Sunday Sermon

Get Smart Dave Shaner June 22, 2003

Introduction: Everyone recognizes the value of having a sharp mind. Christians recognize the value of having a renewed mind.  Paul prays for us to have a renewed mind that comes from God-given wisdom.

For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding.  - Colossians 1:9

I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.  - Ephesians 1:16-17

Text: James 1:5-12

If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does. The brother in humble circumstances ought to take pride in his high position. But the one who is rich should take pride in his low position, because he will pass away like a wild flower. For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich man will fade away even while he goes about his business. Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

I. Tests make us face our constant need to divine ____________.

A. We must learn to view hard times through God's point of view.

B. Wisdom is the practical application of spiritual truth.

C. James 3:13

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.

II. Three things that will happen if wisdom is in place in your life.

A. Wisdom in place will keep ____________ in check.

1. How do I show instability?

a. By an attitude that communicates God is unwilling or unable.

b. By our own uncertainty whether we really want him to answer.

2. The request for wisdom must be accompanied by the sincere desire to do God's will.

B. Wisdom in place will keep ______________ in perspective.

1. Trials are great equalizers.

2. We have something to offer the world.

C. Wisdom in place will keep ____________ in view.

1. Confidence in heaven will bring you joy when times are hard.

2. Romans 8:18

I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.

III. The God of grace can be trusted when ____________ is tested.

A. Are you going to love God no matter what?

B. God can be trusted in troubled times.

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