Sunday, February 17

WHEN PAIN LEADS TO GAIN

When life gets tough, what do you normally do? Many people feel sorry for themselves, hang their heads, and wait for the pain to go away. In the life of a believer, God can use the pain to bring about life-change gain. Don't hang your head. Learn what God can and will do during difficult times.

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does." James 1:2-8

What has been one of the most difficult times of your life?

How did you make it through that tough time?

Life was especially difficult for the early Christians; they often endured persecution because of their beliefs. What does James say is the key for successfully navigating trials?

According to this passage, why should you have joy in the midst of trials? How does joy help you through trials?

Where does wisdom come from? Why does God give it generously?

When you get wisdom from God, how does that help you get through trials?

For what current trial do you need wisdom in order to respond well?

How do trials, perseverance, and wisdom relate to each other? Do trials automatically produce perseverance?

What are some practical ways you can work on your attitude in the midst of troubles?

Further study: 1 Peter 4:12-13, Philippians 1:29, Romans 8:17, 2 Corinthians 1:5