6.22.2018

Read + Reflect + Respond with James 1:1-8


James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes scattered among the nations: Greetings. 

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 

But if anyone is deficient in wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without reprimand, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed around by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord, since he is a double-minded individual, unstable in all his ways.


(James 1:1-8, New International Version)


READ + REFLECT + RESPOND 

READ:

Read the passage slowly and carefully in your favorite version. Then do it again! Consider reading the verses aloud. Copying them by hand will also help you remember them better than just reading them.

REFLECT:
  • Write the passage in your own words. 
  • What is the main point? 
  • What are the key words in the text? 
  • Who is the original audience for these words? What have they already experienced in life, and how does this relate to what James is telling them?
  • What are some character qualities which God wants us to possess? 
  • What is the source of your joy, perseverance, faith, and wisdom?
  • How is cultivating true joy in trials different from putting on a happy mask to hide your pain? 
  • When have you received wisdom from God? How did that make a difference in your life? How did that wisdom come to you? (Reading the Bible, praying, sensing a strong inner nudge, hearing a sermon or podcast, talking to a trusted friend, or reading a book or article are some of the many ways God speaks to us.)
  • Can you think back to a time when you have been double-minded in your faith? What held you back from complete confidence? What helps you to trust God more when you are in a season of doubt?
  • Are there any areas of your life where you need more wisdom right now? What questions do you have for God?

RESPOND:
  • How can you specifically apply the verses in your own life? I have listed some Action Ideas below.
  • What are the potential benefits and challenges of your intended actions? How do you need to prepare to carry them out? Do you need help? If so, who?
  • Write a short prayer based on the verses.

Action Ideas

Start a Gratitude Journal where you list/describe your blessings. Then go further and re-frame challenging life situations into opportunities for joy. Do you want to start with something big or something little?  
Or perhaps you would like to make a Life Story Journal, where you think back on things that have happened to you, and how they have shaped you positively or negatively. If you have been wounded by life, how can you find healing? Do you need to find a professional counselor?  This article from one of my other blogs might help with the Gratitude and Life Story processes: Truth and Grace in the Stories of Our Lives.

Think about where God has sent you: your family, your job, your community, your church. What unique and specific service opportunities do you have in each of these spheres of influence? Can you try something new?

Think about a tough situation you are facing right now, one that you can't avoid/escape but need to get through. What practical steps can you take to persevere in it?

Are you in any rocky situations that you should attempt to avoid or escape rather than staying needlessly? Do you need to look for another job, leave a dysfunctional relationship, or go to a doctor? 

Thinking about where you get advice on living life, how can you upgrade your sources? Do you need to be more consistent reading the Bible? Do you need to cut back on TV or social media? Do you need to spend more time with mature friends and less time with foolish ones?

If there is someone who has helped you understand God's wisdom or who has helped you to persevere during a life challenge, take the time to thank them with a phone call, a personal conversation, a handwritten note, and/or a digital message. See Your Kindness Gave Me Courage.


HYMN

It Is Well With My Soul

"When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
when sorrows like sea billows roll;
whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul."



PRAYERS



Great God of Heaven, Gracious Father, we lift up our hands to receive your blessing and to bless your sacred name.

We open our whole hearts to be freshly washed and filled with your lavish love and joy, with your deep wisdom. 

We thank you for your mysterious mercies and your strength to endure in the midst of the overwhelming injustices and calamities which surround us.

May we be empowered today, and every day, each moment, to offer kindness and peace, healing and justice, in our communities, near and far.
In the name of Jesus, our friend and Savior.
Amen 
                                      (Virginia Knowles)


"For Those Who Suffer"
Eugène Bersier (1831-1889)

You are love,
and you see all the suffering,
injustice, and misery,
which reign in this world.

Have pity, we implore you,
on the work of your hands.
Look mercifully on the poor,
the oppressed,
and all who are heavy laden
with error, labour and sorrow.

Fill our hearts with deep compassion
for those who suffer,
and hasten the coming of
your kingdom of justice and truth.




TAKING IT FURTHER

Click on these links for more resources on this passage.

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