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James 1:5-8

Introduction:

        1.    James is a practical letter that deals with some important subjects relating to Christianity.
        2.    The introduction is given in 1:1.
               a.    James, the Lord's brother, was the inspired writer.
               b.    He sent this letter to Christians scattered throughout the world.
        3.    The main subject discussed in 1:2-18 is "facing temptations."
               a.    (vs.2-4) James shows us how we can profit from trials.
               b.    (vs.5-8) James shows us how to face trials so we can profit from them.

Discussion:

I.                   (1:5) WE  ARE  TO  ASK  GOD  FOR  WISDOM

        A.   There are 2 kinds of wisdom.
               1.    (3:15) One kind of wisdom is "earthly."
               2.    (3:17) The other kind of wisdom comes "from above."
        B.   Some people demonstrate earthly wisdom when they face trials by:
               1.    trusting in their own strength
               2.    seeking wisdom from men
               3.    losing control
               4.    murmuring and complaining
               5.    wanting others to feel sorry for them.
        C.   When we face trials the Lord wants us to ask Him for wisdom so we will know how to bear up
               under them.
        D.   We are assured that God will bless us with the wisdom we need.
               1.    God will give it liberally (Matthew 7:7-8; Proverbs 2:1-6).
               2.    He will not upbraid us for asking (1 Corinthians 10:13).

II.                (1:6-8) WE  ARE  TO  ASK  FOR  WISDOM  "IN  FAITH"

        A.   (vs.6) We are not to waver like a wave in the sea.
        B.   (vs.7) One who wavers when he asks God for wisdom does not need to think that he will
               receive anything.
        C.   (vs.8) One who wavers is a double-minded person.
               1.    A double-minded person is divided -- he is not truly committed to the Lord.
               2.    Such a person will be unstable in all his ways -- he will not profit from his trials.
        D.   When we make a request of God we are to ask "believing" (Matthew 21:22).

III.             (1 Kings 3) AN  EVENT  IN  SOLOMON'S  LIFE  ILLUSTRATES  THESE  PRINCIPLES

        A.   Solomon faced a great trial when he became king of Israel.
               1.    (vs.5) God allowed Solomon to ask for a blessing.
               2.    (vs.6-9) Solomon asked God to give him an understanding heart to judge His people.
               3.    (vs.10) God was pleased with Solomon's request.
               4.    (vs.11-13) God granted Solomon's request.
        B.   (vs.16-28) Solomon soon demonstrated the wisdom that God gave to him.

Conclusion:

        1.    (1:2-4) Christians can profit from trials in that they help us to develop patience and become
               perfect [complete].
        2.    (1:5-8) However, to profit from trials we must ask God for wisdom in faith.