The Father's Formula

(2 Corinthians 1:8-9)  "We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life.  Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God." (1 Peter 4:12)  "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you." The title of my message today is:  The Father's Formula The Father's Formula   (James 1:1)  "James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes scattered among the nations:  Greetings." (James 1:2)  "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds…"   The Formula: EIC² ü Evaluation – see trials through the eyes of faith. (James 1:3)  "…because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance." ü Information – understand what the trial is producing. (1 Peter 1:6-7)  "In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials.  These have come so that your faith--of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire--may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed." (James 1:4)  "Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." ü Cooperation – work with God in the process. (Romans 8:28)  "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." (James 1:5)  "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." ü Conversation – ask for God's help. (James 1:6-7)  "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." (James 1:12)  "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."For more information on the vision of Freedom Church, please visit our website at www.freedom-church.org.