GPS Guide – November 29, 2018

HOLY INTERRUPTION

Thursday

Read: James 1:2-5

^“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.  Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.  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.”  (NIV James 1:2-5)

Study:  Every life has challenges—sometimes minor, other times trials that test the very fiber of our being. James urged Christians to meet life’s tests as “occasions for joy.” He didn’t mean the

tests were pleasant, but rather that times that test us, in small or large ways, are chances to grow our endurance. God will use that endurance, James went on, to “complete its work so that you may be fully mature, complete, and lacking in nothing.” James did not write through naïve, rose-colored glasses. He knew human nature is not at all inclined to view tests as “occasions for joy.” That‘s why in verse 5 he wrote that God will freely give wisdom to anyone who asks. In what ways does God’s ability to “grow you” through life’s challenges help you view hard times differently? When has God given you wisdom to face a tough challenge?

Pray: Lord God, I find it hard to see even a gray, rainy day or a jam-packed parking lot as an occasion for joy. Keep teaching me to view life your way, and to value the times that you can use to help me grow in endurance and trust. Amen.