How to Deal with Trials and Temptations | Sunday Message

Greg Laurie gives us guidance on overcoming trials that come our way from James 1.

Pastor Greg Laurie begins a new series in the book of James called Walk this Way with a message titled “How to Deal With Trials and Temptations.” 

We all go through unique trials and temptations. In fact, it is a good sign that you are walking in the right direction. It is through the toughest trials and temptations that we learn the most and can become healthier, better followers of Jesus Christ. 

Listen in for good encouragement!

Notes

God allows trials to strengthen us because He wants to use us!

What Jesus is saying is, “Satan will not be able to stop you!”

The Epistle of James is for suffering people.

James and the family did not believe in Jesus until His resurrection.

1. Living a perfect Christian life will not convince some people.

The resurrection of Jesus turned James around. 

2. Make a choice to rejoice when you go through trials.

“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials.” —James 1:2

The more we rejoice in our testings, the more we realize they are not liabilities but privileges.

They are ultimately helpful, not harmful; no matter how severe they may appear.

Job gave thanks.

It is very easy to only want to give thanks when we feel like it, but according to Scripture, it is something the believer is to do regardless of circumstances.

“Gratitude reduces toxic emotions ranging from envy and frustration and reduces depression, and actually increases happiness.” —Robert A. Emmons, Ph.D.

Thankful people are happy people!

3. Trials happen to make us stronger in every way. 

In Greek, “The testing of your faith produces ‘patience’” actually translates to, “toughness,” or “fortitude.”

Trials are like God’s gym, where we are broken down to be built up.

God has a purpose for every trial.

Spiritual strength will come through trials.

Jesus would come in His time and in His way because of His love!

Jesus delayed His arrival so He could bring greater glory to His name.

Jesus loves us and wants to be glorified through our lives.

Two words stand out against Paul’s travesty of tragedy: “Nevertheless God!”

4. It is through trials that we learn great wisdom. 

Through knowledge, we have learned how to travel faster than sound, but we show our lack of wisdom by going faster in the wrong direction!

5. God will enable us to endure and get through times of temptation. 

Where does temptation come from?

Answer: We play a key role in our own temptation by giving Satan our cooperation.

Where there is no desire on our part, then there is no temptation.

The temptation itself.

You are now under its power and are enjoying the experience.

You are now almost hooked.

“Drawn away by his own desires and is enticed.” —James 1:14

The lethal effects of sin kick in.

“And sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.” —James 1:15 

Temptation often comes after great times of blessing!

1. We will go through times of trial.
2. We need to make the choice to rejoice in times of trial. 
3. God will guide you and give you the wisdom you need.
4. Temptations will come, but there is always a way out!

Jesus suffered and died for your sin, so you can be forgiven!

Scripture Referenced

John 7:5

1 Corinthians 15:4, 7

Job 1:21

Hebrews 12:11

Romans 5:3 

John 11:4–7

2 Corinthians 7:5–6

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Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org.

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