Beneath our otherwise calm and polite exteriors rages the source of so many of our conflicts: a relentless desire to have my way, to pursue my pleasure, and to proudly put myself first. But such a posture is incompatible with real relationships, with God or one another. In this passage James puts the spotlight on our selfish pride that brings opposition from God himself and invites us to the humble way of Jesus where grace abounds.

Sermon Outline:

I. The Problem: Our sinful and selfish desires alienate us from one another and God.

II. The Provision: God gives grace to the humble to live at peace with him and one another.

III. The Path: Humble submission to God through true repentance is the only path to the exaltation we seek.

Sermon Discussion Questions:

1. James points out that our sinful and selfish desires sow discord and create conflicts in our relationships. How have you seen this in your own life and in the lives of those around you?

2. James reiterates the biblical principle that God gives grace to the humble. Can you share a personal experience where you felt God's grace in your life when you humbled yourself or confessed your sins? Why does it feel so difficult to humble ourselves?

3. In the passage, James describes several aspects of humble repentance. Which of these steps of humbling yourself (submitting to God, resisting the devil, drawing near to God, cleansing your hands and purifying your hearts, experiencing godly grief over sin) do you find most challenging and why? Which feels most needful right now?

4. The world's idea of exaltation is the opposite of what the Bible teaches. How can we apply the principle of “the way up is down” in our daily lives and interactions with others? Share practical examples of what taking a humble posture looks like in our personal relationships.

5. The sermon concludes with an invitation to draw near to God, confess our sins, and experience His grace. How can your small group encourage and support each other in the process of humbling yourselves before the Lord? Share your thoughts and ideas for fostering a community of humility and grace.