Saturday, December 29, 2012

December 29, 2012

Read:  Philippians 2:8-11, 1 John 3:16-20, James 2:14-17

What does Phil. 2:8 teach about Phil. 2:5? Why is this both a Christmas attitude and a Christian attitude?

How will stepping into this truth produce a truly “Merry” Christmas?

What practical steps can you take to embrace this Christmas spirit throughout 2013? Be specific.

Friday, December 28, 2012

December 28, 2012

Read:  Philippians 2:8-11, Romans 5:6-8, Hebrews 12:2-3

Explain, from Christ’s example, how Christmas relates to caring for others. (Hint: the cross)

What can happen when the focus stays only on Bethlehem? How do you see this taking place today?

In what way does God want your Christmas attitude to be adjusted? Take time to pray about it.

Thursday, December 27, 2012

December 27, 2012

Read:  Philippians 2:5-7, John 1:1-14

What name was used to describe Jesus before the incarnation (i.e. birth)? How does this relate to Phil. 2?


Who was responsible for Jesus’ humbling experience? Why is this important?


What does this teach you about selfish motives, emotions, and expectations at Christmas?

Wednesday, December 26, 2012

December 26, 2012

Read:  Philippians 2:5-7, Luke 2:1-7, Matthew 1:18-21

Describe the circumstances surrounding the birth of Christ. Why would this have been humbling?

How did Joseph and Mary respond? How would you have been tempted to respond? Why?

What does this say about your Christmas spirit? How is God challenging you?

Saturday, December 15, 2012

December 15, 2102

Read:  Matthew 1:18-25, Luke 1:5-2:20, Matthew 2:1-12

List symbols which are found in the accounts of the first Christmas.

Think about the symbols of the Christmas season. Compare them to the biblical account of the 1st Christmas.

How can you utilize them to celebrate Christ’s birth?

Advent Reading: 2 Kings 2:9-12, Matthew 17:10-13

Friday, December 14, 2012

December 14, 2012

Read:  Galatians 4:6-7, John 15:26, 16:5-15, Ephesians 1:13-14, 1 Peter 1:3-6

What is the spiritual gift we receive when we can truly celebrate Christmas?

Elaborate on the two practical applications of this truth found in the text (Gal. 4:6-7).

Advent Reading: Isaiah 48:17-19, Matthew 11:16-19

Thursday, December 13, 2012

December 13, 2012

Read:  Galatians 4:4-7, John 3:16-18

Why did God send his son according to the Galatians passage? According to the John passage?

Take time to praise God and celebrate these truths.

Advent Reading: Isaiah 41:13-20, Matthew 11:11-15

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

December 12, 2012

Read:  Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 1:26-38, Philippians 2:5-8

How was Jesus’ birth inconspicuous? What does his humble birth say about God?

Why is the virgin birth of Christ so important?

How does understanding the “Incarnation of Christ” cause you to praise God?

Advent Reading: Isaiah 40:25-31, Matthew 11:28-30

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

December 11, 2012

Read:  Galatians 4:4-7

Why did God send his son when he did?

What does God’s timing tell us about God?

Advent Reading: Isaiah 40:1-11, Matthew 18:12-14

Monday, December 10, 2012

December 10, 2012

Read:  Luke 2:1-20

What was the good news that the Angels delivered to the shepherds?

How did the shepherds celebrate God’s incredible plan?

Specifically, how can you follow their example this Christmas?

Advent Reading: Isaiah 35, Luke 5:17-26

Saturday, December 8, 2012

December 8, 2012

Read:  James 5:12, Matthew 26:69-75, John 21:15-19

How did Peter violate James 5:12? Why? How did he respond? How did Jesus respond in John 21?

What does this teach you about lying, temptation, and forgiveness? Take time to pray and confess.

Advent Reading: Isaiah 26:1-6, Matthew 7:21, 24-27

Friday, December 7, 2012

December 7, 2012

Read:  James 5:12, John 8:12-47

Why is lying so important to God? Explain the spiritual significance of lying or telling the truth.

How does this elevate your view of lying? How can you be more intentional about telling the truth?

Advent Reading: Isaiah 29:17-24, Matthew 9:27-31

Thursday, December 6, 2012

December 6, 2012

Read:  James 5:12, Acts 5:1-11, Revelation 21:7-8

What does James 5:12 mean by “you will be condemned”? How does this relate to Rev. 21 & Acts 5?

What is God teaching you about the importance of telling the truth? How can you avoid “condemnation”?

Advent Reading: Psalm 23, Matthew 15:29-37

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

December 5, 2012

Read:  James 5:12, Matthew 5:34-37, 23:16-20

In what way were the Pharisees camouflaging lies? How do you see this taking place today?

How are you tempted to do the same thing? How will letting your “Yes” be yes and “No”, no, help?

Advent Reading: Isaiah 11:1-10, Luke 10:21-24

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

December 4, 2012

Read: Exodus 20:16, Leviticus 19:12, Deuteronomy 23:21, Numbers 30:1-2

What were the Old Testament ramifications for breaking an oath? Why? How was God implicated?

What is a modern equivalent? Why should it be unnecessary for you to swear an oath?

Advent Reading: Psalm 122, Matthew 8:5-11

Monday, December 3, 2012

December 3, 2012

Read:  James 5:12, 1 Samuel 20:1-16, Numbers 6:1-8, Matthew 14:6-12, Hebrews 6:13-18

Explain how swearing an oath was used in the Old Testament. How did God view this topic?

How does this relate to James 5:12? Are you a person of your word? What is God teaching you?

Advent Reading: Psalm 25:1-9, Luke 21:25-36

Saturday, December 1, 2012

December 1, 2012

Read: James 5:11, 2 Corinthians 12:7-9, Hebrews 4:14-16

Why did James encourage his audience with God’s mercy and compassion? (i.e. feelings vs. truth)

Why is their fellowship with Jesus when being treated unfairly? How does this relate to his mercy?

What is important to remember when it comes to trusting God with the “short end of the stick”?

Thursday, November 29, 2012

November 29, 2012

Read:  James 5:11, 1:12, Job 1:6-22, Hebrews 12:1-3

How was Job treated unfairly? Give an example. Why did James use Job as an example of perseverance?

How did Satan try to use “the short end of the stick” to cause doubt and second-guessing God?

How does Job’s experience help you redefine your view of injustice and being treated unfairly?

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

November 28, 2012

Read:  James 5:10, Matthew 11:1-15, Mark 6:14-29

Summarize how John’s life came to an end. How did he get the short end of the stick?

Why is John a New Testament version of James 5:10? How did John demonstrate perseverance?

Explain how being treated unfairly by others and being blessed by God are unique and distinct?

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

November 27, 2012

Read:  James 5:9, 4:11-12, Matthew 12:36-37, Philippians 2:12-16

Explain the meaning of James 5:9 in terms of responding to injustice and being accountable to God.

How do you typically respond (verbally) when you are treated unfairly? Why?

What is God teaching you about the root cause of venting? How does God want you to grow?

Monday, November 26, 2012

November 26, 2012

Read: James 5:9, Numbers 14:1-29

Describe the circumstances surrounding the Jews and their grumbling. (i.e. their short end of the stick)

How did God view their grumbling? What was the fruit of their complaining and grumbling? Why?

What does grumbling sound like in your life? How does this relate to venting and impatience?

Saturday, November 24, 2012

November 24, 2012

Read:  James 5:8, Matthew 24:4-36, 2 Peter 3:3-14, Matthew 28:18-20

What does “the Lord’s coming” mean? How was this an encouragement to those being treated unfairly?

Given James was written 2000 years ago, how can the Lord’s coming be “near”? Why is this important?

In what way is the coming of the Lord both present and future? How does this encourage you?

Friday, November 23, 2012

November 23, 2012

Read:  James 5:8, Psalm 27, Ephesians 6:10-20

Why would James tell his audience to “stand firm”? How does the context impact your answer?

What would it look like to not stand firm? Give an example. How does this relate to faith in the Lord?

How do you feel when others try to take advantage of you?

Thursday, November 22, 2012

November 22, 2012

Read:  James 5:7-8, Romans 12:14-21, 2 Thessalonians 1:6-8

How does James 5:7-8 talk about justice and accountability? How does this relate to being patient?

How can Christians usurp God’s role in the name of justice? Give an example.

What is God teaching you about patience with others and leaving them to the Lord? Pray about this now.

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

November 21, 2012

Read:  James 5:7b-8, Jeremiah 5:24, Hosea 6:3, Joel 2:23, Zechariah 10:1

What do seasonal rains illustrate in the Old Testament? What does this say about authority and control?

Explain how a farmer illustrates godly patience. Describe an example today of this same truth.

How does James 5:7b illustrate the balance between faith and works? How does this encourage you?

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

November 20, 2012

Read:  James 5:7a, Psalm 86:14-15, Jonah 4:1-10, Proverbs 15:18, 16:32

Explain the difference between patience and impatience. How do these relate to modeling God?

Why is patience important when being treated unfairly? How do you typically respond to injustice? Why?

In what way would practicing patience prevent further injustice? Give an example.

Monday, November 19, 2012

November 19, 2012

Read:  James 5:7a, 2 Timothy 3:10-12, Matthew 5:10-12, 2 Thessalonians 1:3-5, Acts 23:1-5

Based on today’s reading, what is promised about life being fair and equitable? Why?

How does this relate to managing your expectations and sinful reactions?

Explain how Paul’s response to the high priest (Acts 23:3) illustrates the struggle with this truth.

Saturday, November 17, 2012

November 17, 2012

Read:  James 5:5-6, Ecclesiastes 2:4-11

How was Solomon (c.f. Ecc. 2:4-11) a living example of James 5:5-6? What was the result?

How do you see Christians today falling into the same sinful trap? Give an example.

How are you tempted into self-indulgence? Give an example. How can you avoid this trap?

Friday, November 16, 2012

November 16, 2012

Read:  James 5:5-6, Deuteronomy 15:7-11, Matthew 6:2-4

In what way were the rich “condemning and murdering innocent men”? (i.e. literally and metaphorically)

What does God expect to happen when it comes to providing for those who are in need? (c.f. Deut. 15:7-11)

How would PCC’s Project 25 relate to godly financial management? How can you apply this to your life?

Thursday, November 15, 2012

November 15, 2012

Read:  James 5:4, Genesis 4:1-11

Explain the meaning of “crying out against you”. What is the connection with payment of wages?

In light of Genesis 4:10, what are the implications of James 5:4? How does this relate to accountability?

How does this raise the bar for Christians when earning an income? How is God challenging you?

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

November 14, 2012

Read:  James 5:5-6, Matthew 20:1-16, Mark 12:41-44

What is James condemning in his discussion about a life of luxury? What is the root issue and sin?

What is the primary point Jesus was making in Matthew 20:1-16? Describe how James 5:5-6 relates.

How is Mark 12:41-44 the opposite of James 5:5-6? How can you grow in areas of money management?

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

November 13, 2012

Read:  James 5:4, Psalm 62:10, Leviticus 19:35-36, Proverbs 16:11

Explain how Leviticus 19:35-36 & Proverbs 16:11 relate to integrity and making money.

Why do you think this is important to God? How does James 5:4 illustrate the same point?

In what way can this be a temptation for you? How can you prevent this from happening?

Monday, November 12, 2012

November 12, 2012

Read:  James 5:4, Leviticus 19:13, Deuteronomy 24:14-15, Malachi 3:5, Jeremiah 22:13

Describe God’s perspective regarding how often people should be paid for the work they perform. Why?

In what way were employers taking advantage of their employees? Why could they get away with this?

Do you see this taking place today? Give an example. How are Christians called to be different?

Saturday, November 10, 2012

November 10, 2012

Read:  James 1:23, Ephesians 5:25-30, 1 Tim. 5:8, Mark 12:41-44, 2 Cor. 9:6-7, Matt. 25:31-46

Describe the areas where God prioritizes financial management. How do these relate to eternity?

How does your investment strategy line up with God’s investment strategy? Why?

What specific steps will you take in order to grow and reflect Godly financial priorities?

Friday, November 9, 2012

November 9, 2012

Read:  James 5:1, 1 Timothy 6:6-10, Luke 12:22-34

Explain why the “love” of money is so powerful. (i.e. what does money promise to provide?)

What can be the spiritual impact of money if left unchecked? How have you experienced this truth?

If your spending habits are a reflection of your heart, what is God teaching you about your heart?

Thursday, November 8, 2012

November 8, 2012

Read:  James 5:2-3, Matthew 6:19-24, Proverbs 3:9-10

What does it mean to hoard from a biblical perspective? Why is hoarding a problem with God?

In what way is hoarding different than saving? How does storing up treasures in heaven relate?

How is God challenging you to view your income from an eternal perspective? Why?

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

November 7, 2012

Read: James 5:2-3, Proverbs 10:22, 1 Timothy 6:17-19

Why is it important to know that God not only doesn’t condemn the rich, but actually blesses them?

What does this imply about accountability? How does James 5:2-3 address this accountability?

Given you are rich from a global perspective, how has God blessed you? How have you been accountable?

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

November 6, 2012

Read:  James 4:9-10, 5:1, Matthew 25:14-30, Luke 16:19-31

What does James 5:1 mean by weep, wail, and misery? How does James 4:9-10 help form your answer?

Why does Luke 16 make a distinction between a rich man and a beggar? What does this imply about money?

How does it make you feel knowing that you will be accountable to God for your money management?

Monday, November 5, 2012

November 5, 2012

Read:  James 1:9-11, 2:1-7, 4:1-3, 4:13-17, 5:1-3

Describe the context for each time James discusses money. Is it positive or negative? Why?

What does this tell you about the influence money can have on Christians?

In what way do you see these same issues today? Why do you think this is so important?

Saturday, November 3, 2012

November 3, 2012

Read:  James 4:6, 10, 16, Prov. 8:13, 11:2, 16:18, 29:23

Describe the cause and effect of pride and humility. Why is it such a big deal to God?

What is at risk if this issue is minimized in the Christian life? How have you seen this take place?

How can the sin of pride creep into your life? What steps of humility is God challenging you to take?

Friday, November 2, 2012

November 2, 2012

Read:  James 4:17, Luke 18:18-30

What did the rich ruler need to do in order to become a follower of Jesus? How did he respond? Why?

What is the connection between comfortable Christianity and pride? How does James 4:17 relate?

Describe your walk with the Lord in terms of growth and risk. How can you grow in what you know?

Thursday, November 1, 2012

November 1, 2012

Read:  James 4:17, Jonah 1-3:3

What does James 4:17 teach about sins of omission and commission? What is the difference?

What type of sin did Jonah commit by not going to Nineveh? How was this an act of pride?

In what way did God humble Jonah? How is God challenging you to “step into” humility and obedience?

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

October 31, 2012

Read:  James 4:15, Acts 18:20-21, Rom 1:8-10, 1 Cor 4:18-19, Phil 2:19-24

Why did James tell his audience to describe their plans in terms of “if it is the Lord’s will”?

How did Paul the Apostle live out the truth of James 4:15? Give two examples.

How can you live out the truth of James 4:15 and apply it this week? Be specific.

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

October 30, 2012

Read:  James 4:13-16, Ps 37:3-5, Rom 8:28, Prov. 3:5-6

Describe two promises presented in today’s reading. What is required in order to receive these promises?

How is a propensity to control rooted in an unbiblical view of God? Give an example

Are you a controlling person? Why? What is God teaching you about pride and deferring to Him

Monday, October 29, 2012

October 29, 2012

Read:  James 4:13-16, Luke 12:13-31

Explain the primary point of James 4:13-16. How does it relate to the parable of the rich fool?

In what way is trying to “control” people, circumstances, and situations an issue of pride?

How is it possible to plan and strategically walk through life in humility? Give an example.

Saturday, October 27, 2012

October 27, 2012

Peruse Luke 9:46-10:42

Peruse and summarize the sections of teaching Luke strategically placed before & after the story of the Good Samaritan.

How does each section relate to the truth taught in the story of the Good Samaritan?

Meditate on these things. Pray and ask God to reveal one thing to focus on the rest of the day from these surrounding
passages.

Friday, October 26, 2012

October 26, 2012

Read:  Luke 10:25-37

What was the question the expert in the law asked Jesus that caused Jesus to tell this story?

According to Jesus’ story, who are your neighbors and what is your responsibility towards them?

What was the character trait that the expert realized in the Samaritan (vs. 37)? Define the term in real life.

Thursday, October 25, 2012

October 25, 2012

Read:  Luke 10:25-37

What is the significance of the description of the three travelers who came upon the hurting man?

Jesus used these characters to surprise and shock the expert in the law who was confronting Jesus. How and why?

How does it surprise you? What do you take away as a lesson learned in the comparison and contrast of these three
characters?

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

October 24, 2012

Read:  Luke 10:25-28

What did the expert in the law originally ask Jesus?

What criteria did the expert in the law use to defend Jesus’ response?

Did Jesus agree or disagree with him? How do these two thoughts meld into one truth?

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

October 23, 2012

Read:  Proverbs 14:20-21, 31, Isaiah 61:1-3, Matthew 11:4-5, 9:35-38

Who does God have compassion for in these passages? Why?

What kind of action does it generate?

Monday, October 22, 2012

October 22, 2012

Read:  John 13:34-35, 15:9-17, 1 John 3:11-19

What is the new command? How is this new?

What does this prove? How so?

According to these passages, how are we to demonstrate this love?

Saturday, October 20, 2012

October 20, 2012

Read:  James 4:11-12, Matthew 13:24-30, 1 Corinthians 4:1-5

Explain the parable of the weeds. What is the central truth? How does this relate to James 4:11-12?

What is being assumed when we judge others? How does 1 Corinthians 4:1-5 confront this assumption?

How can understanding this truth promote humility and prevent pride? How will this change you?

Friday, October 19, 2012

October 19, 2012

Read:  James 4:11-12, Romans 14:1-13, 1 Corinthians 2:11-16

Describe how Romans 14:1-13 is an example of James 4:11-12. Give examples from the text.

How have you seen Christians today do the same thing? Give examples.

What is the subtle difference between spiritual protection and criticism? How can this be avoided?

Thursday, October 18, 2012

October 18, 2012

Read:  James 4:11-12, Matthew 10:28; 25:31-46

What does James 4:12 mean? Explain the connection between judging others and judging God.

In what way are you usurping God when you judge others? Does this surprise you? Why?

How are you tempted to judge others? (i.e., hurt, venting, etc.) Why is this prideful behavior?

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

October 17, 2012

Read:  Matthew 11:18-19, John 8:31-48, Romans 3:1-8, Acts 16:16-22

Explain how John, Jesus and Paul were slandered. What were the results?

Give an example of how you have been slandered. How did you feel? What was the result?

How have you seen slander, judgment, and criticism rationalized? What balance needs to take place?

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

October 16, 2012

Read:  James 4:11, Leviticus 19:16, Matthew 22:37-40; 15:1-20; 7:1

How does slander and judgment relate to God’s law? (i.e. Old & New Testament)

Why is slander and judging the opposite of humility? How do they reveal a prideful heart?

In what way can you violate God’s law with your mouth? What is God revealing to you about pride?

Monday, October 15, 2012

October 15, 2012

Read:  James 4:11, Proverbs 22:1, Psalm 15, Romans 1:28-32, Matthew 15:19-20, 1 Peter 2:1

Based on James 4:11, how would you describe the sin of slander? Why is it harmful?

List the various sins you see included in a discussion about slander. What does this imply?

How have you viewed slanderous discussion about others? How does this apply to you personally?

Saturday, October 13, 2012

October 13, 2012

Read:  James 4:6, 10, 2 Chronicles 7:14-16, Isaiah 57:15

Based on last week’s message and today’s devotion, explain what it means to be humble before the Lord.

In what way is humility an either/or proposition? How does James 4:7-9 relate to being humble?

Why will humility always be the way back to a healthy walk with the Lord? How is God humbling you?

Friday, October 12, 2012

October 12, 2012

Read:  James 4:9, Isaiah 22:5-13, 2 Corinthians 7:8-10, Matthew 5:4

Why does James 4:9 use the same language as the Old Testament prophets? What is the implication?

Explain why it is better to grieve, mourn, and wail, rather than laugh and have joy. (Hint: context)

How does godly sorrow and worldly sorrow relate? Why is this important to get back on track with Jesus?

Thursday, October 11, 2012

October 11, 2012

Read:  James 4:8, Exodus 30:17-21, Isaiah 29:13-14, Psalm 24:3-6, Heb. 4:14-16, 10:22, 1 John 1:9

How does James 4:8 paint a picture of the Old Testament priesthood? (i.e. come near, wash hands, etc.)

Why does James use this language to help Christians get back on track with the Lord?

What is the practical application of James 4:8? Take some time to apply this truth with the Lord in prayer.

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

October 10, 2012

Read:  James 4:7, Matthew 4:1-11

How did Jesus resist the devil? What happened as a result? How does this illustrate the truth of James 4:7?

Given we see very few people who talked directly to Satan in the bible, how might you encounter him?

How has today’s reading helped you understand how to resist the devil? What specifically will you do?

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

October 9, 2012

Read:  James 4:7, 1 Peter 5:6-9, Ephesians 6:10-12

What does resisting the devil mean according to James 4:7? How does this relate to submitting to God?

In what way does James 4:7 relate to James 4:4? What does this teach about daily choices?

How have you experienced this truth? What was the spiritual result? Take time to pray about this now.

Monday, October 8, 2012

October 8, 2012

Read:  James 4:7, Romans 13:1-2, 1 Peter 5:5, Ephesians 5:21-24, Titus 2:9

Based on today’s reading, define “submission”. Why is submission central to the Christian life?

What are the different ways a Christian is called to submit? What happens if you don’t? Give an example.

Why is submission directly related to getting back on track with Jesus? How does this apply to you?

Saturday, October 6, 2012

October 6, 2012

Read:  James 4:6, Titus 2:11-12, Romans 8:6-9

Describe the meaning of God’s “grace”. How does it have multiple applications? (i.e. salvation, favor)

How does God’s grace work with humility? What is the alternative based on James 4:6?

What did James mean by Christians getting “more” grace? How do you need more grace?

Friday, October 5, 2012

October 5, 2012

Read:  James 4:6, Matthew 4:1-11, John 18:1-11

How did Satan try to tempt Jesus away from following the Father? How did Jesus respond?

In what way is this an illustration of pride versus humility? (i.e. self-sufficient vs. God dependent)

How self-sufficient are you? Why? What can you avoid doing in order to grow in humility?

Thursday, October 4, 2012

October 4, 2012

Read:  James 4:5-6, Philippians 2:1-11, 1 Peter 5:5-6

Using Christ as your model, describe what it means to be humble. (e.g. use one word descriptions)

How will others play a part in you becoming more humble? How does “teachability” relate?

Why is humility the key to spiritual health? How teachable are you? What is God teaching you?

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

October 3, 2012

Read:  James 4:4, Psalm 68:21, Isaiah 42:10-13, Acts 13:6-10

How can you actually hate and become an enemy of God without ever saying anything bad about Him?

What is at stake when you become an enemy of God? Give examples from scripture.

Explain how you have an opportunity to love or hate Jesus every day. What needs to change today?

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

October 2, 2012

Read:  James 4:4, John 17:6-19, 1 John 2:15-17, 2 Corinthians 6:14-17

What is the primary struggle Christians will face living in this world? What does it mean to be worldly?

Why is spiritual adultery the result of being a friend of the world? How have you experienced this?

Why is this so important to the Lord? In what way do you need to make this more important?

Monday, October 1, 2012

October 1, 2012

Read:  James 4:4, Jeremiah 3:1-14, Ephesians 5:22-33

Describe how God pictures His relationship with Israel. How does God’s covenant with Israel relate?

In what way is a Christian in the same covenant relationship with God? Why is this important?

How does this elevate the way you have viewed your Christianity? (i.e. commitment, trust, adultery, etc.)

Saturday, September 29, 2012

September 29, 2012

Read:  James 4:1-3, Eph 4:1-6, Romans 12:18

Why is it important for every Christian to take personal responsibility for conflict management?

What happens when this doesn’t take place? What is the natural temptation? Give a personal example.

If unity is the mark of spiritual maturity, what is your spiritual condition? Take some time to pray about.

Friday, September 28, 2012

September 28, 2012

Read:  James 1:5-7, 4:2b-3, Mat 6:9-13, 1 Peter 3:7

Why does God want Christians to pray? What is the purpose? How can your motives impact your prayers?

How does this relate to conflict management? Give an example of an ineffective prayer.

How do you pray when in conflict with others? Why? How can you apply James 4:3 to your prayer time?

Thursday, September 27, 2012

September 27, 2012

Read:  James 4:1-2a, Luke 9:46-48

Explain what the disciples were arguing about. How did Jesus respond? Why?

How does this relate to their spiritual immaturity, discontentment and unmet desires?

How does James 4:2a reflect this same truth? Why is this important for conflict management?

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

September 26, 2012

Read:  James 4:1-2a, Romans 7:7-25, 12:3

What does today’s reading reveal about every Christian’s internal battle? List three areas where you battle.

How have you seen these internal battles become external and impacting others? What was the result?

What specific sinful tendencies is God revealing to you as being problematic? What do you need to do?

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

September 25, 2012

Read:  James 4:1, Eph 4:1-16, Phil 4:1-3, 1 John 4:7-8

Why is Christian unity such an important issue to God? What is at stake when this isn’t happening?

How does self-examination and taking personal responsibility first help with conflict management?

Describe a conflict you are currently having with another Christian. How can you apply James 4:1?

Monday, September 24, 2012

September 24, 2012

Read:  James 4:1, 1 Cor 1:10-17, 1 Cor 3:1-3, 1 Cor 6:1-8, 2 Cor 12:20

Describe the spiritual condition of the Corinthian church and how the people were living out James 4:1.

In what way could their fighting have been viewed as godly? How have you seen this take place today?

What is the connection between an internal and external battle? Why is this truth important?

Saturday, September 22, 2012

September 22, 2012

Read:  James 3:13-18, Proverbs 3:13-18

List the blessing found in Proverbs 3:13-18. List the challenges found in James 3:13-16.

Given these major differences, why do you think Christians are often tempted into worldly wisdom?

How have these last two weeks changed the way you view wisdom? (i.e. godly vs. ungodly)

Friday, September 21, 2012

September 21, 2012

Read:  James 3:17-18, Acts 15:1-21

Explain the problems confronting the Jerusalem church as more and more Gentiles became Christians.

How did James solve the problem? (Acts 15:13) In what way did he apply James 3:17-18?

In what area of your life do you need wisdom? How can you apply “care for others” & “biblical obedience”?