Articles by Randall E Howard

It is important for us to pay close attention to the writings of James under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. The purpose of the book of James was to define FAITH THAT WORKS in the life of the believer while going through adversity. It was to let those believers scattered throughout the nations know that trials and tribulations are useful to prove our faith by the way in which we handle these difficulties and that fruitful works will follow legitimate faith. James says to … - COUNT IT ALL JOY when you enter into different trials! - KNOW that trials develop perseverance that produces maturity! - ASK FOR WISDOM to prove faith in the midst of adversity! We are then told that God is actually working with us in our trials ready to give them a crown of life for endurance and victory – for passing the test. As I have often said about the tests of life for a child of God, it is impossible to fail. You simply have to keep taking them over until you pass. The key is learning and growing.

Too often in Christianity there is a friction between faith and works. Arguments are made over which is superior. Those who are proponents of faith, of course, tend to believe that if you simply believe anything is possible to you. Those who take issue with the extreme faith camp can actually elevate works to the degree that it seems to take precedence over faith thus magnifying our human efforts out of proper proportion. But the arguments that lead to extremes are unnecessary when a proper evaluation of Scripture takes place. Faith and works are not at odds with one another but are loving partners in the circle of life. When we speak of faith, we know that it comes through hearing and hearing by the Word of God. Thus, God is the author and the finisher of our faith! We also know that works are impossible except through the gift of grace that comes from God. Therefore, God is not only the author and finisher of our faith, He is also the power and initiator of our work. No