Job is the New Testament example of a persevering saint. He demonstrates that perseverance doesn’t mean perfection! James 5:11b says, “You have heard of the perseverance of Job.” How did he persevere? He persevered the same way everyone perseveres—by maintaining faith in God. Twice Satan predicted he would curse God, and at one point his wife […]
faith
Blessed by Persevering Through Trials
We need to expect trials. Persevering through them can be easier when we understand we’re blessed through them! James 1:12 and 5:11 state: James 1:12—Blessed is the man who perseveres trials;for when he has been approved,he will receive the crown of life whichthe Lord has promised to those who love Him. James 5:11a—Indeed we count […]
God Tests His People to “Know” Them
God reveals Himself through the pages of Scripture. He shows His character and the ways He deals with people. One of God’s most common approaches is giving His people tests: Exodus 20:20—And Moses said to the people, “Do not fear; for God has come to test you, and that His fear may be before you, […]
Apostates Are Often Revealed by Trials
Apostates are people who appear to have embraced the faith, but then they reject – or fall away – from it. Their faith is shown to be insincere, and often trials provide this revelation. In the Parable of the Soils, the seed represents the Word of God, and the soil represents our hearts: Some [of […]
Trials Test Our Faith and Prove Its Genuineness
Trials accomplish two important works in our lives. First, trials improve, or mature, us. Second, trials test our faith: “Trials come to prove us and improve us.” Augustine I used to be a school teacher, and now I am a pastor. Both professions involve instructing others. I don’t want to sound overly simple, but good teachers […]
How Wives Win Over Husbands the Right and Wrong Way
If you’re a wife, Peter tells you how not to win over your husband (with words). And he tells you how to win over your husband (with godly conduct): Wives submit to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, you may win over your husband without a word by your actions, when […]
The Need to Prepare for Trials in This Life
Since we should expect trials, we must prepare for them. An Old Testament Example that Encourages us to Prepare for Trials Unfortunately, sometimes people read the Old Testament and think, “What does this have to do with me? How can I learn from people whose lives are so different from mine?” The New Testament states […]
Expect Trials in this Life
Recently, I witnessed a sobering example of the need to expect trials. My wife, Katie, and I grew up together in northern California. We lost touch after high school and then reconnected almost ten years later. At the time, Katie was living in our hometown of McArthur, California, but I was seven hours south in […]
Why Christianity Is the Opposite of Other Religions
Christianity is the opposite of other religions, and the main difference is contained in a few profound words Abraham spoke to his son, Isaac: Isaac said, “Where is the lamb for a burnt offering?” Abraham replied, “My son, God will provide for Himself the lamb for a burnt offering.” Genesis 22:7-8 Abraham’s words seem absurd. God would provide […]
Do you know why you believe what you believe?
Instead of, “Know what you believe,” a more appropriate statement might be, “Know why you believe.” 1 Peter 3:15b says, “Always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.” We’re supposed to be ready to […]
