The Golden Compass

Some of you have been asking about the movie “The Golden Compass.” Should you allow your children to watch the movie?

I have included below a section from the website http://www.snopes.com/politics/religion/compass.asp for you to look up for yourselves. As far as I can determine (and I have checked out most of the information) this website contains accurate information. Also, after the snopes information there is a section from the Focus on the Families movie review website. I encourage you to go to both of these websites and investigate all of the information. There is much more available for you than in this blog entry. At the end of these sections I have written some personal thoughts about the movie and the novels and whether or not Christians should attend the movie or read the books. I encourage you to prayerfully consider the following:

First, the section from www.snopes.com:

The Golden Compass, a fantasy film starring Nicole Kidman that is scheduled to be released into theaters on 7 December 2007, has been drawing fire from concerned Christians. The film is based on Northern Lights (released in the U.S. as The Golden Compass), the first offering in Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy of children's books, a series that follows the adventures of a streetwise girl who travels through multiple worlds populated by witches, armor-plated bears, and sinister ecclesiastical assassins to defeat the oppressive forces of a senile God.

Books of the trilogy have sold more than 15 million copies around the world, with Northern Lights winning the Carnegie Medal for Children's Literature in 1995 and in 2007 being awarded the 'Carnegie of Carnegies' for the best children's book of the past 70 years. The Amber Spyglass, the final book of the series, won The Whitbread Prize in 2001, making it the first children's book to do so.

The series' author, Philip Pullman (who has described himself as both an agnostic and an atheist), has averred that "I don't profess any religion; I don't think it's possible that there is a God; I have the greatest difficulty in understanding what is meant by the words 'spiritual' or 'spirituality.'" Critics of Pullman's books (conservative British columnist Peter Hitchens in 2002 labeled Pullman "The Most Dangerous Author in Britain" and described him as the writer "the atheists would have been praying for, if atheists prayed") point to the strong anti-religion and anti-God themes they incorporate, and although literary works are subject to a variety of interpretations, Pullman has left little doubt about his books' intended thrust in discussions of his works, such as noting in a 2003 interview that "My books are about killing God" and in a 2001 interview that he was "trying to undermine the basis of Christian belief."

A Los Angeles Times article on the Golden Compass controversy noted that:

[Pullman]'s never hidden his skepticism about God or his rejection of organized religion. A quick Internet search turns up a 2004 essay he wrote deploring "theocracies" for a newspaper in his native Britain, and his own Web site states that he thinks it "perfectly possible to explain how the universe came about without bringing God into it." "His Dark Materials" features a sympathetic character, an ex-nun, who describes Christianity as "a very powerful and convincing mistake," while "The Amber Spyglass" concludes with the two child heroes participating in the dissolution of "the Authority," a senile, pretender God who has falsely passed himself off as the creator of the universe.

Bill Donohue, president of The Catholic League, has condemned The Golden Compass as a "pernicious" effort to indoctrinate children into anti-Christian beliefs and has produced a 23-page pamphlet titled The Golden Compass: Unmasked in which he maintains that Pullman "sells atheism for kids." Donohue told interviewer John Gibson on 9 October 2007 why he believes Christians should stay away from the film:

Look, the movie is based on the least offensive of the three books. And they have dumbed down the worst elements in the movie because they don't want to make Christians angry and they want to make money. Our concern is this, unsuspecting Christian parents may want to take their kid to the movie, it opens up December 7th and say, this wasn't troubling, then we'll buy the books. So the movie is the bait for the books which are profoundly anti-Catholic and at the same time selling atheism.

Other reviewers, however, have described Pullman's works as being more generally anti-religion rather than specifically anti-Christian or anti-Catholic:

In "His Dark Materials," Pullman's criticisms of organized religion come across as anti-authoritarian and anti-ascetic rather than anti-doctrinal. (Jesus isn't mentioned in any of the books, although Pullman has hinted that He might figure in a forthcoming sequel, "The Book of Dust.") His fundamental objection is to ideological tyranny and the rejection of this world in favor of an idealized afterlife, regardless of creed. As one of the novel's pagan characters puts it, "Every church is the same: control, destroy, obliterate every good feeling."

Second, here's a section from the movie review on the Focus on the Family website: http://www.pluggedinonline.com/movies/movies/a0003536.cfm

The Golden Compass opens British author Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy, an award-winning but theologically controversial series of children's books. Though the series eventually finds two young protagonists and a supporting cast of witches, armored polar bears, scientists and angels confronting the Authority—a stand-in for God—those themes have been intentionally muted in this first cinematic act.

"How does one go about adapting a book that has controversial elements into a film that a very wide variety of people can enjoy, without betraying the original?" asks director Chris Weitz. "One tries to be clever about it. I realized that the overt stating of some of the themes in ... The Golden Compass would never—this is important to make clear—never ever get across the goal line. There isn't a wide enough audience for that—yet. If I wanted to popularize this series of extraordinary books and open them to a wider reading public than ever before, I was going to have to make some compromises."

Weitz went on to say that he hopes the film will be successful enough to allow him to direct the second and third installments without minimizing those stories' strident anti-church themes. "Whereas The Golden Compass had to be introduced to the public carefully, the religious themes in the second and third books can't be minimized without destroying the spirit of these books. ... I will not be involved with any 'watering down' of books two and three."

But even watered down, The Golden Compass is still awash in a twisted worldview and dark spirituality, the anticipation of which has prompted many Christian groups to point out the damage some of Pullman's themes can do. Even secular observers have noted that the film's thinly veiled ecclesiastical allusions can be spotted easily. Newsweek writer Devin Gordon noted, "While references to 'the church' are gone from the film, no one over four feet tall could mistake the Magisterium for anything but an oppressive theocracy." That notion is supported by church historian Dr. Quinn Fox, who observes, "The most telling aspect of His Dark Materials ... is that the Reformation never happened in the world of The Golden Compass. Indeed, Pullman's simplistically harsh view of the church and God posit a power-hungry, misanthropic institution out of control, and a detached, domineering God devoid of grace."

One of the film's visual high points has to be the sight of Iorek bounding through the snow in slow motion with Lyra burrowing into his shaggy white fur. And it's scenes like this, shown in most of the film's trailers, that have the power to spark interest and imagination in young viewers who might be unfamiliar with His Dark Materials.

Such warm and cuddly sneak peaks promise something this movie doesn't deliver. This epic journey to a world in which a theocratic agency kidnaps and tortures children is grim and joyless. The violence may be generally bloodless, but the tale's tone is anything but inviting. No matter what the ads may say, it fundamentally lacks the wonder and the splendor of C.S. Lewis' and J.R.R. Tolkien's fantasy creations—not to mention their grasp of spiritual truth.

Concluding remarks:

Should you allow your children to watch the movie? Has the church at times in human history been like the “Magisterium” in the movie—oppressive and tyrannical? Yes. Children need to learn this to differentiate between the real church and man-controlled and manipulating religion. However, I have a real problem in the movie of each person having a “daemon (pronounced – demon)” that serves as a mirror persona in animal form of our personality or soul that we can communicate with. This not only has a “new age” flavor, it also mirrors what real demons are and can do. If you allow your children to see the movie make sure you go see it with them and then talk at length with them to make sure they understand what they saw and make sure you point out differences between the movie and what the Bible teaches (We should do this with any movie of any questionable content). So, if you decide to allow your children to go, I would use this movie as a teaching tool with them.

Another thought, however, about attending the movie: Will your attendance promote the next movie in the trilogy? Remember, the director Chris Weitz said he will follow the novels more closely, and “I will not be involved with any 'watering down' of books two and three." Since the second and third books take a harsher view toward God and the church...why would we want to promote that?

Should you allow your children to read the novels? That's a different story. The novels apparently are more forceful and forthright with anti-church and anti-God rhetoric. Why would we want to allow our children to fill their minds with these thoughts?

In the end, though the first movie seems to be harmless enough, attending the movie is going to embolden Hollywood to promote the next two in the trilogy and maybe other movies that carry a hidden atheistic theme to our children. Then there's the matter of the novels which I definitely would steer clear of. Why promote an author who seems to be on a mission not only to promote his atheistic beliefs but also to destroy the faith of those who do believe in God? Not with my money Mr. Pullman!

Wandering in a wasteland or slaying giants?

Friday - 11/16 - Read Hebrews 11:11,12 and Genesis 18:10-15

God is not asking you to have a baby when you're almost 100 years old. Relief, right? Really? Could He be asking you to do something far more difficult?

Save your marriage? Share Christ with someone on your Deep Impact Prayer List? Control your tongue or anger? What is it for you?

All of us have something we feel is just impossible in our Christian walk.

Like the children of Israel perhaps God's plan has too many giants inhabiting the land. Giants like potential for failure, embarrassment, cost, loss of popularity, loss of prestige, fatigue, sacrifice? WHAT IS THE GIANT YOU FEAR?

God wants you to see how big those giants are. Tell God they're big, but in the same breath tell God He's bigger, mightier and far more powerful.

The reason many Christians settle for wandering in a wasteland, spiritually, is because they don't see how big God is. How sad to sell yourself and your family short.

God doesn't want you wandering in a wasteland of boring, impotent Christianity. He wants you to take the land and inhabit the place of God's blessing He has for each and every one of us.

Let's take the land by faith.

Read Heb. 11:13-16 for next Sunday

Laughing like Sarah?

Thursday - 11/15- Read Hebrews 11:11,12 and Genesis 18:10-15

What is God calling you to do that causes you to laugh like Sarah in doubt?

What is God calling you to do that maybe causes fear in your heart? Me? Do what?

God wants to carry you into the deep end so that if it were not for Him you would be in water way over your head. Will you follow Him there?

Could you be on the verge of something miraculous and really big in your Christian walk? Could this only be a choice of faith away from happening?

The question is not how big or capable you are but how big and capable is God?

Will you climb on His shoulders and head out into the deep?

Read Heb. 11:13-16 for next Sunday

How big is God?

Wednesday - 11/14 - Read Hebrews 11:11,12 and Genesis 18:10-15

Can "mission impossible" become "mission accomplished" in your marriage, relationships, child-rearing, living for Christ at school, your job, etc.? Depends! On what? Ask this: "How big is my God?"

We saw on Sunday that Abraham and Sarah's faith was not perfect. They had their ups and downs and struggles and doubts, but in the long run, faith ruled the day.

Do you feel that you need to bat a 1000% to see God's power in your life?

Stop! Look to God, not to yourself.

God is able to hold you up in the deep end of life. I love Mark 9:24. A father who came to Jesus so He could heal his son, is challenged by Him to have faith. The father replies honestly, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!"

What is looking for is honesty and authenticity. Tell God about your struggle. Tell Him you want to believe and ask for His help. He will come and do just that.

Read Heb. 11:13-16 for next Sunday

Does God keep His word?

Tuesday - 11/13- Read Hebrews 11:11,12 and Genesis 18:10-15

Does God keep His word? In the core of your heart where no one sees except God, ask yourself that question.

I know that academically every Christian would answer, "Of course He does." But, deep down in your being,in that part of you that really makes decisions that affect your actions, answer it there.

If you believe God keeps His word, can we, should we, are we acting upon that in tangible, measurable ways in our lives?

What are those measurable ways in your life?

What have you changed in your lifestyle or priorities that reflects that belief.

Do people around you see the proof of those decisions?

Can God keep His word and give you success in that impossible thing He is asking you to attempt?

Read Heb. 11:13-16 for next Sunday

Attempt the impossible

Monday - 11/12 - Read Hebrews 11:11,12 and Genesis 18:10-15

GOD DIDN’T PUT HIS HOLY SPIRIT IN YOUR LIFE AND GIVE YOU RESURRECTION POWER SO YOU COULD ONLY DO THINGS YOU COULD DO IN YOUR OWN STRENGTH AND POWER. What do you think of that statement?

When was the last time you attempted something for God that was way beyond your abilities and strength?

Maybe you haven't because whatever God wanted you to do just seemed to impossible! Do you think Abraham and Sarah felt this way?

List some reasons why you believe it is important for Christians to attempt the impossible, if God leads you to do so, from time to time in their Christian walk:

Could attempting the impossible be the same as conquering new territory for Jesus Christ?

Where is God leading you to go that is new territory that just seems impossible to you right now?

Read Heb. 11:13-16 for next Sunday

Jump!

Friday - 10/26 - Read Hebrews 11:8 and Genesis 12:1-4

I made a statement on Sunday that most Christians want the blessings of Canaan without leaving Haran. Would that have worked for Abraham? Will that work for you?

Have you been thinking about what your Canaan might be? Where is it God is leading you to that will require you stepping out of the comfortable and familiar into the unknown of His best for your life?

I shared possible things: A quiet time. Attending an ABF. Talking to a neighbor about Christ. Beginning or attending a small group. Starting a brand new ministry of some kind? What might it be?

It is by far safer and more satisfying to be lost on an adventure with God than to play it safe and cling to the comfortable missing out on the best that God has for your life.

This isn't just something that individuals should be willing to do, it is also something that a small group should be willing to do, or an ABF, or a family, and especially that a church must be willing to do.

However, it must start with individual believers who see how big God is and jump into the deep section of life with their Savior who already jumped into the deep section some 2000 years ago when He came into this world.

Jump!

Read Heb. 11:9-10 – Genesis 13:1-18 for next Sunday

Leave the known for the unknown

Thursday - 10/25- Read Hebrews 11:8 and Genesis 12:1-4

At some point in Abraham's life, there came a moment of decision. Has that point come for you? What decision do you have to make?

Abraham left the known for the unknown. Are you willing to do the same?

What was his age? Gen. 12:4

The only way you can arrive where God wants you to be is to leave where you are today.

That's both a very unsettling statement and an exciting statement.

Who doesn't want to be where God wants them? Most Christians do. However, we struggle with the process and what that means as far as what that is going to cost us.

Are you praying that God would give you courage to go for what God wants for you?

If you have kids or grandkids, ask yourself what's best for them?

Read Heb. 11:9-10 – Genesis 13:1-18 for next Sunday

Something better?

Wednesday - 10/24 - Read Hebrews 11:8 and Genesis 12:1-4

Do we really believe that God has something better for us than the comfortable and familiar places where most Christians are living their lives?

For Abraham that place was a place of being blessed and being a blessing to others.

If I am reading this right that means the place of blessing in the Christian life is not primarily where we want to live life, but rather away from comfort and focusing on self to a place where we must sacrifice and give of ourselves.

Are you willing to exchange what you have for what God wants to give you knowing that this is true?

How can you apply this at work?

How can you apply this in your marriage?

How can you apply this at school?

How can we apply this in our church?

Read Heb. 11:9-10 – Genesis 13:1-18 for next Sunday

Jumping into the deep section

Tuesday - 10/23- Read Hebrews 11:8 and Genesis 12:1-4

The older we get the more we tend to want to hold onto the comfortable and familiar. Do you agree or disagree?

People usually don't want to give up the comfortable and familiar unless there is a strong reason to do so. I think that Christians need to ask themselves if growing to the next level in the Christian life is a strong reason. Is it for you?

Do you believe that your children or grandkids seeing parents and grandparents trailblazing new trails for Christ is a strong reason?

I used the illustration of jumping into the deep section of the pool with the water way over your head to show what this kind of Christian life is like.

Do you find yourself jumping into the deep section of the Christian life?

Do you find yourself standing on the side of the pool unwilling to take chances for Jesus?

Are you willing to jump today?

Read Heb. 11:9-10 – Genesis 13:1-18 for next Sunday

Go where you've never gone before

Monday - 10/22 - Read Hebrews 11:8 and Genesis 12:1-4

Do you ever feel like your Christian life is kind of ho-hum?

Do you ever take any risks in your faith? Do you ever get into any scary situations for God?

On Sunday we began a new sermon series. It's all about developing a pioneering faith. How did the first sermon impact you? Did it challenge you? Excite you? Scare you?

What did God lay on your heart about what we learned about Abraham's life?

Were you challenged to go where you've never gone before in your faith?

Where were you challenged to go?

Are you going there?

Read Heb. 11:9-10 – Genesis 13:1-18 for next Sunday

Scary words

Friday - 10/19 - Read James 5:13-20

I'll be honest verses 19 and 20 are scary words.

I was brought up in family that stressed minding your own business. I was taught that you shouldn't poke around in other people's business. Verses 19,20 confront that mindset.

Do you feel the way I did?

However, James describes how utterly necessary it is at times for Christians to lovingly and humbly rescue other believers when they are wandering away from God.

Has anyone ever had to do this with you?

Have you ever done this to someone?

I was brought up differently than James charge to the Christians in this passage but, we need to ask ourselves which way is God asking us to act, especially in light of how serious the implications are when we wander away from Christ.

May God give us strength and courage to trust His way of doing things instead of our own.

Read Hebrews 11:8 and Genesis 12:1-4 for next Sunday

Just like us!

Thursday - 10/18- Read James 5:13-20

Do you remember people who were examples of prayer for you?

Most people have grandparents, parents, or friends who set the example for them.

Even if you don't, James gives us one--Elijah!

James says he was "just like us." God is the one who said Elijah was "just like us." You may struggle with this because he was such a "big name" in the Old Testament, but God said he was "just like us." Do you believe that?

His prayer is an example of someone who prays and in the end that prayer is "powerful and effective (v. 16)".

Can you set aside time to pray? If you can you are doing the most important and most powerful thing for yourself, your family, your nation, your world and your church.

There was a tremendous response to the sign-up sheet to find out more about a "Prayer Action Team" in the church. I think God is leading us in the right direction as a church about prayer. Pray that God uses this response to honor and glorify His name as we find a way to saturate our church in prayer.

Read Hebrews 11:8 and Genesis 12:1-4 for next Sunday

sin and sickness

Wednesday - 10/17 - Read James 5:13-20

James indicates that a healing community of believers is not to just trust the Elders to be the ones praying for the church. We all are to be praying for one another.

James ties sin and sickness together in vv. 15,16. Why do you think he does this?

Could sin affect our health? How so?

Why would it be healthy for Christians to confess their sins to one another?

Why do you think it is so hard for Christians to do so today in our American church culture?

Are you part of a small group of some kind where you are getting to know people so intimately that you feel you can trust them by confessing your sins to them? Ouch! Maybe, maybe not.

Could many Christians be missing out on a whole new and necessary dimension of the Christian life by not being part of a group like this?

Have you thought of being part of a small group?

Read Hebrews 11:8 and Genesis 12:1-4 for next Sunday

In the name of the Lord

Tuesday - 10/16 - Read James 5:13-20

Last Sunday we discovered that we can overcome the pressure that affliction brings into our lives, first of all, through a healing community.

Every church needs leaders who are setting the example in this area. Leaders must lead.

James recognized this when he instructed elders to be willing to go to the homes of sick people to anoint them with oil and pray for them.

As we discovered, the Greek word for oil was a word that would normally be associated with medicinal application. There is another Greek word that would be more applicable to religious or ceremonial anointing. James purposefully avoided that word for the medicinal word.

I suggested on Sunday that the modern day application of this would be for the Elders to encourage people to go see a doctor. What do you think of this?

Even so, James was very careful to say, "anoint him with oil IN THE NAME OF THE LORD." All healing, whether supernatural or through health care providers is seen from God.

We want to be very careful to ultimately trust God for recovery from sickness, disease or physical injury.

Read Hebrews 11:8 and Genesis 12:1-4 for next Sunday

Why me, God?

Monday - 10/15 - Read James 5:13-20

Sometimes, when we are afflicted by problems in our lives, we wonder why God has allowed them in our lives.

Are you facing affliction in your life? You might be asking God, "Why?"

Sometimes, as we discovered, God sends affliction our way when we are not walking with the Lord as we should (see Hebrews 12:4-13 cp. 1 Cor. 11:27-32)

Sometimes, there may not be any good reason, as far as we can see, for why God is allowing it.

I want to encourage you, whether you feel the affliction in your life is your fault or not, to look to James 5:13-20 for the answers.

As you continue to meditate on the principles we discovered from James 5:13-20, I trust that God will give you wisdom to look for the answers in the right places.

Read Hebrews 11:8 and Genesis 12:1-4 for next Sunday

path of humility = exaltation

Friday - 10/12 - Read Philippians 2:1-11

Phil. 2:1-4 describes the difference that this path of humility should make in our lives.

In our relationships are we willing to put others ahead of ourselves?

Are we willing to consider others before ourselves?

If not, we really don't know what the Lord's Supper represents.

If so, we have captured the essence of how our lives should be impacted by the message of the Gospel.

It's ironic, then that this section of Scripture (Phil. 2:1-8) which talks so much about humility and putting others first, concludes talking about exaltation!

It's true, though. The path of humility finally ends on another path--the path of exaltation.

It's true of Jesus and it could be true for you--it's your choice.

Read James 5:13-20 for next Sunday

"Wanna be" follower?

Thursday - 10/11- Read Philippians 2:1-11

Are you willing to obey God even if it means tremendous sacrifice on your part?

This is exactly what obedience cost the Son--tremendous sacrifice!

What happens when most of us are confronted with sacrifice that is costly? We run and hide.

Jesus told us that this is the core of discipleship--"If any man will be my disciple...let him deny himself!

Why is this so unpopular in our day? Why are too many people unwilling to pay this price?

The Lord's Supper is meant to remind us of the tremendous sacrifice Jesus' obedience to his father cost him.

That reminder should challenge us to ask ourselves if we are authentic followers of Jesus Christ or just "wanna-be" followers.

Read James 5:13-20 for next Sunday

Make yourself a nobody?

Wednesday - 10/10 - Read Philippians 2:1-11

Are you willing to make yourself a nobody to serve others? Are you willing to become insignificant in the world's eyes to help build up and benefit others? Jesus did.

On Sunday, as we met around the Lord's Supper, we came face to face with the most significant being who ever has and ever will exist--God. He became insignificant for you and me.

How far are you willing to go to build up others? Are you willing to become a nobody--perhaps serving in a ministry no one else wants to serve in? Nobody will notice you and maybe nobody will say, "Good job," because they won't know you're doing anything.

This is the path of humility. Are you willing to follow Jesus on this path? It is repugnant for most people.

How does God respond to people who are willing to walk this path? Does this humility produce praise and worship to God?

Read James 5:13-20 for next Sunday

Holding onto anything too tightly?

Tuesday - 10/9 - Read Philippians 2:1-11

Are you holding onto anything too tightly? If anyone deserved to hold onto anything tightly, it was Jesus--to the full use of his deity--BUT HE DIDN'T!!!

That's amazing! If you spend too much time thinking on it, you'll get a headache, because it's overwhelming. Why would Jesus let go of His rights and privileges being God for you and me?

Why did Jesus do this? To serve you and me.

What do you have that you hold onto maybe a little bit too tightly? Time? Talents? Pride? A point of view? A personal preference? Energy? Comfort?

Are you holding onto these things too tightly in your family? Marriage? Workplace? Relationships and friendships? Church?

Would others benefit if you let go of these things for them?

Are you willing to let go of them? Will you?

Read James 5:13-20 for next Sunday

On the path of humility

Monday - 10/8 - Read Philippians 2:1-11

Christians disagree with each other over some pretty weighty matters. We're not talking about fundamentals of the faith that we cannot compromise, but things that, though they are important, should not divide us.

These disagreements are like a minefield. Humility steers us clear of those mines. Are you experiencing disagreement with a brother or sister in Christ?

Ask yourself this: Am I following Christ on the path of humility through this situation?

We gathered around the Lord's Supper Sunday. Jesus' humility was on display. If you were there, did you learn anything new about Jesus' humility and how it applies to your life?

Did you feel challenged in any relationship or situation?

Will you allow the Holy Spirit to move you to the next level of spiritual growth by that challenge? Will you submit, in humility, to the Spirit's work in your life?

Read James 5:13-20 for next Sunday

Yes or No?

Friday - 9/28 - Read James 5:7-12

OK! Look around you as your read this blog. Is anyone in the room?

Why? Because I want you to be completely honest with yourself. Have you ever become so upset and exasperated that you were not being taken seriously with your words that you let out a swear word or two? It's OK to answer this--it's really between you and God.

That's what James is addressing in v. 12.

Do you feel that a couple of well placed curse words adds weight to what you're saying?

James says they don't, in fact, God condemns it.

James encourages us to simply allow our "Yes" to be "Yes" and our "No" to be "No."

This, again, requires faith. We trust God to use our words as He wishes, not as we wish.

What God wants to validate the truthfulness of your words with is your life being lived out for Christ.

Join the club?

Thursday - 9/27- Read James 5:7-12

Are you hurting big time? Finances? Marriage problems? Medical or health issues? Relational problems?

Do you feel like you can't bear any more?

James basically says, "Join the club!" It's a pretty exclusive club, though. Charter members are the prophets (v. 10) and Job (v. 11).

Maybe that will help ease the "hurt" you're experiencing, maybe not!

Consider this, though. James states that at the core of everything God allows in our lives is a heart of "compassion and mercy (v. 11)."

Now, this is crucial--do you believe that?

There are times in the Christian life that make or break us spiritually. If you're hurting and you're wondering why God is allowing it, in order to continue persevering in your faith, you absolutely must believe that this is true about God--His compassion and mercy are behind what he's allowing in your life.

Would you like to join the club?

Projects under construction

Wednesday - 9/26 - James 5:7-12

Probably all of us, from time to time, have grumbled and complained about others.

Does that make it alright?

James tells us in v. 9 that the Lord takes this very seriously because He stands as a judge over this.

Have you ever grown so impatient with someone that you just gave up on them? People can exasperate us, can't they? It seems that God never gives up on us and that's why we shouldn't grumble or complain about others.

We discovered on Sunday that we are all "projects under construction." This requires patience.

Do you want others to be patient with you? Will you be patient with others?

Do you want others to be grumbling and complaining about you? Do you grumble and complain about others?

Grumbling and complaining about others tears apart the progress God is making in another believer's life. I would not want to be charged with spiritual vandalism by the Lord, would you?

Waiting for the harvest!

Tuesday - 9/25 - James 5:7-12

Did you grow up on a farm? James talks about the farmer's need for patience as he waits for the harvest. Do you remember the anticipation around harvest time?

How does that relate to the Lord's work in your life? Does God mature people as quickly as you'd like?

Ultimately, the harvest we wait for is the Lord's return. Is that worth waiting for?

Could you identify areas of your life that are inconsistent with waiting properly for the Lord's return? What are you willing to do to bring these areas under the soon return of our Lord?

Read vv. 7,8 again. Think about these verses. How does James' illustration of a farmer waiting apply to you today?

Open Season on Christians

Monday - 9/24 - Read James 5:7-12

Do you feel like it's open season on Christians?

James knew that the believers he was writing to did. He tells them to be patient. Do you find yourself in a situation that constantly requires patience on your part?

Do you believe that at the core of everything that God allows in your life is a heart of "compassion and mercy?" This requires faith.

Are you facing hostility, pressure or perhaps out and out suffering because of your Christian faith?

Is God sovereign over this hostility? Does that mean God knows about and care about what you're going through?

Is there something going on that is bigger than our limited perspective we have over situations in our lives?

Are you willing to trust God?

How about a test drive?

Friday - 9/21 - Read James 5:1-6

Giving liberally does something positive to your heart. What is that?

Luke 6:38 claims that "the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

What kind of measure do you use when giving to others in need?

Why does God use this measure with us in the way He gives to us?

Is this fair? Yes or no?

If it's fair, what does this mean as far as your giving of your money to others, the Lord's work, IRS, etc.?

Lastly, we looked at the problem of self-absorption. Do you wrestle with this as I do?

I asked you to test-drive the principles we learned to defeat self-absorption.

Did you take any of these principles out for a spin around the block?

Read James 5:7-12 for next Sunday

Fingernails on a chalkboard?

Thursday - 9/20- Read James 5:1-6

Give your money liberally! That was the third point I made on Sunday morning. It came from James 5:5,6. Honestly, how did you react to this when I made this point?

Was it like fingernails on a chalkboard to you?

Why do you think we sometimes feel this way?

Why do you think we sometimes believe that money is the path to happiness?

When we think money is going to make us happy and we end up making a lot of money, we end up being selfish.

Do you agree or disagree?

If you agree, why does this happen?

On Sunday I suggested the antidote to selfishness is to open up our refrigerators (metaphor for wallets or money) and give.

How can you apply this principle today?

Read James 5:7-12 for next Sunday

Toes sore?

Wednesday - 9/19 - James 5:1-6

Did James step on your toes on Sunday? That is, when we talked about how you were filling your fridge (lit. your wallet), did the Holy Spirit remind you of a dishonest way you are gaining income, if in fact, that's the case?

How did you react? Were you defensive and try to justify it?

Or did you repent?

Would you say the way you are working at your job is fulfilling the principles Paul laid down in 2 Thes. 3:6-13?

If you believe God's Word is to be applied to our lives, in what way(s) did you apply the instruction to gain your money legitimately according to James 5:4

People sometimes desire money so much they are willing to do anything to gain it (5:6).

What is the first step on the journey down this road to "murder" in order to have money?

Read James 5:7-12 for next Sunday

Shelf life for money!

Tuesday - 9/18 - James 5:1-6

We discovered on Sunday that just as there is a shelf life for things in our refrigerator theres is a shelf life for what we put into our wallets (bank accounts).

How does money rot?

Our money, like food in a refrigerator, is meant to be used and invested.

How can we use our money properly so that it doesn't rot or corrode?

Luke 12:15 warns us that "a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions."

What does it "consist" in then?

Why do those who have a lot of money find it difficult to "put their hope in wealth" instead of the Lord (1 Tim. 6:17)?

Read James 5:7-12 for next Sunday

Money is a root?

Monday - 9/17 - Read James 5:1-6

1 Timothy 6:9,10 says the "love of money is a root of all kinds of evil." Why do you think this is true?

Have you ever seen this in your own life?

If the "love of money is a root of all kinds of evil," what grows from this kind of root?

What is the trunk or stalk? What are the branches and the fruit?

Does this concern that Paul had when he addressed Timothy sound somewhat familiar to James 5:1?

It what ways?

What kind of misery do you think James was warning against?

Read James 5:7-12 for next Sunday

I will walk about in freedom.

Friday - 9/14 - Read James 4:13-17

Can we expect God to lead us into His will in the future if we are not following His revealed will through His Word now?

Psalm 119:45 says, "I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts." What kind of freedom is the psalmist talking about?

What does it mean to seek out God's precepts?

Read Psalm 37:4. What happens to your desires when you "delight yourself in the LORD?"

Are desires that are shaped by a heart delighting in God able to direct us into God's best for our lives?

When our desires and God's match up, we can only expect God's best for our lives.

Read James 5:1-6 for next Sunday

"If the Lord is willing..."

Thursday - 9/13 - Read James 4:13-17

Was James against making plans about the future (4:15?)?

What is the key phrase in v. 15?

"If the Lord is willing..." is so much more than a catchy religious phrase. What does it imply in our plans for the future and seeking God's will?

2 Cor. 5:7 talks about walking by faith and not by sight. What does this mean?

If we are to walk by faith what does this mean as we pursue God's direction in life? Will we clearly know where God wants us to be in the process of discovering His will?

Why is this difficult at times?

Whose business is it to get you to where you should be in the Christian walk?

Are you trusting God to get you there?

Read James 5:1-6 for next Sunday

Is tomorrow guaranteed?

Wednesday - 9/12 - James 4:13-17

To make matters worse, James reminds those who were bragging and boasting about what they were going to do to consider that they might not even be alive tomorrow.

How can they make plans about the future when they might not even be alive in the future?

We need to recognize how utterly foolish it is to boast and brag about tomorrow when we might not even be alive tomorrow.

So, how are we suppose to make plans, or are we supposed to make plans?

James confronts the notion of making plans to make money only for oneself. What about others?

Read James 5:1-6 for next Sunday

How's the view?

Tuesday - 9/11 - James 4:13-17

Our side of the fence, with our restricted view of life, offers a view of only what is happening in the present. Even the rest of the day, only minutes or hours away, is something we can't see.

All we can say we are certain about is what has happened and what is happening right now in our lives. Other than this, we can't make certain plans that we know are going to come to pass.

Yet, James is addressing people who wanted to go to a certain city, make money and after a year come home.

Do you make plans like this? Is this right or wrong?

How can you make plans about the future when you can't even rely on a weather forecast for tomorrow?

Is there someway we can make plans about the future in a way that honors Christ?

Read James 5:1-6 for next Sunday

wrestling with the future

Monday - 9/10 - Read James 4:13-17

Most of us wrestle from time to time with some important decisions that will affect our future. For some of us this can be very nerve wracking and difficult.

Are you currently going through something like this?

James recognizes that planning and strategizing about the future can be done in a right way and a wrong way. How are you doing?

We used the analogy of a fence on Sunday. One side of the fence has a restricted view of life, the other doesn't.

God's view of the future is not restricted at all. His side of the fence sees the end from the beginning. We can trust Him and depend on Him for what we need to know.

Which side of the fence are you on?

Read James 5:1-6 for next Sunday

Worship=forgiveness

Friday - 9/7 - Read Ephesians 4:32-5:2

Worship! Contemporary? Traditional? How about forgiveness?

When we forgive others we are saying, "God, I hold your forgiveness of me in such regard that I am willing to forgive others." This exalts God.

This brings glory to God.

Is God worthy of this kind of worship?

Are you willing to exalt Him this way?

Read James 4:13-17 for next Sunday

It all boils down to love

Thursday - 9/6 - Read Ephesians 4:32-5:2

Isn't this amazing. It all boils down to love.

We can try to skirt around love as the motivating factor but eventually if we have Christ's love in our hearts and lives we will forgive others.

We can talk all day long about following Jesus and being His disciple, but eventually if we aren't willing to forgive others, even for big, hurtful and grievous sins, do we really have God's love in our lives?

And notice, this isn't about a feeling...it's about volition...a choice. We can't let this important decision to be ruled by our hearts that sometimes are all over the place.

This is a love that is ruled by the will...choices must be made.

Are you following up on your choice to write someone's name on a piece a paper on Sunday?

Have you made the call? Have you visited the person?

If personal contact is out of the question, have your released the debt this person owes you in your heart to God?

If Christ's love is in your heart it has to be demonstrated in a tangible way...forgiveness.

Read James 4:13-17 for next Sunday

God forgave ALL your sin!

Wednesday - 9/5 - Ephesians 4:32-5:2

When we read Col. 2:13,14 on Sunday, and it stated that God "forgave ALL YOUR SIN," was that the first time you heard that? Even if it wasn't, how does that truth impact you?

It's easy for us to understand how God no longer condemns His children as we found out about in Rom. 8:1. He forgave us all our sins. He forgave us all our sins He no loner holds these sins against us.

Do you forgive others this way?

How could we without the knowledge that God forgave our eternal debt?

Knowing God forgave us is huge! Our debt to Him was so much bigger than any debt that anyone could owe us...so there is no room not to hold a grudge and withhold forgiveness.

Are you struggling in your desire to forgive someone? Look to the Cross!!!

Read James 4:13-17 for next Sunday

Struggling with forgiveness?

Tuesday - 9/4 - Ephesians 4:32-5:2

Maybe you're struggling with forgiving someone because you've forgotten the first step?

What is that according to the first part of Eph. 4:32?

How do you look upon those who have done your wrong? Do you exhibit kindness and compassion to them?

How did the Lord look upon you when you were wallowing in your own sin against Him?

Are compassion and kindness active strategies you employ in relationships with people who have hurt you severely in your heart?

As you partook of the Lord's Supper Sunday, did the compassion and kindness of the Lord impact your heart? Why not let Jesus' compassion and kindness make a difference in the lives of those who have hurt you and you need to forgive?

Read James 4:13-17 for next Sunday

Follow up

Monday - 9/3 - Read Ephesians 4:32-5:2

God's forgiveness is so complete and thorough. He looks upon His children as those whose sins have been washed away and their hearts have been made white like snow.

Yet, we know we sin daily. How often we just plain turn our backs on God and rebel against Him.

This sin we continue to struggle with after we've found Christ as our Savior has been washed away. God sees us as clean through the blood of Christ.

How do we react to others who hurt us and grieve us in our lives.

God wants us to offer forgiveness, even to those who are annoying, upsetting and just plain get under our skin.

On Sunday did you fill out one of the red sheets indicating, as an act of worship to God, that you were going to forgive and seek reconciliation with someone.

What are your plans to follow up on this?

Do you need to make a phone call?

Read James 4:13-17 for next Sunday

Grace = great relationships

Friday - 8/31 - Read James 4:1-12

God wants grace to help us grow in our relationships with others.

In vv. 11 and 12 we see that this includes what we say about others. How should our tongue be used as we bring up the names of others?

God's grace has been give to us to build up others. Why is "slander v. 11" so wrong in light of this?

We are called to love each other by God's law (the royal law, to love others as we love ourselves).

Are we an exception to this law?

If not, how do we become judges of the law (v. 11)?

Submission to God! That's what it comes back to. This is what humility is all about.

Here we see that this submission plays out as love to others, watching our words and building others up with them. How you doing?

Read Isa. 1:18; Mt. 26:26-29 for next Sunday

An action plan

Thursday - 8/30 - Read James 4:1-12

On Sunday we learned that this "humility" looks like the action statements of vv. 7-9.

Submission to God is the first step (v. 7a) in activating humility in our lives. Why?

Resisting the devil literally means to "stand against" the devil. How can you do this? Do you believe God's promise that the devil will flee if you do?

How intimate are you with God? Intimacy takes time as we're in the presence of another person. Is this true of you and God?

How can you improve this intimacy with God?

Personal purity includes the idea of confessing and forsaking sin in our lives. Why does this activate humility in our lives?

V. 9 talks about a brokeness before God. How can this response be appropriate especially when we are struggling with sin or worldliness in our lives?

Read Isa. 1:18; Mt. 26:26-29 for next Sunday

Humility is the key

Wednesday - 8/29 - James 4:1-12

James 4:6 is one of the most encouraging verses in this epistle. Is that a true statement?

Why?

The attractions of worldliness are powerful, but God wants to give you a resource to give you victory over it? What is it?

What unlocks God's overcoming grace in our lives according to v. 6 (quoted from Pr. 3:34)?

Why do you think humility unlocks the power of God's grace?

Can you remember times in your Christian walk when this has occurred?

Is humility present in your walk with the Lord today?

Read Isa. 1:18; Mt. 26:26-29 for next Sunday

Me? Adulterous?

Tuesday - 8/28 - James 4:1-12

Who's your best friend? Is God really, really your best friend?

If he's not, what does James accuse you of according to verse 4?

Why does James accuse us of being "adulterous" if God is not our best friend?

v. 5 talks about the Spirit of God "envies intensely" to be #1 in our lives. Is this a valid thing for God to desire?

Is it right for a husband and wife to "envy intensely" to be #1 in the other's life?

In the context of a marriage setting it seems to be proper and even healthy to desire to be #1 in the heart of our mate, in the context of God's desire is God justified in desiring to be #1 in our lives?

What about you? Who's your best friend?

Read Isa. 1:18; Mt. 26:26-29 for next Sunday

What is worldliness?

Monday - 8/27 - Read James 4:1-12

James doesn't pull any punches when he confronts worldliness. But, what is worldliness?

Is worldliness something we do? Or is it something or some way we think? Col. 2:8

When we leave God out of the picture as we approach life, what is going to determine how we feed our desires and appetites?

Worldliness is not so much what's "out there" in this world but what's "in there" in our hearts. What's in your heart?

In James 4:1-3 James asks, "What causes fights and quarrels among you?" What's the answer according to James v. 1?(cp. possibly with Mt. 5:21-22)?

So are you getting your way or not? How are you reacting if you're not getting in your way?

Read Isa. 1:18; Mt. 26:26-29 for next Sunday

Tapping into God's wisdom

Friday - 8/24 - Read James 3:13-18

Read James 3:17,18. Who wouldn't want these things filling their lives.

This is what God's wisdom produces. Can you imagine how much healthier our relationships would be if we defaulted to God's wisdom in our lives.

What's the source of this wisdom? Sunday we learned it is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and then learning from God's Word as we study for ourselves and as we fellowship with God's people.

Are you tapping into the source of God's wisdom?

Consider your life today--your marriage, your family, your co-workers, your friends and neighbors. What is the default operating system or wisdom you use as you relate to these folks--God's wisdom or this worlds'?

Which one are you pursuing in life?

Read James 4:1-12 for next Sunday

Humility is the key

Thursday - 8/23 - Read James 3:13-18

Paul tells us in Col. 3:1 to "set your minds on things above." We've got to look to God for a wisdom that will please God.

Warning! You'll never find this wisdom unless your heart is humble before God.

This begins with the Cross. If you've never trusted Christ as your Savior you're missing out on the source of all true wisdom--Jesus Christ Himself.

He will humble you as you realize everything you have and ever will have is from Him, most importantly you're salvation.

Once we are humble before God--His power and wisdom begin to flow through our lives.

If you've been a believer for years it's all about staying humble by remembering every day, hour and minute of the Christian life must be lived in light of the gospel.

Read James 4:1-12 for next Sunday

Powerful motivation

Wednesday - 8/22 - James 3:13-18

James tells us that the motivation behind worldly wisdom is "bitter envy" and "selfish ambition." Do you find this to be true in the lives of people you are with every day?

Does it scare you when you see these things bubbling to the surface in your life?

Notice, in James 3:16 what the outcome is: "disorder, and every evil practice."

V. 14 says, "if you." James realized that even Christians can default to this kind of worldly wisdom.

Since we're not in heaven yet, we must realize the potential we have to default to this kind of worldly wisdom and avoid it.

It's OK! If you find this problem in your life, it's actually the first step in the right direction--toward God's wisdom.

Read James 4:1-12 for next Sunday

We're in a fight

Tuesday - 8/21 - James 3:13-18

Earthly wisdom is based on a system of understanding life that leaves God out of the picture.

Is this the default setting for your life? If it is, is this what you want?

Paul warns us not to be "conformed any longer to the pattern (wisdom) of this world. (Rom 12:2)"

Do you feel a pull in this direction? It's the default way even Christians live life. We need to discern and avoid this "operating system" or wisdom.

Think about it! Is there a need in your life to identify which operating system or wisdom you're defaulting to?

While we are living in this world, we must know there will be the pressure on us to figure out life in a worldly way because that's the way most folks around us are seeing life.

If you sense this difficulty--good! We need to realize we are in a fight. We need to identify the reality of the world around us and how others, who do not know Christ, are processing life.

Read James 4:1-12 for next Sunday

When life "boots up" for you

Monday - 8/20 - Read James 3:13-18

When your life booted up this morning, what was your default operating system or wisdom? Was Gods wisdom up and running or did the world's system boot up?

Do you find figuring out life a sometimes demanding and overwhelming thing?

Let's face it, we all struggle with this. How do we react? That's the important thing.

James asks the question in v. 13, "Who is wise and understanding among you?" This is an important question we all must ask ourselves.

Your default wisdom system must come from God. This determines how we react to the things that stretch and strain us in life.

Would you take time as you meditate upon James 3:13-18 to contemplate whether you are someone who is wise and understanding among your family, friends, in the church, and even around those who don't know Christ yet.

Read James 4:1-12 for next Sunday

A heart connection

Friday - 8/17 - Read James 3:1-12

What determines what comes out of your mouth? cp. Luke 6:43-45 (Read)

In light of Jesus' teaching, ask yourself what are you filling your heart with on a daily basis?

Read Col. 3:1-17. Do we have any hope of changing our mouth if we're not filling up our heart with God's Word?

How can we minister to one another the Word of God?

How much time do you personally spend with God on a daily basis listening to His heart and meditating on what He's saying to you?

Do you need to make a commitment to a time alone with God?

"May the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be pleasing in your sight O LORD, my Rock and my redeemer." Psalm 19:14

Read James 3:13-18 for next Sunday

Sanctification

Thursday - 8/16 - Read James 3:1-12

Why is following Paul's instruction in Eph. 4:29 so important for churches, especially Grace Evangelical Free Church as we attempt to move forward? Please take a moment to read this verse.

How successful will we be in our own strength and power to control our tongue? cp. James 3:78

Should we just give up then? cp. James 1:26

Remember our definition of "sanctification?" Sanctification is that process of being set apart by God to Christ day by day, more and more, for your special purpose He has for you in this world.

You are unique because God made you that way. Your upbringing, socio-economic background, life experiences, education, relationships, personality, traits, talents, skills, dreams, goals, aspirations, spiritual gifts, etc., make you totally unlike anyone else in this world. God wants to use you in a most unique way. That's sanctification.

Our lips or tongue and what they say and proclaim to others fall under this process of sanctification.

Read James 3:13-18 for next Sunday

Stick out your tongue and say, "AH!"

Wednesday - 8/15 - James 3:1-12

What is the spiritual condition of your tongue? I think you know what I mean by this, right?

Has one word, or one statement started a "forest fire" of trouble in your life or in the lives of others? Doesn't it amaze you? One statement and the fire is blazing.

Why do you think James says in James 3:6 "It corrupts the whole person."?

We know why God wants our words to be godly, but do we understand the passion Satan has to see our words being destructive and harmful. James says our tongues can be set on fire by hell itself. Satan--give him credit here--is a great strategist. He knows how powerful words are.

With the words you've used last week have you played into this strategy?

Stick out your tongue and say, "Ah!"

Read James 3:13-18 for next Sunday

Words are powerful

Tuesday - 8/14 - James 3:1-12

Take a moment to read and meditate on Proverbs 18:21. Use the New Living Translation if you have it.

Do we really understand how powerful our words are? Do you remember a time when someone said something to you that devastated you or gave you tremendous hope?

On Sunday I shared a little bit about two individuals who had tremendous influence on others through their words--Jim Jones and Billy Graham. Obviously, one was used to inflict tremendous tragedy and the other to speak words of eternal life two literally millions. Can you think of others whose words have had a huge impact on others?

Biting your tongue really is about understanding this influence and speaking to others in light of it.

Do you choose your words carefully?

Read James 3:13-18 for next Sunday

Words make us accountable

Monday - 8/13 - Read James 3:1-12

How many times have your words gotten you in trouble? Stop and reflect. Can you think of two or three really difficult situations, hurt feelings, wounds, etc., that your words may have caused?

Re-read James 1:26. Why is getting control of your tongue so important?

According to James 3:7,8 is this even possible from a human perspective?

According to James 3:1,2 your words make you accountable. You may not be a teacher or preacher in a church but how do your words make you accountable where you're at in life? As a husband, wife, mom or dad, son or daughter? What about at work? With your friends?

If our words make us accountable why is it important that we bite our tongue? cp. Proverbs 17:27,28

Read James 3:13-18 for next Sunday

Our Choice vs. God's Sovereignty

Friday - 8/10 - Read Mark 14:12-26

God is so powerful!

On the surface this choice Judas made looks so harmful and disastrous. Yet, God's sovereign hand was even on this decision.

At the time, for the disciples, I'm sure no one could have made that statement and really believed it.

Yet it was true.

Your choices you make today and the resulting ramifications will be used somehow, someway in the hands of a sovereign God.

"But woe to the man who betrays the Son of Man!"

If you are still undecided about a choice for good that you must make in your life, will you make your choice now--finally---willfully and for the honor of God's name?

Read James 3:1-12 for next Sunday

Surely not I

Thursday - 8/9 - Read Mark 14:12-26

We all have heard the phrase, "There but for the grace of God go I!"

If Judas could betray Jesus and the other 11 could momentarily abandon Jesus--do you have the same potential?

What kind of choices did you make on Sunday around the communion table? Is today a good day to reinforce those decisions?

The disciples all responded, "Surely not I," when confronted with the potential of spiritual failure.

Maybe today, right now, it just doesn't seem possible. Look at Gal. 6:1. Paul tells the church to be prepared to restore those who are "caught in a sin." This carries with it the idea of being "caught by surpise."

We need to realize that we all have the potential to make incredibly harmful and wrong decisions. God's grace is the only thing that stands in the way of us choosing wrongly.

Will you bow your head and cry out to God for Him to reinforce your resolve with His power and strength?

Read James 3:1-12 for next Sunday

The impact of your choices

Wednesday - 8/8 - Read Mark 14:12-26

Have you ever been "saddened" (v. 19) by news of someone failing spiritually?

Do you understand the impact your choices will have on others around you?

Do you recall a time that someone's choice in their spiritual walk impacted you--good or bad?

If you are a dad or a mom, what kind of impact are your choices having on your kids?

If you are a friend or acquaintance, what kind of impact are your choices having on your friends?

Are you on the verge of making a choice in your life that could seriously impact loved ones, friends or brothers or sisters in Christ? Would you stop and think long and hard about that choice?

Read James 3:1-12 for next Sunday

Your next choice

Tuesday - 8/7 - Read Mark 14:12-26

The Lord's Supper. In the presence of God. Yet, it was in that seemingly safe place that Judas chose to betray Jesus.

Do you feel like you're in a safe place right now? Maybe you've been reading your Bible every day and praying? Perhaps you are surrounded by a small group of Christians who are encouraging you and building you up? Do you feel safe? Watch out, if you do.

You are only as safe as the next choice you make in your Christian walk. Look at Mark 14:27-31, 66-72

Do you see a little bit of yourself in Peter?

Your next choice for Jesus will determine the success of your walk with Him, not those in the past.

Should you assume you're safe spiritually?

Why is this foolish?

Are you watching and guarding yourself spiritually?

Read James 3:1-12 for next Sunday

Choices

Monday - 8/6 - Read Mark 14:12-26

I have made some really bad choices in life and some really good choices. I'm sure you have as well. Reflect for a couple of minutes and think about some of these choices. What were the ramifications of those choices. Are you still living with the outcome--good or bad?

Judas' choice led to suicide. What a horrible choice he made in life.

Why do you think choices against the Lord lead to negative situations in life?

Are you in a place in life, right now, where you are being tempted to choose against what you know to be God's will for your life?

Will you allow the lesson we learned on Sunday at the communion table to influence your heart to choose God's path? Your choice is crucial.

Read James 3:1-12 for next Sunday

Justification by what?

Friday - 6/29 - Read James 2:14-26

James talks about a dynamic, living faith like Abraham's and Rahab's. What made their faith dynamic and living?

Read Genesis 15:5,6 and compare it to Romans 4:1-5.

Paul says a man is justified by grace through faith alone.

James says a man is justified by what he does also. James 2:24.

Are they contradicting each other?

what kind of justification was Paul talking about in Rom. 4:1-5? Was it before God or man?

What kind of justification was James talking about in James 2:24? Was it before God or man?

What kind of justification is the means of salvation according to Paul in Rom. 4:1-5?

What kind of justification is the evidence of salvation according to James in James 2:23-26?

In 2 Cor. 13:5 Paul exhorts the Corinthians to "examine" themselves to make sure they were really in the faith. Why might this be a great suggestion in light of what James has just said in these verses?

What happens if you fail the test? What should you do?

Read 1 Cor. 11:17-34 for next Sunday

Demons shudder

Thursday - 6/28 - Read James 2:14-26

James states that demons "shudder" at the truths of God's Word. When you combine this word with the belief they seemed to have in Biblical Truth, what is still missing?

Have you known people who have had a really emotional conversion principle and yet their lives never changed?

Does the Bible ever talk about the need for "crying" or emotional indicators in order to be saved?

Does that mean that a person won't cry when they find Christ or be emotionally charged by receiving Christ?

Why isn't an emotional response required for salvation?

Has someone in your family, a child or mate, had an emotional conversion experience only to turn out to be lifeless and uninterested in spiritual things after ward?

Read 1 Cor. 11:17-34 for next Sunday

Demons know their Bibles

Wednesday - 6/27- Read James 2:14-26

James talks about demons believing sound bible doctrine, James 2:19.

Does that mean demons are saved?

How could you believe in the truth of the Bible about important Bible doctrines and yet still be lost?

Is faith something more than believing Biblical truths to be true?

What is saving faith as opposed to faith of just your mind?

Does saving faith include believing Biblical truths to be true?

So, what is missing that the demons didn't have?

Read 1 Cor. 11:17-34 for next Sunday

Claiming to have faith

Tuesday - 6/26 - Read James 2:14-26

James talks about a man who "claims to have faith." Do genuine believers "claim to have faith?" Of course. So, why does James confront these people in v. 14? What do they lack?

What is the difference between a faith that produces "deeds" and one that doesn't according to v. 14?

Why does a faith that saves produce good deeds according to Ephesians 2:8-10?

Does this mean we are saved by good deeds according to Ephesians 2:8-10?

Read Titus 2:16. Does Paul's description of someone without good deeds line up with James'? What are the similarities? What are the differences?

Can someone who "claims to have faith" make bold claims about their salvation if they do not have a life to back it up?

Read 1 Cor. 11:17-34 for next Sunday

Do you really know Him?

Monday - 6/25 - Read James 2:14-26

Do you know someone who claims to be a Christian, but their life doesn't back it up?

What does that mean, as far as their relationship with Christ? Are they a believer or not?

What about your own life? Are their seasons of inactivity? Are there times when you're passion for Jesus Christ is pretty much not there?

Do you really know Jesus Christ?

As you read through James 2:14-26 ask yourself where you are spiritually.

Are you prepared to confront yourself with the possibility that you have never received Christ?

Are you prepared to confront those you love, who may have made a profession of faith years ago, to reconsider whether they really know Christ?

Why is this so important if they really don't know Christ?

Read 1 Cor. 11:17-34 for next Sunday

The greatest heritage

Friday - 6/15 - Read Luke 15:11-24

We learn how to relate to God and His unconditional love for us by how our earthly dad loves us.

Did you learn unconditional love from your father?

Some have not. That's OK. God's love can be your example.

God's love can transform our hearts and give us the example we need to love our kids.

Dad, our kids need our unconditional love most when they've failed to achieve a goal or when they've blown it big time.

You then are passing down to them a heritage--a heritage of unconditional love.

They grow up understanding this kind of love and learn to relate to their Heavenly Father according to this love.

What does this produce in their lives?

Why is this so important?

Do you love your children unconditionally?

How are you showing this love in tangible ways?

Read James 2:14-26 for next Sunday

Unconditional love

Thursday - 6/14 - Read Luke 15:11-24

When your children blow it, what is the first thing on their mind about you, Dad?

Unconditional love is the greatest gift a father or mother can give their children.

Do you agree with that statement?

If so, why? If not, why?

How can we extend to our children this kind of love?

I believe it's by knowing this love, first hand.

Where can we find this love? John 3:16; Rom. 8:38,39

Read James 2:14-26 for next Sunday

a speech never given

Wednesday - 6/13 - Read Luke 15:11-24

Can you imagine how nervous the prodigal son must have been as he made the long journey back home to seek his dad's forgiveness?

I wonder how many times he had rehearsed some kind of speech to recite to his father.

Yet, he never had an opportunity to share that speech.

What do you think went through this son's mind as he saw his dad running up to him and then felt his dad's arms wrapping themselves around him?

What does this tell us about his dad's heart? He was accepted, in spite of how wrong he had been.

Do your children feel your acceptance in spite of decisions they make--good or bad?

Did this acceptance of this son mean that his dad accepted the sons rebellion and condone the kind of decision he had made?

How can dads communicate acceptance without condoning bad decisions and rebellion?

Read James 2:14-26 for next Sunday

letting go

Tuesday - 6/12 - Read Luke 15:11-24

Sometimes we think of letting go of our children as a one time thing.

How can we let go of our children while they are still home?

What are you doing now, while your children are still at home to teach them how to be independent?

What did your parents do to help you become independent? Did they do a good job?

What can you learn from them?

If they didn't do a very good job, what do you need to avoid from their example?

Why is letting go of your children one of the most important acts of parenting?

Read James 2:14-26 for next Sunday

Give me my portion

Monday - 6/11 - Read Luke 15:11-24

Can you imagine the thoughts that were racing through the mind of the prodigal son's dad when his son said "Give me my portion of the inheritance. I'm outta here!"

Was he hurt? Confused? Frustrated? How would you feel?

How do you react when your children make unwise decisions?

Was this the first time his son had approached him?

Had they discussed this previously? Did he try to talk his son out of leaving?

Jesus doesn’t tell us, does he? He merely said that the father divided his property among his two sons, implying that each was free to do as he wished.

For most parents, letting go is an incredibly difficult thing to do, yet it is one of the most important and vital things you'll do.

If your children are still "in the nest" are you preparing to let go?

Why not take a couple of minutes to pray. Ask God for wisdom. Ask God for insight into how you can best let go.

Read James 2:14-26 for next Sunday

Serve one another in love

Friday - 6/15 - Read James 2:1-13

We are forgiven and freed from the condemnation and dominion of sin. How much do you appreciate this gift from God?

Paul states in Gal. 5:13, "You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather serve one another in love."

How does the sinful nature approach differences that can lead to playing favorites?

When the sinful nature reacts first, will we be willing to "serve one another in love?"

Instead of "serving one another" who will we be willing to serve? Hint: you see this person every morning when you look in the mirror.

Why does James tie showing mercy to others, even those different than us, with our salvation?

Does this mean we are saved by our good works? see, Ephesians 2:8,9

What does showing mercy tell us about the true condition of our hearts?

Why is this so vital?

Read Luke 15:11-24 for next Sunday

The Royal Law

Thursday - 6/14 - Read James 2:1-13

Worship music. Different ages. Different skin colors. These are areas where we can show favoritism or prejudice. What are some more?

How can you live without favoritism? No matter how different people are from you James 2:8 tells us we must fulfill the "royal law" towards them. What is that law?

Are you guilty of not showing love to anyone who is outwardly different than you?

Are you willing to confess that as sin?

Read Luke 15:11-24 for next Sunday

discerning but not discriminating

Wednesday - 6/13 - Read James 2:1-13

Does this principle of not showing favoritism mean that we should not be discerning about where they are spiritually?

Look at 1 Tim. 3 - What kind of person should the church pursue for leadership? This excludes people. Why is this right?

Look at 2 Cor. 6:14-18 - What should any potential marriage or business relationship discern about another person before entering into a relationship?

Look at 1 Cor. 5:11-13 - What should a Christian discern about another "so called" brother before having an open relationship with him?

Look at 1 John 4:1; 2 John 7-11 - What beliefs should we discern about another person or church before pursuing a relationship with them?

Read Luke 15:11-24 for next Sunday

Inside or Outside?

Tuesday - 6/12 - Read James 2:1-13

When we play favorites with people, are we putting them first or ourselves?

Are you prejudice in the way you approach anyone because of color of their skin, clothes, or even their gender?

Why is this wrong if you don't know what's in their hearts?

When God chose David as king over Israel in 1 Sam. 16:7 what was He looking at?

On the surface who looked like they'd be a better king? David or Saul? Who turned out to be the better king?

Is there a lesson you can learn when you meet certain people who at first, outwardly, you turn away from?

Read Luke 15:11-24 for next Sunday

Playing favorites

Monday - 6/11 - Read James 2:1-13

What are some ways that Christians play favorites with one another?

Have you ever had someone do that to you?

Do you think you've ever played favorites?

If playing favorites is just looking on the externals in a person's life, what were those externals?

Why does this keep you from really getting to know the heart of a person?

James talks about "evil motives." What could those "evil motives" be?

Why are they "evil?"

Is there someone, right now in your life, that you are excluding from your life because of external appearance, personality or preferences?

What is the next step for you to take?

Read Luke 15:11-24 for next Sunday

Pure and faultless religion

Friday - 5/18 - Read James 1:19-27

Are you religious because you go to church? Go to Bible study? Read your Bible daily?

According to v. 27, how can you be religious?

How active is your faith in serving others by caring for their needs?

James also talks about true religion that God considers "pure and faultless" being morally pure.

The "world-system (leaving God out of the picture - cp. 2 Pet. 1:4; Tit. 2:12; Rom. 12:2; 1 Jn. 2:15-17)" wants you to conform to its image. Is that happening morally in your life?

Is Jesus the center of your morality?

Do you need to do any moral house cleaning?

Would you be willing to pray for the new "INSIDE-OUT KIDZ" ministry? Why? Because of the potential impact on the lives of boys and girls for Jesus Christ, but also so the Christians that God wants to use can apply the truths of God's Word to their lives.

Read Luke 24:13-35 for next Sunday

Avoiding worthless religion

Thursday - 5/31 - Read James 1:19-27

Do you have a quiet time with God every day? God wants to meet with you daily. He wants you to look toward Him to worship Him and listen to His voice on a daily basis.

When you do have your quiet time, are you taking the time to allow God to reflect back to you the image of yourself He wants you to see? This takes time. James says we should "look intently into the perfect law."

Would you characterize your daily time with God as a time to look "intently" into God's Word?

According to v. 25 what happens if you don't?

According to v. 25 what happens when you do?

What is your choice?

Think of how important your marriage is...your family is...your job is...your "whatever" is. Why do you think refection on God's Word is so vital for these areas of your life and so much more?

If you want to be "transformed by the renewing of your mind" why is "looking intently" into the principles of God's Word so vital.

Do you need to make some adjustments in your schedule to accomodate this process?

What is keeping you from doing so?

The Christian life boils down to making choices. That's what determines whether our religion is a vital and dynamic thing or a lifeless, powerless, "worthless" thing.

James ties keeping a tight rein on your tongue with a religion that God's gets excited about. Why do you think this is so important. cp. Mt. 12:32-35

Do you have a tight rein on your tongue?

What does the answer to the previous question say about your heart when compared to what the Lord says in Mt. 12:32-35?

A tight rein on your tongue begins where then?

Who can change your heart?

How can a person look religious on the outside to peers and friends, but deceive himself? cp. James 1:26

Read Luke 24:13-35 for next Sunday

Quick to listen

Tuesday - 5/15 - Read James 1:19-27

James 1:21 talks about the word of God being planted in our hearts. Is your heart ready to receive the seed of God's Word?

Are you "quick (Gk. - a sense of urgency) to listen" to God's Word? Is there an eagerness in your heart to listen to God's voice through His Word? Is there a hunger that just keeps gnawing away at your soul to hear God's voice?

When you do spend time listening to God's Word is your heart constantly interrupting by talking to you about what you need to do later in the day, chores you need to do, bills you need to pay, things you need to do, or are you "slow to speak?"

When you listen to the sermon on Sunday morning have you stilled your heart before God to hear what God is saying through the pastor? Do you prepare your heart before the service to be quiet before God?

When God's Word confronts your life, do you get angry with God?

Is there any unrepented moral sin that you have not confessed and forsaken in you life? Are you willing to? Has any moral failure short-circuited God's message in your life?

Are you rationalizing any moral failure in your life instead of repenting and forsaking it?

Read Luke 24:13-35 for next Sunday

the pressure of self-deception

Monday - 5/28 - Read James 1:19-27

The pressure of self-deception. There is something inside of us that causes us to think we are successfully living for Jesus Christ even while we are not applying God's principles in our lives. Do you agree with that?

What causes that pressure?

Do you find it easy to think up excuses why you shouldn't apply what God teaches you? Maybe in your marriage? Relationships? Work situation? School? Other settings?

Identify an area where you are deceiving yourself into thinking it's OK not to apply what you know to be true in Scripture.

Why are you "pulling the wool" over your own eyes by not applying this truth to your life?

What can you begin to do today to apply this truth?

Read Luke 24:13-35 for next Sunday

No blog this week.

I didn't preach last Sunday, so I'm going to take a week off from blogging for a week.

Terri and I were able to go to Karin's (our second daughter) graduation from Northwestern College. I am one proud father. She, as well as the other girls, have brought such joy to our lives. On Sunday we went to her church. She ushered and was working before the service folding bulletins. She and the others were doing their duties with an obvious joy in the Lord. I believe God is using her mightily and will continue to develop her into all that He wants her to be.

Sorry, just the ramblings of a proud dad!

Is it still Mother's Day for mom?

Friday - 5/18 - Read Proverbs 6:20-23 again.

How have you bound your mother's teachings upon your heart and fastened them around your neck?

What do you think Solomon meant when he wrote these words in Proverbs 6:21?

In verse 22 Solomon said mom's teaching will do three things. What are they? How would you apply them in your life today?

In verse 23 Solomon compares dad's commands and mom's teaching as a lamp and light. Why is is this so important?

At what point in your life do they stop being a lamp and a light?

In verse 23 Solomon talks about the "corrections of discipline." Do you remember a time when you were disciplined by your mom and hated it (maybe this morning)? What does Solomon say about the "corrections of discipline?" They are the "way to _______! (fill in the blank)" Do you believe this?

Is there a need for some tweaking in the ingredients your using right now in how you react to mom in your life (the way you're baking the cake)?

We sent you home with a cake mix to bake a cake for mom last Sunday. Did you bake it? Did you use the right ingredients? Did you clean up after you baked the cake? Let that cake remind you of the ingredients of submission, obedience, respect, honor, care and concern you need to use every day in your relationship with your mom.

Care and concern for mom

Thursday - 5/17 - Read John 19:25-27

These verses apply to all stages of our relationship with our mom. Even after she passes away there should be a care and concern in the way you remember her, but we want to focus on how we show a care and concern for her the way Jesus did as his mom stood at the foot of the cross.

We looked at Proverbs 23:22. It warns us not to "despise our mother when she is old." What are some ways we can despise her?

Do you know neglected elderly moms? It's not only sad and tragic, God takes note of this.

Do you have an elderly mom? Does she have needs and concerns she can no longer take care of?

What are you doing about them?

Do we have to wait till mom is old to do this?

Do we have to wait until we're out of the nest to do this?

What are some ways we can show care and concern for mom even when she is young and completely healthy?

We sent you home with a cake mix to bake a cake for mom last Sunday. Did you bake it? Did you use the right ingredients? Did you clean up after you baked the cake? Let that cake remind you of the ingredients of submission, obedience, respect, honor, care and concern you need to use every day in your relationship with your mom.

Yes, ma'am! No, ma'am!

Wednesday - 5/16 - Read John 2:1-11

We found out Sunday that this passage helps us understand how we are to treat mom when we are leaving the nest or already have left the nest. Things change and so do the ingredients we use in honoring mom.

"Woman!" Should you follow Jesus example of calling his mom "Woman?" Yes and no!

In the sermon on Sunday we learned that the term "woman" was a term of respect and affection in Jesus' day.

How would we say it today? It's hard to find a word that shows this respect, but several decades ago we would have said, "Yes, ma'am" or "No, ma'am!"

We must realize that just because we leave the nest doesn't mean we should leave respect and honor behind in the way we treat mom.

Have you recently left the nest or have you been gone for a while? How do you treat your mother?

Do you visit her? Call her? Communicate with her?

How are you honoring and respecting your mom though you no longer are under her roof?

How you answer these questions determine your real character as a human being.

We sent you home with a cake mix to bake a cake for mom last Sunday. Did you bake it? Did you use the right ingredients? Did you clean up after you baked the cake? Let that cake remind you of the ingredients of submission, obedience, respect, honor, care and concern you need to use every day in your relationship with your mom.

Who designed moms?

Tuesday - 5/15 - Read Luke 2:41-52

It's ironic but true that the creator, designer, sustainer of the universe was submitting and obeying a human being in Luke 2:41-52.

It's true! Jesus did create and design human life (John 1:1-3). He designed family. He designed a mom's (and dad's) relationship with children. In other words, he knew how it would work best.

When He designed family did He have our good in mind? Duh!

So, would we expect Jesus to react to his mom (and dad) in any other way but in keeping with the way He designed it to work in the first place?

What about you? Are you submitting and obeying mom? Why should you? I'm sure there are many times that you feel you could call the shots in your own life better than your mom. Right?

Why submit to mom? Why obey mom?

Do you think that God wants to direct your life?

God will use your mom (and dad) as the primary means of showing you his will for your life when you are still in the nest. It is crucial that we recognize this and follow God's plan as revealed through your parent's (mom's) direction for your life.

The next time you think you know better than your parents, perhaps these thoughts will bring you back to sanity.

We sent you home with a cake mix to bake a cake for mom last Sunday. Did you bake it? Did you use the right ingredients? Did you clean up after you baked the cake? Let that cake remind you of the ingredients of submission, obedience, respect, honor, care and concern you need to use every day in your relationship with your mom.

Did you bake the cake?

Monday - 5/14 - Read Proverbs 1:8,9; 6:20-23; 15:20; 30:17

Please read the verses above from Proverbs.

Proverbs 30:17 is a rather sobering indictment against those who would "scorn obedience" to their moms.

What do we see, from these verses, about God's view of how we should react to our mom's?

Do you think that God only had in mind one day of the year?

We compared treating mom the right way as a lifestyle with baking a cake.

Both require the right ingredients. Have you ever tried to bake something and forgot an important ingredient?

We discovered the first ingredients needed in treating mom right were submission and obedience.

Are those ingredients in your "cake" you are preparing for mom?

We talked about how these ingredients are the primary focus of children who are still "in the nest," but how could you have these ingredients in your relationship with your mother even after you leave the nest?

Jesus obeyed and submitted to his mom (Luke 2:41-52). Is this the pattern of your life?

We sent you home with a cake mix to bake a cake for mom last Sunday. Did you bake it? Did you use the right ingredients? Did you clean up after you baked the cake? Let that cake remind you of the ingredients of submission, obedience, respect, honor, care and concern you need to use every day in your relationship with your mom.

Locked rooms

Friday - 5/11 - Read Psalm 40:1-3

We talked on Sunday about how the body and blood of Jesus Christ are like keys that open up different areas of our life.

Through the sacrifice of Christ on the cross, what areas of your life have been opened up and liberated by Christ?

By Jesus' shed blood, what areas of your life have been freed to become all that God wanted them to become?

You can put a key in a lock, but you must turn that key to unlock the lock.

Our faith turns the key.

You may come Sunday after Sunday to church, but could it be that you are not turning the key?

Are you turning the key by faith to unlock and free your marriage, relationships to friends and even foe?

Through the body and blood of Jesus Christ we have eternal salvation. Why not use that salvation in your life like a key to unlock those areas of your life that you are still struggling with?

A New Song

Thursday - 5/10 - Read Psalm 40:1-3

Sometimes we think that outreach is something we do for God. I guess that's true to a certain sense, but I think it's more a thing that God does through us.

Psalm 40:3 talks about God putting a song in our heart (actually "mouth"). Have you ever got a song stuck in your mind?

What happens when you get a song stuck in your mind?

Outreach is really about a song stuck in our minds. It's about our hearts rejoicing about God's salvation. We can't get it out of our minds.

If God accomplished our salvation the way Psalm 40:1,2 says He did, what is your life proclaiming?

Outreach is really something that God does through us as He puts a "new song" in our lives.

People see it! People want what we have! They want to put their faith and trust in God too!

Let's pray and ask God to put this song in our hearts and mouths every day wherever we are.

God's Ipod

Wednesday - 5/9 - Read Psalm 40:1-3

When you think of singing praises to God, what do you think of?

A certain kind of music?

Could it be that what David was referring to is more than a kind of music and more a kind of heart that is grateful and appreciative of God's deliverance, especially the deliverance of our salvation?

When was the last time you caught yourself singing a song of praise to God without even thinking about it?

Does God's salvation do that to you? Should it?

God says this song is a "new song." What would the "old song" be?

If your heart is God's Ipod, what kind of music is playing?

Take time to think how many times you are singing a "hymn of praise to our God." Does it happen often?

If not, what is your heart dwelling on?

Rock steady!!!

Tuesday - 5/8 - Read Psalm 40:1-3

"He lifted me out!" Praise God. God delivered us, He rescued us from that place of living in a "slimy pit."

When was the last time you stopped and thanked God for His rescue job on your life?

Was there any other source of deliverance? Was there anyone else who could've done what God did?

How fortunate we are to have a Rescuer like Jesus. Thank Him right now!

Notice in Psalm 40:2 the psalmist says that God not only rescued us from the mud and mire of our lost condition He also set our feet upon a rock.

Jesus is that Rock!

Can we find a more secure foundation to take our stand upon?

Do Buddhist, Muslims, Hindus, etc. have a better rock?

Do they have one that even comes close to being as rock steady as Jesus Christ?

Slimy Pit

Monday - 5/7 - Read Psalm 40:1-3

Were you saved from a life that was a "slimy pit?" Some people are saved from really "slimy" spiritual pasts. Some people are saved very young in life before things get too "slimy."

How can a person's life be described as a "slimy pit," even though they were saved at a young age before they really got involved in the things of the world?

Can you remember when you were stuck in the "mud and mire" of life? What was life like for you then?

What did Paul say about that kind of life before He found Christ? cp. Philippians 3:7-9

Do you ever feel a lure back to that old "mud and mire?"

Do you feel that lure today? Why not confess this to God.

Will you stop and think, just for a moment, about what God has accomplished through the salvation He provided for you in Christ?

Meditate for a few moments about what God has saved you from.

Places of safety

Wednesday - 5/2 - James 1:13-18

James 1:14 warns us of being "dragged away" by our own hearts to be tempted. This phrase literally refers to drawing out an animal from a place of safety to be captured. What are places of safety we have in the Christian life that our own hearts draw us away from?

Are you exposed to spiritual danger because of the deceptions of your own heart?

How critical is it for you to recover your place or places of safety?

What are you going to do today to recover them?

James 1:14 also talks about our own heart "enticing" us. It means "baiting the hook."

When fish go for the bait, what don't they know about?

Are you lured by any bait that could lead to being hooked by spiritual disaster?

What is that bait?

What is that bait concealing?

Where does temptation come from?

Tuesday - 5/1 - James 1:13-18

According to James 1:13,14 what is the source of temptation?

We discovered on Sunday that temptation can be an opportunity to accomplish a good thing in a bad way. For example, passing an exam is a good thing, but cheating to do so, is accomplishing a good thing in a bad way. Stop and think of how you might have been attempting to accomplish good things in bad ways?

Does God ever try to accomplish good things in bad ways?

How does your answer above help you to understand why God never tempts anyone?

Do we like to take blame when we succumb to temptation?

So, who or what do we blame instead of ourselves?

Can we ever blame God?

temptation vs. trials

Monday - 4/30 - James 1:13-18

James 1:13 tells us that temptation happens to all of us. What was the last temptation you faced? How did you do?

How you answered above tells whether the experience was a trial you passed or a temptation you succumbed to.

What happens to our faith when we face temptations and are victorious over them?

What happens to our faith when we face temptations and are defeated by them?

What do temptations tell us about our faith when we are victorious over them?

What do temptations tell us about our faith when we are defeated by them?

Do temptations afford us positive opportunities? If so, what are some of them?

An Eternal Perspective

Friday - 4/27 - Read James 1:2-12

Usually, when people face trials the first question they ask God is "Why?"

If it is true that this world is not all there is for us, and we will someday live with the Lord and all the heartache of this world will be gone, why might the question "Why God?" not be the best question to ask Him?

If we are going to live forever with the Lord in heaven and we face trials here, what might be a better question?

Every Christian, regardless of their human resources, have the same eternity in common--heaven. According to James 1:9-11 how should we apply this in the context of trials and testing?

Do you think that living primarily for eternity instead of this temporary life is a radical perspective in this world?

If you live for that perspective how might this be perceived by those around you?

How might this help you to deal with trials and testing?

How big are your problems that test your faith in comparison to the glories of heaven that you'll enjoy forever?

The question is, will you adopt this perspective?

Read James 1:13-18 for next Sunday.

Wisdom from God

Thursday - 4/26 - Read James 1:2-12

What we learned on Sunday about external trials requires a wisdom to understand that you will not find anywhere in this world.

According to James 1:5-8, where can we get that wisdom?

What is your part in receiving this wisdom?

Why is being "doubting" God's wisdom so devastating to the Christian life?

God's best for our lives is at stake. How might approaching trials with worldly wisdom shortchange this process?

Is there any reliance on worldly wisdom instead of God's to figure out some of the trials you face in this world?

What would be an example of God's wisdom as opposed to the world's wisdom from James 1:2-12?

Read James 1:13-18 for next Sunday.

Not lacking anything!

Wednesday - 4/25 - Read James 1:2-12

James 1:4 says that the ideal for Christians is that they are "not lacking anything." What do you think this means in the context of Christians facing trials as described in James 1?

What happens when Christians have the faith tested over a prolonged period of time?

What is the goal of a believer's life: a life of ease or a life of growing maturity?

What role do difficulties and trials play in developing maturity?

If your faith is weak what is God going to do to grow it and develop it?

Has you faith been tested recently?

Does God have a reason for doing so?

Will you accept that by faith?

Read James 1:13-18 for next Sunday.