Link to text: James 4:1-10
Crushed Ice
- Whom did you quarrel with most while growing up?
- What purchase is highest on your “wish list”?
Discussion
v 1-3
1. What is the root of fights and quarrels?
2. What are 3 problems with prayer that James refers to? Or reasons for unanswered prayer…
3. What are some examples of wrong/right motives when praying?
4. Is it wrong to seek influence, or a good standard of living?
v 4-6
5. Why does James use such a strong word as “adulterous”?
6. In John 3:16 what does God say about the world? What is different?
7. What desires seem to drive the world around us?
8. How does God “oppose the proud?”
9. What’s God’s purpose in this?
10. What’s so wrong with pride?
11. What does true humility look like in our lives?
12. What is a pitfall of complimenting humility?
13. How can you encourage humility?
v 7-10
14. What does “submit” mean and what does it look like today?
15. Is that a hurdle for you?
16. What things in life are easier/harder to submit than others?
17. How do we come near to God? What are some ways?
18. How does God come near to us?
19. What is double-minded?
20. What are we grieving, mourning, and wailing about in v9? Where’s the joy and laughter?
21. What does Luke 18:9-14 tell us about our prayers and humility?
Bottom Line Point(s):
1. Humility unlocks the door to effective prayer.
How can you apply what you’ve learned here?
1. Check your motives when you pray.
2. Seek ways to replace pride with humility in everyday interactions.
3. Seek ways to draw near to God.
Bibliography
1. Barton & others, "Life Application Bible Commentary: James"
2. MacArthur, "Guidelines for a Happy Christian Life"
3. "Serendipity Study Bible for Groups"
4. “Life Application Study Bible, NIV”
