Stepping In: Getting things started!
1 – Share a lesson you learned from a “Valley of Your Choosing”. In other words, you brought it on yourself.
2 – How were others able to help? How do you wish others had helped?
3 – A “Valley of God’s Choosing” is not necessarily a trial God created, but He can use it. Our study in James will help us know what to do. But first…the video.
Building Up: What is God Saying?
Read James 1:2. Apparently, JOY is a choice. How do we choose it over anger, bitterness, or any other response to a painful trial?
Read James 1:3. How is perseverance developed in the face of pain, tragedy and trials? (also read Romans 5:3-5)
Read James 1:4. Why is “maturity” a result of trials? How have you “matured” through a trial in your own life?
Read James 1:5-8. What do we learn in these verses about asking (and how we go about asking) God for wisdom?
Read James 1:9-11. What is the connection here with rich/poor and our trials? What reminders concerning our lives and perspective for our lives are found in these verses?
Read James 1:12. How does a reminder of the reward help you endure the trial? How does a reward motivate, encourage, direct, challenge…?
Living Out: How do I obey?
1 – Who do you know who’s going through a trial right now? You don’t have to share their name, but talk about practical ways we can help others who are in the midst of a “valley” right now.
2 – Next week is Thanksgiving week. Make plans to reschedule your last LifeGroup meeting of this series if it conflicts with your Thanksgiving schedule.
