Trials and Errors: Rejoice In Troubles
Feb. 21, 2021
There are many reasons why trials come
God is trustable
You don’t need to know
The foretaste will become face to face
Ask for the now/ Praise Him in the not yet
James 1:2 Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy
Rejoice in troubles
Why rejoice in troubles?
1) Because it draws you close to God
Ultimate reality is supernatural and personal (but not human). Roger E. Olson
We felt we were doomed to die and saw how powerless we were to help ourselves; but that was good, for then we put everything into the hands of God, who alone could save us. 2 Corinthians 1:9, LB
Isaiah 43:2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you
Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
Why rejoice in troubles?
2) Because it’s about the Father and not the gifts
Isaiah 52:10 Who among you fears the Lord, and obeys the word of his servant? Let the one who walks in the dark, who has no light, trust in the name of the Lord
Gen. 22:12 Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son.
Why rejoice in troubles?
3) Because you are gaining the beauty of Christ
James 1:3-4 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.
Heb. 12:11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
1 Peter 4:12-13 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation
Why rejoice in troubles?
4) Rejoicing is a decision to change directions
Romans 12:12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer
1 Thess. 5:16-18 Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.
Roads of sadness morph into self-indulgence
Roads of anger morph into bitterness/rage
Rejoice – Why?
Because it draws you close to God
Because it’s about the Father and not the gifts
Because you are gaining the beauty of Christ
Because changing direction is good
Hold His hand through it
