Weekend Wrap-up
Theme of the Week: Strategic Struggle
Saturday, August 14, 2004
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Masochism is a psychological disorder in which a person derives pleasure from being physically or emotionally mistreated or abused and actually seeks it. It is not a Christian virtue. But neither is our natural tendency to avoid pain at all costs. Instead, Scripture challenges us to take the trials that are dealt to us in stride, and to recognize that God is allowing them in our lives for His constructive purposes. Interact with God's Word
James 1:2—4, 12 ; 5:10—11
- James calls trouble "an opportunity for joy." On the surface, this statement sounds flat-out wrong. But what underlying reasons does he give (1:3) to back up his counter-intuitive assertion?
- What are the components of joy promised (1:12) in this life? In the next?
- Who does James cite (5:10—11) as examples of persons who grew by enduring suffering? How did this play out for Elijah? How about Hosea? Jeremiah? Daniel?
- What outcome does James point to for the prophets? For Job?
- What does James say these outcomes reveal about God's character?
Spend Time in Prayer
Offer any current trials you are facing to the Lord, asking Him to use them to stretch and shape you in ways that will bring growth to you and blessing to others.
James 1:2—4, 12 ; 5:10—11
2Dear brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. 3For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything.
12God blesses the people who patiently endure testing. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
10For examples of patience in suffering, dear brothers and sisters, look at the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11We give great honor to those who endure under suffering. Job is an example of a man who endured patiently. From his experience we see how the Lord's plan finally ended in good, for he is full of tenderness and mercy.
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You have granted me many blessings; now let me also accept what is hard from Your hand. —Dietrich Bonhoeffer
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