JAMES: FAITH THAT WORKS

Pastor Hope Flask

September 6, 2026

James 1:9-15 — Looking More Like Jesus

BIG IDEA: Jesus didn’t suffer so that we would never suffer, but so that when we suffer, we will look like Jesus.

Trials REVEAL us

Trouble exposes what is already inside us and reveals where we need wisdom.

“A foolish person thinks they are wise, and a wise person knows they are foolish.”

Ask: How am I responding when life doesn’t go my way?

Trials TEACH us

God can use both adversity and prosperity to teach us dependence, generosity, perseverance, and wisdom.

Prosperity can tempt us to believe we don’t need God.
Adversity can make us humble and compassionate—or bitter and despondent.

Trials TRANSFORM us

God tests us, but He never tempts us to sin. Our circumstances may expose a temptation, but we are responsible for our choices.

The trial didn’t create what’s in you.
The trial revealed what was already there.

THIS WEEK

Instead of only asking: “God, when will this be over?”

Ask: “God, who are You making me through this?”

Don’t waste your trial.

God isn't trying to shame you in your trial; He’s trying to shape you through it.