Tonight my Life Group studied James 1:1-18. Here are my takeaways:
- The reason we can find joy in our trials is because of what we know they are producing in our lives – refined Christian character.
- The reason we need wisdom is to discern what God is trying to do in our lives through our trials.
- God will allow trials in our lives to mold our character (i.e. teach us patience by putting us in a situation that requires patience or teach us trust by putting us in a situation that requires trust).
- Trials and temptations are different in source and purpose. Whereas trials are from God, temptations are from the devil. Whereas trials are meant to build our faith, temptations are meant to destroy it.
- We can count on God to see us through our trials and deliver us from our temptations.