Based on James 1:1–6
A message from Pastor Clayton
When Holding On Feels Hard
What’s your grip strength like these days?
Not just physically, but spiritually? Because let’s be real: life can make it hard to hold on.
Physically, when your grip weakens—due to age, stress, or fatigue—it gets harder to carry the load. Spiritually, it’s no different. When life hits you with one wave after another, your grip on faith can start to slip.
You still believe, but you’re tired.
You still pray, but you’re frustrated.
You still show up, but secretly, you feel worn down.
Sound familiar?
James, the brother of Jesus, writes to believers who feel like that—scattered, weary, trying to hold on. And instead of pity, he gives a powerful perspective:
“When troubles come, consider it an opportunity for great joy…”
Why? Because trials grow us.
1. I’m All In—Even When It’s Hard
James doesn’t introduce himself by flexing his family connection to Jesus. He calls himself a servant. The Greek word doulos means “bond-servant”—someone fully devoted to the cause of Christ.
This wasn’t always James. He doubted Jesus at first. But now, he’s all in—because he’s seen too much, experienced too much, and knows who Jesus really is.
“I’m all in—not because life is easy, but because Jesus is real.”
Being all in is like jumping out of a plane: once you’re in the air, you trust the parachute. James is saying, “Christ is my parachute—I’ve jumped, and I’m not turning back.”
At Resurgence Church, we believe in being:
“A place of multicultural, dynamic worship and teaching where people get plugged into God, Family, Service, and Destiny.”
And that kind of connection means we’re not just holding on for ourselves—we’re holding on for those watching our walk.
2. Trials Aren’t Punishment—They’re Preparation
James continues:
“When your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow…”
The Greek word for “tested” here is peirasmos, which means a refining test—not a destructive one.
Your storm isn’t here to break you—it’s here to build you.
Think about it:
Job was tested—and came out stronger.
Abraham was tested—and became a father of nations.
Jesus was tested—and emerged in power.
This isn’t where you die. It’s where you grow.
Endurance is like training for a marathon. It’s painful. It’s slow. But as you keep going, you get stronger. You catch your second wind. You discover new levels of grace.
So if you’re in a storm today, know this:
God isn’t absent—He’s investing in your growth.
3. The Promise: Wisdom Is Just a Prayer Away
James gives us a powerful promise:
“If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you.”
Wisdom isn’t just knowledge—it’s knowing what to do and how to do it, even when life gets messy.
God isn’t angry at your questions.
He’s not annoyed by your tears.
He welcomes your confusion—and invites you to ask.
But here’s the condition:
“Be sure your faith is in God alone…”
Not your plans. Not your paycheck. Not your popularity.
Just Jesus.
When you let go of backup plans and fully grip onto God, He responds with generosity.
Real Talk: Don’t Let Go
If you’ve been feeling like quitting—on your faith, your family, your calling—this is your reminder:
Don’t let go.
You’re not alone.
You’re not forgotten.
You’re not failing.
You’re growing.
“God, I’m all in again. Grow me. Keep me. Give me wisdom. I will not let go.”
Action Steps: How to Hold On This Week
Write It Down.
Identify where you need God’s wisdom. Write it and pray over it daily.Declare You’re All In.
Tell someone close to you: “I’m all in with God—here’s what that looks like for me.”Pray Before You Quit.
When things get hard, pause and ask: “God, what do You want me to see in this?”Fast From the Counterfeit.
Step away from whatever steals your focus from God—social media, worry, control.Be Someone’s Endurance.
Encourage a friend. Share your story. Be the reason someone else holds on.
Let’s Pray Together
“God, we’re still holding on. We’re still trusting. We’re still asking. Grow our endurance. Fill us with wisdom. And don’t let us let go. In Jesus’ name, amen.”
Need prayer or someone to walk with you through the tough stuff? Reach out to us at Resurgence Church. We’re here for you.
📍 Service Time: Doors open at 9:10 AM, Worship begins at 9:30 AM
📍 Location: Movie Tavern, 1844 Bethlehem Pike, Flourtown, PA 19031
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