James 1:1-4

Trials

• Trials will find us
• Trials are opportunities to rejoice
• Trials shape us
• Trials vary in their kinds

James 1:5-8

Wisdom

• When we don't know what to do, we pray
• We ask because God gives wisdom
• We don't doubt because we know the outcome if we do

JOY: I know that God hears and answers

TRANSFORMATION: my reliance + God's answer = deeper faiith

James 1:9-11

Poverty

• Poor struggle here but not there
  • JOY: what limits me here will not there
  • TRANSFORMATION: clarity of genuine treasure and creative generosity
• Rich humiliated by lack of lasting value
  • "What earns me favor with others earns me no favor with God"
  • "The marks of success can hinder me from following Jesus"
  • "What I count on goes away"
  • JOY: I can invest in lasting things (1 Tim 6:17-19)
  • TRANFORMATION: agenda change and open hands

Practical Questions

1. Are you grateful for what God has entrusted to you?
2. Are you enjoying God's gift as he intends?
3. What does your giving say about your heart?
4. Do you have a plan for investing in eternity via your generosity?