James 4:11-17

Grow:

• For more insight into the biblical meaning of the word, “judge,” watch BibleProject video.

• Why is it often easier to identify what is wrong with someone else than to examine our own hearts? In what situations are you tempted to criticize, compare, or judge others? Journal your reflections.

Share:

• Who is someone you are tempted to criticize or condemn? What is one practical way you can show them the same mercy God has shown you?

• What is something you already know God wants you to do, that you have been putting off? How can you take a step towards obedience in that area today?

Connect:

• In what areas of life are you tempted to live as though you control your future? Why is that? What can we do to fight this?

• How can we pray for one another as we seek to surrender our judgments and desires to control to the Lord?

• Read James 5:1-6 together to prepare for next week’s sermon.

James 4:1-10

Grow:

• Explore how “desire” appears throughout scripture. What do these verses reveal about our “desires”?

• Reflect on a recent conflict or frustration. What did you want? How did unfulfilled desire contribute to your response?

Share:

• What would it look like for you to practically “draw near to God” this week rather than just trying harder to fix your circumstances?

• Where is God calling you to respond differently because of James’ teaching? What step do you need to take to align your desires with God?

Connect:

• How do our desires affect the way we treat God, our spouse, children, coworkers, friends, church family? What needs to change?

• James offers very practical ways to repent: submit to God. Resist the devil. Draw near to God. Cleanse your hands. Purify your hearts. Humble yourself. Where is God calling you to repent? Why?

• Read James 4:11-17 together to prepare for next week’s sermon.

James 3:13-18

Grow:

• For additional insight into wisdom, consider this article.

• When you think of wisdom, what kind of person comes to mind? What traits make someone wise? Journal your thoughts.

Share:

• Think about your family, marriage, friendships, work, finances, social media, etc. Where do you have the greatest opportunity to practice wisdom from above today?

• If God’s wisdom really is the way that leads to life and flourishing, what is one thing you need to stop doing, start doing, or surrender to God this week?

Connect:

• Why can false wisdom sometimes look like wisdom? What makes the world’s way of living so appealing?

• What is one situation you’re facing right now where you need to choose between the world’s wisdom and God’s wisdom? What will choosing God’s way require of you? Share then pray for these situations.

• Explore James 4:1-10 together to prepare for next week’s sermon.

James 3:1-12

Grow:

• Watch this BibleProject video to recall the context for this passage in James.

• When you’re angry, frustrated, tired, or stressed what do your words reveal about what is happening inside of you? Journal your thoughts.

Share:

• What speech do you need to “put off” this week? (gossip, complaining, anger, sarcasm, boasting, criticism, thoughtless words). Who most needs to see this change in you?

• Has your tongue been a source of both blessing and cursing? Ask the Lord to reveal those you need to apologize to, encourage, forgive, or speak truth to today.

Connect:

• What tends to be more difficult for you: controlling what you say, how you say it, or when you say it? Why do you think that is?

• Our words reveal our hearts. Share what you need to invite Jesus to transform in your speech and in your heart. Then pray for one another.

• Explore James 3:13-18 together to prepare for next week’s sermon.