James
As followers of Jesus Christ, our faith will be tested. These times of testing are like a classroom - we may not like it, but the end results can be very rewarding. Our trials are to serve as a means of moral and spiritual growth. Don't think it strange that you are being tested, rather rejoice that God's grace is sufficient to sustain you through it!
In James 1:2, it says to “count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations.” We usually worry, scramble, and try to get out of the situation of difficulty, pressure, or stress. Read 1 Peter 1:6-7, “Wherein ye greatly rejoice though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth.” God uses trials to try and prove our faith, but out of the trial, there is a forming and developing of patience. Our days are not always wonderful. Paul stated in Philippians 4:11, “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.” He learned to let patience rise and do a work. So why should we joy in trials? Because we’re going to receive a measure of patience which does an inner work for us. Patience develops confidence in God, His Word, His promises, and how we believe. Many times we are instructed to be still and wait upon the Lord (patience develops). We have the need to receive patience before we receive the promises of God.
This message focuses on the important topic of accountability. Although we live in a society that seems to be rejecting all thoughts of personal accountability, familial (family) accountability, and accountability to the local church; these issues are important to God. Accountability opens the door for correction. Correction, when done biblically, leads to restoration. Restoration leads to peace and order.
We serve a loving and caring heavenly Father. He is touched by our pain and hurt. But He is also a King. He rules the universe with power and authority. So how do we come to God knowing these truths about Him? We bind Him to His own Word!
