers."

1 Peter 1:3-9 (NASB) 3  Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4  to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, 5  who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 6  In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, 7  so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

SO GOD IS NOT BEING MEAN FOR ALLOWING US TO GO THROUGH THESE VARIOUS TRIALS

THEY ARE FOR OUR OWN BENEFIT AS A CHILD OF GOD AND THE BENEFIT OF HIS OTHER CHILDREN, AND LET IT ALL BE FOR HIS GLORY AND HONOR.

James 1:2 (NASB) 2  Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, JAMES SAYS CONSIDER IT ALL JOY FOR THESE TRIALS.

PETER SAYS  WE REJOICE IN WHO WE ARE IN CHRIST EVEN THOUGH NOW  WE HAVE BEEN DISTRESS BY TRIALS.

THE RESULT OF THE TRIALS IS PRAISE GLORY AND HONOR TO OUR SAVIOR AND EVEN FOR US WHEN CHRIST REIGNS OVER ALL THE EARTH.

WITH SO MANY GOOD REASONS GOD HAS TO ALLOW US TO BE TESTED IS IT ANY WONDER JAMES SAYS WHEN, NOT IF,  WE ENCOUNTER TRIALS.

A CHILD OF GOD WILL EXPERIENCE TRIALS.

THEY WILL BE VARIOUS WHICH MEANS THEY WILL COME IN ALL COLORS AND FROM ANY DIRECTION.

AND MAYBE EVEN MULTIPLE AT ONCE.

IT IS THROUGH THESE TRIALS WE CAN MAKE AN ACCURATE ASSESSMENT OF OUR HEARTS CONDITION  TO KNOW WHAT WE NEED TO WORK ON TO BECOME MORE LIKE CHRIST.  TO BE ABLE TO LIVE OUR LIVES HONORING OUR SAVIOR WHO DIED FOR US.

TO BE ABLE TO DO ALL THAT HE HAS FOR US AND ENCOURAGE OTHERS ON OUR OWN PATH TO HOLINESS.

SO DO YOU WANT TO BE MORE CHRIST LIKE?

James 1:2 (NASB) 2  Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, 3  knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4  And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

James 1:12 (NASB) 12  Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

Revelation 3:10 (NASB) 10 'Because you have kept the word of My perseverance, I also will keep you from the hour of testing, that hour which is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth.

Luke 21:16-19 (NASB) 16 "But you will be betrayed even by parents and brothers and relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death, 17 and you will be hated by all because of My name. 18 "Yet not a hair of your head will perish. 19 "By your endurance you will gain your lives.

1 Peter 4:12-13 (NASB) 12  Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; 13  but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation.

END.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV) 5  Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6  In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

2 Thessalonians 3:16 (NASB) 16  Now may the Lord of peace Himself continually grant you peace in every circumstance. The Lord be with you all! 2 Thessalonians 1:2-12 (NASB) 2  Grace to you and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 3  We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brethren, as is only fitting, because your faith is greatly enlarged, and the love of each one of you toward one another grows ever greater; 4  therefore, we ourselves speak proudly of you among the churches of God for your perseverance and faith in the midst of all your persecutions and afflictions which you endure. 5 This is a plain indication of God's righteous judgment so that you will be considered worthy of the kingdom of God, for which indeed you are suffering. 6  For after all it is only just for God to repay with affliction those who afflict you, 7  and to give relief to you who are afflicted and to us as well when the Lord Jesus will be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels in flaming fire, 8  dealing out retribution to those who do not know God and to those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. 9  These will pay the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power, 10  when He comes to be glorified in His saints on that day, and to be marveled at among all who have believed—for our testimony to you was believed. 11  To this end also we pray for you always, that our God will count you worthy of your calling, and fulfill every desire for goodness and the work of faith with power, 12  so that the name of our Lord Jesus will be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Isaiah 26:3 (NASB) 3  "The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, Because he trusts in You.

Luke 10:38-42 (NASB) 38  Now as they were traveling along, He entered a village; and a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. 39  She had a sister called Mary, who was seated at the Lord's feet, listening to His word. 40  But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, "Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me." 41  But the Lord answered and said to her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; 42 but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her."

James 2:2-4 (NASB) 2  For if a man comes into your assembly with a gold ring and dressed in fine clothes, and there also comes in a poor man in dirty clothes, 3  and you pay special attention to the one who is wearing the fine clothes, and say, "You sit here in a good place," and you say to the poor man, "You stand over there, or sit down by my footstool," 4  have you not made distinctions among yourselves, and become judges with evil motives?

Acts 12:1-12 (NASB) 1  Now about that time Herod the king laid hands on some who belonged to the church in order to mistreat them. 2  And he had James the brother of John put to death with a sword. 3  When he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to arrest Peter also. Now it was during the days of Unleavened Bread. 4  When he had seized him, he put him in prison, delivering him to four squads of soldiers to guard him, intending after the Passover to bring him out before the people. 5  So Peter was kept in the prison, but prayer for him was being made fervently by the church to God. 6  On the very night when Herod was about to bring him forward, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and guards in front of the door were watching over the prison. 7  And behold, an angel of the Lord suddenly appeared and a light shone in the cell; and he struck Peter's side and woke him up, saying, "Get up quickly." And his chains fell off his hands. 8  And the angel said to him, "Gird yourself and put on your sandals." And he did so. And he *said to him, "Wrap your cloak around you and follow me." 9  And he went out and continued to follow, and he did not know that what was being done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision. 10  When they had passed the first and second guard, they came to the iron gate that leads into the city, which opened for them by itself; and they went out and went along one street, and immediately the angel departed from him. 11  When Peter came to himself, he said, "Now I know for sure that the Lord has sent forth His angel and rescued me from the hand of Herod and from all that the Jewish people were expecting." 12  And when he realized this, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John who was also called Mark, where many were gathered together and were praying.

John 14:27 (NASB) 27 "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.

1 Timothy 1:2 (NASB) 2  To Timothy, my true child in the faith: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

2 Timothy 1:2 (NASB) 2  To Timothy, my beloved son: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

Titus 1:4 (NASB) 4  To Titus, my true child in a common faith: Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior.

1 Corinthians 10:13 (NASB) 13  No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.

2.  JAMES 1:5-

WE ARE TALKING ABOUT TRIALS AND DIFFICULT SITUATIONS THAT WE WILL NO DOUBT FACE AS A CHILD OF GOD.

WE MUST BE PREPARED FOR THEM SINCE WE KNOW THEY ARE COMING.

SO JAMES TELLS US TO HAVE A JOYFUL ATTITUDE,   AND HAVE IT SETTLED IN YOUR MIND THAT GOD IS GOING TO BRING ABOUT GOOD IN THE TRIALS HE ALLOWS.

THE ONLY WAY OUT OF A TRIAL THAT GOD IS ALLOWING IS TO GO THROUGH IT.

HE HAS PROMISED TO SEE US THROUGH OUR TRIALS AND NO SPIRITUAL HARM WILL COME TO US.

James 1:1-4 (NASB) 1  James, a bond-servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes who are dispersed abroad: Greetings. 2  Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, 3  knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.

NOW LET'S LOOK AT SOMETHING I MISSED. 4  And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

THE TRIALS WE FACE WILL TEST OUR FAITH.   AS OUR FAITH IS TESTED THAT PRODUCES IN US ENDURANCE OR PATIENCE.

WE MUST LET OR ALLOW OUR ENDURANCE DO WHAT IS NECESSARY.

IF IT IS GOD'S WILL FOR US TO FACE TRIALS WE MUST BE A WILLING PARTICIPANT IN THAT KNOWING IT IS GOOD FOR US.

IF GOD IS ALLOWING IT AND WE HAVE NOT CAUSED THIS TRIAL TO COME UPON US BY SOME SIN, THEN IT WILL BRING ABOUT GOOD IN OUR LIVES FOR GOD'S KINGDOM.

IF WE ARE WHERE GOD WANTS US DOING WHAT HE WANTS

WE CAN KNOW  HAVE IT NAILED DOWN THAT GOD IS WORKING OUT GOOD IN US.

HE IS MAKING US MORE AND MORE LIKE CHRIST.

Romans 8:28 (NASB) 28  And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.

IF ENDURANCE HAS IT'S PERFECT RESULT WE WILL BE PERFECT WHICH MEANS MATURE.

DOESN'T MEAN WE NEVER SIN BUT MEANS WE ARE MATURE IN CHRIST

Philippians 3:14-15 (NASB) 14  I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 15  Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, have this attitude; and if in anything you have a different attitude, God will reveal that also to you;

TO BE COMPETE AND LACKING IN NOTHING OF SPIRITUAL IMPORTANCE AND VALUE. Psalm 37:7-11 (NASB) 7  Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who carries out wicked schemes. 8  Cease from anger and forsake wrath; Do not fret; it leads only to evildoing. 9  For evildoers will be cut off, But those who wait for the LORD, they will inherit the land. 10  Yet a little while and the wicked man will be no more; And you will look carefully for his place and he will not be there. 11  But the humble will inherit the land And will delight themselves in abundant prosperity.

4  And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

5  But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6  But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind.

4  And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

5  But if any of you lacks wisdom,

JAMES IS NOT SPEAKING OF WORLDLY WISDOM.  WE ARE DISCUSSING TRIALS THAT WE FACE AS A CHILD OF GOD THAT GOD ALLOWS TO COME UPON US UNDER HIS CONTROLING HAND.

JAMES IS SAYING IF YOU ARE STRUGGLING IN THESE TRIALS AS GOD FOR WISDOM TO UNDERSTAND HIS HEART TO ALLOW YOU TO STRUGGLE..

ASKING FOR A SPECIAL MEASURE OF UNDERSTANDING IS NOT BASED IN EMOTION OR FEELINGS.   WISDOM AND KNOWLEDGE IS WHAT WE KNOW.

ASKING GOD TO EXPAND WHAT WE KNOW WILL GIVE US COURAGE AND STRENGTH TO KEEP GOING.

MANY  PROMISES OF GOD COME WITH EXCLAIMERS.

Romans 8:28 (NASB) 28  And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:38 (NASB) 38  For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers,

5  But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God,   THIS IS A DIVINE COMMAND.   IF YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND  DON'T HESITATE.   ASK     ASK NOW IN THIS TRIAL   ASK NOW.   RIGHT NOW.    who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.

AGAIN THIS VERSE COMES WITH A EXCLAIMER.

GOD WANTS US AS HIS CHILD TO GO THROUGH TRIALS BECAUSE IT MAKES US MORE LIKE OUR SAVIOR.

HE PROMISES TO GIVE US ALL WE NEED TO LIVE OUR LIVES HERE AND NOW SERVING OUR SAVIOR.

SO HE WANTS US TO ASK FOR WISDOM AND KNOWLEDGE WHEN WE NEED IT AND HE ALSO WANTS US TO COME THROUGH THIS TRIAL BETTER;   SO HE PROMISES TO GIVE US HIS WISDOM GENEROUSLY AND WITHOUT REPROACH.

HE WILL NOW BE UPSET WITH US WHEN WE ARE STRUGGLING IN A TRIAL WHEN WE ASK FOR WISDOM AND KNOWLEDGE.

Philippians 4:19 (NASB) 19  And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Matthew 7:7-8 (NASB) 7 "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 8 "For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.

6  But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind.

7  For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, 8  being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

OUR HEAVENLY FATHER IS WILLING TO GIVE US WHAT WE ASK FOR IN REGARD TO WISDOM THAT ONLY COMES FROM HIM;  BUT THIS PRAYER COMES WITH A DISCLAIMER.

WE MUST ASK BELIEVING HE WILL RESPOND.

WE MUST BELIEVE THAT WHAT WE ASK FOR IS ON THE WAY AND WE ARE LOOKING FOR IT.

WE MUST HAVE OUR CONFIDENCE IN GOD TO SEE US THROUGH.

WE MUST EXPECT AND LOOK FOR WHAT WILL GET US THROUGH THE TRIAL.

WE MUST EXPECT AND LOOK FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE TRIAL

TO ASK GOD FOR SOMETHING WITHOUT BELIEVING, OR TAKING HIM AT HIS WORD, THAT DOUBTS HIS ABILITY OR HIS WILLINGNESS TO COME THROUGH ON A PROMISE IS A REQUESTS THAT WILL NOT BE ANSWERED BY GOD.

WE MUST ASK IN FAITH.

Hebrews 11:6 (NASB) 6  And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him. THE PERSON WHO DOESN'T ACCEPT GOD'S TESTING WHO CAN'T SEE AND KNOW THAT GOD HAS OUR BEST IN MIND,  WHO IS A DOUBTER IS LIKE THIS.

for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind.

YOU HAVE NOTHING TO STAND AGAINST THE WIND OF TRIAL,  YOUR EMOTIONS ARE ALLOWING YOUR MIND TO RUN MAKING YOUR TRIAL A SEEMINGLY HOPELESS SITUATION.

7  For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, 8  being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

THIS TRIAL MAY GET THE BEST OF YOU.

9  But the brother of humble circumstances is to glory in his high position;

TO GLORY HERE MEANS TO REJOICE OR BOAST THAT EVEN THE MOST DESTITUTE OF CHRISTIANS HAS A HIGH POSITION  A CHILD OF GOD. KNOWING WE ARE A CHILD OF GOD A HUMBLE SERVANT WHO IS BEING SHAPED INTO THE IMAGE OF CHRIST WE CAN STAND ON THE PROMISES AND KNOW GOD IS WORKING IN AND THROUGH OUR TRIALS AND DIFFICULTIES

BUT STANDING ON PROMISES OF CHRIST MY LORD.   LISTENING EVERY MOMENT TO THE SPIRIT'S CALL.   RESTING IN MY SAVIOR

James 1:3-9 (NASB) 3  knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4  And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. 5  But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.

IF WE ASK FOR WISDOM FROM GOD IN ANY CIRCUMSTANCE,BELIEVING, OD WILL DELIVER WITH WISDOM.    BUT SPECIFICALLY THE CONTEXT HERE IS OUR TRIALS AND HOW TO GET THROUGH THEM.  WHATEVER WE DON'T UNDERSTAND OR WHAT DIRECTION TO GET THROUGH THE TRIAL OR DIFFICULT SITUATION WE CAN ASK GOD AND HE WILL GIVE US WISDOM THAT WE NEED.

6  But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. 7  For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, 8 being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. 9  But the brother of humble circumstances is to glory in his high position;

THE POOR BELIEVING JEWS ARE TO GLORY IN THAT THEY ARE NOW IN A BETTER POSITION THAN EVER BEFORE AS A CHILD OF GOD.

10  and the rich man is to glory in his humiliation, because like flowering grass he will pass away.

JAMES IS WRITING TO JEWISH CONVERTS WHO ARE SCATTERED ALL OVER.  MANY OF WHOM WERE WEALTHY AND RESPECTED BUT WHEN THE PERSECUTION OF THE CHURCH STARTED AND FOLKS WERE LEAVING JERUSALEM THEY LEFT MOST OF THEIR POSSESSIONS THEIR HOMES.  JAMES IS REMINDING THEM WHO THEY ARE IN CHRIST.

ALL OF THE BELIEVING JEWS WERE FACING TRIAL AND DIFFICULT SITUATIONS BECAUSE OF THEIR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST.

11  For the sun rises with a scorching wind and withers the grass; and its flower falls off and the beauty of its appearance is destroyed; so too the rich man in the midst of his pursuits will fade away. 12  Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

NOW WE WILL GET INTO MORE OF THIS FIRST CHAPTER. James 1:13 (NASB) 13  Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone.

WE DISCUSSED THIS A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO THAT IN THIS CONTEXT SOME TRANSLATIONS USE THE SAME WORD FROM VERSE 2 TEMPTATIONS. AS THEY DO IN THIS VERSE.   BUT CLEARLY THE CONTEXT IS DIFFERENT.

James 1:2 (NASB) 2  Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, PEIRASMOIS 13  Let no one say when he is tempted,   PEIRAZOMENOS   "I am being tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone.

IT IS THE SAME ROOT WORD BUT IT IS THE CONTEXT THAT DIFFERENT

WHAT IS THE RESULT OF OUR BEING TESTED THAT GOD ALLOWS US TO GO THROUGH

James 1:2-4 (NASB) 2  Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, 3  knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4  And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. THE RESULT OF THE TESTING THAT GOD ALLOWS IS GOOD POSITIVE AND BENEFICIAL TO THE BELIEVER.

James 1:12 (NASB) 12  Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

NOW THE CONTEXT OF VERSE 13.

James 1:13 (NASB) 13  Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone.

SO WHAT IS THE CONTEXT HERE WITH THE WORD TEMPTED

GOD DOES NOT TEMPT ANYONE TO DO EVIL WITH THE RESULT OF SIN.

SINCE GOD CAN NOT BE TEMPTED TO DO EVIL HE WILL NOT TEMPT ANYONE TO DO EVIL.

GOD DOES ALLOW US TO BE TEMPTED BY OUR OWN LUSTS WITH RESTRICTIONS PAUL HAS GIVEN US  A HISTORY LESSON FROM THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL.

1 Corinthians 10:6-13 (NASB) 6  Now these things happened as examples for us, so that we would not crave evil things as they also craved. 7  Do not be idolaters, as some of them were; as it is written, "THE PEOPLE SAT DOWN TO EAT AND DRINK, AND STOOD UP TO PLAY." 8  Nor let us act immorally, as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in one day. 9  Nor let us try the Lord, as some of them did, and were destroyed by the serpents. 10  Nor grumble, as some of them did, and were destroyed by the destroyer. 11  Now these things happened to them as an example, and they were written for our instruction, upon whom the ends of the ages have come. 12  Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall. 13  No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.

THIS PASSAGE IS GIVING US EXAMPLES OF THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL AND THEIR SIN AND BEING TEMPTED BY SATAN AND THEIR OWN SELFISH DESIRES TO DO EVIL.

THE GREAT THING HERE IS THAT WHEN WE ARE TEMPTED BY SATAN OR OUR OWN SELFISH FLESLY DESIRES GOD WILL NOT ALLOW US WILL NOT ALLOW THAT TEMPTATION TO OVERWHELM HIS CHILDREN BUT WILL PROVIDE A WAY TO ESCAPE AND NOT SUCCOME TO THE TEMPTATION.

2 Peter 3:17 (NASB) 17  You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled men and fall from your own steadfastness,

ALSO WHEN GOD IS TESTING US THERE IS LIMITATIONS FOR GOD DOES NOT WANT US TO FAIL.   HE WANT US

James 1:3-9 (NASB) 3  knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4  And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

14  But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust.

1 John 2:15-17 (NASB) 15  Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16  For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. 17  The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever.

GOD  HAS GIVEN US ALL WE NEED TO ENDURE TESTING AND TEMPTATION.

TESTING IS FOR OUR OWN GOOD.    TEMPATIONS TRY TO MAKE US FAIL.

TESTING THAT IS NOT BROUGHT ON BY OUR OWN SIN AS A CONSEQUENCE OF OUR SIN GOD WILL SEE US THROUGH THAT AND MAKE SOMETHING GOOD COME OUT OF IT.

WHEN WE TOLERATE  OUR LUSTS  WE ARE TEMPTED TO SIN AND IF WE IGNORE THE WAY OF ESCAPE THE LIKELYHOOD  THAT WE WILL SIN IS GREATLY INCREASED.

THE SECOND LOOK.    DAVID SEEING BATHSHEBA BATHING.

2 Samuel 11:2-3 (NASB) 2  Now when evening came David arose from his bed and walked around on the roof of the king's house, and from the roof he saw a woman bathing; and the woman was very beautiful in appearance. 3  So David sent and inquired about the woman. And one said, "Is this not Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite?"

WE CAN'T HELP BEING SEEING SOMETHING WE OUGHT NOT TO SEE.  DAVID DIDN'T DO ANYTHING WRONG BY GOING ON HIS ROOF TO COOL OFF.  THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG IS SEEING BATHSHEBA BATHING.   IF HE WOULD HAVE IMMEDIATELY CAME DOWN OFF THE ROOF INSTEAD OF GAZING AT HER   HE WOULD NOT HAVE BECOME A MURDERER

THESE INSTANCES WHEN WE ARE FACED WITH SOMETHING , WE ARE  TO LOOK FOR AN ESCAPE.

THIS IS WHY GOD HAS GIVEN US OUR ARMOR.   IT IS OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO PUT IT ON AND KEEP IT ON.

Ephesians 6:10-18 (NASB) 10  Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. 11  Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.    WHAT ARE HIS SCHEMES THEY ARE TO KILL STEAL AND TO DESTROY.   HE HATES GOD AND US BECAUSE WE ARE MADE IN HIS IMAGE.

HE WANT TO DESTROY US AND OUR TESTIMONY. 12  For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13  Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. 14  Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, 15  and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; 16  in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17  And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18  With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints,

James 1:13-15 (NASB) 13  Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. 14  But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. 15  Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death.

2 Corinthians 2:11 (NASB) 11  so that no advantage would be taken of us by Satan, for we are not ignorant of his schemes. John 10:7-10 (NASB) 7  So Jesus said to them again, "Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. 8 "All who came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. 9 "I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. 10 "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.

16  Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. James 1:17-18 (NASB) 17  Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow.

GOD HAS GIVEN US GOOD THINGS AND EVERY PERFECT GIFT HAS COME FROM GOD TO HELP US AND TO BLESS US.  HIS DESIRE IS FOR US TO BE COMPLETE,  PREPARED FOR EVERYDAY AND THE THINGS THAT COME.   WE HAVE HOPE IN HIM,   WE HAVE JOY IN HIM AND WE HAVE PEACE IN HIM.

GOD IS THE SAME YESTERDAY TODAY AND FOREVER.   THE THINGS THAT PLEASED GOD IN THE PAST STILL PLEASE HIM TODAY.

THE THINGS THAT OFFENDED GOD IN THE PAST STILL OFFEND HIM TODAY.

IT IS THROUGH HIM AND HIS WORD THAT WE CAN ENDURE THE TESTS WE NEED AND ALSO WE CAN RESIST THE TEMPATIONS THAT CAUSE US TO FALL AND TO FAIL.

Malachi 3:6 (NASB) 6  "For I, the LORD, do not change;

1 John 1:5 (NASB) 5  This is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all.

Hebrews 13:8 (NASB) 8  Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Matthew 7:7-11 (NASB) 7 "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 8 "For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. 9 "Or what man is there among you who, when his son asks for a loaf, will give him a stone? 10 "Or if he asks for a fish, he will not give him a snake, will he? 11 "If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask Him!

EVEN BETTER ANY OF THOSE THINGS  JESUS PROMISES THAT GOD THE FATHER WILL GIVE US HIS OWN HOLY SPIRIT.

Luke 11:13 (NASB) 13 "If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?"

AS CHILDREN OF GOD WHO ARE ABUNDANTLY SHOWERED WITH GOOD GIFTS FROM GOD,  GRACEOUS, VALUABLE SATISFYING,  BEST FOR US BLESSINGS; WHY SHOULD ANYTHING EVIL HAVE ANY ATTRACTION AT ALL TO US.

18  In the exercise of His will He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits among His creatures.

NONE OF US ARE GOOD ENOUGH TO GET ACCESS TO GOD ON OUR OWN.  SIN HAS SEPARATED US FROM THE FATHER.   WE ARE CONSIDERED ENEMIES OF GOD BECAUSE OF OUR SIN.

BECAUSE GOD LOVES US HIS CREATION CREATED IN HIS IMAGE

John 3:16-17 (NASB) 16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. 17 "For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.

GOD'S GRACE AND HIS MERCY IF OFFERERED TO THE WORLD AS A REMEDY FOR OUR SIN THAT HAS SEPARATED US FROM OUR CREATOR.

Ephesians 2:8-10 (NASB) 8  For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; 9  not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.

John 14:16-17 (NASB) 16 "I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; 17 that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you.

Romans 8:9 (NASB) 9  However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him. 19  This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; 20  for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God. 21  Therefore, putting aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls. 22  But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. 23  For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; 24  for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. 25  But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does. 26  If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man's religion is worthless. 27  Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.

Romans 5:8-11 (NASB) 8  But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9  Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. 10  For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. 11  And not only this, but we also exult in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.

Galatians 5:16-21 (NASB) 16  But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. 17  For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. 18  But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. 19  Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, 20  idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, 21  envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

THE WORD OF GOD.

James 1:12-27 (NASB) 12  Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. 13  Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. 14  But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. 15  Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death. 16  Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. 17  Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow. 18  In the exercise of His will He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits among His creatures. 19 This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; 20  for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God. 21  Therefore, putting aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls. 22  But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. 23  For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; 24  for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. 25  But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does. 26  If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man's religion is worthless. 27  Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.

WE HAVE A LOT TO COVER TODAY SO I DON'T WANT TO DELAY ANY BECAUSE FOR US TO GO THROUGH THIS WE SHOULD BE DONE BY 7 PM TODAY.

IN THIS PASSAGE THERE ARE MANY GOOD VERSES THAT APPLY TO ALL OF LIFE.

LAST WEEK WE DISCUSSED THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A TRIAL AND A TEMPTATION.

TRIAL BEING A TEST FROM GOD TO SHOW US HOW WE ARE DOING IN OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM.   HE USES THESE TRIALS FOR OUR OWN BENEFIT TO GROW US INTO COMPLETE FULL GROWN LITTLE CHRISTS.

James 1:12 (NASB) 12  Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

A TEMPTATION IS WHEN WE ARE DRAWN TO SIN AGAINST GOD BECAUSE OF OUR FLESHLY DESIRES.   THESE TEMPTATIONS ARE NOT SIN BUT IF WE ENTERTAIN THEM THEY LEAD TO SIN.  THEY WILL HINDER OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH OUR SAVIOR AND AFFECT OUR WITNESS AND TESTIMONY FOR OUR SAVIOR.

James 1:13-15 (NASB) 13  Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. 14  But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. 15  Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death.

SO WE CAN ENDURE TRIALS BUT EVEN EMBRACE THEM KNOWING THE PROMISES OF GOD IN HIS WORD AND THE RESULTS OF THE TRIALS.   WE CAN ALSO RESIST TEMPTATION KNOWING THE PROMISES OF GOD  IN HIS WORD.

HERE'S SOME MORE GOOD STUFF FOR US

James 1:16-17 (NASB) 16  Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. 17  Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow.

JAMES SPEAKING TO HIS FELLOW CHRISTIANS IN SAYING DON'T BE DECEIVED IN THINKING GOD IS GIVING US SOMETHING THAT IS WELL  NOT REALLY BAD BUT IT IS OK.    I THINK THIS IS FROM GOD AND I'M GOING TO EMBRACE THIS.  THIS WILL MAKE ME HAPPY AND THAT IS WHAT MY FATHER WANTS FOR ME.

DO NOT BE DECEIVED JAMES SAYS.

WE CAN KNOW FOR SURE 17  Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow.    IF YOU WANT SOMETHING THAT GOES AGAINST SCRIPTURE IT IS NOT FROM GOD.

AND GOD WILL NOT CHANGE HIS CHARACTER FOR YOU TO ACCOMODATE YOUR DESIRES.

AS A CHILD OF GOD WE NEED TO EMBRACE HIS CHARACTER IN SCRIPTURE AND REVEL IN THAT, BECAUSE WE KNOW HOW TO PLEASE HIM AND WE KNOW WHAT OFFENDS HIM.

SO WE KNOW HOW TO LIVE.

THIS NEXT VERSE IN  VERY SIGNIFICANT ABOUT OUR SALVATION EXPERIENCE

James 1:18 (NASB) 18  In the exercise of His will He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits among His creatures. DO YOU KNOW HOW SPECIAL YOU ARE AS A CHILD OF GOD?

LISTEN IN KJV

James 1:18 (KJV) 18  Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. John 3:16 (KJV) 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

GOD IN THE FORM OF THE 2ND PERSON LEFT HEAVEN CAME TO EARTH AND BECAME THE SON OF GOD.  THE ONLY BEGOTTEN SON   JESUS.

JAMES TELLS  US THIS

James 1:18 (KJV) 18  Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

ORIGINAL TEXT SAYS   HAVING WILLED IT,  HE BROUGHT FORTH US.

BECAUSE GOD CHOSE TO,  SO THAT WE COULD ALSO BE A SON OR DAUGHTER OF GOD; BY AND THROUGH THE WORD OF GOD AND HIS SPIRIT WE CAN BECOME CHILDREN OF GOD

THE FIRST FRUITS WERE THE FIRST AND THE BEST OF THE CROPS THAT WAS WHAT THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL WERE TO BRING TO GOD AS AN OFFERING.

SO HOW MUCH DOES GOD LOVE YOU AS A CHILD OF GOD.    HE CHOSE YOU AND LED YOU AND WHEN YOU ACCEPTED THE GIFT OF SALVATION HE NOW DESIRES YOU TO BE THE FIRST FRUITS,   THE BEST COMPLETE MATURE BOND SERVANT OF JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD;   A CHOSEN CHILD OF GOD.    THIS HAPPEN THROUGH HIS WORD.

James 1:19 (NASB) 19  This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; James 1:19 (KJV) 19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

BECAUSE OF WHAT WE JUST DISCUSSED.   MY MUCH LOVED BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN CHRIST.

James 1:19 (NASB) 19  This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger;

THIS VERSE IS AWESOME.   YOU CAN APPLY THIS IN EVERY PART OF YOUR LIFE.

WITH YOUR WIFE!!!!!!!!

WITH YOUR PARENTS!!!!!!!!!

HOW ABOUT YOUR KIDS!!!!!!!!!

HOW ABOUT YOUR BOSS,  FRIENDS  OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS.

YOU WANT TO MAKE A LASTING ON ANYONE YOU DO THIS.

NOW A DISCLAIMER    QUICK TO HEAR, IS NOT LOOKING LIKE YOU ARE LISTENING.

ORIGINAL SAYS TO COMPREHEND BY HEARING.

THEN AFTER UNDERSTANDING   WE ARE TO THINK BEFORE WE SPEAK

VERY SLOW TO GET ANGRY.

BUT THIS IS NOT THE BIG PICTURE IN THIS VERSE.

TO GET THE BIG PICTURE HERE WE MUST READ ON.

James 1:19-27 (KJV) 19  Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: 20  For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. 21  Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. 22  But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. 23  For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: 24  For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. 25  But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

DO YOU SEE IT. IN ALL OF THESE VERSES,  WHAT IS  THE CONTEXT.

TODD FRIEL IN HOW TO STUDY SCRIPTURE HE SAY THE MOST IMPORTANT THING

CONTEXT CONTEXT CONTEXT.

THE ENGRAFTED WORD   THE PERFECT LAW OF LIBERTY.    THE WORD

James 1:19 (KJV) 19  Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: THREE THINGS IMPORTANT COMMANDS FOR THE CHILD OF GOD.

1.  BE QUICK TO HEAR.    QUICK TO COMPREHEND BY HEARING THE WORD OF GOD.

TO HEAR GOD'S WORD WITH A SUBMISSIVE ATTITUDE.

THE EAGER DESIRE TO READ, HEAR, TO MEDITATE ON,  TO HEAR PREACHED THE WORD OF GOD.    TO KNOW THE PROMISES OF GOD

TO KNOW THE WILL OF GOD,

TO KNOW GOD INTIMATELY COMES FROM HIS WORD.

LET EVERY CHILD OF GOD BE SWIFT TO HEAR THE WORD OF GOD.

2. TO BE SLOW TO SPEAK IS SOMEWHAT TIED TO QUICK TO LISTEN.

THE THOUGHT IS TO UNDERSTAND THEN AFTER THOUGHT SPEAK.

WHEN LISTENING TO GOD'S WORD OR EVEN READING GOD'S WORD WE MUST NOT SPEAK OR EVEN ESPECIALLY LET YOUR MIND RUN ON WHAT YOU WOULD SAY OR HOW YOU WILL RESPOND.   OUR FOCUS IS NOT ON SPEAKING BUT LISTENING.

MAYBE YOU HAVE EXPERIENCED THIS IN CONVERSATION WITH OTHERS WHERE SOMEONE IS TALKING TO YOU AND SAYS SOMETHING THAT OFFENDS YOU AND YOUR MIND TAKES THE COMMENT AND RUNS WITH IT SO THAT YOU CAN'T HEAR.

THE IDEA HERE IS WHEN THE APPROPRIATE TIME TO SPEAK COMES WHAT IS SAID SHOULD BE CAREFULLY THOUGHT OUT.

AS A CHILD OF GOD WE NEED TO SPEAK THE TRUTH IN A WAY THAT BUILDS UP OTHERS AND GLORIFIES GOD.

3.  SLOW TO GET ANGRY.  IF YOU ARE SLOW TO SPEAK AFTER UNDERSTANDING A SITUATION AND YOU GET RIGHTEOUS ANGER IT MUST COME OUT WITH THE PURPOSE TO EDIFY OTHERS AND GLORIFY GOD.

MOST OFTEN THE WRATH/ ANGER OF MAN HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH GOD.

IT USUALLY COMES IN DEFENSE OF OURSELVES.

JAMES GIVES US INSIGHT ON HOW TO BE MATURE AND COMPLETE IN THIS LIFE

James 1:20-27 (NASB) 20  for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God. 21  Therefore, putting aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls. 22  But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. 23  For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; 24  for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. 25  But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does. 26  If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man's religion is worthless. 27  Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.

THE WORD OF GOD  THE WORD OF GOD THE WORD OF GOD THIS IS THE CONTEXT.

THIS IS WHAT THE CHILD OF GOD NEEDS MORE THAN ANYTHING.   THE WORD OF GOD.

IN THE WORD WE FIND THE PROMISES OF GOD.

James 1:2-4 (NASB) 2  Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, 3  knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4  And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

10-24-21

LAST WEEK WE ENDED ENDED WITH SOME VERSES FROM PSALM 119.   I GAVE YOU ALL AN ASIGNMENT TO READ ALL 176 VERSES OF THAT CHAPTER.   THAT IS NOT TRUE I SAID TO READ ALL 160 VERSES.   WELL I WAS WRONG 176 VERSES SO IF YOU JUST READ 160 VERSES YOU GET FULL CREDIT ON THE ASIGNMENT.   THIS LAST WEEK IN READING PSALM 119 I FOUND MUCH SIMILARITIES FROM JAMES 1   THAT I THINK TODAY WE ARE GOING TO TAKE A SHORT RABBIT TRAIL INTO PSALM 119.     THIS PSALM IS ALL ABOUT THE WORD OF GOD, CALLED THE COMMANDMENTS  THE WORD,   THE STATUTES,  THE LAW  THE TESTIMONIES AND OTHERS.

James 1:2-4 (NASB) 2  Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, 3  knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4  And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. CAN YOU SEE AS YOU ENCOUNTER VARIOUS AND MULTIPLE TRIALS AT ONCE HOW IMPORTANT A LIGHT FOR YOUR PATH IS?

Psalm 119:105 (KJV) 105

Psalm 119:105 (NASB) 105 Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path. THIS PSALM IS 176 VERSES AND DIVIDED UP IN SECTIONS OF 8 VERSES. ONE SECTION FOR EVERY LETTER IN THE HEBREW ALPHABET. ALL 8 VERSES IN THE FIRST SECTION BEGIN WITH THE HEBREW LETTER ALEPH. THE SECOND SECTION HAS 8 VERSES WHERE THE FIRST WORD BEGINS WITH THE LETTER BETH AND SO ON UNTIL YOU GET TO THE LAST LETTER OF THE ALPHABET. ANOTHER THING YOU WILL NOTICE IS THAT IN THE GROCERY STORE THEY DO NOT HAVE A HEBREW ALPHABET SOUP OR CEREAL ON THE SHELVES. THE COMMON FOLKS DIDN'T HAVE A COPY OF THE WORD OF GOD SO THE PSALMS WERE SET TO MUSIC AS A WAY FOR THE FOLKS TO MEMORIZE SCRIPTURE. THEY ARE NOT SURE WHO WROTE THIS PSALM UNDER DIRECTION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT. ALL SCRIPTURE IS WRITEN UNDER INSPIRATION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT. SOME BELIEVE DAVID DANIEL OR MAYBE EZRA. ONE THING WE DO KNOW IS THE WRITER WAS UNDER LOTS OF STRESS AND DURESS WHICH GOES ALONG WITH THE TOPIC OF JAMES 1. Psalm 119:23 (NASB) 23  Even though princes sit and talk against me, Your servant meditates on Your statutes. YOU COULD GET FROM THIS VERSE THAT DAVID, DANIEL AND EZRA ALL ARE POSSIBLE WRITERS OF THIS PSALM.   DAVID AS KING HAD TROUBLE WITH HIS OWN SONS WHICH WOULD BE PRINCES.   DANIEL  WAS THROWN INTO THE LIONS DEN BY MANIPULATIONS FROM OTHERS IN AUTHORITY UNDER DANIEL.  EZRA THE PRIEST IN JERUSALEM AS THE TEMPLE WAS BEING REBUILT GOT SIDEWAYS WITH THE LEADERS THERE WHO HAD TAKEN WIVES OF THE PEOPLE AROUND THEM AND OPENLY REBUKED THEM Ezra 9:1-3 (NASB) 1  Now when these things had been completed, the princes approached me, saying, "The people of Israel and the priests and the Levites have not separated themselves from the peoples of the lands, according to their abominations, those of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Jebusites, the Ammonites, the Moabites, the Egyptians and the Amorites. 2 "For they have taken some of their daughters as wives for themselves and for their sons, so that the holy race has intermingled with the peoples of the lands; indeed, the hands of the princes and the rulers have been foremost in this unfaithfulness." 3  When I heard about this matter, I tore my garment and my robe, and pulled some of the hair from my head and my beard, and sat down appalled.

CHECK OUT VERSE

Psalm 119:42 (NASB) 42  So I will have an answer for him who reproaches me, For I trust in Your word. Psalm 119:51 (NASB) 51  The arrogant utterly deride me, Yet I do not turn aside from Your law. Psalm 119:61 (NASB) 61  The cords of the wicked have encircled me, But I have not forgotten Your law. Psalm 119:67 (NASB) 67  Before I was afflicted I went astray, But now I keep Your word. Psalm 119:78 (NASB) 78  May the arrogant be ashamed, for they subvert me with a lie; But I shall meditate on Your precepts. Psalm 119:86-87 (NASB) 86  All Your commandments are faithful; They have persecuted me with a lie; help me! 87  They almost destroyed me on earth, But as for me, I did not forsake Your precepts.

Psalm 119:95 (NASB) 95  The wicked wait for me to destroy me; I shall diligently consider Your testimonies. Psalm 119:110 (NASB) 110  The wicked have laid a snare for me, Yet I have not gone astray from Your precepts. Psalm 119:121 (NASB) 121

I have done justice and righteousness; Do not leave me to my oppressors. Psalm 119:143 (NASB) 143  Trouble and anguish have come upon me, Yet Your commandments are my delight. Psalm 119:146 (NASB) 146  I cried to You; save me And I shall keep Your testimonies. Psalm 119:153-154 (NASB) 153

Look upon my affliction and rescue me, For I do not forget Your law. 154  Plead my cause and redeem me; Revive me according to Your word.

IN ALL OF THESE THE WRITER SPEAKS OF OPPRESSION OR RIDICULE OR VERY DIFFICULT SITUATIONS,  AND EVEN CONCERN FOR HIS OWN SAFETY; HE SPEAKS OF STAYING IN THE WORD OR REMEMBERING THE WORD OR NOT FORGETTING THE WORD.

James 1:1-27 (NASB) 1  James, a bond-servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes who are dispersed abroad: Greetings. 2  Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, 3  knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4  And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

HOW DO WE KEEP THIS ATTTITUDE UNDER THE TRIALS OF LIFE THAT GOD ALLOWS TO COME UPON US.

FROM HIS WORD WE FIND THAT GOD IS SHAPING US UP TO FULFILL THE ROLE HE HAS FOR US IN HIS KINGDOM.

HE WANTS US PREPARED FOR ANY AND EVERYTHING.  HE  WANTS US TO KNOW THAT WE CAN TRUST HIM,   HE WILL LEAD US,   HE WILL STRENGTHEN, ENCOURAGE, AND EMPOWER US AS WE FOLLOW HIM.

WE KNOW THIS BECAUSE HE HAS PROMISED THIS IN HIS WORD.

BY HIS WORD WE WILL ENDURE TRIALS DARK ON EVERY HAND THAT WE CAN NOT UNDERSTAND.

LET'S LOOK AS SOME MORE SIMILARITIES BETWEEN JAMES 1 AND PSALM 119.

5  But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.

Psalm 119:143-144 (NASB) 144  Your testimonies are righteous forever; Give me understanding that I may live.

Psalm 119:98-100 (KJV) 98  Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me. 99  I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation. 100  I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts.

17  Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow.

Psalm 119:18 (NASB) 18  Open my eyes, that I may behold Wonderful things from Your law.

Psalm 119:89 (KJV) 89

For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. Psalm 119:160 (NASB) 160  The sum of Your word is truth, And every one of Your righteous ordinances is everlasting.

18  In the exercise of His will He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits among His creatures.

Psalm 119:160 (NASB) 160  The sum of Your word is truth, And every one of Your righteous ordinances is everlasting.

19 This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger;

WE KNOW THE CONTEXT OF THIS VERSE IS THE WORD OF GOD

Psalm 119:12 (KJV) 12  Blessed art thou, O LORD: teach me thy statutes. Psalm 119:26 (KJV) 26  I have declared my ways, and thou heardest me: teach me thy statutes. Psalm 119:33 (KJV) 33 Teach me, O LORD, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end.

Psalm 119:64 (KJV) 64  The earth, O LORD, is full of thy mercy: teach me thy statutes. Psalm 119:66 (KJV) 66  Teach me good judgment and knowledge: for I have believed thy commandments. Psalm 119:68 (KJV) 68  Thou art good, and doest good; teach me thy statutes. Psalm 119:108 (KJV) 108  Accept, I beseech thee, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O LORD, and teach me thy judgments. Psalm 119:124 (KJV) 124  Deal with thy servant according unto thy mercy, and teach me thy statutes. Psalm 119:135 (NASB) 135  Make Your face shine upon Your servant, And teach me Your statutes. THE PSALMIST SOUGHT GOD THROUGH HIS WORD AND DESIRED TO BE TAUGHT BY THE HOLY SPIRIT.

JAMES SAYS WE ARE TO BE QUICK TO HEAR THE WORD OF GOD.     AND TO DO THE WORD OF GOD.

20  for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God. 21  Therefore, putting aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls.

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Psalm 119:11 (KJV) 11  Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. WE ARE TO LET THE WORD OF GOD TAKE ROOT IN OUR HEARTS AND DIRECT HOW WE LIVE EVERY DAY

22  But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves.

Psalm 119:17 (KJV) 17

Deal bountifully with thy servant, that I may live, and keep thy word. Psalm 119:44-45 (NASB) 44  So I will keep Your law continually, Forever and ever. 45  And I will walk at liberty, For I seek Your precepts.

Psalm 119:112 (NASB) 112  I have inclined my heart to perform Your statutes Forever, even to the end. Psalm 119:167-168 (NASB) 167  My soul keeps Your testimonies, And I love them exceedingly. 168  I keep Your precepts and Your testimonies, For all my ways are before You.

THE WRITER WAS GOING THROUGH A ROUGH TIME.   THE WRITER TELLS US THAT HIS HELP IS IN THE WORD OF GOD..

THE WORD OF GOD IS WORTH MORE THAN MONEY

Psalm 119:14 (NASB) 14  I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies, As much as in all riches. Psalm 119:72 (NASB) 72  The law of Your mouth is better to me Than thousands of gold and silver pieces.

GOD'S WORD IS SWEETER THAN HONEY

Psalm 119:103 (NASB) 103  How sweet are Your words to my taste! Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth!

Psalm 119:9-16 (NASB) 9

How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your word. 10  With all my heart I have sought You; Do not let me wander from Your commandments. 11  Your word I have treasured in my heart, That I may not sin against You. 12  Blessed are You, O LORD; Teach me Your statutes. 13  With my lips I have told of All the ordinances of Your mouth. 14  I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies, As much as in all riches. 15  I will meditate on Your precepts And regard Your ways. 16  I shall delight in Your statutes; I shall not forget Your word.

THIS WEEK I HEARD OF 2 FAMILIES THAT I KNOW WHO HAVE HAD THEIR GROWN KIDS COMMITT SUICIDE.

IN 2020   ACCORDING TO CHAPTER LAND .ORG THERE WERE 48,344 SUICIDES

SUICIDE IS NOT JUST A PROBLEM FOR THE LOST FOLKS.   SUICIDE I'M SORRY TO SAY ALSO AFFECTS THE CHILD OF GOD AT TIMES.

WHEN WE NEGLECT OUR HELP AND ENCOURAGEMENT AND SOURCE OF STRENGTH WE CAN BE OVERWHELMED AND GET LOST IN OUR TROUBLES.

THE WRITER OF THIS PSALM HAD GONE THROUGH A RANGE OF EMOTIONS AND IF IT WAS DAVID I AM SURE SUFFERED FROM DEPRESSION AT TIMES.  AS A CHILD OF GOD, TO GET THROUGH TRIALS AND DIFFICULT SITUATION AND MAYBE EVEN PERSECUTIONS WE NEED GOD'S WORD.

Psalm 119:25 (NASB) 25

My soul cleaves to the dust; Revive me according to Your word. Psalm 119:40 (NASB) 40  Behold, I long for Your precepts; Revive me through Your righteousness. Psalm 119:92-93 (NASB) 92  If Your law had not been my delight, Then I would have perished in my affliction. 93  I will never forget Your precepts, For by them You have revived me.

Psalm 119:107 (NASB) 107  I am exceedingly afflicted; Revive me, O LORD, according to Your word. Psalm 119:116 (NASB) 116  Sustain me according to Your word, that I may live; And do not let me be ashamed of my hope. Psalm 119:153-160 (NASB) 153

Look upon my affliction and rescue me, For I do not forget Your law. 154  Plead my cause and redeem me; Revive me according to Your word. 155  Salvation is far from the wicked, For they do not seek Your statutes. 156  Great are Your mercies, O LORD; Revive me according to Your ordinances. 157  Many are my persecutors and my adversaries, Yet I do not turn aside from Your testimonies. 158  I behold the treacherous and loathe them, Because they do not keep Your word. 159  Consider how I love Your precepts; Revive me, O LORD, according to Your lovingkindness. 160  The sum of Your word is truth, And every one of Your righteous ordinances is everlasting.