Unlocking the Book of James: How Is It Possible to Have Joy in Hardship? | Rick Renner

PART TWO On Sunday, Rick delivered a three-part message from the book of James, beginning with the backstory of James — the first son born to Mary and Joseph after Jesus’ virgin birth, who despised his “perfect” brother but was transformed after Jesus’ resurrection appeared to him. Rick shared that James was the first to pen the name “Lord Jesus Christ,” unpacking the depth of this divine title — Lord (Jehovah), Jesus (Yahweh who saves), and Christ (the Anointed One) — describing Him as “the healing balm and the answer to every ache and pain.” He then unpacked James 1:2–3, explaining that the “trying” of our faith is better understood as its proving, and “patience” as endurance: the enemy brings evil, not God, and as we resist the devil and stand on God’s promises, God supplies supernatural endurance to outlast the attack. Rick called patience “the queen of all virtues,” warned against being double-minded, and challenged us to “play catch with God” by catching His gifts through faith, reminding us it’s not if we win, but when — if we don’t quit. 2/1/2025 Vida Church