TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
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. James 1:5
Read: James 1:5-8
Listen: James 1
TODAY’S MESSAGE
James writes to a group of believers who are battered and bruised by persecution. They know the bitter sting of trials. Yet, James wants them to know how how to survive trials AND thrive during them. The key step these believers have to take is toward God. Rather than turning inward or away from God, James challenges his readers to turn to God and ask God for help while navigating the hardships they are facing.
In the same way, we face a choice whenever we encounter trials. We can either turn away from God in bitter self-reliance, or we can turn toward him in humble dependence. The God-ward turn James encourages is made by asking God for wisdom on how to navigate our trials. We ask God for help in knowing and doing the right thing even when–especially when–times are hard. Such a God-ward turn of trust is essential if we are going to thrive and grow in the face of trials.
TODAY: Pray and ask God to help you to live wisely while dealing with whatever trial you are facing. “God, please help me know what it means to live in your wisdom while dealing with _______________. I need your help and trust you to lead me in this situation. Thank you for your wisdom and help. Amen.”
JESUS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT:
Read Luke 13. Highlight anything that refers to the Old Testament and how Jesus fulfills it.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
