James 1:1-12

1. Trials are part of the Christian experience. Jas 1:2
2. Trials are used to develop maturity. Jas 1:3-4 (trials are a pathway to maturity)
3. Trials make us more aware of our need for God. Jas 1:5. We need to be careful that we don't become self sufficient. We need to ask God for wisdom. Jas 1:6-8. We need to believe and not doubt. John the Baptist doubted, Mt 11:2-3; Mk 9:21-24. Double mindedness is not being honest about our feelings and our doubts or questions, it's acting like enduring is okay when it's not or putting our faith in ourselves.
4. Trials visit every zip code. Jas 1:9-11. It's very easy to look at other's lives and think everything is good for them, but trials come to everyone. Don't compare your life to others' lives.
5. Trials lead to great victory. Jas 1:12. Love God, pass the test, receive the crown.