Summary
Highlights
Dr. Stanley introduces the common question of why a loving God allows His children to undergo terrible trials, acknowledging the pain and sorrow they cause and the apparent contradiction with God's omnipotence and love.
Dr. Stanley reads from James 1:2-4, which instructs believers to “Consider it all joy” when facing trials, knowing that the testing of their faith produces endurance, and that endurance leads to completeness.
Dr. Stanley clarifies that the 'joy' mentioned in James is not a superficial happiness, but a deep inner peace that comes from understanding God's perspective and trusting in His purpose during difficult times and understanding God's viewpoint of what life's all about.
Wisdom involves seeing things from God's viewpoint and responding according to scriptural principles, which allows us to evaluate situations and make the right decisions and to face trials confidently and triumphantly.
Dr. Stanley outlines several purposes for trials, including testing our faith, testing our devotion to Christ, demonstrating His love and power, and producing a Christ-like spirit in us. He emphasizes that every trial has a divine prescription.
Dr. Stanley lists ten beliefs necessary for rejoicing in trials: God is in control, He has a specific purpose, the trial meets a specific need, responding in faith brings good, the trial strengthens faith, it demonstrates perseverance, it develops Christ-likeness, it measures spiritual walk, God walks with you, and you can overcome by His grace and power.
Dr. Stanley concludes by presenting a choice: walking alone or surrendering to Christ. He emphasizes that a personal relationship with Jesus is the most important thing in life and invites viewers to trust in Him for guidance and strength through trials.