Yesterday we started our new series through the Book of James…and what a way to start!  James doesn’t hold anything back as he launches directly into such a challenging topic.  How can we consider everything as joy in the midst of trials?  James states it pretty clearly but the application is much more challenging than the statement.  Yes, trials build us up and mature us but they still are not any fun.  Yet, when we see life and our hardships through a godly perspective, with the wisdom only He can give us, we can, over time, find joy in all things.  We can always find joy in who we are in Christ, if nothing else.  We are chosen, redeemed, forgiven, and loved!

And if you can’t find joy today, don’t be too hard on yourself.  It takes time and perseverance to walk through life with such a perspective!  In the middle of the hard times, take some time to reflect on what God has done for you in the past.  Look for the ways He has allowed you to grow when things were hard before.  He is always there working, we just have to look for Him!  And of course, James tells us that we can always ask God for the wisdom to see!

Whatever storm you are navigating right now, please know that you are not alone!  Part of being the Body of Christ is supporting one another and encouraging one another.  If you need some encouragement and support, reach out to a brother or sister in Christ!  If you know of someone struggling right now, reach out to them!  Let’s be known as a church of love and support…helping one another to grow and thrive through the challenges of life!

And as we move forward into James, spend some time this week reading ahead and getting ready for the rest of James Chapter 1.  This coming Sunday we will be looking at James 1:19-27 and the reason we have two ears and only one mouth.

Have a great week as you set your eyes on Him!

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Jan