James looks closer at the genuine Christian life as he broaches the topic of wisdom. Who is wise, and how do you tell? While we often evaluate wisdom based on how much someone knows, James evaluates wisdom based on how someone acts. False wisdom might sound good, but it produces disorder and conflict in life. True wisdom produces a beautiful life that creates harmony and peace in life. When we see Jesus producing that peace and harmony in our own lives, at such personal cost, we learn to embrace true wisdom.
Application Questions
1. How do you normally evaluate wisdom in yourself and others? How does that compare to the way James evaluates wisdom?
2. How do you see earthly wisdom at work in your life? Where do you experience jealousy, selfish ambition, and disorder?
3. How do you see heavenly wisdom at work in your life? Where do you experience meekness, peace, and humility?
4. How can you grow in heavenly wisdom by focusing on Jesus Christ? What would change practically in your life this week?
12. Heavenly Wisdom
“True wisdom creates a compelling life.”
December 1, 2019
01. Joy and Suffering
September 1, 2019
James begins his book with a discussion of trials, because living faith is seen in unique ways in the midst of suffering. He wants us to understand that it is actually possible, through faith, to count trials as joy without pretending they don't hurt. And he teaches us how by showing us what trials look like, what they produce, and how these things lead to actual joy that runs deeper than the pain of trials. Application Questions 1. What are some of the multi-colored trials you have experienced or are experiencing? Have you seen those trials produce more endurance in you? 2. When you imagine yourself “lacking nothing,” what images pop into your head? How does that teach you what you think life is about? 3. What will it look like for you to “count it all joy” when you face trials this week?
02. Navigating Suffering
September 8, 2019
As we try to navigate life in our fallen world, we are constantly confused by the situations we find ourselves in. We don't know what to do. We don't know where to turn. We don't even understand the reality of what's happening. Thankfully God gives us the lens of wisdomthrough whichto view the world, which provides clarity and an accurate picture of reality. But wisdom can seem like a difficult (if not impossible) virtue to attain. In our passage today, James teaches us the one sure-fire way we can all gain the wisdom we need. And the amazing thing is, it's a lot simpler than you'd think. Application Questions 1. In what situations or suffering do you currently need wisdom? 2. What can help you practically remember who you're talking to when praying? 3. How often do you simply ask God for wisdom? 4. What would it look like to take time to think and listen with the glasses of wisdom on? What keeps you from doing so? 5. What keeps you from acting in the confidence of wisdom?
03. Suffering and Eternity
September 15, 2019
James gives us examples of trials we face when he brings up“lowliness” : having little money, little power, and little social standing. He also discusses the rich, who enjoy more power, comfort, and respect. But James turns things upside down: he encourages the low to boast in their high position, and the rich to boast in their low position. He does it because he is aware of eternity, and what it holds for those who trust in Christ—and he wants us to be aware of it too. Application Questions 1. What are some things in your life that you boast in? 2. How could thinking of eternity change the way you look at your circumstances, whether “lowly” or “rich” ? 3. What are some ways you will be tempted to boast this week? How can you boast in Christ instead?