James 1:1-8
- What is "joy" for a follower of Christ?
- How does it compare to the joy sought by the worldly (which is momentary, self-centered, self-gratifying and always unsatisfying)?
- How does our faith enable us to have joy amidst trials? ...in fact, regardless of outward circumstances (in good times and bad)!
- What do we do to "prepare our faith" for trials that may come? (and how does that relate to v5-8 regarding asking God for wisdom but asking in full faith and reliance)
- What does the Holy spirit bring to us through our trial experiences?
James 1:9-18
- What does v9 mean regarding "humble circumstances = high position; rich = low position"?
- How is this reflective of Mark 10:42-45, Matthew 19:30, 20:16, and elsewhere where Jesus declares that the last (or "many last") shall be first, etc.?
- What does this mean for our attitudes about ourselves? about others? about our personal goals and life focus?
- What does v12 mean "when he has stood the test..."?
- How does this relate to how our hope and faith guide our choices and attitudes?
- What do v13-14 tell us about how sin (temptation) works in us?
- What are some persistent sins for you? how do they tempt you? at what point can you "see it coming"?
- What is the promise in v16-18 and how can it help you?
James 1:19-27
- How do these admonitions about speech remind you of struggles you've had? ...situations you've caused by impulsive speech?
- How did that happen? (what was going on for you at the time to spark what you said?)
- What do these verses say about the result of anger? about its cause?
- What do these verses say about how to avoid such situations (the anger and the resulting impulses)?
- What can you do based on this passage to guard yourself against these impulses?
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