James: "Listening to the challenges," lesson 1

The challenge of trials: James 1:1-8

This is the first of a series of sermons that will take us through the book of James. 

After watching the sermon, take some time to consider the following questions: 

REFLECT:

• How can a trial be a joyful experience?
  
• How might God be using a trial to test your faith right now? 
  
• How are you being asked to persevere? 
  
• When have you felt like quitting? 
  
• Do you really believe God is generous? 
  
• Do you really believe God doesn’t reproach our asking? 
  
• Do you really believe God is able to give you wisdom? 
  

EXAMEN: 

• In quiet attention to God’s loving presence, reflect on the challenges of trials. 
  
• In gratitude, when have you been strengthened by facing trials? 
  
• How are you feeling about trials? 
  
• What is something about trials that you can talk to God about? 
  
• What is something about facing trials you can look forward to?
  
• Seek God’s guidance, help, and understanding. Pray about facing trials. 
  

EXERCISE: 

• Make a list of the trials God is allowing in your life.  
  
• Talk to God about how you feel about each one.  
  
• Consider how each one is testing the metal of your faith. 
  
• Consider what God may be inviting you into through these trials.
  

​ALL QUESTIONS FROM: Prette, Dr. James A.. Listening to the Challenges: A Devotional Commentary on the New Testament Letter of James (pp. 38-40). Kindle Edition. Used with permission