James begins and ends his opening chapter with a bold invitation: to choose joy, not only in the sunshine seasons of life, but right in the middle of life’s storms. At Lakeview Christian Church, we believe this is the kind of faith that changes lives—not just ours, but the world’s. Our mission is simple but profound: Be the change as Jesus has changed us. We do this by focusing on “Just 3” things: Study, Share, Serve.
A Story of Joy in Real Life
Pastor Jim reminds us from his years of teaching junior church:
“I used to stand back there every week and play the guitar, and I think I sang the song, ‘I’ve Got Joy, Joy, Joy, Joy Down in My Heart,’ more times than I ever cared to sing. But now I hear those words and I’m like, that’s what God wants in our life. He wants joy down in our hearts, down in our hearts to stay.”
This isn’t a naive or shallow joy—it’s not about putting on a happy face when life feels broken. True Christian joy is rooted in the deep assurance that God is present, powerful, and loving—even when circumstances are difficult.
James and the Call to Joy
James 1:2-4 (ESV) says:
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
Notice how James doesn’t shy away from the reality of trials. He assumes we will face them. But he also insists that trials are not wasted in God’s hands. Instead, God uses them to shape us—to form perseverance, character, and maturity.
James, the half-brother of Jesus, knew something about both suffering and steadfastness. He saw his brother endure rejection, mockery, and ultimately crucifixion. As Pastor Jim puts it, “If anyone understood trials and suffering and pain, it was Jesus. Alone in the garden, mocked, beaten, misjudged, crucified, spear in his side, buried.” Yet, even in this, Jesus modeled joy.
The Example of Jesus: Joy Set Before Him
The author of Hebrews describes Jesus’ attitude toward his own suffering:
“…who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2, ESV)
Jesus’ joy wasn’t in the pain itself, but in the purpose and promise beyond the pain—the redemption of humanity, the victory over sin and death, and the eternal hope he now offers to all who trust him. This is the same joy James calls us to embrace, even when life is hard.
Study: Joy Begins with Knowing God
At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we believe that joy springs from studying God’s Word. When we read Scripture, we hear again and again that God is faithful, that he cares for us, and that he is working all things for our good—even the things we don’t understand.
James 1:5 (ESV) encourages us:
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
In seasons of trial, we’re invited to lean into God’s wisdom, to seek his perspective, and to trust his promises.
Share: Bearing Burdens Together
Joy is not a solo pursuit. The Christian life is meant to be shared. We’re called to be honest about our struggles, to pray for one another, and to remind each other of God’s faithfulness.
Galatians 6:2 (ESV) says:
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
When we share our stories—both our joys and our sorrows—we encourage others and find strength for ourselves. In community, we become living reminders that God is present and that we are not alone.
Serve: Love in Action
Serving others is one of the most tangible ways we experience and express joy. When we step outside of ourselves to meet someone else’s need, our hearts are lifted and our perspective shifts.
As 1 Peter 4:10 (ESV) instructs:
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.”
Serving is love in action, and it’s a core part of the “Just 3” at Lakeview Christian Church. It’s how we put our faith to work, and it’s often where joy is rediscovered—even in the midst of hardship.
Be the Change—Because Jesus Has Changed Us
The world is watching to see if joy is real. When they see a church that suffers yet sings, that struggles yet serves, that endures yet encourages—then they see the difference Jesus makes.
James 1:12 (ESV) promises:
“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”
Let’s be the change. Let’s study to know and love God, share to know and love others, and serve to put love in action. In every trial, may we discover the joy that Jesus has promised—a joy down in our hearts to stay.
