don't pout

by Marvin Williams

James 1:2-8

" ² Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. ³ For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. ⁴ So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.

⁵ If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. ⁶ But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. ⁷Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. ⁸ Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do.

In the first half of the 20th century, racial segregation laws were enforced in the United States. Even jazz great Duke Ellington was prevented from staying in the guest rooms of hotels where he and his band performed. When asked how this discrimination made him feel, Ellington replied, " I tool the energy it takes to pout and rote some blues." He allowed an ugly ,race-based situation to build up his character.

Isn't that what James was after in the opening chapter of the book that bears his name? He reminded his readers that trials are inevitable (v.2). He wanted us to fully grasp the idea that they can be used to help us grow and develop spiritually (v.3). James wanted his audience to read his letter and walk away with the understanding that trials can build character and faith in the believer, and it requires three things:

• Trials can build character if we respond to them appropriately. Our response should be one of joy (James 2:2). James was telling was not telling us to be happy about the pain experienced, but to find joy in a relationship with Jesus and the fact that we have been counted worthy to suffer for Him ( Philippians 1: 29)
• Trials can build character if we accurately understand the reason for our trials. the purpose of trials is to produce patience and allow patience to help us develop into more mature Christians (James 1: 3-4).
• Trials can build character if we rely on God absolutely. We should ask God for wisdom and answers as we go through various trials (v.5).

God is still looking for people who will not pout about their trials, but who will allow Him to use their them to make beautiful music for the world. " When your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow" (1:3)