What Do You Do When Life Gets Hard?

Most of us know how to talk about faith. Most of us know how to talk about faith. We know the right words, the right We know the right words, the right We know the right words, the right verses, verses, verses, what we're supposed to say. what we're supposed to say. what we're supposed to say. But there's a difference between talking But there's a difference between talking But there's a difference between talking about faith about faith about faith and living with faith and living with faith and living with faith when the pressure is on. when the pressure is on. when the pressure is on. Faith is easy when life is easy. When Faith is easy when life is easy. When Faith is easy when life is easy. When your health is good, your marriage is your health is good, your marriage is your health is good, your marriage is steady, steady, steady, when your kids are behaving, when your kids are behaving, when your kids are behaving, and the bills are paid, and the bills are paid, and the bills are paid, when the future feels predictable. when the future feels predictable. when the future feels predictable. But faith is tested when life squeezes. But faith is tested when life squeezes. But faith is tested when life squeezes. When pressure shows up unexpectedly. When pressure shows up unexpectedly. When pressure shows up unexpectedly. When you're under attack. When you're under attack. When you're under attack. When you're tired, discouraged, When you're tired, discouraged, When you're tired, discouraged, overwhelmed, or afraid. overwhelmed, or afraid. overwhelmed, or afraid. When everything seems to be going wrong. When everything seems to be going wrong. When everything seems to be going wrong. That's when faith stops being a belief That's when faith stops being a belief That's when faith stops being a belief system and starts being a survival system and starts being a survival system and starts being a survival system. system. system. This series is called faith that works. This series is called faith that works. This series is called faith that works. Not faith that just looks good when Not faith that just looks good when Not faith that just looks good when you're at church. you're at church. you're at church. Not faith that just sounds good in Not faith that just sounds good in Not faith that just sounds good in conversation, but faith that works when conversation, but faith that works when conversation, but faith that works when life doesn't.

life doesn't. life doesn't. We're going to spend the next few weeks We're going to spend the next few weeks We're going to spend the next few weeks in the book of James, a letter written in the book of James, a letter written in the book of James, a letter written to a group of people who were outcasts to a group of people who were outcasts to a group of people who were outcasts because of their faith. because of their faith. because of their faith. Their homes had been taken away. They Their homes had been taken away. They Their homes had been taken away. They were no longer together in one place, were no longer together in one place, were no longer together in one place, but scattered throughout the land. but scattered throughout the land. but scattered throughout the land. They were just starting to endure hard They were just starting to endure hard They were just starting to endure hard times. It was the very beginnings of times. It was the very beginnings of times. It was the very beginnings of persecution. persecution. persecution. James wrote this letter knowing things James wrote this letter knowing things James wrote this letter knowing things were not going to get better. In fact, were not going to get better. In fact, were not going to get better. In fact, soon got much worse. soon got much worse. soon got much worse. Nero became emperor and became began the Nero became emperor and became began the Nero became emperor and became began the most horrific persecution of Christians most horrific persecution of Christians most horrific persecution of Christians the world had ever known. the world had ever known. the world had ever known. Christians were burned at the stake to Christians were burned at the stake to Christians were burned at the stake to provide light for Nero's drunken provide light for Nero's drunken provide light for Nero's drunken parties. parties. parties. Believers were subjected to unbelievable Believers were subjected to unbelievable Believers were subjected to unbelievable atrocities. atrocities. atrocities. This book wasn't written to impress This book wasn't written to impress This book wasn't written to impress believers, believers, believers, but to prepare them. but to prepare them. but to prepare them. For many it was already hard. For many it was already hard. For many it was already hard. Jews who became Christians face real Jews who became Christians face real Jews who became Christians face real difficulties. difficulties. difficulties. Following Jesus meant they lost family, Following Jesus meant they lost family, Following Jesus meant they lost family, relationships, jobs.

relationships, jobs. relationships, jobs. Corrupt Jewish leaders persecuted Corrupt Jewish leaders persecuted Corrupt Jewish leaders persecuted Christians. Christians. Christians. Even James, the author of this letter, Even James, the author of this letter, Even James, the author of this letter, was stoned to death by the Jewish high was stoned to death by the Jewish high was stoned to death by the Jewish high priest about 10 years later. priest about 10 years later. priest about 10 years later. This wasn't just an idea for James. This wasn't just an idea for James. This wasn't just an idea for James. It would be his own life and death. It would be his own life and death. It would be his own life and death. James knew something important. Token James knew something important. Token James knew something important. Token faith will not survive real pressure. faith will not survive real pressure. faith will not survive real pressure. Inspirational quotes won't sustain. Inspirational quotes won't sustain. Inspirational quotes won't sustain. Surface-level belief won't last. Surface-level belief won't last. Surface-level belief won't last. So, James jumped right in So, James jumped right in So, James jumped right in and told them what real faith looks like and told them what real faith looks like and told them what real faith looks like when life is difficult. when life is difficult. when life is difficult. In chapter 1, James answered a simple In chapter 1, James answered a simple In chapter 1, James answered a simple but uncomfortable question. but uncomfortable question. but uncomfortable question. What do you do when the pressure is on? What do you do when the pressure is on? What do you do when the pressure is on? If you're currently under pressure, If you're currently under pressure, If you're currently under pressure, you're facing a challenge, you're facing a challenge, you're facing a challenge, I want you to listen close. I want you to listen close. I want you to listen close. James, a servant of God and the Lord James, a servant of God and the Lord James, a servant of God and the Lord Jesus Christ, Jesus Christ, Jesus Christ, to the 12 tribes scattered among the to the 12 tribes scattered among the to the 12 tribes scattered among the nations, greetings.

nations, greetings. nations, greetings. Now, remember these people were about to Now, remember these people were about to Now, remember these people were about to face unbelievable hardship. face unbelievable hardship. face unbelievable hardship. They weren't dealing with flat tires or They weren't dealing with flat tires or They weren't dealing with flat tires or bad grades, but imprisonment, beatings, bad grades, but imprisonment, beatings, bad grades, but imprisonment, beatings, death threats, and death. death threats, and death. death threats, and death. Knowing that makes James' instruction Knowing that makes James' instruction Knowing that makes James' instruction all the more amazing. all the more amazing. all the more amazing. One sentence greeting and then right to One sentence greeting and then right to One sentence greeting and then right to the point. the point. the point. Consider it pure joy, my brothers, Consider it pure joy, my brothers, Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds. whenever you face trials of many kinds. whenever you face trials of many kinds. That's it. That's how we're supposed to That's it. That's how we're supposed to That's it. That's how we're supposed to face tough times. face tough times. face tough times. There's not 12 steps in this passage, There's not 12 steps in this passage, There's not 12 steps in this passage, only one. only one. only one. When trouble comes, When trouble comes, When trouble comes, consider pure joy consider pure joy consider pure joy and rejoice. and rejoice. and rejoice. When you have trouble and things aren't When you have trouble and things aren't When you have trouble and things aren't going your way, when Nero comes to get going your way, when Nero comes to get going your way, when Nero comes to get you, rejoice. you, rejoice. you, rejoice. No matter what kind of trial you face, No matter what kind of trial you face, No matter what kind of trial you face, no matter when you face it, rejoice. no matter when you face it, rejoice. no matter when you face it, rejoice. James didn't say consider rejoicing or James didn't say consider rejoicing or James didn't say consider rejoicing or occasionally rejoice. James said, occasionally rejoice. James said, occasionally rejoice. James said, rejoice.

rejoice. rejoice. So, okay, Rod, that's what James said. So, okay, Rod, that's what James said. So, okay, Rod, that's what James said. But this might be one of those parts of But this might be one of those parts of But this might be one of those parts of the Bible where they got the translation the Bible where they got the translation the Bible where they got the translation wrong. wrong. wrong. Cuz rejoicing in trouble doesn't seem Cuz rejoicing in trouble doesn't seem Cuz rejoicing in trouble doesn't seem reasonable. reasonable. reasonable. Just in case, Just in case, Just in case, let's check James' word against a couple let's check James' word against a couple let's check James' word against a couple other passages. other passages. other passages. Jesus said in John 16:33, "In this world Jesus said in John 16:33, "In this world Jesus said in John 16:33, "In this world you will have trouble, but take heart. you will have trouble, but take heart. you will have trouble, but take heart. I've overcome the world." I've overcome the world." I've overcome the world." The King James version says it this way, The King James version says it this way, The King James version says it this way, "In the world ye shall have tribulation, "In the world ye shall have tribulation, "In the world ye shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer. I've overcome the but be of good cheer. I've overcome the but be of good cheer. I've overcome the world." Take heart, be of good cheer, world." Take heart, be of good cheer, world." Take heart, be of good cheer, sounds a lot like sounds a lot like sounds a lot like rejoice. Then look at the words of Jesus in Then look at the words of Jesus in Matthew 5. Matthew 5. Matthew 5. "Blessed are you when people insult you, "Blessed are you when people insult you, "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, persecute you, persecute you, falsely say all kinds of evil against falsely say all kinds of evil against falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. you because of me. you because of me. Rejoice and be glad Rejoice and be glad Rejoice and be glad because great is your reward in heaven."

because great is your reward in heaven." because great is your reward in heaven." Another one, 1 Thessalonians chapter 5, Another one, 1 Thessalonians chapter 5, Another one, 1 Thessalonians chapter 5, "Be joyful always. "Be joyful always. "Be joyful always. Pray continually. Give thanks in all Pray continually. Give thanks in all Pray continually. Give thanks in all circumstances, circumstances, circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ for this is God's will for you in Christ for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." Jesus." Jesus." Give thanks in the good times, the bad Give thanks in the good times, the bad Give thanks in the good times, the bad times, times, times, all circumstances, all circumstances, all circumstances, and you're right in the middle and you're right in the middle and you're right in the middle of God's will. It's a clear pattern in of God's will. It's a clear pattern in of God's will. It's a clear pattern in scripture. When you face tough times, scripture. When you face tough times, scripture. When you face tough times, take heart, be of good cheer, give take heart, be of good cheer, give take heart, be of good cheer, give thanks, rejoice, and be glad. thanks, rejoice, and be glad. thanks, rejoice, and be glad. And right now you're thinking, And right now you're thinking, And right now you're thinking, "I wish I wouldn't have come to church "I wish I wouldn't have come to church "I wish I wouldn't have come to church today. today. today. This is crazy. This is crazy. This is crazy. This makes absolutely no sense. This makes absolutely no sense. This makes absolutely no sense. Rejoicing might have been okay for Rejoicing might have been okay for Rejoicing might have been okay for people being burned at the stake, but we people being burned at the stake, but we people being burned at the stake, but we have real problems." That's not really it. James must have That's not really it. James must have told them something. He must have given told them something. He must have given told them something. He must have given them a them a them a a longer formula for handling tough a longer formula for handling tough a longer formula for handling tough times. No, when trouble comes, the times. No, when trouble comes, the times. No, when trouble comes, the command is rejoice.

command is rejoice. command is rejoice. Got a bad report from the doctor? Got a bad report from the doctor? Got a bad report from the doctor? Rejoice. Rejoice. Rejoice. Got a D Got a D Got a D in a class? in a class? in a class? Rejoice. Rejoice. Rejoice. Some of you do rejoice when you get a D, Some of you do rejoice when you get a D, Some of you do rejoice when you get a D, but your parents, they're a little but your parents, they're a little but your parents, they're a little slower to rejoice. slower to rejoice. slower to rejoice. Bills are piling up? Rejoice. Bills are piling up? Rejoice. Bills are piling up? Rejoice. If you lost your job? If you lost your job? If you lost your job? Rejoice. Rejoice. Rejoice. You got a traffic ticket on the way to You got a traffic ticket on the way to You got a traffic ticket on the way to church? church? church? Rejoice. Rejoice. Rejoice. People treating you bad? People treating you bad? People treating you bad? Rejoice. Rejoice. Rejoice. Betrayed by someone you loved and Betrayed by someone you loved and Betrayed by someone you loved and trusted? trusted? trusted? Rejoice. Every time you face a trial, Rejoice. Every time you face a trial, Rejoice. Every time you face a trial, rejoice. rejoice. rejoice. You come in on Sunday morning, Pastor You come in on Sunday morning, Pastor You come in on Sunday morning, Pastor Tracy's excited, the music's hot, people Tracy's excited, the music's hot, people Tracy's excited, the music's hot, people around you look happy, but you had a around you look happy, but you had a around you look happy, but you had a hard week and you don't want to sing hard week and you don't want to sing hard week and you don't want to sing happy songs. happy songs. happy songs. You don't feel like it. All that's okay You don't feel like it. All that's okay You don't feel like it. All that's okay for the people who are in the good for the people who are in the good for the people who are in the good times, but it's different for you. Times times, but it's different for you. Times times, but it's different for you. Times are tough. James would say to you, are tough. James would say to you, are tough. James would say to you, "Rejoice.

"Rejoice. "Rejoice. Be the first on your feet. Be the first on your feet. Be the first on your feet. Sing the loudest. Sing the loudest. Sing the loudest. Raise your hands in worship to your Raise your hands in worship to your Raise your hands in worship to your loving heavenly Father, and rejoice." loving heavenly Father, and rejoice." loving heavenly Father, and rejoice." When you face trouble and difficulty, When you face trouble and difficulty, When you face trouble and difficulty, the normal human reaction the normal human reaction the normal human reaction is to moan, is to moan, is to moan, complain, complain, complain, or maybe just suffer silently. or maybe just suffer silently. or maybe just suffer silently. But rejoice? How in the world? How in the world? James is smart. James is smart. James is smart. He knew people's reactions then would be He knew people's reactions then would be He knew people's reactions then would be a lot like yours now. a lot like yours now. a lot like yours now. James knew many of them would meet need James knew many of them would meet need James knew many of them would meet need more than a simple command from God. more than a simple command from God. more than a simple command from God. So even though he didn't have to, James So even though he didn't have to, James So even though he didn't have to, James explained a little more about the explained a little more about the explained a little more about the benefits of rejoicing through troubles benefits of rejoicing through troubles benefits of rejoicing through troubles and trials. and trials. and trials. "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, whenever you face trials of many kinds, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know the testing of your because you know the testing of your because you know the testing of your faith develops perseverance. faith develops perseverance. faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so you Perseverance must finish its work so you Perseverance must finish its work so you you may be mature and complete, you may be mature and complete, you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

not lacking anything." not lacking anything." You can rejoice when difficulty comes You can rejoice when difficulty comes You can rejoice when difficulty comes because it will make you stronger. because it will make you stronger. because it will make you stronger. We don't really like that line of We don't really like that line of We don't really like that line of reasoning. That sounds suspiciously reasoning. That sounds suspiciously reasoning. That sounds suspiciously like, "This will build character." like, "This will build character." like, "This will build character." Well, I got enough character. Well, I got enough character. Well, I got enough character. James said, "Rejoice James said, "Rejoice James said, "Rejoice because God will use this trial to because God will use this trial to because God will use this trial to develop perseverance or endurance in develop perseverance or endurance in develop perseverance or endurance in you. Endurance is the ability to go on you. Endurance is the ability to go on you. Endurance is the ability to go on when others can't. In other words, when others can't. In other words, when others can't. In other words, this trial gives you strength this trial gives you strength this trial gives you strength for the next trial. And when you rejoice for the next trial. And when you rejoice for the next trial. And when you rejoice in the Lord, Nehemiah 8:10 says, 'The in the Lord, Nehemiah 8:10 says, 'The in the Lord, Nehemiah 8:10 says, 'The joy of the Lord is your strength.' His joy of the Lord is your strength.' His joy of the Lord is your strength.' His joy is what gives you the strength to joy is what gives you the strength to joy is what gives you the strength to make it through and endure hardships." Let me show you what that looks like in Let me show you what that looks like in a real person's life, not a theory or a real person's life, not a theory or a real person's life, not a theory or slogan. slogan. slogan. But a man who rejoiced by reaching for But a man who rejoiced by reaching for But a man who rejoiced by reaching for God in the worst moment of his life. God in the worst moment of his life. God in the worst moment of his life. Born in 1899 Born in 1899 Born in 1899 to a Baptist pastor and a church to a Baptist pastor and a church to a Baptist pastor and a church pianist, pianist, pianist, Thomas Dorsey grew up surrounded by Thomas Dorsey grew up surrounded by Thomas Dorsey grew up surrounded by faith and music.

faith and music. faith and music. As a teenager, his musical talent took As a teenager, his musical talent took As a teenager, his musical talent took him into the jazz clubs of the deep him into the jazz clubs of the deep him into the jazz clubs of the deep south south south then to Chicago. then to Chicago. then to Chicago. But somewhere along the way, But somewhere along the way, But somewhere along the way, Thomas drifted from God. Thomas drifted from God. Thomas drifted from God. His talent opened doors, His talent opened doors, His talent opened doors, but his conscience wouldn't let him but his conscience wouldn't let him but his conscience wouldn't let him rest. rest. rest. Long nights, compromised choices, and Long nights, compromised choices, and Long nights, compromised choices, and spiritual emptiness wore him down. spiritual emptiness wore him down. spiritual emptiness wore him down. 21, 21, 21, Thomas had a genuine encounter with the Thomas had a genuine encounter with the Thomas had a genuine encounter with the Lord and committed his gifts and talents Lord and committed his gifts and talents Lord and committed his gifts and talents back to God. back to God. back to God. He poured his energy into God-honoring He poured his energy into God-honoring He poured his energy into God-honoring music, blending rhythm and blues with music, blending rhythm and blues with music, blending rhythm and blues with worship and praise. worship and praise. worship and praise. A new sound was born. A new sound was born. A new sound was born. Thomas became music director at a Thomas became music director at a Thomas became music director at a Chicago church, married the love of his Chicago church, married the love of his Chicago church, married the love of his life, begin to experience God's life, begin to experience God's life, begin to experience God's blessings. blessings. blessings. Life was good. Life was good. Life was good. Until in one devastating moment, Until in one devastating moment, Until in one devastating moment, everything changed. everything changed. everything changed. After singing at a concert in St. Louis, After singing at a concert in St. Louis, After singing at a concert in St. Louis, Thomas was handed a telegram Thomas was handed a telegram Thomas was handed a telegram that contained just four words, that contained just four words, that contained just four words, "Your wife just died."

She'd passed away in childbirth. She'd passed away in childbirth. He rushed home to Chicago He rushed home to Chicago He rushed home to Chicago only to lose his newborn son the next only to lose his newborn son the next only to lose his newborn son the next day. day. day. Thomas was crushed. Thomas was crushed. Thomas was crushed. He withdrew from people and grew angry He withdrew from people and grew angry He withdrew from people and grew angry with God. with God. with God. He later said, "I felt God had done me He later said, "I felt God had done me He later said, "I felt God had done me an injustice. I didn't want to serve him an injustice. I didn't want to serve him an injustice. I didn't want to serve him anymore or write gospel songs. anymore or write gospel songs. anymore or write gospel songs. One evening, a friend took him to a One evening, a friend took him to a One evening, a friend took him to a small neighborhood music school. small neighborhood music school. small neighborhood music school. As the sun was setting, As the sun was setting, As the sun was setting, Thomas sat down at a piano. Thomas sat down at a piano. Thomas sat down at a piano. He didn't perform. He didn't perform. He didn't perform. He prayed. He poured out his broken He prayed. He poured out his broken He prayed. He poured out his broken heart to God. heart to God. heart to God. And out of that moment came these words, And out of that moment came these words, And out of that moment came these words, "Precious Lord, "Precious Lord, "Precious Lord, take my hand. take my hand. take my hand. Lead me on. Lead me on. Lead me on. Let me stand. [music] Let me stand. [music] Let me stand. [music] I'm tired. I'm tired. I'm tired. I'm weak. I'm weak. I'm weak. I'm worn. I'm worn. I'm worn. Through the storm, [music] Through the storm, [music] Through the storm, [music] through the night, through the night, through the night, lead me on to the light. lead me on to the light. lead me on to the light. Take my hand, precious Lord.

Take my hand, precious Lord. Take my hand, precious Lord. Lead me home." >> [music] >> [music] >> Precious >> Precious >> Precious Lord, Lord, Lord, >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] >> take >> take >> take my hand. my hand. my hand. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> Lead [singing] >> Lead [singing] >> Lead [singing] me on. Let me stand. Let me stand. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> I >> I >> I am tired. am tired. am tired. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> I am [singing] weak. >> I am [singing] weak. >> I am [singing] weak. I am worn. Through the storm, [singing] Through the storm, [singing] >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> through >> through >> through the night, the night, the night, >> [singing] to the light. to the light. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> Take my hand, precious precious Lord, and lead and lead >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] [music] [music] [music] >> me home.

when my way when my way >> [music] >> grows [singing] >> grows [singing] drear. Precious Lord, Precious Lord, >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] >> linger near when when >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> my light >> my light >> my light >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] >> is >> is >> is almost gone. Hear my cry. Hear >> [music] >> [music] >> Take my hand, [music] [music] [applause] >> For the rest of his life, Thomas Dorsey >> For the rest of his life, Thomas Dorsey testified that God met him and healed testified that God met him and healed testified that God met him and healed him that night at the piano.

him that night at the piano. him that night at the piano. He went on to write more than 3,000 He went on to write more than 3,000 He went on to write more than 3,000 songs. songs. songs. He became one of the most influential He became one of the most influential He became one of the most influential gospel songwriters in history. gospel songwriters in history. gospel songwriters in history. That's what James was talking about. That's what James was talking about. That's what James was talking about. Not joy because the pain is gone, Not joy because the pain is gone, Not joy because the pain is gone, but joy that reaches for God in the but joy that reaches for God in the but joy that reaches for God in the pain. pain. pain. James called that perseverance. God will James called that perseverance. God will James called that perseverance. God will use this trial to build an endurance you use this trial to build an endurance you use this trial to build an endurance you didn't have before. didn't have before. didn't have before. In his book, You'll Get Through This, In his book, You'll Get Through This, In his book, You'll Get Through This, Max Lucado wrote, "God hasn't forgotten Max Lucado wrote, "God hasn't forgotten Max Lucado wrote, "God hasn't forgotten you. you. you. Just the opposite. He's chosen to train Just the opposite. He's chosen to train Just the opposite. He's chosen to train you." you." you." The Hebrew word for test comes from a The Hebrew word for test comes from a The Hebrew word for test comes from a word that means to take a keen look at, word that means to take a keen look at, word that means to take a keen look at, to look, to choose. to look, to choose. to look, to choose. Dismiss the notion that God does not see Dismiss the notion that God does not see Dismiss the notion that God does not see your struggle. On the contrary, God is your struggle. On the contrary, God is your struggle. On the contrary, God is fully engaged. fully engaged. fully engaged. He sees the needs of tomorrow He sees the needs of tomorrow He sees the needs of tomorrow and accordingly uses your circumstances and accordingly uses your circumstances and accordingly uses your circumstances to create the test of today.

The first time I ran a mile, I felt like The first time I ran a mile, I felt like I was going to die. I was going to die. I was going to die. But I didn't give up. I finished. But I didn't give up. I finished. But I didn't give up. I finished. And the next time And the next time And the next time it was a little easier. it was a little easier. it was a little easier. Before long, I was running 2 miles. Before long, I was running 2 miles. Before long, I was running 2 miles. I never could have run 2 miles I never could have run 2 miles I never could have run 2 miles in life if I first ran 1 mile. The first in life if I first ran 1 mile. The first in life if I first ran 1 mile. The first test gave me strength for the next test. test gave me strength for the next test. test gave me strength for the next test. The first time I ran 5 miles, I thought The first time I ran 5 miles, I thought The first time I ran 5 miles, I thought my legs would fall off and it would my legs would fall off and it would my legs would fall off and it would never end. never end. never end. But if I never ran 5 miles, I never But if I never ran 5 miles, I never But if I never ran 5 miles, I never would have been able to run 10 miles. would have been able to run 10 miles. would have been able to run 10 miles. Each distance, each test Each distance, each test Each distance, each test prepared me for the next more difficult prepared me for the next more difficult prepared me for the next more difficult test. test. test. February of this year, after taking February of this year, after taking February of this year, after taking several years off, I got back on the several years off, I got back on the several years off, I got back on the treadmill. treadmill. treadmill. First few days were agonizing. First few days were agonizing. First few days were agonizing. I'm not as fast as I once was. I'm not as fast as I once was. I'm not as fast as I once was. I can't go as far as I used to, I can't go as far as I used to, I can't go as far as I used to, but I'm slowly regaining strength and but I'm slowly regaining strength and but I'm slowly regaining strength and endurance. endurance. endurance. We understand that in physical training, We understand that in physical training, We understand that in physical training, so why don't we accept it in life?

You gain strength from your trials and You gain strength from your trials and troubles. Each one makes you just a troubles. Each one makes you just a troubles. Each one makes you just a little bit stronger. little bit stronger. little bit stronger. You have a little more endurance. You You have a little more endurance. You You have a little more endurance. You can persevere a little bit longer. can persevere a little bit longer. can persevere a little bit longer. The church is the strongest when there's The church is the strongest when there's The church is the strongest when there's persecution. The church in China was forced The church in China was forced underground when the Cultural Revolution underground when the Cultural Revolution underground when the Cultural Revolution came when Chairman Mao stood and said came when Chairman Mao stood and said came when Chairman Mao stood and said that Christianity would be destroyed in that Christianity would be destroyed in that Christianity would be destroyed in China. There wouldn't be a Christian China. There wouldn't be a Christian China. There wouldn't be a Christian left. There were about 100,000 left. There were about 100,000 left. There were about 100,000 Christians at that time. Christians at that time. Christians at that time. When the persecution and pressure begin When the persecution and pressure begin When the persecution and pressure begin to lift years later and the church came to lift years later and the church came to lift years later and the church came out of hiding, the church was not out of hiding, the church was not out of hiding, the church was not 100,000 but it was millions of people. 100,000 but it was millions of people. 100,000 but it was millions of people. The church grows strong in times of The church grows strong in times of The church grows strong in times of trouble. So do you. So do you. Imagine that. We learn through our Imagine that. We learn through our Imagine that. We learn through our troubles. troubles. troubles. We grow through our trials. We grow through our trials. We grow through our trials. We grow stronger We grow stronger We grow stronger in our hard times.

in our hard times. in our hard times. Years ago, Andre Crouch said it this Years ago, Andre Crouch said it this Years ago, Andre Crouch said it this [music] way. [music] way. [music] way. Through it all, Through it all, Through it all, I've learned to trust in Jesus. [music] I've learned to trust in Jesus. [music] I've learned to trust in Jesus. [music] I've learned to trust in God. >> [music] >> [music] >> I've had many tears and sorrows. >> I've had many tears and sorrows. >> I've had many tears and sorrows. [singing] [singing] [singing] I've had questions for tomorrow. I've had questions for tomorrow. I've had questions for tomorrow. There've been times [music and singing] There've been times [music and singing] There've been times [music and singing] I didn't know right from wrong. But [music] in But [music] in every situation, every situation, every situation, God gave blessed consolation [music] God gave blessed consolation [music] God gave blessed consolation [music] that my trials, they only come to make that my trials, they only come to make that my trials, they only come to make me strong. [singing] Ooh, Ooh, through through through >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> it all. I've learned [music] I've learned [music] to trust in Jesus. to trust in Jesus. to trust in Jesus. I've learned to trust in God. [music] I've learned to trust in God. [music] I've learned to trust in God. [music] Through it all.

>> [music] >> [music] >> Through it all, >> Through it all, >> Through it all, >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] >> I've learned >> I've learned >> I've learned to depend [music] upon his word. I thank [music] him for the mountains I thank [music] him for the mountains [singing] and [singing] and [singing] and I thank him for the valleys and [music] I thank him for the valleys and [music] I thank him for the valleys and [music] I I I I thank him for the storms he's brought I thank him for the storms he's brought I thank him for the storms he's brought me through. Cuz if I never had a problem, Cuz if I never had a problem, I wouldn't know that [music] God could I wouldn't know that [music] God could I wouldn't know that [music] God could solve them. I wouldn't know what faith solve them. I wouldn't know what faith solve them. I wouldn't know what faith in God [singing] can do. in God [singing] can do. in God [singing] can do. Oh, sing Oh, sing Oh, sing through it all. through it all. through it all. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] [singing] [singing] [singing] >> Through it all. I've learned to trust in Jesus. [music] I've learned to trust in Jesus. [music] I've learned to trust in God. I've learned to trust in God. I've learned to trust in God. >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] >> Through it all. Through it all. Through it all. >> [music] >> I've learned >> I've learned to depend upon to depend upon to depend upon his [singing] word.

I've learned to trust in Jesus. I've learned to trust in Jesus. I've learned to trust in God. I've learned to trust in God. I've learned to trust in God. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> Through it all. >> Through it all. >> Through it all. >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] >> Through it all. >> Through it all. >> Through it all. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> I've learned >> I've learned >> I've learned to depend upon his word. I've learned I've learned >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> to depend upon his word. >> James continued. >> James continued. He knew not everyone was going to accept He knew not everyone was going to accept He knew not everyone was going to accept that reasoning. that reasoning. that reasoning. Some people were going to struggle with Some people were going to struggle with Some people were going to struggle with rejoicing in trials just because they rejoicing in trials just because they rejoicing in trials just because they were growing stronger. So, he gave were growing stronger. So, he gave were growing stronger. So, he gave further instruction. further instruction. further instruction. If any of you lacks wisdom, in other If any of you lacks wisdom, in other If any of you lacks wisdom, in other words, if you can't understand how to do words, if you can't understand how to do words, if you can't understand how to do this, this, this, how to rejoice in trials, how to rejoice in trials, how to rejoice in trials, he should ask God, he should ask God, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without who gives generously to all without who gives generously to all without finding fault, finding fault, finding fault, and it will be given to him.

and it will be given to him. and it will be given to him. James didn't say, James didn't say, James didn't say, "Ask God, why am I having problems?" "Ask God, why am I having problems?" "Ask God, why am I having problems?" Instead, ask God for wisdom. Instead, ask God for wisdom. Instead, ask God for wisdom. Ask him to help you understand how he's Ask him to help you understand how he's Ask him to help you understand how he's going to use your trial. going to use your trial. going to use your trial. Instead of asking God why, ask God what. Instead of asking God why, ask God what. Instead of asking God why, ask God what. What do you want me to learn from this What do you want me to learn from this What do you want me to learn from this experience? experience? experience? Rather than ask God to change your Rather than ask God to change your Rather than ask God to change your circumstances, circumstances, circumstances, ask him to use your circumstances to ask him to use your circumstances to ask him to use your circumstances to change you. change you. change you. To give you fresh wisdom To give you fresh wisdom To give you fresh wisdom and understanding. and understanding. and understanding. What you want to say is, "I don't want What you want to say is, "I don't want What you want to say is, "I don't want wisdom. I don't want understanding. I don't want I don't want understanding. I don't want some special knowledge about my problem. some special knowledge about my problem. some special knowledge about my problem. I don't even care to be stronger. I just I don't even care to be stronger. I just I don't even care to be stronger. I just want it to be done. want it to be done. want it to be done. God, make it stop." God, make it stop." God, make it stop." I understand. I've been there. But James said, "If you can't understand But James said, "If you can't understand how God's going to use your trial, ask how God's going to use your trial, ask how God's going to use your trial, ask him for wisdom."

him for wisdom." him for wisdom." Wisdom is God's perspective on your Wisdom is God's perspective on your Wisdom is God's perspective on your situation. situation. situation. Instead of just seeing it through your Instead of just seeing it through your Instead of just seeing it through your your eyes, your eyes, your eyes, you get a glimpse of how God can use you get a glimpse of how God can use you get a glimpse of how God can use your struggle. your struggle. your struggle. How different would you approach things How different would you approach things How different would you approach things if you could see from God's perspective? if you could see from God's perspective? if you could see from God's perspective? I get frustrated over the smallest I get frustrated over the smallest I get frustrated over the smallest things. things. things. Traffic jams, Traffic jams, Traffic jams, missed flights, missed flights, missed flights, uh emergency landings. And looking back, I wonder how many And looking back, I wonder how many times have I I've been frustrated when times have I I've been frustrated when times have I I've been frustrated when God was protecting me? God was protecting me? God was protecting me? How many times has God used trouble to How many times has God used trouble to How many times has God used trouble to keep me from temptation or harm? How many times has trouble positioned me How many times has trouble positioned me to minister to others? to minister to others? to minister to others? If I could just see things from his If I could just see things from his If I could just see things from his perspective. perspective. perspective. If I could only have wisdom, If I could only have wisdom, If I could only have wisdom, I would find it easier to rejoice in I would find it easier to rejoice in I would find it easier to rejoice in times of trouble.

times of trouble. times of trouble. I want you to know that in the hard I want you to know that in the hard I want you to know that in the hard times, especially in the difficult times, especially in the difficult times, especially in the difficult times, times, times, your heavenly father your heavenly father your heavenly father is watching over you. >> Why >> Why should I feel should I feel should I feel discouraged? And why And why should the shadows [music and singing] should the shadows [music and singing] should the shadows [music and singing] come? And why And why should my [music] heart be should my [music] heart be should my [music] heart be >> [singing] and long and long for heaven for heaven for heaven and [singing] home? and [singing] home? and [singing] home? >> [music] >> When Jesus >> When Jesus [singing] is [singing] is [singing] is my my my portion, portion, portion, >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> my constant [singing] >> my constant [singing] >> my constant [singing] friend friend friend is [music] he.

His [singing] eye His [singing] eye is on is on is on the sparrow, [music] and I know and I know he [music] watches [singing] he [music] watches [singing] he [music] watches [singing] me. His eye His eye is on is on is on the sparrow, >> [music] >> [music] >> and I know [singing] >> and I know [singing] >> and I know [singing] He watches [music] He watches [music] He watches [music] me. So I sing [singing] So I sing [singing] because [music] and I sing and I sing because I'm free. I'm free. >> [singing] is on is on the the the sparrow. sparrow. sparrow. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> And I know >> And I know >> And I know He watches He watches He watches >> [music and singing] >> [music and singing] >> [music and singing] >> me.

me. me. >> [music] [music] [music] >> Sing that part again, Tracy. I sing >> Sing that part again, Tracy. I sing >> Sing that part again, Tracy. I sing because I'm happy. because I'm happy. because I'm happy. >> I sing because because I'm happy and I sing and I sing because I I am free. am free. am free. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> His eye >> His eye >> His eye is on is on is on the the the sparrow. And And I know I know I know He watches I sing I sing I sing I sing I sing I sing I sing I sing I sing I sing I sing because [music] I'm happy I'm happy and I sing because [music] eye [music] is on eye [music] is on the know he watches me.

know he watches me. [singing] [singing] [singing] [music] the sparrow the sparrow >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> and I know >> and I know >> and I know he watches he watches he watches >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] >> me. >> You can rejoice because you have wisdom, >> You can rejoice because you have wisdom, God's perspective. God's perspective. God's perspective. If his eye is on the sparrow, If his eye is on the sparrow, If his eye is on the sparrow, I know he's watching you. I know he's watching you. I know he's watching you. James continued, "But when he asks, he James continued, "But when he asks, he James continued, "But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt because he must believe and not doubt because he must believe and not doubt because he who doubts who doubts who doubts is like a wave of the sea blown and is like a wave of the sea blown and is like a wave of the sea blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not tossed by the wind. That man should not tossed by the wind. That man should not think he'll receive any from the from think he'll receive any from the from think he'll receive any from the from the Lord. the Lord. the Lord. He's a double-minded man, unstable in He's a double-minded man, unstable in He's a double-minded man, unstable in all he does."

all he does." all he does." So many times your response to trouble So many times your response to trouble So many times your response to trouble is doubt. What did I do wrong? is doubt. What did I do wrong? is doubt. What did I do wrong? What did I possibly do to deserve this? God, where are you? God, where are you? Why me? Why me? Why me? Why now? How could a God that loves me let me go How could a God that loves me let me go through this? James said, "Ask for wisdom and don't James said, "Ask for wisdom and don't doubt because if you doubt, you're like doubt because if you doubt, you're like doubt because if you doubt, you're like a ship caught in a storm battered by a ship caught in a storm battered by a ship caught in a storm battered by every wind and wave." every wind and wave." every wind and wave." Have you ever felt that way like life Have you ever felt that way like life Have you ever felt that way like life was completely out of control and was completely out of control and was completely out of control and trouble was driving you? trouble was driving you? trouble was driving you? You can rejoice in difficulty because You can rejoice in difficulty because You can rejoice in difficulty because you trust God. you trust God. you trust God. Pray this way, "God, I trust you. Pray this way, "God, I trust you. Pray this way, "God, I trust you. I trust you will use this to bring who's I trust you will use this to bring who's I trust you will use this to bring who's endurance in my life. I trust you are endurance in my life. I trust you are endurance in my life. I trust you are with me and watching over me even though with me and watching over me even though with me and watching over me even though I don't understand why all this is I don't understand why all this is I don't understand why all this is happening. Even though I can't see your happening. Even though I can't see your happening. Even though I can't see your plan, I trust you. I choose to trust plan, I trust you. I choose to trust plan, I trust you. I choose to trust you."

you." you." Trust is a choice. Trust is a choice. Trust is a choice. It's easy to trust in the good times. It's easy to trust in the good times. It's easy to trust in the good times. But if you're all if you're going to be But if you're all if you're going to be But if you're all if you're going to be a lifelong follower of Jesus, you also a lifelong follower of Jesus, you also a lifelong follower of Jesus, you also have to choose trust in the bad times. have to choose trust in the bad times. have to choose trust in the bad times. James was basically saying, "If you James was basically saying, "If you James was basically saying, "If you can't rejoice in times of trouble, you can't rejoice in times of trouble, you can't rejoice in times of trouble, you have a trust issue." Say, "Pastor Rod, come on. This is way Say, "Pastor Rod, come on. This is way too difficult." First I'm supposed to too difficult." First I'm supposed to too difficult." First I'm supposed to rejoice rejoice rejoice and now my response to hard times of and now my response to hard times of and now my response to hard times of life is trust? life is trust? life is trust? Exactly. You're getting it. Exactly. You're getting it. Exactly. You're getting it. You can trust him. You can trust him. You can trust him. David said it this way in the 27th David said it this way in the 27th David said it this way in the 27th Psalm, "For in the day of trouble, he Psalm, "For in the day of trouble, he Psalm, "For in the day of trouble, he will keep me safe in his dwelling. will keep me safe in his dwelling. will keep me safe in his dwelling. He will hide me in the shelter of his He will hide me in the shelter of his He will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock. tabernacle and set me high upon a rock. tabernacle and set me high upon a rock. Then my head will be exalted above the Then my head will be exalted above the Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me. enemies who surround me. enemies who surround me. At his tabernacle will I sacrifice with At his tabernacle will I sacrifice with At his tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy. I will sing and make shouts of joy. I will sing and make shouts of joy. I will sing and make music to the Lord." music to the Lord." music to the Lord." Psalm 32, "Lord, you're my hiding place.

Psalm 32, "Lord, you're my hiding place. Psalm 32, "Lord, you're my hiding place. You will protect me from trouble and You will protect me from trouble and You will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance." surround me with songs of deliverance." surround me with songs of deliverance." David said the same thing you can say, David said the same thing you can say, David said the same thing you can say, "Although there's trouble all around me, "Although there's trouble all around me, "Although there's trouble all around me, I trust God." I trust God." I trust God." In the middle of my trouble, especially In the middle of my trouble, especially In the middle of my trouble, especially in my trouble, in my trouble, in my trouble, I will rejoice because I trust him. I will rejoice because I trust him. I will rejoice because I trust him. [music] [music] [music] The Lord is wonderfully, beautifully, The Lord is wonderfully, beautifully, The Lord is wonderfully, beautifully, always faithful. [music] >> Tis >> Tis so sweet so sweet so sweet >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] >> to [music] trust in Jesus. >> to [music] trust in Jesus. >> to [music] trust in Jesus. Just [singing] to take Just [singing] to take Just [singing] to take him [music] at his word. him [music] at his word. him [music] at his word. >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] >> Just to rest >> Just to rest >> Just to rest >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> upon [singing] >> upon [singing] >> upon [singing] his promise. his promise. his promise. Just to know Just to know Just to know >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> the "Thus [singing] >> the "Thus [singing] >> the "Thus [singing] saith the >> [music] >> [music] >> Jesus, [singing] >> Jesus, [singing] >> Jesus, [singing] Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, how how how I trust him.

I trust him. I trust him. How I've proved How I've proved How I've proved him [music] more and more. him [music] more and more. him [music] more and more. >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] >> Jesus, >> Jesus, >> Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> precious >> precious >> precious Jesus. Jesus. Jesus. >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] >> Oh, for grace >> Oh, for grace >> Oh, for grace to trust [music] to trust [music] to trust [music] him more. Jesus, Jesus, [singing] Jesus, [singing] Jesus, [singing] Jesus, how [music] how [music] how [music] I trust [singing] him. How I've I trust [singing] him. How I've I trust [singing] him. How I've proved him [music] more proved him [music] more proved him [music] more and more. and more. and more. >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] >> Jesus, >> Jesus, >> Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, precious precious precious [music] Jesus. [singing] [music] Jesus. [singing] [music] Jesus. [singing] Oh, for Oh, for Oh, for grace grace grace to trust him more. to trust him more. to trust him more. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] [singing] >> Oh, for grace >> Oh, for grace to trust him to trust him to trust him >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] >> more.

>> more. >> more. >> [music] >> Verse two said, >> Verse two said, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you face trials of many kinds." you face trials of many kinds." you face trials of many kinds." In the most difficult times of life, In the most difficult times of life, In the most difficult times of life, when trouble comes, rejoice. Choose your when trouble comes, rejoice. Choose your when trouble comes, rejoice. Choose your response to trouble. Choose to rejoice. response to trouble. Choose to rejoice. response to trouble. Choose to rejoice. As difficult as that is to do, As difficult as that is to do, As difficult as that is to do, now verse 12, here's the reward. now verse 12, here's the reward. now verse 12, here's the reward. "Blessed is the man who perseveres under "Blessed is the man who perseveres under "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the trial, because when he has stood the trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life test, he will receive the crown of life test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love that God has promised to those who love that God has promised to those who love him." him." him." Yes, you're growing stronger. You have Yes, you're growing stronger. You have Yes, you're growing stronger. You have wisdom. You trust him. But don't forget, wisdom. You trust him. But don't forget, wisdom. You trust him. But don't forget, for the follower of Jesus who is not for the follower of Jesus who is not for the follower of Jesus who is not defeated by trouble, there is a reward. defeated by trouble, there is a reward. defeated by trouble, there is a reward. Christians used to be tougher. Christians used to be tougher. Christians used to be tougher. When this church started 114 years ago, When this church started 114 years ago, When this church started 114 years ago, we weren't popular. we weren't popular. we weren't popular. Church members had to dodge rocks and Church members had to dodge rocks and Church members had to dodge rocks and eggs on the way to church. They were eggs on the way to church. They were eggs on the way to church. They were ridiculed and persecuted, but they came ridiculed and persecuted, but they came ridiculed and persecuted, but they came anyway. Why? Because they understood the anyway. Why? Because they understood the anyway. Why? Because they understood the reward, heaven.

reward, heaven. reward, heaven. We struggle more with trials now. The We struggle more with trials now. The We struggle more with trials now. The trials of life challenge our faith. Too trials of life challenge our faith. Too trials of life challenge our faith. Too many times we give up because we've many times we give up because we've many times we give up because we've forgotten the reward. We have adjusted forgotten the reward. We have adjusted forgotten the reward. We have adjusted our theology to fit our expectations. We our theology to fit our expectations. We our theology to fit our expectations. We things like say things like, "I don't things like say things like, "I don't things like say things like, "I don't believe Christians should have believe Christians should have believe Christians should have problems." I want to remind you, the point of being I want to remind you, the point of being a Christian is not a wonderful life here a Christian is not a wonderful life here a Christian is not a wonderful life here on earth. Although life with Jesus is on earth. Although life with Jesus is on earth. Although life with Jesus is infinitely better than life without infinitely better than life without infinitely better than life without Jesus. Jesus. Jesus. It is wonderful serving Jesus, but the It is wonderful serving Jesus, but the It is wonderful serving Jesus, but the ultimate goal of being a Christian is ultimate goal of being a Christian is ultimate goal of being a Christian is heaven. heaven. heaven. We persevere through troubles and We persevere through troubles and We persevere through troubles and trials. We remain strong in our faith, trials. We remain strong in our faith, trials. We remain strong in our faith, faith that works, and when it's all faith that works, and when it's all faith that works, and when it's all done, we go to heaven. done, we go to heaven. done, we go to heaven. That's why you can rejoice because one That's why you can rejoice because one That's why you can rejoice because one day the troubles of this life will be day the troubles of this life will be day the troubles of this life will be over and you will see Jesus over and you will see Jesus over and you will see Jesus face-to-face. face-to-face. face-to-face. >> [applause] >> When you get to heaven, you will be so >> When you get to heaven, you will be so glad you persevered.

glad you persevered. glad you persevered. Your troubles on earth will seem so Your troubles on earth will seem so Your troubles on earth will seem so small. small. small. The Apostle Paul said it this way, "I The Apostle Paul said it this way, "I The Apostle Paul said it this way, "I consider that our present sufferings are consider that our present sufferings are consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that not worth comparing with the glory that not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us." will be revealed in us." will be revealed in us." If you're struggling to find a reason to If you're struggling to find a reason to If you're struggling to find a reason to rejoice in the middle of trouble, rejoice in the middle of trouble, rejoice in the middle of trouble, here's the best reason of all. here's the best reason of all. here's the best reason of all. Heaven is waiting. Thursday just before noon, my dad Thursday just before noon, my dad breathed his last breath on this earth. breathed his last breath on this earth. breathed his last breath on this earth. In the last 10 months, I've lost both my In the last 10 months, I've lost both my In the last 10 months, I've lost both my parents. parents. parents. The grief and sadness is real, The grief and sadness is real, The grief and sadness is real, but through it all, I still rejoice but through it all, I still rejoice but through it all, I still rejoice because I know heaven is real and I'll because I know heaven is real and I'll because I know heaven is real and I'll see them soon. see them soon. see them soon. My parents are healed and whole and My parents are healed and whole and My parents are healed and whole and enjoying the reward of being faithful. enjoying the reward of being faithful. enjoying the reward of being faithful. They're rejoicing in the presence of They're rejoicing in the presence of They're rejoicing in the presence of Jesus. Jesus. Jesus. We all have that to look forward to. We all have that to look forward to. We all have that to look forward to. One day soon.

We used to sing it this way, "Oh, I want We used to sing it this way, "Oh, I want to see him, to see him, to see him, look upon his face. look upon his face. look upon his face. There to sing forever of his saving There to sing forever of his saving There to sing forever of his saving grace. grace. grace. On the streets of glory, let me lift my On the streets of glory, let me lift my On the streets of glory, let me lift my voice. Cares all past, home at last, voice. Cares all past, home at last, voice. Cares all past, home at last, ever to rejoice." ever to rejoice." ever to rejoice." James said, "Consider it pure joy, my James said, "Consider it pure joy, my James said, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, brothers, brothers, when you face trials of many kinds." when you face trials of many kinds." when you face trials of many kinds." Are you facing a trial? Are you having Are you facing a trial? Are you having Are you facing a trial? Are you having trouble? trouble? trouble? Rejoice. Rejoice. Rejoice. You will be stronger. You will gain You will be stronger. You will gain You will be stronger. You will gain God's perspective on your situation. You God's perspective on your situation. You God's perspective on your situation. You can trust him. can trust him. can trust him. And one day soon, And one day soon, And one day soon, it will [music] be worth it all it will [music] be worth it all it will [music] be worth it all when you see Jesus. when you see Jesus. when you see Jesus. So, rejoice. >> [music] >> [music] >> Sometimes >> Sometimes >> Sometimes the day seems long. [singing] the day seems long. [singing] the day seems long. [singing] Our trials hard to Our trials hard to Our trials hard to >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> bear.

>> bear. >> bear. We're tempted [singing] to complain, We're tempted [singing] to complain, We're tempted [singing] to complain, [music] to murmur to murmur >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] >> and despair. But Christ will soon But Christ will soon >> [music and singing] >> [music and singing] >> [music and singing] >> appear >> appear >> appear to catch his bride [singing] to catch his bride [singing] to catch his bride [singing] away. All tears forever All tears forever >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] >> over >> over >> over in God's eternal in God's eternal in God's eternal day. It [music] It [music] will be worth it all worth it all when we [music and singing] see Jesus. Life's trials will seem so small Life's trials will seem so small >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> when we see Christ.

One [music] One [music] glimpse of his glimpse of his glimpse of his dear face, [singing] dear face, [singing] dear face, [singing] all sorrow all sorrow all sorrow will will will erase. erase. erase. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> So bravely run the race run the race >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> the race >> the race >> the race >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] >> till we see past. past. We'll cross that great [music] We'll cross that great [music] We'll cross that great [music] [singing] divide to glory safe at last. to glory safe at last. >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] [music] [music] [music] >> We'll share in the joys of heaven. A heart, [music] A heart, [music] a home, a home, a home, a crown. The tempter [music] The tempter [music] will be banished and we'll banished and we'll lay our lay our lay our >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> It will be >> It will be >> It will be worth it worth it worth it >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> all >> all >> all >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] >> when we see >> when we see >> when we see Jesus. [music] Life's trials Life's trials will will will seem so small seem so small seem so small when [music] we see Christ.

>> [music] >> [music] >> What bliss >> What bliss >> What bliss the the the victory in in >> [singing] >> [singing] >> [singing] >> that >> that >> that land. All sorrow land. All sorrow land. All sorrow >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> will be past. >> will be past. >> will be past. So bravely So bravely So bravely run [music] run [music] run [music] the race race till we till we till we see Christ. >> [music] >> [music] >> So bravely [singing] >> So bravely [singing] >> So bravely [singing] run run run the race till we [music] see Christ. till we [music] see Christ. >> Would you sing that with me? It will be >> Would you sing that with me? It will be >> Would you sing that with me? It will be worth it all when we see [music and singing] when we see [music and singing] Jesus. Life's trials Life's trials seem [music] so small seem [music] so small seem [music] so small when we see Christ. when we see Christ. when we see Christ. >> [music] >> One glimpse of His >> One glimpse of His >> [music] >> The race >> The race >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> till we see >> till we see >> till we see Christ.

If you're currently facing If you're currently facing struggle, trouble, struggle, trouble, struggle, trouble, >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> trials, I want to pray for you. I've >> trials, I want to pray for you. I've >> trials, I want to pray for you. I've left time. left time. left time. If that's you, I want you to [music] If that's you, I want you to [music] If that's you, I want you to [music] come and stand across the front. We're come and stand across the front. We're come and stand across the front. We're going to pray. going to pray. going to pray. Pray for you as a church today. will be erased. will be erased. So bravely run So bravely run So bravely run the race [music] till we see [singing] till we see [singing] Christ. [music] >> But everyone else stand with me as >> But everyone else stand with me as [music] well.

We're going to [music] come pray for We're going to [music] come pray for you. We're going to pray that you'll rejoice We're going to pray that you'll rejoice in the middle of the trial. in the middle of the trial. in the middle of the trial. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> That God will give you wisdom. >> That God will give you wisdom. >> That God will give you wisdom. His perspective on your situation. His perspective on your situation. His perspective on your situation. That you'll trust him more. That you'll trust him more. That you'll trust him more. And yeah, we're going to [music] pray And yeah, we're going to [music] pray And yeah, we're going to [music] pray that he'll see you through it. that he'll see you through it. that he'll see you through it. That you'll come through this trial. That you'll come through this trial. That you'll come through this trial. You'll come through this struggle. You'll come through this struggle. You'll come through this struggle. [music] [music] [music] This is not the end. There's someone down here that you want There's someone down here that you want to pray for. Come on. to pray for. Come on. to pray for. Come on. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> You can join us. >> You can join us. >> You can join us. And we're going to pray. And we're going to pray. And we're going to pray. And believe [music] together. And believe [music] together. And believe [music] together. Because the Lord who promised is Because the Lord who promised is Because the Lord who promised is faithful. faithful. faithful. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> He's always been faithful. He'll always >> He's always been faithful. He'll always >> He's always been faithful. He'll always be faithful. be faithful. be faithful. Come on. Let's pray together. Come on. Let's pray together. Come on. Let's pray together. >> [music]