A Christianity That Works Part II

How To Profit From Your Problems
James cuts right to the chase.. Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Key phrase because you know

Your attitude is determined by your understanding.

FOUR "FACTS OF LIFE
1. Problems are inevitable Scripture doesn't say, "If’” you encounter problems it says whenever - in other words “count on it”.

2. Problems are unpredictable. He says, whenever you face problems The word "face" in the Greek literally means "to fall into unexpectedly".

3. Problems of many kinds - all shapes & sizes. Many kinds literally means multi colored. They vary in intensity and duration.

4. Problems are purposeful He uses the word "testing", as in testing gold and silver. So problems purify my faith.

Christians are a lot like tea bags. You don't know what's inside of them until you drop them in hot water. Then you know.

How does God teach us the fruit of the spirit? By putting us in the exact opposite situation. If God wants to teach you love, He puts you around unlovely people. If He wants to teach you peace, God puts you around chaos.

HOW TO HANDLE YOUR PROBLEMS (The 3 Rs)
Rejoice: Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials We don't rejoice for the problem, we rejoice in the problem. I Thessalonians 5:18 In everything give thanks for this is the will of God concerning you in Christ Jesus. It doesn’t say, For everything give thanks. It says In everything give thanks. Why? God can use our difficult situations for our good.

It is your attitude that makes the difference! I may not be able to control the circumstances, I can control how I respond. Psalm 34:1 I will bless the Lord at all times…. His praise shall continually be in my mouth.

Request: Pray. v. 5 If any of you lack wisdom, ask God who gives generously to all without finding fault... Pray for wisdom so you don't waste the opportunity to grow

Relax: Trust God to know what's best for you, co-operate with Him, that's called faith. Relax. Let God work.

That in a nut shell is Part II of “A Christianity that Works”. Please join us on Sunday at the Gathering Place or here next week for Part III “How To Make Up Your Mind”.