"The Testing of Faith"

Gospel proclamation and demonstration

When we preach people hear the gospel. When we practice what we preach people see the gospel.

1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ,
To the twelve tribes scattered among the nations:
Greetings.
2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. 6 But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 7 That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8 Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.
9 Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. 10 But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower. 11 For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business.
12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.

- James 1:1:12

1. God allows testing and trials

2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds
- James 1:2
33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
- John 16:33

2. There's a purpose for our testing

3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
- James 1:3-4

Steady - adj - firm, stable; free from change variation or interruption; continuous

Fast (Fasten) -  adj - secure; sound; holding to tightly or firmly

Sound - adj - robust, strong, secure and reliable; robust

4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
- James 1:4

Perfect - in other verses is translated to mean maturity

Goal of Christianity is Christ-likeness

28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good,[a] for those who are called according to his purpose.
- Romans 8: 28

3. There's one path that leads us to that purpose

12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.
- 1 Peter 4:12

*Embrace a new perspective

Perspective - n - the proper or accurate point of view or the ability to see it.