Axiom Community Church

James 1:1-12, Living in the Real World

Background: James’ major emphasis in this section of his epistle is this: If a person’s faith is authentic, it will be lived out during difficult times. He writes letter to encourage Christians who have become fearful and have lost faith. No doubt we are living in tough times, unemployment, the economy, the unknown future, etc. How are we to respond?

Personal Reflection: What is faith? What is fear?

1. Why does James want us to count or consider it all joy when we face trials? (v. 2)

2. Why is it that we most often try to “do it ourselves” instead of asking God for wisdom? (v. 5)

3. The literal Greek translation to being “double-minded” means to have one’s mind and soul divided between God and the world. Have you ever been double-minded in that you trust God when times are good then doubt Him when times are bad? (v.8)

4. How should we respond to trials in our life? What way have you responded to trials that ended in disappointment? In What ways were you victorious?

5. What does endurance in the Christian life look like? How would you rate your life when it comes to clinging to God during tough times?

6. Why is it vital to our faith that we persevere? (v.12)