James 4:1-12
As sinners living in a sinful world we should not be surprised to find ourselves in the midst of conflict. However, as followers of Christ, we must not be content to leave conflict unresolved. Living faithfully for Christ requires that we seek what is driving the conflict in our lives and uproot it so that we might humble ourselves before God and others.
Read James 4:1-3:
- What cravings most often lead you into conflict?
- How does today’s culture push our buttons in connection with those cravings?
- What happens to a church or ministry that harbors a lot of quarrels and fights?
Read James 4:4-10:
- How does being in love with the things of the world harm our relationship with God?
- How does cultivating a humble heart keep us away from jealousy and conflict with others?
- What does it mean to be “double-minded?” How does humility combat this and draw us closer to God?
Read James 4:11-12:
- In what circumstances are you most tempted to judge someone?
- How does humility before God temper our urge to stand in judgment over our brothers and sisters?
- What should our response be when others in our church make different life choices than we would have made?
Taking it home:
- What practical things can we do to grow closer to God and imitate Him rather than the world?
- How can we make turning to God in the midst of our desires a pattern in everyday life?
Other Scriptures to Engage with this week:
Matthew 7:1-5 • Isaiah 57:11-21 • Galatians 5:13-26 • Isaiah 51:7-23 • Proverbs 3:28-35 • 2 Peter 3:10-18.