FirstFruits~Watching Your Faith Unfold
James 1 is probably one of my favorite chapters of the Bible right now. It’s a fountain of truth and inspiration for every believer, but it can also be a bit overwhelming when you read it in one sitting.
I think that this chapter is so relevant and inspirational, that I want to take a few weeks to go over it with you all.
I want to help you grow closer to Jesus as we explore the Word is my new series: FirstFruits.
Let’s get started!
I think that verses 2-3 are difficult for most of us to accept.
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience (James 1:2-3 NKJV).
I don’t know about you, but my first reaction when life gets difficult is not to think of it as something joyful. I tend to worry and get upset as I wonder how in the world I’ll get through whatever is in front of me.
It does get easier. The more I go through, the more I can see God’s faithfulness in my life. I’ve dealt with health issues, depression, anxiety, loss, disappointments, and other trials that probably everyone reading this can relate to.
I’ve come to realize that sometimes God lets these things happen in order for fruit to be born–in order for us to draw closer to Him.
When everything is going smoothly, I tend to forget about my dependence on God. Instead I think I’m the one who’s in control. Ever felt that way before?
Let’s jump down to verse 6.
But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind (James 1:6 NKJV).
When the storms of life hit, are you like a wave in the sea that’s tossed in every direction, seeking refuge but finding none? Or are you anchored by faith in your Savior?
What James wants us to understand is that life’s difficulties can be opportunities to build our faith in Jesus Christ.
It’s not like we will never have any doubts–I know I do sometimes. The point is we need to keep coming back to Jesus, seeking Him first, even in the most turbulent times.
That joy James was talking about? That comes from the peace of a solid faith in the God who never fails.
Don’t stop believing, lovely reader. Don’t lose hope. Be patient and watch your faith unfold, taking you deeper into the arms of your Heavenly Father.
But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing (James 1:4 NKJV).
Thanks for reading! Please feel free to comment and share 🙂
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11 Comments
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lwbut
Hi Em, it’s been a while. 🙂
Not much i can add really – James Got it Right, and you Got James Right!
I think it comes down to how well we live in Our Faith – how can we have doubt when we believe in a perfect God who loves us? He knows what we have need of before we do ourselves ( need of, not necessarily would LIKE to have). If we trust Him then we know that whatever comes our way can be overcome and we will gain from the experience knowing and trusting that whatever happens He is always watching over us.
So bear that in mind if ever you feel like a doubt crosses your mind and know that God knows much more and much better than do we fallible weak humans. 🙂
love.
lwbut
P.S. that never means we should do things recklessly without care or caution that may result in premature death here on earth. Accidents can and do happen – even to the good guys 🙂
love.
fearfullywonderfullyme
Haha very true! Thank you for sharing your thoughts. God bless you!
fearfullywonderfullyme
So true! God holds our future in His hands. Thank you so much for your insightful comment.
Dainty M
I like that you’re examining the book of James right now. It’s so close to home for me. I’ve been going through a rough patch myself and some days am all ‘thankful’ and other days I just wonder why God wouldn’t make it all stop. But I guess this is supposed to work some patience in me as I trust God through the process. You’re right, when things go on well we feel as though we’re in control. If all my plans fall into place (as they ought to) I’d crown myself as the Queen Planner. Lol. So yeah, we do need this constant reminder that God is in charge. God bless you Emily!
fearfullywonderfullyme
God bless you too M! You’re so right that God is in charge and has His own plans for us. I’m praying for you ❤
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JZ
Amen!! God is good in all seasons of our lives 🙏
fearfullywonderfullyme
You’re so right girly! 😘