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| At FBC Moberly, we recently began a new study through the book of James. On a recent Sunday, we looked at James 1:1-4 and discovered that God uses trials in our life to mature our faith. If you missed the sermon, click here for the podcast. You might recall that I shared a video at the end of the sermon (for podcast listeners, that video was cut out). You can find the video by clicking here. The video is of a five-year old boy named Phoenix, who was attempting to advance to the next belt in karate. In order to do so, Phoenix had to break a board with his foot. Initially he struggles, and the struggle became so overwhelming that he began to cry. Phoenix told himself he couldn’t break the board. In his own mind, he was already finished, destined to be the one that everyone would forever remember as “the one who couldn’t break the board…” Go back and watch the video again and notice two things. First, notice the encouragement of the instructor. He didn’t allow the young boy to sulk, and he didn’t allow him to stop. Nor did the instructor do the work for him. Instead, the instructor told him two things: First, “You can do this!” and secondly, “This is HOW you do this.” The instructor gave Phoenix encouragement and instruction. Secondly, notice Phoenix’s classmates. They too refused to give up on Phoenix. And they refused to let him give up on himself. They continually rooted him on, chanting his name, encouraging him to continue trying, to persevere. And then, when Phoenix finally broke the board, they celebrated with him like he had just won the Super Bowl! The video is the perfect illustration for the sermon. As you go through trials in life you will be tempted to give up and walk away. You’ll be overwhelmed and frustrated. When those moments occur, look for Jesus, our ultimate instructor. He will give you encouragement to keep at it. And he will give you instruction on how to endure. Secondly, look to the church. Like Phoenix’s classmates, we should all be cheering one another along as we endure trials in this life. We should help one another, root for one another and celebrate one another as our trials become our triumphs. This week, I’m praying for you. I’m praying that you will have a fresh new perspective on your trials and that you would see that trials produce endurance…and endurance matures our faith. To God be the Glory! Points to Ponder Are you in the midst of a trial? If so, share it with those in your church family so they can root you on! And keep on going! Do trials cause you to question God’s love for you? Never again! Instead, begin seeing trials as God’s process that he uses to grow your faith. And, “Consider them all joy!” Prayer to Prayer Father,Thank you for struggles in this life that help us to depend on you. Thank you for your kindness and grace to us. Help us endure and help us cheer one another on as we each run our race. In Jesus Name, Amen. |