Article by Cameron Spink

 

The Bible offers advice for a myriad of situations including in times of trials. For such times a good dose of James 1 is required. To this end I will expand on six lessons from the first chapter of James.

 

1. We all get tested

 

It is an incorrect assumption to expect that one can avoid trials by excessive wealth. This is debunked in James where he states "". This is reflected in the lives of the "rich and famous". It seems very few celebrities are able to go through their lives without one scandal or another. However, trials are just as prevalent in the everyday person's life. Our lives still contain anguish, hatred and death and none of these can be avoided by cheque, credit or cash.

 

There is also a prevailing fear (and sometimes I think it too) that trials only really relate to matters of finance. This assumption is very wrong. Living in a western culture we are elite in this world. Our superiority to the vast majority of the world is staggering. Unfortunately the lures of fame and fortune provide us with great temptation. Gambling only exists because we want a "get rich quick" scheme. Furthermore, we have a great desire to be remembered as someone great. Such desires are not borne from biblical understanding. We must be vigilant in understanding that our trials are not as straight-forward as financial woes.

 

2. It is our evil desires that tempt us, not God

 

For some reason we are inclined to place God responsible for much of the bad that is befallen us. However, while God is omnipotent we will, at times, hand us over to our sinful natures. At is times like these that we will face the biggest of our trials.

 

3. Faith in God is our only stability

 

By believing that my bank account will keep me sustained I am effectively replacing my need for reliance in God. Unfortunately this is fraught with danger. Over the last few years we have seen the consequences of a worldwide financial crisis. We see how interests rates vary. Money, and our economy, is a very fickle thing.

 

In James 1 we are encouraged to place our faith in God when tribulations hit.

 

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. (James 1:17-18)

 

God does not change. He can be our constant whatever the situation. By working on a faith in the easy times we can persevere when the hard times start.

 

4. Because of our faith we are required to do works

 

Our faith does not exist in a vacuum. While Paul constantly tells us that it is only be faith that we are saved, there is still an appropriate response to the sacrifice of Jesus. It is by submission that we allow God to take the reigns of our life. Part of our submission is producing great fruits for God. If our faith is not put into action it will wither and die.

 

5. We should be doers at all times - even times of trial

 

It is very tempting to act only in the times of prosperity, however works is essential when the "going gets tough". If, indeed, we are reliant on faith when trials come then our response should still remain. In-fact it is more than this. The fruits of Christian individuals and organisations can be very significant in times of trials. This may have something to do with the example that we set under pressure. The fundamental differences between Christians and everyone else are emphasised when the heat is on. If a Christian displays the kind of response that James is alluding to, one of faith and action, then only God knows the impact one could have.

 

6. Our trials produce great joy

 

In the face of adversity there is great joy in knowing God is our provider. This knowledge can produce great joy for we who abide in Him, who constantly walk with Him. We can also bring great joy to those around us when troubles arise. Even with God by our side we are not expected to fight our battles by ourselves. One of the most strengthening things is knowing we have both emotional and prayer support from our family in Christ. So don't be hesitant to unburden yourself to someone of the faith.

 

There is a great opportunity for ministry when non-believers are going through difficult times. People are more likely to consider the good news when their own desires and strength cannot save them. By being aware when your friends are struggling you are placed in an incredible position to explain why having Jesus as your cornerstone does make a practical difference to someone's mentality.

 

We are promised that the world will hate Christians in John 15. However, James 1 reveals a hope that is not destroyed by circumstances. It is by trials we are molded; by trials we are dependent and it is by trials that God reveals His glory through us. So I say, bring it on!