James
Promise of Prayer James 5:7-20
Monday, August 6 James 5:7-9
Throughout James' letter, trials and pressures have been discussed. What 2 traits does James say a Christian should strive for (v. 7-8)? What are the examples he uses in displaying this attitude? How does each example relate to your life?
What does it mean to be patient? What does it mean to stand firm? How are you doing in these two arenas of your life? What does James warn us about in verse nine? Why?
Tuesday, August 7 James 5:10-11, Job 1:13-19, 22, 42:1-17
Who does James hold up in these verses as examples of patience and perseverance? Why? How has suffering in your life tempted you to change your opinion about God? What helped you navigate that difficult time and stay connected (or return) to Jesus?
What are the characteristics of God mentioned by James in the final words of verse 11? What does each of these mean? When have you experienced His compassion and mercy in a tangible way? How did this change your relationship with Him?
Wednesday, August 8 James 5:12, Matt 5:34-37
What does James mean by swearing? What does the verse from Matthew say? How are you at having what you say you're going to do match up with what you do at home? At the office? In your relationships?
Compare the James verse to those in Matthew; what is alike? What is different? What do these verses say about integrity? Verse 12 ends with a harsh promise, what happens to those who disregard it?
Thursday, August 9 James 5:13-18, Romans 8:26-27
What areas of our lives are we to involve God through our prayers? What areas does James specifically list in his writing here? What do you find yourself praying about most often? What is it we are acknowledging about God when we pray and praise Him?
According to the Romans verse, who helps us with our prayers? How? Explain the use of Elijah as a prayer champion. What did he do? What made his prayers different than ours? The same? How should this inform our prayers?
Friday, August 10 James 5: 19-20, 1Peter 4: 8
If a fellow Christian begins to stray from God's truth, in thoughts, words, or deeds, whose responsibility is it to retrieve that person? Why is this a privilege as well as a responsibility? Why do you think it so difficult/taboo in our world to do this? Should it be?
Who would you consider an accountability partner of yours? Would you speak the truth to them as well as expect them to correct you? Describe a time that this has happened. What are we saving the straying person from? 1Peter 4: 8 says something else covers over a multitude of sins-what is it and can you compare this part of these 2 verses?
Beware of Bling
Monday, July 30 James 5:1; Proverbs 11:4, 24, 28
Who is James warning here? Why do you think he set these folks apart for such a warning? Do these words seem overly harsh? Why is James taking such a strong stance? How are these words prophetic in our day and age?
What do the Proverbs add to James' warning? What are the values that are contrasted? In the New Living, v. 28 says, "Trust in your money and down you go;" how does your translation read and what is promised in the final phrase? How should this wisdom impact your life?
Tuesday, July 31 James 5:2-3, 1 Timothy 6:9-10, Matthew 6:19-21
What are our possessions to us in the end? How does James describe the ultimate worth or worthlessness of riches here? Does it mean we shouldn't have or try to make money? From the Timothy passage, list what happens to those who desire to be rich (v. 9). What is described as their love and what often becomes of them? What does this passage mean for your life?
Read what Jesus said about riches in the Matthew passage. How do we store up treasures in heaven? What do you do in your life that is investing in God's kingdom? How often do you choose "earthly" values over His priorities for your life? Why?
Wednesday, August 1 James 5:4, Romans 12: 2, 9-10
Have you ever intentionally wronged someone else to benefit financially? What does this passage say about God's opinion on operating like that? Is He sympathetic to us when we justify our actions as ‘just doing business?' How, then, should we operate in every area of our business life?
God wants to transform every area of our life, even our business life. Read Romans 12:9-10. What does this say about how we should operate in our business? Is this realistic? Why or why not? What does Romans 2 say about our influences - even when it comes to business and finances?
Thursday, August 2 James 5:5, Luke 16:19-25
As Americans, we have a tendency to pursue the "dream" of luxury. James make the quick association between that and a life of self-indulgence. What is the connection? Is this verse convicting to you? Why? Take some time to assess the ‘cushy-ness' of your life, and where your heart is when it comes to pursuing the American Dream.
Read the Luke passage and see what Jesus says about those who are wealthy and with no compassion. How are the tables turned in this passage? Is there anything Lazarus can do for the rich man? How does this make you re-assess the priorities in your life?
Friday, August 3 James 5:6
James is likely using the terms "condemned" and "murdered" in the same sense that Jesus used them - as attitudes of the heart. Who are you inclined to "condemn" or judge harshly in your life? Are you always fair - or more to the point, grace-filled - in you treat others we see or interact with? What about the people who serve you - in restaurants, stores, at work, or the like? Do you hold out money or tips? Do you compensate generously, or conditionally? Is there a balance?
The Rewards of Genuine Submission
Monday, July 23 James 4:1, Rom.7:21-23
What usually causes fighting within your family and/or circle of friends? The second phrase here asks the best question - is it not our own desires that battle within? How do you see this in the typical disagreements in your life?
Read what Paul says in the Romans passage - what is his battle? When have you felt that struggle the most? In what situations do you recognized your "2 year-old-self-within?" Take some time today to get those out in the open with God. Ask Him to change you from within.
Tuesday, July 24 James 4:2-3
Do these verses make God the source of all the stuff we want; sort of like a spiritual ‘santa' in the sky? Why or why not? Consider the possible depth of the final phrase - ‘you do not have, because you do not ask God.' For what are we to be asking God?
Read verse 3 slowly several times. Spend some time taking a personal inventory about your love of "things." When are you more inclined to love God more than things of this world? When are you less so?
Wednesday, July 25 James 4:4-6, Rev 3:26
Who is James calling adulterous? Why does he use such a harsh term (adulterous) in describing these people? How is loving the world in opposition with loving God? In Revelation 3:16, John describes some people as "lukewarm" spiritually. What does that mean? How would you describe that person? What does it look like, then, to be hot or cold? Where are you presently?
What does James mean that the spirit who lives in us "envies intensely?" Have you ever considered God to have this feeling for you? When do people usually feel this for others? What does verse 6 promise that God will give us? What's our part in that? How can you grow in this direction today?
Thursday July 26 James 4:7-8a, 1 Peter 5:8
How are we instructed to live in these verses (list action words)? How do you feel when the word ‘submit' is directed at you? Why? How is submission to God good for us?
How can we resist the devil in a real way? What does 1 Peter 5:8 have to say about our adversary? What is the action in verse 8a? When are you more inclined to live this out? When are you less so? What can you do today that will help build up your resistance to the devil's schemes?
Friday July 27 James 4:8b-10, 1 John 1:9
These final verses are finishing up yesterday's action plan and show us actions for drawing near to God. List 5 or more ways we can begin to draw nearer to God according to James. Why is it so key to humble ourselves before God?
What is the promise in v. 10? Do you believe this? How does it inform the way you live your life? What can you do this week to live in submission to the God who wants to "lift you up?"
James 3: 13-18 Wisdom that Brings Peace
Monday, July 16 James 3:13
What is the defining trait that shows wisdom in a person's life according to James? What is humility? Look back at James 2:17 and 26-what else does James see by looking at a person's actions in life? Is it a sign of strength or weakness? Where does true wisdom come from?
How would you rate your own humility factor? Are you satisfied with doing good without recognition? Do you more often focus on pleasing the people around you or pleasing God? Why?
Tuesday, July 17 James 3:14-15; Psalm 111:10
What are the underlying motives of fake wisdom? What are the results? Where does this passage say it comes from? When have you seen this truth played out in your own life?
Have you ever tried to do something for the wrong reasons and felt like a fraud? How did you get back on track afterward? Consider the source listed in this passage. How often do you struggle with these motivations/emotions? What is the ultimate source of this kind of thinking? Where can we turn to get true wisdom?
Wednesday, July 18 James 3:16; Philipians 2:1-4
This verse is written like an equation --___________+_____________= ____________and____________. Have you had work or family or friend situations that played out like this? When, where, and how? Where were you in the equation? If faced with a similar circumstance in the future, how can you make the situation better (ie show true wisdom)?
How does selfishness and jealousy in one person impact or encourage the same behavior or nature in those around them? Why do you think that is? Consider the Philippians passage. How does this passage encourage you to be more like Jesus?
Thursday, July 19 James 3:17 ; 1 Corinthians 2:6-16
What is the source of true wisdom? List the 8 identifying qualities of true wisdom. Which area (of these 8) do you think you most need to grow? What would change most if you did? Take some time to pray for these qualities to show forth in your life.
According to the Corinthians passage, what is the only source of true wisdom? Those who do not believe cannot find the wisdom of God - why? Do you remember not understanding ‘spiritual truths' before you came into a relationship with Jesus? What does v. 16 say about our minds when we become followers of Jesus?
Friday, July 20 James 3:18; Ephesians 1:17-19a
What is the result of true wisdom? Compare and contrast this true wisdom to the earthly, unspiritual wisdom discussed earlier in verse 16. Do you recognize attitudes of jealousy and selfishness in yourself? How does your life reflect which source your wisdom has come from (both good and bad)?
Read the Ephesians passage. For what is Paul praying here? Why - what does he want for believers to have (verse 17) so that they may know Jesus better? What is the promise inherent in this passage for those who believe - who seek God's wisdom?
The Peril and Power of the Tongue
Monday, July 9 James 3:1-2
What are the warnings James has for those who desire to teach? Who is able to never stumble? How can a mere human keep himself fully ‘in check' always, never at fault?
Why would a teacher need to be so virtuous and held to a stricter code? How must a good teacher of God's Word be equipped and empowered? Are you interested in this challenge?
Tuesday, July 10 James 3:3-6; James 1:19, 26
Describe a time when you spoke carelessly and regretted your words-how did you make amends? Can you ever completely ‘take back' something you blurt out in anger or despair?
What are the 3 things James uses to illustrate the necessity of controlling the tongue/ our talk? What is the reason he gives for trying to' reign-in' our words (vs. 6b)? Read the passages from James 1 again- why do you think James repeats this warning?
Wednesday, July 11 James 3:7-8; Psalm 140:1-3
Have you been on the receiving end of gossip or destructive talk in a group or at work? Does the cry for God's help in the Psalm echo your heart cry during the episode? Why is it can we not tame the tongue? What is behind our impulsive verbal blasts?
Review the ‘Fruits of the Spirit' (Galatians 5:22), these character traits reflect spiritual maturity in you. Which one are you lacking most? Which one would you pray for God to develop in your life to help with controlling your tongue?
Thursday, July 12 James 3:9-10
What good is your voice capable of? What evil? In cursing another human who are we ultimately cursing and why? What does this hypocrisy do to the strength of our witness to others about our changed life? Does cursing even offend you any more?
How has our culture desensitized us to its offensiveness? Do you think God is still offended? Do you ever ask someone to please stop using certain offensive phrases around you? What are they and where do you draw the line?
Friday, July 13 James 3: 11-12; Psalm 19:12-14
Have you ever had a taste of salt water? What do you need once you have had salt water in your mouth? Fresh water and salt water look alike but are very different; what is James' point in verse 11? What does God know when we have cursed a fellowman and then sing praises? Where can we hide our darkness from Him?
In the Psalm passage today is an example of praying about our ‘dark side'; write it out with your own name in the text. Take an honest look at your language and consider that God has a higher standard than those around you - who do you desire to please with your life?
Living Visible Faith
Monday, July 2 James 2:14-17; Galatians 5:6; Matthew 25:35,36
Can you remember a time when someone's active faith reached out to you? To whom is he encouraging our faith actions in verses 15-16; to those within or outside the ranks of believers?
How does James categorize faith that is not accompanied by actions? How would you categorize your faith-dead or alive? What does "faith expressing itself through love" practically look like?
Tuesday, July 3 James 2:18-19; Matthew 5:14-16
How does verse 18 sound upon first reading it? Have you heard folks say , "...I try to be a good person" when asked about their faith? What would James' response be? James claims his faith is evident by his deeds - how do your faith and what you do line up?
What are some reasons people do ‘nice things' for others? What are your motives? Consider some recent situation , what you did, why, and how it left you feeling? Who received glory and honor?
Wednesday, July 4 James 2:20-22
What patriarch does James reference here and which situation? Verse 22 tells us two things were working together: what are they and what was the outcome? What was made complete? By what? How does this inform your life?
As you've matured in your Christian walk, does your faith seem to urge you to take action more often? What are some examples?
Thursday, July 5 James 2:23-24; Galatians 3:6; Hebrews 11:8-19
Genesis 15:6 is quoted here; what was it Abraham did that made him God's
friend; for what was he declared righteous? Was it only his actions? Can you
serve your way to heaven? How do you define ‘faith'? Is it an intellectual pursuit or more of a heart matter? Why?
Chapter 11 of Hebrews reviews many of our faith-filled ancestor - go through these passages & underline the phrase 'by faith'. How do you see a relationship building in these passages? What have you done ‘by faith'?
Friday, July 6 James 2: 25-26; Joshua 2:1-24; Hebrews 11:31
What was Rahab's occupation? What did her faith lead her to do? How do you think she came to believe? How does verse 26 describe a body that is dead? What about faith - when is it dead? How can you tell when someone is merely professing faith, not walking in faith? What is the danger in this?
What impact can your actions have in the beliefs of those around you? Would
anyone even suspect you were a Christian based on your actions?
Monday, June 25 James 2:1-13
Have you ever been discriminated against? How did it affect you? Why is showing favoritism incompatible with true faith in Jesus? Who did Jesus come to seek and to serve (Luke 19 :10) and with whom did He dine and spend time (Luke 6:30)?
Rewrite verses 2and 3 using a modern situation, perhaps one you have seen happen; who are the 'undesirable ones' in our day and time? How can we be Jesus to them?
Tuesday, June 26 James 2:5-7, 1 Corinthians 1:26-31
What sorts of discrimination or favoritism would the early Christians have been experiencing? How is it the same today? Verse 5 reminds us all of a promise we can also cling to - what is it?
Read the 1 Corinthians passage. Why do you suppose God often chooses the weak, lowly, and despised of this world to accomplish His purposes? Jeremiah 9: 23 captures this thought very well. About what should we boast?
Wednesday, June 27 James 2:8-9, Matthew 22:38
What is 'the royal law found in scripture'? Why is this so fundamental to everything we've been taught or commanded by the Lord? How should it change the way we see people of "lesser" means, social status, etc?
How can we consider ourselves followers of Jesus if love is not our primary motivation? Where must we turn to receive the power to love in un-lovely situations? Where is love in circumstances of favoritism or discrimination?
Thursday June 28 James 2:10-11
How much of the ‘law' are we to keep, and what is the point of keeping it? Is it just fine to do the parts we are comfortable with or are easy or that feel right to us? What do these verses tell us today?
What makes you a lawbreaker according to James 2:11? It may seem easy to simply not murder anyone or commit adultery-but when you think about how the law is really based on loving God and loving people...much more to the point. Its not about following rules, its about love. Does this seem too challenging? Why is really loving other people consistently so hard?
Friday, June 29 James 2: 12-13, Romans 2:1-4
The final verses here return to the subject of judging others. What is a better response than judging? Is that a new thought to you? How is mercy the opposite of judgment? How do they work together? How are we to be dealt with, according to this scripture passage (verse 13), if we are unmerciful?
Think of a recent time you have been impatient or demeaning to someone -- how would you like God to deal with you? The final 4 words here are a great life motto for us; perhaps t-shirts should be printed, "GOT MERCY?"
The Man in the Mirror: James 1:19-27
Monday, June 18 James 1: 19
What characterizes a good listener? Would you be in the slow to anger category? How about slow to speak? What would a community or business be like if this verse was their motto or mission statement?
What causes your anger to flare up quickly - traffic? loud cell phone talkers? inattentive parents with unruly kids? What is under-current in these? When is it OK to speak up?
Tuesday, June 19 James 1:20, 21 & 22
Being quick to anger and quick to speak even in offensive situations does not reflect God's character in us, His righteousness. Matthew 5:5 says "blessed are the meek"; how is meek different than weak? What does verse 20 say a man's anger can never accomplish? Is this asking us for weakness or meekness?
When you are weak who is allowed to be strong in you? (Read 2 Corinthians 12:10) What two habits are we asked to get rid of here? Accepting the Word - God's teachings for us- can do what for us? Does this require more than just hearing God's Word? Verse 22 ends with the original "Just Do It" motto--rewrite this verse in your own words including your name in the phrase.
Wednesday, June 20 James 1: 23-25
What is listening to the Word with out following its instruction compared to? How do
people who don't know Jesus understand Christianity when believers say one thing and do another? Would this appeal to them or repel them?
What is the blessing that James spells out which comes from changing your life by "hearing and doing"? (also see Matthew 7:21 and Psalm 19:7)
Thursday, June 21 James 1: 26
When one rides a horse, what is the purpose of the reigns? Are you very good at keeping control of your talking tongue? What about your eating tongue? Who can help you keep a reign you tongue?
Look back on Monday's reading, how does it also speak to this? Being slower to speak is a start - how can you be more sensitive about what you say to others this week?
Friday, June 22 James 1: 27
James 1:20 as well as this verse speaks of the 'righteous life God desires'. What characteristic or quality is necessary to grow in this direction? How can we become less self-entered and more conscious of the needs of others? Who are the orphans and widows in your world? Expand the old definition to include divorced families and kids whose dads aren't around much. How long a list does this make for you to minister to?
There is always someone who could use or help or a meal or something easily built into our week -- what can you do this weekend to lend a hand? How does busying yourself helping others help accomplish the final command in verse 27? What brings pollution into your very living room?
Trials, Temptations and the Goodness of God
Monday, June 11 Matthew 13:55
Who is James? Did he always have full faith in who JESUS is?(John 7:1-5) How do you feel about your siblings? Do you always believe in the same ideals and goals? Is it hard to imagine someone you knew as a kid, as say a doctor or pastor? Why?
In 1Corinthians 15:7, who comes to James and assists in his belief? In Acts 15:13-21, what role has James taken on and where? Why would he be an especially good voice for some to hear? How is his faith development similar to Paul's?
Tuesday, June 12 James 1:1-8
How does James define himself? To whom is he writing? What kind of trials would these people be experiencing as new believers and as Christians in a hostile environment? What is produced in us through trials or tested faith? What happens if faith is never tested?
What is God's goal for every believer? Define perserverance. How do we keep perservering in our walk of faith, in our life as believers? What does vs. 5 tell us we should do when we are perplexed or at a crossroads? What does this reveal about the goodness of God? What is the warning given in vs. 6-8? What does our doubt say about our relationship with God?
Wednesday, June 13 James 1:9-12
What high position can the humble take pride in? Is this merely a literal use of "poor" or "humble"? When are we "poor and lowly" in life? When you are feeling "whipped" by life's circumstances, what is your response? Is rejoicing your immediate response?
How do the experiences of "poverty" and "wealth" affect our attitude toward God? Can you see His sovereign hand in both experiences and keep believing in Him? What does it say we'll get?
Thursday, June 14 James 1:13-15
This is the anatomy of temptation defined. Think of a situation that tempts you. Have you felt dragged away? Enticed? What is the progression as described here? What would be a sure way of escape ( Read 1Corinthians 10:13)? What is something that is a small habit of yours that can or could get out of hand?
What is the ultimate outcome of sin? What does it lead us to? (Read Matthew 26:41) This helps us consider preventing the situation, what does it suggest? (Read 1Peter 5:8) It gives a visual image to help warn us? Who is prowling around waiting for us?
Friday, June 15 James 1:16-18
What are we promised if we can keep from being deceived? What is the best gift you have ever received ? What made it so special and perfect for you? How much better will a gift from your heavenly Father be? Why? How do we short circuit the goodness of God with our bad habits and selfish sin-nature? What does He want for us?
Remember Eden. What was His original plan and place for us to be? What happened (Genesis 3)? Are we still affected by it?
Printer Friendly Format