Using The Difficulty

"... count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways." -  James 1:2-8

I recently read an article about Michael Caine, the actor. It seems that as a young stage actor on que he was to open a door and enter on stage. A chair had been moved in front of the door and he couldn't get it open all of the way. He wasn't sure what to do. Afterward, the director told him next time to "use the difficulty" - some unexpected challenge. If it was a drama, pick up the chair and throw it aside. If it was a comedy. trip on it and do a summersault. Use the difficulty - push through it - don't let it stop you.

That reminded me of James chapter 1. We all face difficulties in this life. The question is, "Will the difficulty use me, or will I use the difficulty?" If I ask you if you believe the Word of God is Truth - I am certain you would say "yes". If I also said that the only part of the Bible someone believes is the part they obey - would you be so quick to answer? Or would you say, "Yes - but!".  Jesus said - 

"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33

That is not to say that we will always avoid the negative consequences birthed by those difficulties. We won't. But as Jesus promised - we can still have peace even in the midst of the consequences. Tribulation can strengthen our faith - if we put our trust in God and not ourselves. "the testing of your faith produces patience". Patience is a fruit of the spirit - which is to say James' and Jesus' entreaties are speaking to the born-again you - not the natural you.

"a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways" - that is trusting in ourselves and not in God in every situation. We are double minded - do I trust God or trust myself - which leads to mental instability.  

"Let not mercy and truth forsake you; Bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart, and so find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, And strength to your bones." - Proverbs 3:3-8

Think about it – Pray about it – Believe it – Walk in it. Let your light shine and give God the glory. 

By Faith Alone By His Grace Alone And For His Glory Alone