Dr. Robert Jeffress

Robert Jeffress - Triumph Over Troubles

August 16, 2025 | S25 E392 | 29:0

Pathway to Victory offers a practical application of God’s Word to everyday life through the clear, biblical teaching of Pastor Jeffress.

#inActive #Victory #Trials-HardTimes #Overcoming #Pastors #WalkwithGod #RelationshipwithGod

Closed captions

Show Timecode

Dr. Robert Jeffress | Robert Jeffress - Triumph Over Troubles | August 16, 2025

♪ music ♪
00:00:00.156 --> 00:00:06.229
From the pulpit
00:00:06.229 --> 00:00:07.497
Of the first baptist church of dallas, texas,
00:00:07.497 --> 00:00:09.799
This is "pathway to victory" with dr. robert jeffress.
00:00:09.799 --> 00:00:14.437
Hi, i am robert jeffress
00:00:14.437 --> 00:00:15.738
And welcome again to "pathway to victory."
00:00:15.738 --> 00:00:18.341
When life throws you a curve ball,
00:00:18.341 --> 00:00:20.443
How do you respond?
00:00:20.443 --> 00:00:21.978
Do you shake your fist at god
00:00:21.978 --> 00:00:24.147
Or do you draw closer to him?
00:00:24.147 --> 00:00:26.282
The truth is trials are inevitable part of life
00:00:26.282 --> 00:00:29.752
Even for christians,
00:00:29.752 --> 00:00:31.287
But how we respond to those trials
00:00:31.287 --> 00:00:33.356
Reveal something profound about our faith.
00:00:33.356 --> 00:00:37.160
Today we're continuing a brand new study
00:00:37.160 --> 00:00:39.429
From the book of james called:
00:00:39.429 --> 00:00:41.297
How to know if you're really saved.
00:00:41.297 --> 00:00:43.967
James gives us several tests to examine
00:00:43.967 --> 00:00:46.369
Whether our faith is genuine
00:00:46.369 --> 00:00:48.471
And the first one might surprise you.
00:00:48.471 --> 00:00:50.974
My message is titled:
00:00:50.974 --> 00:00:52.375
Triumph over troubles
00:00:52.375 --> 00:00:54.577
On today's edition of "pathway to victory."
00:00:54.577 --> 00:01:02.785
♪ there is a day coming ♪
00:01:03.386 --> 00:01:10.326
♪ when the old will pass away ♪
00:01:10.994 --> 00:01:16.633
♪ and every wrong will be made right ♪
00:01:17.500 --> 00:01:20.737
♪ no darkness, no night ♪
00:01:20.737 --> 00:01:23.806
♪ the son will light the way ♪
00:01:23.806 --> 00:01:29.379
♪ there is a king coming ♪
00:01:29.379 --> 00:01:36.186
♪ the one who conquered death and grave ♪
00:01:37.053 --> 00:01:42.825
♪ no more pain and no more sorrow ♪
00:01:43.626 --> 00:01:47.096
♪ this hope for tomorrow ♪
00:01:47.096 --> 00:01:50.366
♪ is our hope for today ♪
00:01:50.366 --> 00:01:57.407
♪ he who was ♪
00:01:57.807 --> 00:02:01.044
♪ he who is ♪
00:02:01.044 --> 00:02:04.347
♪ he who was ♪
00:02:04.347 --> 00:02:07.517
♪ he who is ♪
00:02:07.517 --> 00:02:10.653
♪ he who is to come ♪
00:02:10.653 --> 00:02:14.958
♪ it's christ the son of man ♪
00:02:14.958 --> 00:02:18.394
♪ riding on the clouds ♪
00:02:18.394 --> 00:02:21.064
♪ with a crown upon his head ♪
00:02:21.064 --> 00:02:24.801
♪ every eye will see him ♪
00:02:24.801 --> 00:02:27.837
♪ with the nail scars in his hands ♪
00:02:27.837 --> 00:02:30.773
♪ hallelujah ♪
00:02:30.773 --> 00:02:32.141
♪ we sing hallelujah ♪
00:02:32.141 --> 00:02:33.843
♪ hallelujah ♪
00:02:33.843 --> 00:02:35.178
♪ he who is to come ♪
00:02:35.178 --> 00:02:41.451
♪ it's christ the son of man ♪
00:02:41.451 --> 00:02:44.354
♪ riding on the clouds ♪
00:02:44.354 --> 00:02:47.724
♪ with a crown upon his head ♪
00:02:47.724 --> 00:02:51.094
♪ every eye will see him ♪
00:02:51.094 --> 00:02:54.163
♪ with the nail scars in his hands ♪
00:02:54.163 --> 00:02:57.200
♪ hallelujah ♪
00:02:57.200 --> 00:02:58.534
♪ we sing hallelujah ♪
00:02:58.534 --> 00:03:00.570
♪ hallelujah ♪
00:03:00.570 --> 00:03:01.704
♪ yes, hallelujah ♪
00:03:01.704 --> 00:03:03.873
♪ hallelujah ♪
00:03:03.873 --> 00:03:05.275
♪ oh, he's coming back again ♪
00:03:05.275 --> 00:03:07.410
♪ hallelujah ♪
00:03:07.410 --> 00:03:11.481
♪ yeah, hallelujah ♪
00:03:08.778 --> 00:03:21.791
(applause)
00:03:22.091 --> 00:03:26.863
Where there's genuine faith,
00:03:27.463 --> 00:03:29.365
There will always be visible fruit.
00:03:29.365 --> 00:03:31.901
In his brand new book,
00:03:31.901 --> 00:03:33.136
"how to know if you're really saved,"
00:03:33.136 --> 00:03:35.204
Dr. robert jeffress helps you take stock
00:03:35.204 --> 00:03:37.473
Of the evidence of your faith,
00:03:37.473 --> 00:03:39.375
The spiritual fruit in your daily life.
00:03:39.375 --> 00:03:42.178
This outstanding verse by verse walk
00:03:42.178 --> 00:03:44.514
Through the book of james
00:03:44.514 --> 00:03:45.882
Will help you cultivate the spiritual fruit
00:03:45.882 --> 00:03:47.917
That reflects genuine faith.
00:03:47.917 --> 00:03:50.553
Request "how to know if you're really saved"
00:03:50.553 --> 00:03:52.288
Saved when you give a generous gift
00:03:52.288 --> 00:03:54.490
To support the ministry of "pathway to victory."
00:03:54.490 --> 00:03:58.895
♪ music ♪
00:03:59.228 --> 00:04:05.968
Jocko willink is a former navy seal
00:04:05.968 --> 00:04:10.606
Who's written a lot of books about leadership.
00:04:10.606 --> 00:04:14.210
Recently i stumbled across a youtube video jocko did
00:04:14.210 --> 00:04:18.781
And describing his attitude toward life
00:04:18.781 --> 00:04:21.484
When life doesn't go his way.
00:04:21.484 --> 00:04:24.187
Have you ever had that happen?
00:04:24.187 --> 00:04:25.955
Things don't quite go like you want them to?
00:04:25.955 --> 00:04:28.825
His philosophy could be summarized in one word: good.
00:04:28.825 --> 00:04:34.931
Jocko said when things are going bad,
00:04:34.931 --> 00:04:36.366
There's going to be some good
00:04:36.366 --> 00:04:38.101
That's going to come from it.
00:04:38.101 --> 00:04:39.802
Didn't get promoted?
00:04:39.802 --> 00:04:41.137
Good, more time to get better.
00:04:41.137 --> 00:04:43.706
Got beat?
00:04:43.706 --> 00:04:44.874
Good, you learned.
00:04:44.874 --> 00:04:47.043
Unexpected problems?
00:04:47.043 --> 00:04:48.745
Good, you have the opportunity
00:04:48.745 --> 00:04:50.780
To figure out a solution.
00:04:50.780 --> 00:04:53.015
When things are going bad,
00:04:53.015 --> 00:04:54.550
Don't get all bummed out.
00:04:54.550 --> 00:04:56.052
Don't get startled and don't get frustrated.
00:04:56.052 --> 00:04:58.721
Get up, dust off,
00:04:58.721 --> 00:05:00.356
Reload, recalibrate, reengage,
00:05:00.356 --> 00:05:02.925
And go out on the attack.
00:05:02.925 --> 00:05:04.861
Now you know of james, the half brother of jesus,
00:05:04.861 --> 00:05:08.431
Who wrote the letter we're studying,
00:05:08.431 --> 00:05:10.333
If he had stumbled across jocko on youtube,
00:05:10.333 --> 00:05:14.070
He would've said, "good, that's right.
00:05:14.070 --> 00:05:17.240
I agree completely."
00:05:17.240 --> 00:05:19.609
And that's the theme of the first section of james
00:05:19.609 --> 00:05:22.311
We're going to look at today
00:05:22.311 --> 00:05:24.113
In our series how to know if you're really saved.
00:05:24.113 --> 00:05:26.582
If you have your bibles,
00:05:26.582 --> 00:05:27.850
Turn to james chapter 1
00:05:27.850 --> 00:05:30.319
As we discover today,
00:05:30.319 --> 00:05:32.655
Triumphing over troubles,
00:05:32.655 --> 00:05:35.191
How to triumph over your troubles.
00:05:35.191 --> 00:05:37.727
James addresses how we respond to trials
00:05:37.727 --> 00:05:41.030
Beginning in verse 2.
00:05:41.030 --> 00:05:42.799
He begins by sharing two truths about trials.
00:05:42.799 --> 00:05:46.602
Look at verse 2 of chapter 1:
00:05:46.602 --> 00:05:49.605
"consider it all joy, my brethren,
00:05:49.605 --> 00:05:53.142
When you encounter various trials."
00:05:53.142 --> 00:05:57.146
Will you this down and remember it forever?
00:05:57.146 --> 00:06:00.149
Trials are certain.
00:06:00.149 --> 00:06:03.719
James doesn't say "consider it joy
00:06:03.719 --> 00:06:06.088
If you should experience a trial in life,"
00:06:06.088 --> 00:06:09.826
Or "should you experience a trial in life,"
00:06:09.826 --> 00:06:12.462
But when they are an absolute certainty.
00:06:12.462 --> 00:06:16.799
You know one of the greatest myths about christianity
00:06:16.799 --> 00:06:19.635
Is when you become a christian,
00:06:19.635 --> 00:06:21.771
You get an automatic exemption from problems.
00:06:21.771 --> 00:06:26.108
Nothing could be further from the truth.
00:06:26.108 --> 00:06:29.378
Being a christian is not a get-out-of-problems free card.
00:06:29.378 --> 00:06:32.648
In fact, being a christian guarantees
00:06:32.648 --> 00:06:36.352
That you're going to face problems in life.
00:06:36.352 --> 00:06:38.821
Secondly, trials are diverse.
00:06:38.821 --> 00:06:42.758
And then, we'll look again at verse 2.
00:06:42.758 --> 00:06:44.360
"consider it all joy, my brethren,
00:06:44.360 --> 00:06:46.696
When you encounter various trials."
00:06:46.696 --> 00:06:50.266
That word encounter is an interesting word.
00:06:50.266 --> 00:06:54.170
It's only used one other time
00:06:54.170 --> 00:06:55.905
In the greek new testament, peripipto.
00:06:55.905 --> 00:06:58.841
It was used in the story of the good samaritan.
00:06:58.841 --> 00:07:01.143
Remember the man was walking from jerusalem to jericho
00:07:01.143 --> 00:07:04.747
And he was ambushed
00:07:04.747 --> 00:07:07.617
By a group of thieves,
00:07:07.617 --> 00:07:09.552
And that's the word used here.
00:07:09.552 --> 00:07:12.922
Count it all joy when you are ambushed
00:07:12.922 --> 00:07:15.925
Literally by various trials?
00:07:15.925 --> 00:07:18.261
You know, one thing about trials is they are very impolite.
00:07:18.261 --> 00:07:22.365
They don't wait their turn to come into your life.
00:07:22.365 --> 00:07:25.368
They don't allow you to deal with one problem
00:07:25.368 --> 00:07:27.470
Before they come and attack you with another problem.
00:07:27.470 --> 00:07:30.473
Have you noticed how problems seem to come in multiples
00:07:30.473 --> 00:07:34.410
All at the same time?
00:07:34.410 --> 00:07:36.379
Job experienced that as we'll see in just a moment.
00:07:36.379 --> 00:07:40.283
"count it all joy when you encounter various trials."
00:07:40.283 --> 00:07:44.987
And that leads to the value of trials.
00:07:44.987 --> 00:07:48.658
How can we consider it all joy?
00:07:48.658 --> 00:07:51.794
Now let me be clear what james is not saying.
00:07:51.794 --> 00:07:54.897
He's not saying,
00:07:54.897 --> 00:07:56.132
When you're on the dallas north tollway
00:07:56.132 --> 00:07:58.100
And a tire blows out to say,
00:07:58.100 --> 00:07:59.635
"isn't this wonderful?"
00:07:59.635 --> 00:08:03.739
Or he is not telling you when the diagnosis comes back
00:08:03.739 --> 00:08:07.510
As terminal from the doctor,
00:08:07.510 --> 00:08:09.345
"oh, i'm so excited about this!
00:08:09.345 --> 00:08:11.013
I can't wait to see what god's going to do."
00:08:11.013 --> 00:08:14.617
James isn't a masochist.
00:08:14.617 --> 00:08:17.186
He's not a stoic.
00:08:17.186 --> 00:08:19.055
But that word consider,
00:08:19.055 --> 00:08:20.456
It's an interesting word.
00:08:20.456 --> 00:08:21.857
It means to lead.
00:08:21.857 --> 00:08:25.328
He's saying, your leading thought,
00:08:25.328 --> 00:08:27.897
Your final thought needs to be one of joy.
00:08:27.897 --> 00:08:32.301
God has his eye on the clock
00:08:32.301 --> 00:08:34.804
And his hand on the thermostat.
00:08:34.804 --> 00:08:37.173
He knows how long and how much.
00:08:37.173 --> 00:08:40.610
That's what he's talking about.
00:08:40.610 --> 00:08:42.111
We can have joy, that subtle assurance,
00:08:42.111 --> 00:08:44.580
That god is at work, why?
00:08:44.580 --> 00:08:46.549
Knowing that the testing of your faith produces what?
00:08:46.549 --> 00:08:50.620
Endurance, and let endurance have its perfect results
00:08:50.620 --> 00:08:54.657
So that you may be perfect,
00:08:54.657 --> 00:08:56.292
Complete, lacking in nothing.
00:08:56.292 --> 00:08:58.561
Testing has as its end result: endurance.
00:08:58.561 --> 00:09:02.131
Now let's look thirdly at the reason for trials.
00:09:02.131 --> 00:09:05.001
We've talked about two truths about trials.
00:09:05.001 --> 00:09:07.737
They are certain and diverse.
00:09:07.737 --> 00:09:09.705
We've talked about the value of trials.
00:09:09.705 --> 00:09:11.674
It strengthens us, gives us endurance.
00:09:11.674 --> 00:09:14.744
But what about the reason for trials?
00:09:14.744 --> 00:09:17.346
Even though intellectually,
00:09:17.346 --> 00:09:19.548
We know that the trial may be working
00:09:19.548 --> 00:09:22.151
For some future great purpose,
00:09:22.151 --> 00:09:24.120
We still can't help but ask the question, why?
00:09:24.120 --> 00:09:28.624
Why is this happening?
00:09:28.624 --> 00:09:31.093
Why is this happening to me?
00:09:31.093 --> 00:09:32.962
Why is this happening to me right now?
00:09:32.962 --> 00:09:36.098
Look at verse 5, james says,
00:09:36.098 --> 00:09:39.168
"but if any of you lacks wisdom,
00:09:39.168 --> 00:09:41.637
Let him ask of god who gives to all generously
00:09:41.637 --> 00:09:45.041
And without reproach and it will be given to him."
00:09:45.041 --> 00:09:49.512
People say, why is he talking about wisdom here?
00:09:49.512 --> 00:09:51.747
Now, wisdom in light of the trials,
00:09:51.747 --> 00:09:54.150
It's a wisdom tied to your trials.
00:09:54.150 --> 00:09:56.485
If you want wisdom,
00:09:56.485 --> 00:09:58.320
The ability to see your life from god's point of view,
00:09:58.320 --> 00:10:02.058
Ask god to give you a wisdom.
00:10:02.058 --> 00:10:04.427
I think he is saying that there are some general answers
00:10:04.427 --> 00:10:08.130
That we ought to seek
00:10:08.130 --> 00:10:10.766
When we are going through a time of suffering.
00:10:10.766 --> 00:10:14.904
These are three questions you ought to ask yourself
00:10:14.904 --> 00:10:18.240
For god's wisdom on when you're going through any trial:
00:10:18.240 --> 00:10:21.677
Number one, am i responsible in any way for this trial?
00:10:21.677 --> 00:10:27.583
Now, i'm not saying everything
00:10:27.583 --> 00:10:28.884
You and i go through is a result of sin,
00:10:28.884 --> 00:10:32.021
But sometimes it is.
00:10:32.021 --> 00:10:33.989
And we ought to at least ask god the question,
00:10:33.989 --> 00:10:36.459
Is this happening
00:10:36.459 --> 00:10:38.027
Because of anything in my life that is displeasing to you?
00:10:38.027 --> 00:10:41.664
If so, we can claim the promise of 1 john 1:9.
00:10:41.664 --> 00:10:45.234
"if we confess our sins,
00:10:45.234 --> 00:10:47.470
He is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins
00:10:47.470 --> 00:10:50.906
And to cleanse us from unrighteousness."
00:10:50.906 --> 00:10:53.909
Second question, when you're going through a trial,
00:10:53.909 --> 00:10:57.379
Is there anyone who has experienced a similar problem
00:10:57.379 --> 00:11:01.117
That i could talk with?
00:11:01.117 --> 00:11:03.185
You know, if you've been abandoned by your mate,
00:11:03.185 --> 00:11:05.988
If you've lost a child or a grandchild,
00:11:05.988 --> 00:11:08.991
If you've experienced bankruptcy,
00:11:08.991 --> 00:11:10.693
You're not the first christian who's gone through that.
00:11:10.693 --> 00:11:13.596
And that's one reason we are together in a church,
00:11:13.596 --> 00:11:17.433
So that we can encourage one another
00:11:17.433 --> 00:11:19.769
And strengthen one another.
00:11:19.769 --> 00:11:21.637
And by the way, one reason god gives you certain problems
00:11:21.637 --> 00:11:25.875
Is so that you can experience his strength
00:11:25.875 --> 00:11:28.844
And share that strength with other christians in the future
00:11:28.844 --> 00:11:32.381
Who are going through a similar problem.
00:11:32.381 --> 00:11:34.517
That's what paul means
00:11:34.517 --> 00:11:35.718
When he says in 2 corinthians 1:3-4,
00:11:35.718 --> 00:11:39.488
"blessed be the god and father of our lord jesus christ,
00:11:39.488 --> 00:11:43.526
The father of mercies,
00:11:43.526 --> 00:11:45.127
And the god of all comfort who comforts us,"
00:11:45.127 --> 00:11:48.964
Literally that word comfort means strengthen,
00:11:48.964 --> 00:11:51.667
"who strengthens us in all of our affliction
00:11:51.667 --> 00:11:55.137
So that we will be able to strengthen those
00:11:55.137 --> 00:11:58.307
Who are in any affliction with the same strength
00:11:58.307 --> 00:12:01.744
With which we have been strengthened by god."
00:12:01.744 --> 00:12:05.181
One reason god may be allowing
00:12:05.181 --> 00:12:07.583
You to go through this problem
00:12:07.583 --> 00:12:09.318
Is so that you'll have a future ministry
00:12:09.318 --> 00:12:11.487
With those who are experiencing the same thing.
00:12:11.487 --> 00:12:14.824
A third question,
00:12:14.824 --> 00:12:16.325
Is there any positive benefit
00:12:16.325 --> 00:12:19.328
That might come from this tragedy?
00:12:19.328 --> 00:12:22.231
I think there's everything right with asking god
00:12:22.231 --> 00:12:25.000
To reveal to you any benefit
00:12:25.000 --> 00:12:27.937
That could come from this tragedy.
00:12:27.937 --> 00:12:30.339
I think when we're going through a trial,
00:12:30.339 --> 00:12:32.675
We can ask the question, "lord,
00:12:32.675 --> 00:12:34.310
What might you be doing in my life?
00:12:34.310 --> 00:12:36.645
Can i see any positive benefit?"
00:12:36.645 --> 00:12:39.548
Sometimes, not all the time,
00:12:39.548 --> 00:12:41.183
Sometimes god gives us an advance preview
00:12:41.183 --> 00:12:44.653
Of what he's doing in our life
00:12:44.653 --> 00:12:46.555
As a result of this trial.
00:12:46.555 --> 00:12:49.391
But regardless of whether he gives us
00:12:49.391 --> 00:12:51.360
That information or not,
00:12:51.360 --> 00:12:52.862
We can always claim the promise of romans 8:28,
00:12:52.862 --> 00:12:56.765
"god causes all things
00:12:56.765 --> 00:13:00.035
To work together for good
00:13:00.035 --> 00:13:01.971
To those who love him
00:13:01.971 --> 00:13:03.539
And are called according to his purpose."
00:13:03.539 --> 00:13:06.976
Now, in verses 6 to 8,
00:13:06.976 --> 00:13:08.410
James offers a word of warning
00:13:08.410 --> 00:13:10.746
About when we pray for wisdom or pray for anything.
00:13:10.746 --> 00:13:14.383
"when we pray we must ask in faith without any doubting
00:13:14.383 --> 00:13:19.288
For the one who doubts is like the wind of the sea,
00:13:19.288 --> 00:13:22.091
Driven and tossed by the wind.
00:13:22.091 --> 00:13:24.260
That man ought not to expect
00:13:24.260 --> 00:13:26.061
That he will have anything from the lord,
00:13:26.061 --> 00:13:28.797
Being a double-minded man,
00:13:28.797 --> 00:13:30.733
Unstable in all of his ways."
00:13:30.733 --> 00:13:33.636
Whenever we pray, we need to pray in faith.
00:13:33.636 --> 00:13:36.772
Now, faith, remember is not the assurance
00:13:36.772 --> 00:13:40.175
That god is going to do what we want him to do.
00:13:40.175 --> 00:13:43.545
We don't know if god's going to do what we want or not.
00:13:43.545 --> 00:13:47.049
To say you have to conjure up this positive emotion
00:13:47.049 --> 00:13:50.119
That "god's going to do it!
00:13:50.119 --> 00:13:51.220
God's going to do it!"
00:13:51.220 --> 00:13:52.922
That's presumption, that's not faith.
00:13:52.922 --> 00:13:55.791
No, faith means the confidence that god is going to do
00:13:55.791 --> 00:14:00.129
What he has promised to do.
00:14:00.129 --> 00:14:02.798
That's true faith.
00:14:02.798 --> 00:14:04.633
It is boldly asking god for what is in our hearts
00:14:04.633 --> 00:14:08.103
But quietly resting in god's will.
00:14:08.103 --> 00:14:11.140
"not my will, but your will be done."
00:14:11.140 --> 00:14:14.677
William barkley says,
00:14:14.677 --> 00:14:16.278
"every christian is a walking civil war battling constantly,
00:14:16.278 --> 00:14:20.449
Trusting god and distrusting god,
00:14:20.449 --> 00:14:23.385
Constantly battling, resting in god's will
00:14:23.385 --> 00:14:27.189
And wrestling with god's will."
00:14:27.189 --> 00:14:29.458
If we're going to have god answer our prayer
00:14:29.458 --> 00:14:31.627
For wisdom or anything in life,
00:14:31.627 --> 00:14:33.796
We have to pray in faith quietly resting
00:14:33.796 --> 00:14:37.333
In god's plan for our life.
00:14:37.333 --> 00:14:40.069
Otherwise, we're the double-minded person,
00:14:40.069 --> 00:14:43.205
Unstable in all our ways.
00:14:43.205 --> 00:14:45.207
When i read that, i think about elijah
00:14:45.207 --> 00:14:47.343
Whom james is going to talk about in chapter 5.
00:14:47.343 --> 00:14:50.145
But remember, elijah on mount carmel?
00:14:50.145 --> 00:14:52.414
He said to the jews
00:14:52.414 --> 00:14:54.817
Who were starting to engage in baal worship,
00:14:54.817 --> 00:14:57.987
He said, "how long are you going to hesitate
00:14:57.987 --> 00:15:01.056
Between two opinions?"
00:15:01.056 --> 00:15:02.992
That word hesitate between two opinions
00:15:02.992 --> 00:15:05.394
Is a word picture in hebrew of a bird
00:15:05.394 --> 00:15:08.364
That's walking on the branch of a tree
00:15:08.364 --> 00:15:10.599
And comes to a fork in that branch
00:15:10.599 --> 00:15:12.735
And has to decide which way it's going to go.
00:15:12.735 --> 00:15:15.938
He said to the jews,
00:15:15.938 --> 00:15:17.439
"how long are you going to hesitate between two opinions?"
00:15:17.439 --> 00:15:20.409
If baal is really god,
00:15:20.409 --> 00:15:22.978
Go ahead and serve him with all of your heart.
00:15:22.978 --> 00:15:25.981
If yahweh is god,
00:15:25.981 --> 00:15:27.583
Serve him with all of your heart.
00:15:27.583 --> 00:15:30.219
But don't try to serve both.
00:15:30.219 --> 00:15:32.121
Don't be double-minded.
00:15:32.121 --> 00:15:34.990
We have to come to a conclusion in our life,
00:15:34.990 --> 00:15:37.092
Ladies and gentlemen.
00:15:37.092 --> 00:15:38.227
Do we want god's will?
00:15:38.227 --> 00:15:40.295
Do we really trust it?
00:15:40.295 --> 00:15:41.597
Do we really believe god knows what's best?
00:15:41.597 --> 00:15:44.099
Do we want god's will or our will?
00:15:44.099 --> 00:15:47.803
Quit hesitating between two opinions.
00:15:47.803 --> 00:15:51.673
We've seen the value of trials.
00:15:51.673 --> 00:15:55.778
We've seen james talking about the wisdom of trials.
00:15:55.778 --> 00:15:59.481
He gives one final word
00:15:59.481 --> 00:16:01.483
Before the last topic in verses 9 to 11
00:16:01.483 --> 00:16:04.520
And they seem out of place, these verses.
00:16:04.520 --> 00:16:07.056
Listen to this,
00:16:07.056 --> 00:16:08.323
"but the brother of humble circumstances
00:16:08.323 --> 00:16:10.559
Is the glory in his high position
00:16:10.559 --> 00:16:13.228
And the rich man is the glory in his humiliation
00:16:13.228 --> 00:16:16.398
Because like flowering grass, he will pass away;
00:16:16.398 --> 00:16:19.802
For the sun rises where the scorching wind
00:16:19.802 --> 00:16:22.371
And withers the grass
00:16:22.371 --> 00:16:23.906
And his flowers fall off
00:16:23.906 --> 00:16:25.474
And the beauty of its appearance is destroyed.
00:16:25.474 --> 00:16:28.077
So too the rich man
00:16:28.077 --> 00:16:30.712
Is in the midst of his pursuits
00:16:30.712 --> 00:16:32.815
And will fade away."
00:16:32.815 --> 00:16:35.717
Why all this talk about the rich and the poor?
00:16:35.717 --> 00:16:38.320
James is going to talk about our attitude toward money
00:16:38.320 --> 00:16:40.722
Later in the letter,
00:16:40.722 --> 00:16:41.924
But here's what he's saying
00:16:41.924 --> 00:16:44.059
Contrary to what the jews thought,
00:16:44.059 --> 00:16:46.161
Being rich did not mean you were favored by god.
00:16:46.161 --> 00:16:50.165
Being poor didn't mean you were being judged by god,
00:16:50.165 --> 00:16:52.901
But that's what the jews believed.
00:16:52.901 --> 00:16:55.137
They believed if you had money,
00:16:55.137 --> 00:16:56.405
It was a sign of god's blessing.
00:16:56.405 --> 00:16:58.540
If you didn't have money,
00:16:58.540 --> 00:16:59.608
It was a sign of god's curse.
00:16:59.608 --> 00:17:01.343
James is saying, don't fall for that.
00:17:01.343 --> 00:17:05.114
It doesn't matter whether you're rich or poor.
00:17:05.114 --> 00:17:07.082
Your financial status is not a sign
00:17:07.082 --> 00:17:10.152
Of god's favor or disfavor
00:17:10.152 --> 00:17:12.754
Because it could change your financial status at any moment.
00:17:12.754 --> 00:17:16.892
Peter lowe is a motivational speaker
00:17:16.892 --> 00:17:19.194
And he one time asked his audience,
00:17:19.194 --> 00:17:21.296
He said, "if i could guarantee you that in 30 days,
00:17:21.296 --> 00:17:24.466
You would be a millionaire,
00:17:24.466 --> 00:17:25.767
How many of you would sign up for that deal?"
00:17:25.767 --> 00:17:28.270
Everybody raised their hand.
00:17:28.270 --> 00:17:29.905
He said, "now suppose i told you in 30 days,
00:17:29.905 --> 00:17:32.207
I can make you a millionaire,
00:17:32.207 --> 00:17:34.076
But you'll only be a millionaire for a day.
00:17:34.076 --> 00:17:36.712
After that, you'll be bankrupt for the rest of your life.
00:17:36.712 --> 00:17:39.081
How many of you would do it then?"
00:17:39.081 --> 00:17:41.583
Nobody raised their hand.
00:17:41.583 --> 00:17:43.986
James is simply saying here, our financial status,
00:17:43.986 --> 00:17:46.922
Whether it's rich or poor, is temporary.
00:17:46.922 --> 00:17:50.292
The day is coming that all that matters
00:17:50.292 --> 00:17:52.294
Is what we have with god in our relationship with him.
00:17:52.294 --> 00:17:58.200
Finally, james talks about after talking
00:17:58.200 --> 00:18:00.903
About the value of trials,
00:18:00.903 --> 00:18:02.804
The reason for trials,
00:18:02.804 --> 00:18:04.239
He talks about the reward for trials.
00:18:04.239 --> 00:18:06.942
"blessed," verse 12, "blessed is a man
00:18:06.942 --> 00:18:10.779
Who perseveres under trial
00:18:10.779 --> 00:18:13.882
For once he has been approved,
00:18:13.882 --> 00:18:16.218
He will receive the crown of life,
00:18:16.218 --> 00:18:18.554
Which the lord has promised to those who love him."
00:18:18.554 --> 00:18:22.324
Blessed, makarios, same word
00:18:22.324 --> 00:18:25.561
That you see in the sermon on the mount
00:18:25.561 --> 00:18:27.930
That james' older brother jesus gave;
00:18:27.930 --> 00:18:30.666
Happy, more accurately joyful,
00:18:30.666 --> 00:18:33.769
Is the person who perseveres under the trial.
00:18:33.769 --> 00:18:37.372
Why? because once he's been approved,
00:18:37.372 --> 00:18:39.775
There's that word again, dokimos,
00:18:39.775 --> 00:18:41.810
Approved, tested, he will receive the crown of life.
00:18:41.810 --> 00:18:46.281
In other words, there are two reasons
00:18:46.281 --> 00:18:48.217
We can rejoice in trials.
00:18:48.217 --> 00:18:49.985
One is a present reason.
00:18:49.985 --> 00:18:51.587
The benefit it is to us right now,
00:18:51.587 --> 00:18:53.088
It's making us stronger,
00:18:53.088 --> 00:18:54.423
Able to stand in the midst of the storm,
00:18:54.423 --> 00:18:57.159
But there's a future reason too.
00:18:57.159 --> 00:18:59.161
There is a reward, a crown of life.
00:18:59.161 --> 00:19:02.598
That crown is the stephanos, the victor's crown.
00:19:02.598 --> 00:19:06.034
It refers to one of our rewards in heaven.
00:19:06.034 --> 00:19:09.638
Did you know there are seven different crowns
00:19:09.638 --> 00:19:12.674
Mentioned in the bible?
00:19:12.674 --> 00:19:14.710
Now whether these crowns are literal crowns
00:19:14.710 --> 00:19:18.046
Or they're symbolic of some kind of reward,
00:19:18.046 --> 00:19:21.350
I don't know for sure.
00:19:21.350 --> 00:19:22.484
I think they're actually both.
00:19:22.484 --> 00:19:24.052
I think they're literal crowns,
00:19:24.052 --> 00:19:26.588
But they're also symbolizing something
00:19:26.588 --> 00:19:28.490
That will last for all eternity,
00:19:28.490 --> 00:19:30.926
A special privilege in heaven.
00:19:30.926 --> 00:19:33.195
But the bible says one day we're all going to stand
00:19:33.195 --> 00:19:35.964
Before the judgment seat of christ,
00:19:35.964 --> 00:19:38.000
That each one of us may be rewarded
00:19:38.000 --> 00:19:40.369
For what we've done in the body in this life,
00:19:40.369 --> 00:19:43.071
Whether it be good or worthless,
00:19:43.071 --> 00:19:45.140
And one of those rewards
00:19:45.140 --> 00:19:47.376
Is for refusing to abandon our faith
00:19:47.376 --> 00:19:51.346
When we experience a trial.
00:19:51.346 --> 00:19:53.482
Not just martyrdom,
00:19:53.482 --> 00:19:55.284
But any kind of trial in life.
00:19:55.284 --> 00:19:57.552
When we say, "i am not going to allow this
00:19:57.552 --> 00:20:00.422
To drive me away from god.
00:20:00.422 --> 00:20:02.157
I'm going to allow it to drive me closer to god,"
00:20:02.157 --> 00:20:05.027
There is a future reward for those who endure.
00:20:05.027 --> 00:20:10.332
You know, it's been well said.
00:20:10.332 --> 00:20:13.368
If you will tell me ahead of time
00:20:13.368 --> 00:20:16.238
That the road is difficult,
00:20:16.238 --> 00:20:18.940
Then every bump and jolt along the way
00:20:18.940 --> 00:20:22.110
Will remind me i'm headed in the right direction.
00:20:22.110 --> 00:20:27.082
James says, the road of this life is difficult.
00:20:27.082 --> 00:20:31.119
There are a lot of bumps and jolts.
00:20:31.119 --> 00:20:34.823
But when you go through those bumps and jolts,
00:20:34.823 --> 00:20:37.959
It means you're headed in the right direction.
00:20:37.959 --> 00:20:40.729
But those bumps and jolts in and of themselves
00:20:40.729 --> 00:20:43.365
Can be a benefit to you right now.
00:20:43.365 --> 00:20:46.601
It may result, those trials,
00:20:46.601 --> 00:20:48.737
In a strengthening of your faith
00:20:48.737 --> 00:20:51.173
For the future.
00:20:51.173 --> 00:20:52.874
It may be as an encouragement to other christians.
00:20:52.874 --> 00:20:55.911
That's why god's allowing you to experience this.
00:20:55.911 --> 00:20:59.114
It may be as a witness to unbelievers.
00:20:59.114 --> 00:21:02.484
But never forget,
00:21:02.484 --> 00:21:03.652
God is working through this trial.
00:21:03.652 --> 00:21:05.687
He's got his eye on the clock,
00:21:05.687 --> 00:21:07.756
His hand on the thermostat.
00:21:07.756 --> 00:21:10.759
And remember this above all:
00:21:10.759 --> 00:21:13.195
That god is not some distant deity
00:21:13.195 --> 00:21:16.131
Who has no idea of what we're experiencing,
00:21:16.131 --> 00:21:19.301
But he took on human form in the person of jesus christ
00:21:19.301 --> 00:21:22.704
And there is nothing you're experiencing right now
00:21:22.704 --> 00:21:25.941
That jesus didn't experience as well.
00:21:25.941 --> 00:21:29.344
And that's why hebrews chapter 4 says,
00:21:29.344 --> 00:21:31.880
"for we don't have a high priest jesus
00:21:31.880 --> 00:21:34.316
Who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses.
00:21:34.316 --> 00:21:38.253
Instead, he was tested in all points as we are,
00:21:38.253 --> 00:21:42.290
And yet without sin.
00:21:42.290 --> 00:21:44.693
Let us therefore come with confidence
00:21:44.693 --> 00:21:48.029
To the throne of grace,
00:21:48.029 --> 00:21:49.965
That we might receive mercy
00:21:49.965 --> 00:21:52.000
And find grace to help
00:21:52.000 --> 00:21:54.369
In our time of need."
00:21:54.369 --> 00:21:57.139
That's how to experience triumph over troubles.
00:21:57.139 --> 00:22:00.742
♪ music ♪
00:22:00.742 --> 00:22:06.648
James reminds us that trials don't come
00:22:06.648 --> 00:22:09.151
With an exemption card for christians.
00:22:09.151 --> 00:22:12.154
In fact, trials are guaranteed.
00:22:12.154 --> 00:22:15.557
But when we allow those trials to drive us toward god
00:22:15.557 --> 00:22:19.227
Rather than away from him,
00:22:19.227 --> 00:22:21.096
We develop spiritual endurance
00:22:21.096 --> 00:22:23.331
That prepares us for whatever lies ahead.
00:22:23.331 --> 00:22:26.301
For example, i received a powerful testimony from wes
00:22:26.301 --> 00:22:30.172
In texas who wrote:
00:22:30.172 --> 00:22:31.907
"i woke up one morning to learn
00:22:31.907 --> 00:22:33.675
I was about to endure an unwanted divorce.
00:22:33.675 --> 00:22:37.212
That day, i stumbled onto 'pathway to victory' on the radio.
00:22:37.212 --> 00:22:41.283
That experience was clearly part of god's perfect plan
00:22:41.283 --> 00:22:44.653
For my life.
00:22:44.653 --> 00:22:45.954
What happened in my life
00:22:45.954 --> 00:22:47.255
Over the five years that followed was amazing.
00:22:47.255 --> 00:22:50.725
And dr. jeffress was the vessel god used to orchestrate it.
00:22:50.725 --> 00:22:54.963
When i was divorced,
00:22:54.963 --> 00:22:56.431
I felt everything in my life
00:22:56.431 --> 00:22:58.099
Was taken away in the blink of an eye,
00:22:58.099 --> 00:23:00.635
But god has restored it.
00:23:00.635 --> 00:23:02.270
He has blessed me so much,
00:23:02.270 --> 00:23:03.772
I can't even physically receive it all."
00:23:03.772 --> 00:23:07.309
Wes, your story perfectly illustrates what james teaches,
00:23:07.309 --> 00:23:11.913
That god uses our trials to strengthen us.
00:23:11.913 --> 00:23:15.517
And friends, testimonies like this are only possible
00:23:15.517 --> 00:23:19.254
Because of your faithful support of "pathway to victory."
00:23:19.254 --> 00:23:23.191
Thank you for helping us reach people
00:23:23.191 --> 00:23:24.993
In their darkest moments with the light of god's word.
00:23:24.993 --> 00:23:28.897
Now stay right there.
00:23:28.897 --> 00:23:30.198
I'll be back with more "pathway to victory"
00:23:30.198 --> 00:23:32.567
In just a moment.
00:23:32.567 --> 00:23:34.936
Every believer wants to see clear evidence
00:23:35.837 --> 00:23:37.973
Of their spiritual growth
00:23:37.973 --> 00:23:39.508
And discover the fruit that god is producing in their lives.
00:23:39.508 --> 00:23:43.311
Dr. robert jeffress shows you exactly
00:23:43.311 --> 00:23:45.647
How to recognize that fruit in his brand new book,
00:23:45.647 --> 00:23:48.550
"how to know if you're really saved."
00:23:48.550 --> 00:23:50.986
The book of james teaches us that the christian life
00:23:50.986 --> 00:23:53.922
Is about more than just knowing god's word.
00:23:53.922 --> 00:23:57.058
It's about living it out.
00:23:57.058 --> 00:23:58.693
In my new book, "how to know if you're really saved,"
00:23:58.693 --> 00:24:01.429
I'll walk you through what it truly means
00:24:01.429 --> 00:24:03.331
To be a doer of the word,
00:24:03.331 --> 00:24:05.433
Showing you how to respond to trials,
00:24:05.433 --> 00:24:07.903
Control your speech, endure hardships,
00:24:07.903 --> 00:24:10.705
Resist temptation, and so much more.
00:24:10.705 --> 00:24:14.409
This outstanding 232-page book
00:24:14.409 --> 00:24:16.778
Will help you examine the evidence of your faith
00:24:16.778 --> 00:24:19.514
And see the spiritual fruit
00:24:19.514 --> 00:24:21.082
That should be growing in your daily life.
00:24:21.082 --> 00:24:23.718
Request your copy of "how to know if you're really saved"
00:24:23.718 --> 00:24:26.888
When you give a generous gift
00:24:26.888 --> 00:24:28.356
To support the ministry of "pathway to victory"
00:24:28.356 --> 00:24:30.926
Or when you become a pathway partner.
00:24:30.926 --> 00:24:33.261
With your ministry gift of $75 or more,
00:24:33.261 --> 00:24:36.298
We'll send you not just the book,
00:24:36.298 --> 00:24:37.999
But also the personal and group study guide
00:24:37.999 --> 00:24:40.535
And the complete message series on both cd and dvd.
00:24:40.535 --> 00:24:44.439
If you are truly saved,
00:24:44.439 --> 00:24:46.641
There's going to be evidence of it.
00:24:46.641 --> 00:24:48.376
There's some tests that you need to apply to your life.
00:24:48.376 --> 00:24:52.447
Thank you for your generous support
00:24:52.447 --> 00:24:54.215
Of "pathway to victory."
00:24:54.215 --> 00:24:55.684
Your partnership helps us
00:24:55.684 --> 00:24:57.319
Bring bold, biblical, and practical teaching
00:24:57.319 --> 00:24:59.788
Into homes across the nation and around the world.
00:24:59.788 --> 00:25:04.726
When trials ambush us unexpectedly,
00:25:05.460 --> 00:25:08.129
We have a choice.
00:25:08.129 --> 00:25:09.431
We can become bitter or we can become better.
00:25:09.431 --> 00:25:13.201
James reminds us that god uses every difficult situation
00:25:13.201 --> 00:25:17.505
To strengthen our spiritual muscles
00:25:17.505 --> 00:25:19.975
And develop endurance for the battles ahead,
00:25:19.975 --> 00:25:23.445
While trials aren't the only test of genuine faith.
00:25:23.445 --> 00:25:26.648
Next time, we will discover how our response to temptation
00:25:26.648 --> 00:25:30.552
Reveals the authenticity of our salvation,
00:25:30.552 --> 00:25:34.489
What's the difference between a trial and a temptation,
00:25:34.489 --> 00:25:38.326
And how can we experience victory
00:25:38.326 --> 00:25:40.061
When satan dangles his bait in front of us.
00:25:40.061 --> 00:25:43.798
Stay tuned for a preview
00:25:43.798 --> 00:25:45.066
Of what's coming up next in our series:
00:25:45.066 --> 00:25:47.335
How to know if you're really saved.
00:25:47.335 --> 00:25:50.905
When we're confronted with temptation,
00:25:51.740 --> 00:25:53.274
We take a passive attitude.
00:25:53.274 --> 00:25:55.410
We excuse disobedience by saying,
00:25:55.410 --> 00:25:57.846
Remember the old comedian flip wilson?
00:25:57.846 --> 00:26:00.448
"the devil made me do it."
00:26:00.448 --> 00:26:03.118
We refuse to take responsibility for sin.
00:26:03.118 --> 00:26:06.121
We think we're victims.
00:26:06.121 --> 00:26:08.156
But james, the half brother of jesus,
00:26:08.156 --> 00:26:10.992
Offers a different perspective on temptation and sin.
00:26:10.992 --> 00:26:15.397
Set your dvr and join us next time for the message:
00:26:15.397 --> 00:26:18.500
How to handle temptation
00:26:18.500 --> 00:26:20.335
Here on "pathway to victory."
00:26:20.335 --> 00:26:24.873
Step away from your daily routine
00:26:25.607 --> 00:26:27.542
And immerse yourself in god's masterpiece
00:26:27.542 --> 00:26:30.378
On the pathway to victory cruise to alaska,
00:26:30.378 --> 00:26:32.981
June 13-20, 2026.
00:26:32.981 --> 00:26:35.517
Imagine starting each day immersed in god's word,
00:26:35.517 --> 00:26:39.087
Then stepping out to witness god's grandeur
00:26:39.087 --> 00:26:41.890
From the majestic glaciers to soaring eagles.
00:26:41.890 --> 00:26:45.360
These moments in god's creation
00:26:45.360 --> 00:26:47.295
Will deepen your faith in powerful ways.
00:26:47.295 --> 00:26:50.131
Experience five-star dining,
00:26:50.131 --> 00:26:52.000
Luxurious state rooms.
00:26:52.000 --> 00:26:53.435
And exceptional service while visiting iconic ports
00:26:53.435 --> 00:26:56.337
Like juneau, ketchikan, and skagway.
00:26:56.337 --> 00:26:59.040
We'll explore god's word together against the backdrop
00:26:59.040 --> 00:27:02.243
Of his most impressive handiwork.
00:27:02.243 --> 00:27:04.713
I promise you'll return home
00:27:04.713 --> 00:27:06.481
With memories that will last a lifetime
00:27:06.481 --> 00:27:09.050
And a heart renewed by god's presence.
00:27:09.050 --> 00:27:12.253
To book your spot
00:27:12.253 --> 00:27:13.655
On the 2026 pathway to victory cruise to alaska,
00:27:13.655 --> 00:27:16.558
Call 888-280-6747
00:27:16.558 --> 00:27:20.128
Or go to ptv.org.
00:27:20.128 --> 00:27:20.128

Robert Jeffress - Triumph Over Troubles

August 16, 2025 | S25 E392 | 29:0

Closed captions

Share