Lamentations 3:40, James 4:10 & 5:16
The road to freedom descends into vulnerability and
accepting ourselves as we really are.
Introduction:
When we examine ourselves carefully and admit the exact nature of our wrongs,
we become ready for God to change us.
Starting Out:
Have you ever rescued a dog, cat, or some other animal?
Following up:
Were you more intentional about praying for your oikos this week?
Lamentations 3:40:
1. What does it mean to examine and test your ways?
James 4:10:
2. How do you humble yourself before God?
3. How do you think God lifts us up?
James 5:16:
4. What is James’ recipe for healing, and why do you think both ingredients
are necessary?
5. What do you think “prayer…has great power as it is working” means?
Taking It Home:
6. Have you examined your ways recently?
7. In biblical times they wore rough sackcloth and sprinkled ashes on themselves to come
humbly before God. What could you do to show God (and remind yourself of) your humility?
8. Is there sin in your life that you need to confess?
Emphasis on Oikos:
9. Unfortunately, in our society, many people are skeptical of Christians and their motives.
How can you show Christ’s love to your oikos this week in a way that will point them to Christ?
Other Scriptures to engage with this week:
Matthew 5:21-30 • Romans 2:17-29 • 1 Peter 5:1-11 • Luke 1:9-10 • Psalm 119:9-16 • Proverbs 4:1-27