James 1:2-4 “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

James’ audience was in trouble with major trials. There was persecution of Christians, personal economic hardship, a tyrannical government, and religious hypocrisy. On the plus side they had seen the resurrection and ascension of Jesus. They had the famous last words of Jesus and a load of other promises, but they had no written Scripture.

Principle: For Christians there is more to trouble and loss than mere acceptance.

When I think of loss I think of James. Not only Jesus’ brother James, but my friend James. My friend James is joyful in the middle of loss – more than mere acceptance. He is fun to be with.

He lost his business, his professional title, his wife, the friendship and company of his offspring, his insurance, his financial security, and his home. He is young, professional, poor, homeless and joyful.

Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross observed five stages of loss: 1. Denial/Isolation, 2. Anger, 3. Plea-bargaining, 4. Depression, and 5. Acceptance. I have observed Christian friends working through these stages of loss in a recession. I’m surprised there is not more anger expressed. Maybe it’s a Christian thing to skip that stage. I hope anger is not bottled up to be revisited later.

I think there are 9 stages of loss for Christians. My friend James demonstrates the additional four stages which are reserved for mature believers: 6. Peace, 7. Contentment, 8. Others-focus, and 9. Joy.

My friend James was a man at peace while giving away furniture and other personal belongings as he left his home. He was content to know that this was God’s will for him, and he did not remove himself from Christian fellowship. In fact, he increased his attendance and church participation. He serves others – homeless people at a Norm’s Restaurant in the middle of night. He is a joyful person to be with; happy, content, and at peace. These qualities are beyond mere acceptance.

I thank God for James – both James, the apostle and James, my friend. Both display perseverance, maturity, completeness, and joy – the Christian bottom line of trouble.

Discussion:

1. Do you know someone like my friend James? How has that person helped you in your time of trouble?

2. If you’re currently facing hard times, where are you in your grief process? If you’re stuck, what steps can you take to move toward peace and joy?