Let's Listen to James
Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come
at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faithlife is forced into the open and shows its true colors.
-James 1:2-3 MSG
One of my favorite books is the book of James. I'm aware that
some people aren't fond of James, because he talks a lot about
works. But I love that the apostle James brings balance and
accountability to the believer - and to me, because I need it!
While I know God loves me no matter what I do, I also need to
know that disobedience does interfere with my progress and
growth. I'm certainly no theologian, but I know I'm often my
biggest obstacle along the way.
So . . . come join me. Let's crack open the book and see what
James has to say about hardship. He begins by saying, "Consider
it a sheer gift, friends." Hardship is a gift? Well, I don't want it
under my Christmas tree! It's just natural to bolt and run when
life tightens up. I guess that's why James had to tell us to sit tight
and be thankful. Even though this is a tall order from James, it's
also full of hope. When I understand that pain, loss, and difficulty have a purpose, a work to do within me, I can learn to see
meaning in my suffering. I'm grateful James reminds me of it. I
don't know how God does it; I'm just grateful he does.
-Patsy Clairmont (All Cracked Up)
about the speaker
As a child, Patsy wanted to be a cowgirl or a dancer but never imagined she'd wind up speaking to thousands of women each year (an idea that was really beyond her imagination during her years housebound with agoraphobia). These days she skips around the stage regaling audiences with her hilarious adventures and heart-tugging insights.
Patsy lists her family as "husband Les, sons Marty and Jason, daughter-in-law Danya, grandsons Justin and Noah. Grand-dog, a Jack Russell Terrier, Cody (who jumps higher than I am tall)." They all live in Michigan except during the cold winter months when she and Les live in Texas, near most of her 'porch pals'.
about women of faith
Women of Faith is a faith-based women's organization encouraging women of all ages and stages in life to grow in faith and spiritual maturity through a relationship with Jesus Christ and an understanding of God's love and grace.
Our Message: Beyond a shadow of a doubt, God loves you - regardless of where you are in life.
Our Approach: Humor and honesty - real women sharing how God helps them deal with real issues.
Our Objective: To see women set free to a lifestyle of God's grace by offering events, books, resources, and publications.
