In James Week 1, Pastor Aaron McRae opens the Book of James by addressing one of life’s hardest questions: How do we trust God in the middle of real suffering? James does not deny the reality of trials—he names them plainly—and invites believers into a new, Jesus-centered way of viewing hardship, vulnerability, and perseverance.

Drawing from James 1, the sermon reframes trials as places where God forms resilience, maturity, and hope. Rather than offering clichés or quick fixes, Scripture calls us to honest faith—one that asks God for wisdom, resists despair, and clings to Jesus when suffering lingers. True faith is not proven by the absence of pain, but by perseverance shaped through it.

📚 Resources & References

Books & Authors Referenced

• Tish Harrison Warren — Prayer in the Night
  Quote on deciding God’s goodness apart from outcomes.
• Brennan Manning — Ruthless Trust
  Reflection on suffering, loss, and the danger of shallow explanations.
• K.J. Ramsey — This Too Shall Last
  Quote addressing suffering, American Christianity, and enduring pain.

Biblical Passages

• James 1:2–5, 12–15
• 1 Peter 1:6–7
• Romans 5:3–5
• Hebrews 12:2–3
• John 16:33
• Psalm 46:1
• 1 John 2:16–17
• 1 Corinthians 10:13

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