This Month’s Theme:
A faith that’s unshakeable (James 1:2-4)
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything – James 1:2-4
Artist’s Reflection
I find it so difficult to find joy and purpose in trials. But I noticed that when James says to “consider it [our trials] pure joy”, he didn’t say to “feel joy”. Instead, he encourages us to take an active role in considering our trials joy.
As I continue to trust God in the midst of my trials, I see Him refining me more and more. Whenever I feel tempted to give up, I remember that God entered humanity and suffered for us in the form of a man. In spite of the temptations He faced and the suffering that was coming His way, He never wavered in carrying out His purpose. Knowing this gives me the strength and confidence to face the next trial that comes my way with joy and confidence.
Patsy Shaw
Join in the Conversation
Have you ever wondered, “Why am I struggling? What’s the point of it all?” When we’re hit with the fiery trials of life–uncertainty, challenges, doubts, transitions–it can often feel overwhelming . . . and anything but “joyful”.
Yet James exhorts us to count it all “pure joy” when these things come our way (James 1:2-4). Like it or not, unshakeable faith is built in times of trials and tribulations. Painful as it is, God uses our challenges to cultivate a heart that yields to Him, that we may grow in our faith and dependence on Him–resulting in a faith that’s mature and complete.
The beauty of being part of God’s family though, is that we don’t have to go through it alone. This month, let’s hear the stories of those who have walked through the fiercest fires and emerged with a faith that’s stronger, more resolute, unyielding.
And if you have any stories about how God has worked through life’s many trials, whether big or small, we’d love to hear them! Share your story with us!
Here are some subthemes to help you get started:
- Building faith in the midst of trials
- Learning to trust God amidst uncertainty
- Finding joy and purpose in the midst of suffering
- Experiencing God’s faithfulness & sufficiency
- Prayer & brokenness
- Walking with others through their pain
Topics to Explore
Building a stronger faith: apologetics, confusing Bible passages, doubts in life, examining Scripture, restlessness, tough questions about faith, understanding the Bible, prayer, foundation in Christ
Trials and challenges of life: Suffering, financial crisis, illness, death, unemployment, losing jobs, miscarriage, grief, crushed dreams, barrenness, brokenness, injustice, betrayal, uncertainty, transitions
Relationship with others: Community, friendship, conflicts, disagreements, broken relationships, break-ups, divorce
Growing from strength to strength: Perseverance, testing, joy, hope, trust, obedience