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Greetings in the Name of the Lord! From my desk to you, Praise the Lord!

I’ve heard people say that there are no coincidences with God. If that be the case (for the sake of this writing I will remain intentionally neutral), it’s small wonder that I am blessed with the privilege of leading a Bible study of James – especially the first few verses!

There are many character building opportunities going on in many people’s lives including mine. What I am learning in the midst of these opportunities is that I learn a lot more in the midst of the challenge then I do when everything goes my way! Make sense to me: I enjoy lounging in my recliner and do not particularly enjoy working out at the gym. But we all know which one of those activities benefits and which one adds no benefit.

Going through a time of testing or a trial, even knowing that God will use it to teach us something about Him or something about us or something about Him in us does not necessarily make the trail any less unpleasant – it’s still no fun! But God is much more interested in our development then He is our fun!

Each year as we enter the Christmas holiday season, I am reminded that Christmas is not merry for everyone. Today, I have a brother-in-law dying of lung cancer which is kind of a day to day thing and my dad is in CCU with pneumonia. Additionally, many of our family of faith are facing trials on many kinds. It can seem trite to remind those struggling that God is faithful and that the Word is true but the fact remains; God is faithful and the Word is true.

If you are going through a trial, know that you are not alone. God knows where you are at and what you are going through and He who promised is faithful. Read and meditate on James 1:2-4 and know that God will use your trial for your development and for His glory!

Think about it - until next time,

Pastor Gary

Send your comments to: pastor@lwmky.org