Maranatha Messenger

WHAT TO DO
WHEN YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO
(Believe God Pt. 3)

HOW CAN I GET BETTER AND NOT BITTER ?

Two ways: Faith and submission. Consider what James has to say about this very subject. “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; 3 Knowing [this], that the trying of your faith worketh patience. 4 But let patience have [her] perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing (James 1:2-4).

1. First of all, faith permits me to have a good attitude through my trials. James specifically addresses my attitude concerning difficulties. He commands the believer to hegeomai {count} it all chara {joy} when he encounters various problems. How can I possess a joyful attitude in the midst of my trials? The answer is faith! James explains that ginosko {knowing} the testing of my faith works endurance. Recognizing that God is at katergazomai {work} in my life makes all the difference in the world. Suppose you are driving down the interstate and you see a sign that says, “Men at work.” You start to slow down and you become aware of your surroundings. Maybe the left lane is closed for repairs? Or maybe the construction crew is putting down black top. At the present you feel inconvenienced. Nevertheless, you understand the highway will be much better when the construction is completed. This insight will help you patiently deal with the construction process. The Christian life is very similar. You are faced with an alternative route. The way may be difficult and problematic. By faith you view your trial as a road sign that says, “God at work.” Knowing that God may use a crisis to construct
Christ-like character into the Christian can make a difference. This faith based knowledge can produce joy in the heart of the believer when he understands that God is at work. Notice the word hotan {when} in verse 2. It is just a matter of time. The believer will face trials and testing. Therefore, a strategy must be developed beforehand. The course of action that James encouraged the believer to employ was faith!

2. Secondly, submission to the Lordship of Christ will keep the believer from becoming bitter. Submission takes place in the believer’s heart when he willingly accepts by faith that God matures him through trials and difficulties. Stop fighting God! James commands us, to “let” patience complete her work of maturity. Stop resisting the work of God in your life. But “let” God do as He desires!

STUDY QUESTIONS:

1. How will faith help my attitude when I encounter trials?

2. According to James what kind of attitude should the believer have when he encounters various trials and testing?

3. What does the trying of my faith produce?

4. Who is at work when trials come into our lives?

5. Will God use a crisis to build character in my life?

6. What kind of character is God building in the believer’s life?

7. What does the word “let” mean in James 1:2-4?