“When Trouble Comes” – a message from James 1

This past weekend at Eastbrook, I gave the first message in our preaching series entitled “Authentic Faith: Growing with the Apostle James.” My message was entitled “When Trouble Comes,” and drew upon James 1:1-18. This is a beautiful and penetrating passage with many well-known words, but perhaps most famous within this passage is this statement:

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1:2-4)

You can find the message outline and video below. You can access the entire series here. Join us for weekend worship in-person or remotely via Eastbrook at Home.

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“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1:2-4)

Introducing James (James 1:1)

Who is James?

When and why is James writing?

Joyful Consideration Amidst Challenges (James 1:2-4)

Considering it joy – not the experience but God’s work in it

Testing leads to perseverance leads to maturity and wholeness

Wisdom Needed Amidst Challenges (James 1:5-8)

Needing wisdom

Praying for wisdom

Trusting God’s wisdom

Perspective and Perseverance Amidst Challenges (James 1:9-12)

Reframing perspective on our circumstances

Reframing perseverance through our circumstances

Knowing God Amidst Challenges (James 1:13-18) 

Remembering God’s role and our role amidst challengesRemembering who God is amidst challenges

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Dig Deeper

This week dig deeper in one or more of the following ways:

• Memorize James 1:2-4 or 1:12 or 1:17
• Are you in a challenging time? Find a friend who will pray for you or submit the prayer request to the church: http://eastbrook.org/prayer. 
• Consider exploring these resources related to James:
• “Old Camel Knees: a brief reflection on the remarkable prayer life of James the Just”
• Augustine of Hippo, reflections on temptation in “Exposition of Psalm 61”
• Bible Project James overview video
• Bible Project “The Test” video