Christian Triumph in Troubles,pt1-James 1:2-3

Scottish pastor, Robert Johnstone wrote many years ago, "James shows that where there is but an empty profession, or a mere dreamy sentiment, unbiased on firm and intelligent convictions of truth, the fire of trouble will burn it up...But where there is true faith, affliction naturally leads to deeper thought than under other circumstances on sin and its deserts, and thus frees the heart from the control of self-righteousness. The sense of weakness leads to earnest wrestling with God in prayer; and experience of the sustaining grace thus obtained strengthens and exhilarates hope with regard to the time to come." Trials burn up imitation faith but strengthen true faith. They drive the true believer to prayer and to lean on God. Tests may add to our pain by confronting us with our weaknesses, but they have the good result of turning us from ourselves to the infinite strength of God. As we begin the first section of the book of James, we'll look at God's purpose and benefit of trials in the life of believers. He will give us several key means for triumphing over trouble. Join us for "Christian Triumph in Trouble, pt 1" (James 1:2-4).