Growing up has its advantages. Adults face life’s struggles differently than children do. Both children and adults feel strong emotions about the trials they face, but they display their emotions differently. A mature Christian can even dare to experience joy during such times. Whatever you may be facing in life, there are four realities about hardship you should know.

I. Trials Are Normal (v. 2)

II. Trials Can Be Joyful (v. 2)

III. Trials Could Be Transformational (vv. 3-4)

IV. Trials Should Be Educational (vv. 5-8)

Talk with God: Ask the Lord to show you how you can prepare your heart for the struggles ahead.

Talk with others: Ask someone close to you how you can help them walk through a current struggle.

Talk with kids: How does God forgive our sins?

You’ve probably been in a situation where there was confusion, even pandemonium, and most people were acting like immature children. What was needed was just one person to act like an adult and bring decorum and civility back. In such situations, one might say, “Where is the adult in the room?” It refers to someone who will behave responsibly in a mature manner. The book of James is about spiritual maturity. It is a call to grow up and not just grow old. James was the adult in the room.

I. The Author “James”

II. The Autobiography “a bondservant of God and of…Jesus Christ”

III. The Audience “To the twelve tribes…scattered abroad”

IV. The Address “Greetings”

Talk with God: Reflect on your spiritual growth journey and ask the Lord to show you where He wants to grow you.

Talk with others: Ask a trusted believer or mentor to hold you accountable in working toward growth in a specific area of your walk.

Talk with kids: What do you believe to be true about God, even though you haven’t seen Him?