Trials and Temptations

James 1

1. Into Our History

Suggested Ice Breakers

• When you think of the word “joy” what images pop into your head?

• Close your eyes and think of a serene place. Now describe what you feel.

• Think of a stressful place (e.g. work, screaming kids, etc.), now describe what

you feel.

• Briefly describe a trial that you have had to endure. What was your emotional

state at the time?

2. Into The Bible

a. Read James 1:2: “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,” (NKJV)

1. Definitions:

The KJV translates the word “trials” as “temptations.”

“Joy” in this passage literally means “calm delight.”

2. Question: How is it possible to experience “calm delight” in the mist of trials which naturally evoke stress and anxiety?

“Calm delight” is grounded in knowing that God is in control. When we focus on the love that God has for us, and his power over all (which insures that he is able to express his love), this kind of joy results (cf. Matt 6:25-31; Philippians 4:6-7). However, if we have our thoughts on the situation then our joy will turn into burden.

3. What James does not mean: “I am soooo happy that I am dealing with ________ issue.” Rather, it’s a mindset that says, “I know that we will have trouble in this life and God is going to see me through.”

b. Read James 1:2-3 “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” (NKJV)

1. Question: Why do you suppose that God allows us to go through difficulties instead of delivering us completely from them?

God is passionate about our personal Christ-like development. This involves the forming of certain virtues within our lives, virtues that require difficulty. For example, God is desires for us to be longsuffering (i.e. patient). Longsuffering requires that we suffer long!!! Many Christians will say, “God, please take me OUT of this.” God’s idea of growth is much different; he wants us to go THROUGH the issues of life that we might be strengthened.

Psalm 23:4 “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” (NKJV)

2. Our comfort is found in knowing that he will walk with us through the trials and temptations of life (cf. Hebrews 13:5; Hebrews 2:18; Matthew 28:20).

c. Read James 1:12-15 “Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown,

brings forth death” (NKJV).

1. We need to endure temptation:

Endure: to undergo (as a hardship) especially without giving in

Suffer: to submit to or be forced to endure <suffer martyrdom>

2. Common Misconception: God tempts you. EHNT! WRONG!

Hebrews 4:14-16 - Jesus was tempted yet without sin. He knows what we are going through and can help us if we rely on Him.

3. Into Our Lives

• When we are going through a trial or tempted to sin, how can we count it joy?

• What do you think is the “key” to having “calm delight” during trying circumstances?

• In what ways can you help to remind yourself that God is with you during your trials and temptations?

• Always remember that God is using the trials and temptations to mold you more into the image of Christ.

James 1:2-5 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. (NKJV)

Closing Thought (Story)

Some time ago, a few ladies met to study the scriptures. While reading the third chapter of Malachi, they came upon a remarkable expression in the third verse: "And He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver" (Malachi 3:3). One lady decided to visit a silversmith and reports to the others what he said about the subject. She went accordingly, and without telling him the reason for her visit, begged the silversmith to tell her about the process of refining silver. After he had fully described it to her, she remembered Malachi 3:3 and asked, "Sir, do you sit while the work of refining is going on?" "Oh, yes ma'am," replied the silversmith; "I must sit and watch the furnace constantly, for if the time necessary for refining is exceeded in the slightest degree, the silver will be injured."

The lady at once saw the beauty and comfort of the expression, "He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver." God sees that it is necessary to put His children into the furnace; but His eye is steadily intent on the work of purifying, and His wisdom and love are both engaged in the best manner for us. Our trials do not come at random, and He will not let us be tested beyond what we can endure.

Before she left, the lady asked one final question, "How do you know when the process is complete?" "That's quite simple," replied the silversmith. "When I can see my own image in the silver, the refining process is finished."