Provision Granted.

Provision Granted.

James 1:2-7

When James wrote his epistle some 30 years later after Jesus’ death. James humility is evident by the way he saw himself: "James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ" (James 1:1).

James identified himself as the servant of Jesus rather than as a close relative.

James, the leader of the Jerusalem church, was the half brother of Jesus. He became a believer after the resurrection of Jesus and was later martyred for his faith.

James 1:2-7AMP Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials. 3 Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance [leading to spiritual maturity, and inner peace]. 4 And let endurance have its perfect result and do a thorough work, so that you may be perfect and completely developed [in your faith], lacking in nothing. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom [to guide him through a decision or circumstance], he is to ask of [our benevolent] God, who gives to everyone generously and without rebuke or blame, and it will be given to him. 6 But he must ask [for wisdom] in faith, without doubting [God’s willingness to help], for the one who doubts is like a billowing surge of the sea that is blown about and tossed by the wind. 7 For such a person ought not to think or expect that he will receive anything [at all] from the Lord,

Are you at the end of your rope? Wary, cast down, about to give up? I challenge you to answer the following questions with a simple yes, or no.

Does the word of God promise to supply all your needs?

Did Jesus say He would never leave you?

Did He say He would keep you from falling and present you faultless before the Father's throne?

Is He more willing to give than you are to receive?

Is He greater than, he that is in the world?

Are His thoughts toward you, Good thoughts? Is He a rewarder of those who diligently seek him?

Is He preparing a place for you in glory?

Is He coming in the clouds to gather His people home?

Are you going with Him when He comes?

Your answer to all of these should be, absolutely yes! Now ask yourself, do I really believe God is faithful to his word, or do I waver in my trust?

James wrote his countrymen-the 12 scattered tribes of Israel (James 1:1)-giving practical instruction about Christian life. He taught about wisdom and careful use of the tongue and reminded them that true godly service consists of active love and purity (James 1:27).

He wrote at length about patience—patience in trial (James 1:2), patience in good works (James 1:22-25), patience under provocation (James 3:1-7), patience under oppression (James 5:7), patience under persecution (James 5:10). The foundation of patience, he wrote, is the knowledge that Christ will come to right all wrongs (James 5:8).

To understand God’s provisions, one must understand endurance/patience.

5 Truths from these 6 verses of James 1:2-7:

James 1:2MSG Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides.

1. Do I count endurance, patience and trails as pure joy?

Testings and trails are part of life. The question should be asked, How do I respond to testings and trails?

Here’s a fact, “If you are of God, God will be glorified!”

Here's what I want you to know, when God calls us to any specific work, he has already made provision for everything we need to accomplish it.

Here’s God's provision. You ready?

2 Corinthians 9:8NIV And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

This verse is not just a hope – it is a promise. It begins with the words, God is able!

Again, How do I respond to testings? -Is God able?

James 1:3TPT For you know that when your faith is tested it stirs up in you the power of endurance.

2. Endurance- Understand that God is not just interested in meeting your need. He wants to give you more than you need!

Remember this, A believer endures the storm by receiving God’s report. God’s provision.

Hudson Taylor founder of China Inland Mission used to hang in his home a plaque with two Hebrew Words on it: EBENEZER & JEHOVAH JIREH. The first word means ‘Hitherto hath the Lord helped us’ and the second, ‘The Lord will see to it or provide.’

One looked back, while the other looked forward. One reminded him of God’s- faithfulness and the other of God’s assurances.

Say, “endurance." The provision has been made.

Ephesians 3:20AMP Now to Him who is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly more than all that we dare ask or think [infinitely beyond our greatest prayers, hopes, or dreams], according to His power that is at work within us,