5 Secrets to Wisdom
James 1:2-6
Thesis: To show that trials are real and that we must endure.
Introduction:
1. Do you want wisdom? Do you ever ask for patience?2. Problems are real. How should Christians respond to them?Discussion:
Let's consider...I. Everyone has problems.
A. Jesus (Mt. 4:1-11)B. Paul (2 Cor. 11:25-28; 12:7-10)C. Christians (Mt. 5:11-12; 2 Tim. 3:12; 1 Pet. 4:15-16)II. The Christian solution to problems.
A. The world has its solutions, but they are insufficient.B. We must look to Jesus (Heb. 12:1-2).C. We must apply the secrets of wisdom (Jam. 1:2-6).1. Have trials (v. 2).2. Endure the trial – “prove your faith” (v. 3).3. Patience is a byproduct of endurance (v. 3).4. Patience when it is allowed to mature is wisdom – “perfect work” (vv. 4-5).III. Some guidelines to endurance.
A. Pray for wisdom (Jam. 1:5-6).B. Accept that good things come from God (Jam. 1:16-17).God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
as it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
if I surrender to His Will;
That I may be reasonably happy in this life
and supremely happy with Him
Forever in the next.
Amen.
D. Be a doer (Jam. 1:22-25).Conclusion:
1. We cannot change problems, but we can affect the outcome.2. Christ helps disciples to win over temptation. 1 "The Serenity Prayer" by Reinold Neibuhr (http://www.cptryon.org/prayer/special/serenity.html) accessed on October 31, 2008.
