Hypocrisy: We’ve all been disgusted by it. We’ve all disgusted ourselves by doing it. We’ve all heard how hypocritical we, as Christians, are.
And it’s true: We are Christians. We are hypocrites.
It’s true. But is it right? Of course not!
Which is exactly why James wrote his book. In it, he teaches us:
How to talk ACT like a Christian.
Written by Jesus’s own once-doubting brother, this book offers insight into all things Christian Living. Here is a break-down of what we are diving into:
| Chapter 1 | Confidence in Christ | Standing Firm in Faith |
| Chapter 2 | Faith and Action | What a Christian Does |
| Chapter 3 | Tongue Control | What a Christian Says |
| Chapter 4 | Wisdom & Obedience | Trusting in Him alone |
| Chapter 5 | Body Building | Body of Christ & Sharing |
Homework
(Due Thursday, July 7, 2011)
Read: James 1
Study Tips
- Read the chapter through each day
- Each day, pick a few different verses to focus on:
1. Use your cross-reference guide (usually in the margins of your Bible) to look up different verses that speak on the same subject. 2. Ask yourself how these verses apply to you? What do they mean in your life? How can you use these verses TODAY?
Memorize one verse:
| I’m choosing to memorize James 1:5: If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. (NLT) |
Questions to ponder throughout the chapter (in order of appearance):
- How are we to view troubles in this life?
- How can we gain wisdom?
- What happens when we doubt and waver?
- How are we to endure testing and temptation?
- Where does temptation come from?
- Where do the blessings we experience come from?
- How should we listen? Speak? React?
- What should we do to get rid of the “filth” in our lives?
- What should we do with God’s Word?
- Why should we control our tongue?
- What does pure and genuine religion look like?
I am so excited we are doing this Bible Study together!
Use the little heart “Share on Facebook” link to tell your FB friends about it. The more, the merrier!
Just a day late, but I hope I can jump in with you all. My beautiful friend, Sherri Smith, invited me on this knowledge quest and I decided to join in. My name is Kim Fortuno and I am married to a wonderful man, Glenn, of almost 26 years. I am a kindergarten teacher and know this is my calling. I love going to work everyday to be with my little ones!
I have three children. My oldest went to be with our Lord in January of 2004. He was 24 years old. My second is 25 and she is married to a wonderful young man. They have been married for three years and are currently living with us to save money to buy a home of their own. She will be finishing her bachelor degree this winter and I am so proud of her. My youngest is 8. He first came to be a part of our family as a foster child when he was 4 weeks old. I know once I bought him home, I could never give him up. Just before he turned 3 years old, the Lord blessed us with our finalized adoption.
I’m originally from Hawaii, but moved to Henderson, NV in 2004. I love it here and have met such wonderful people and made new life-long friends!
I’m excited and have some catching up to do. BTW, I’m hoping I can keep up with everyone. You see, I just had shoulder surgery two weeks ago and it takes me awhile to type.
I love Bible studies and all the sharing! I’m looking forward to this!
Blessing be to all.
Kim
James 1: 22-25
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.
The entire chapter speaks to me, but I chose to share this verse because it’s the one that makes me reflect a lot, along with James 1: 5-8, and James 1:13-15. I find myself thinking about the things that God asks for me to do, in order to live a happier, blessed life, but often times I realize I let myself be dominated by my negative behaviors. As a Christian I know that I deceit myself in believing that I am doing what the word says. Often times I think I am doing what God has asked me to do, but than realize that I acted on something according to what would be more convenient for me, more comfortable for me. I feel that this verse helps me to see that I need to put God in first place at all times, even when a circumstance is uncomfortable, difficult, or painful. I do believe that like this verse says, I will be blessed in what I do. I do pray that I can worship God in all that I do, in every decision, in every thought, or word spoken. I truly love how James is speaking to me.
Have a blessed day everyone
Esmeralda
My family is all from Kansas, Olathe, Gardner area!
I’m Therese and I have been married for almost 3 years, but am currently separated. I’m a nurse in Kansas City and I’m starting grad school this fall. Can’t wait to start this study! I’m in need of serious discipline and renewal in my relationship with God and this will be a great place to start. Thank you!
So glad to have you!! Looking forward to getting to know you!
Hi,
My name is Esmeralda, and I am very happy to be here. I have been married for 2 years, and I thank God for my husband and my almost 6 month old baby : ) I am currently attending school and I am really enjoying it; other than that I stay home with my baby boy.
I have been wanting to begin my bible study in depth and I am so happy that my friend Tracie posted the link to this bible study. I have read chapter 1 of James and it has really opened my eyes. I had read it before but for some reason I couldn’t recall what it was about. I know that God will bless me through this and that He will do so for each one of you.
Also – new James post is up for today! Cannot wait to hear your thoughts!
Hi Barbara,
SO true! Your post reminded me of a devotional I read recently- Jesus Calling, June 22 by Sarah Young. “Thanking Me (God) for trials will feel awkward and contrived at first. But if you persist, your thankful words, prayed in faith, will eventually make a difference in your heart. Thankfulness awakens you to My Presence, which overshadows all your problems.”
I read this on the morning of a pediatric allergist appointment for Joshua. It turns out that he has another rare allergy. My message was and is to thank God for making J the way He did and not have a gripe session to God. It did feel unnatural to thank Him for this, but it reminded me of who is in control and loves my child even more than I do.
Hey Tracie,
I am in the Iowa City area. Just south a bit in a town called West Liberty. We recently moved from Des Moines, long story, but we are living with my in-laws for a bit. Our hearts long to be back there, but the Lord is working us over and hopefully He will move us back. Hope I am close to your friend, it would be great to meet up with another believer:)
Hi, Casey
I’m not familiar enough with Iowa to say for certain, but she and her family live in Cedar Rapids. Yes, she is a faithful servant of Jesus Christ and has such a sweet, loving personality. Let me know if you guys are close and I’ll get you in touch!
Blessings…Tracie
Hi Ladies,
My name is Casey and I am joining you all from Iowa. I am a SAHM of 4 boys ages 6, twin 3 year olds, and a 1 year old. The Lord so graciously saved me and my husband 2 1/2 years ago and we have had a crazy ride thus far.
I am looking forward to studying through James and seeing where God works through each of us in our own unique way. The verse that has been placed on my heart is James 1:12. Learning patience through testing and temptation is such a hard concept to grasp, but knowing that God blesses is so comforting. Thank you Bre’anna for starting this study!
Hi, Casey. Just curious what part of IA you’re joining us from? One of my closest friends lives there – thinking if you gals were close in proximity I could get you together to meet — both SAHMommies
Blessings…T
Small world! I grew up in the Quad Cities. My mom lives in Bettendorf, and my brother and sister-in-law live in Ankeny. My family surrounds you, Casey!
So glad you are joining us!
Hey Bre’anna, to make a long story short, I went to collage with your sister-in-law and brother and she was in my wedding. In a round about way, that’s how I got to your site. I would love to share more, but would rather just send an email:)
God has used James 1:2-3 to really work on me.
(2 Dear brothers and sisters when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow)
It seems so unnatural to be joyful during trials. Between these verses and Casting Crowns song Praise you in the Storm, God has pushed me to trust Him in this area and it is amazing what a different perspective God gives me about the trials when I praise him and have joy even during the most trying times.
Hey I am Barbara, I am going to join you in the study. I am a wife, mother of two girls 18, and 19, an educator who is off for the summer. I look forward to studying James with you.
I am just so happy to have you all! I love getting a notice that we have another comment or member of our study. I hope you guys have been blessed with James 1 so far. I know it has been very applicable for me right now – and also has filled my thoughts with reminders and insights.
James 1:27 – Danielle, you mentioned it, too – it has just flooded me. So many verses in the old testament talk about caring for the widows and orphans – but this is after Christ – in the NEW testament. Still considered as vital in our walks. A beautiful picture.
This week God is using James 1:27 to stretch me once again. After reading it, I followed my NIV study bible commentary to the cross references. I love Isaiah 1:7 which says, “…learn to do right! Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow.” Another cross reference is Micah 6:8. “He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Earlier in 1:22, James sums it up so simply. “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
Apply the words of this Book, the bible, daily. How can I do this? Read it daily. Pray daily for opportunities to apply what I’ve learned. I’m thankful for the accountability this group provides for the summer.
Hello! My name is April and am in San Antonio and a member of CBC. I have 2 amazing kids. Ava is about to be 6 and Rex is about to be 2. I have been working part time teaching enrichment classes to pre-school children at a variety of daycares around the city but have taken the sumer completely off to just be a mom before the crazy fall begins. I am enjoying every minute of summer and playing with the kids. However, I do need some me time and I need a bible study and accountability. I am looking forward to this very much!
Hi Bre’anna and the James ladies-
I’m Danielle, a member of CBC in San Antonio, TX & stay-at-home momma to 2 boys with a girl on the way. This baby girl is due at the end of August. I’m excited to study James! As an adoptive momma, I love James 1:27. I was happy to read Sara is an adoptive momma, too. I’m looking forward to reading everyone’s comments and diving into the bible together!
Is it just me or does the 2nd verse of our reading this week bring to mind Laura Story’s song, “Blessings”? Thought I’d share – beautiful song and video to worship with before our daily reading of James Ch. 1 — http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CSVqHcdhXQ
Hey there! I’m new to this blog! Sherri Smith is a dear friend of mine and invited me to join the James study. So here I am.
My life is crazy busy right now as I run around and keep up with my 3 kiddos that are all under 2 1/2. When Sherri invited me to do the study I thought this would be GREAT for me right now because I need accountability with my daily walk with the Lord.
A little info about myself. I am 27 years old and a stay at home mommy/wifey who is married to an amazing engineer hubby. We have three children. Our oldest son, Judah just turned 2 in March. Our second son, Mark just turned 1 in May. And our youngest is our 4 month old daughter, Zakyah Grace (Kyah for short). You might be doing the math with their ages and are thinking how did that happen. While in the middle of adopting our son Mark from Uganda, Africa God surprised us with being pregnant with our daughter. It’s a bit crazy but a beautiful crazy!
Looking forward to getting to know EACH of you!
Sara
Hey! i am so excited about this bible study!
i am Alanna. i am not married, nor do i have any children. i am from Texas, currently living in San Antonio. i work 2 jobs (the UPS Store and World Market, both at the rim) and am going to massage school (finish in sept!!). i have been a Christian since the age of 6, but the last few years, have been the years that i have learned what it truly means to have a relationship with Him!
Can’t wait to get to know yall more!
Hello everyone! I am Debby … most likely the oldest one following this study. I retired a few years ago to be home with the children during the high school years. (But am looking to reenter the workforce.) I married Bruce over 40 years ago. We share the pleasure (and sometimes the pains) of 3 children. Zack – our funny first born – is 24 and is living at home, working and saving for his first house. Spencer – our seerious but silly – is 20 … he is also living at home and a working college student. Our youngest is our prodigal daughter, Elizabeth (18) – our beautiful baby. She is currently not at home and has distanced herself from her family … making bad choices. We are in constant pray for her.
I have always know myself as a Christian – believer in Christ – but since I have had the opportunity of Bible studies after my retirement now really know what a relationship with HIM is all about. So still learning … thank you Bre’anna for this another opportunity.
Age is a matter of the heart, Deb!
So glad to have you.
My name is Megan! I am married to Richard, going on 6 years, and we are blessed with Elizabeth who is 3.5 today! Currently I am staying home with her until I find a much needed full time job. 8 months ago we agreed to leave our jobs, life and some family in Minnesota and come to San Antonio, Texas. This has been one of our most challenging years being married, but God has been near to us during our struggles. I am looking forward to know God more and getting to know you’ll more!
thank you SO much for putting this together. I have an insane schedule and can barely find the time to wash my dirty jeans these days! I also have some great christian girlfriends in south Texas that I’m going to share this with. what a great idea!
Hi ladies! My name is Tyler. I am 32 and married to my best friend. I live in San Antonio, TX. Right now our fur babies are our kids, but we hope for children in 2-3 years. I am a Christian public speaker and am currently writing my first book. I have lived with a rare health condition since I was 12 years old, and it’s being “fussy” right now, so I am beyond grateful for online Bible studies!
Looking forward to getting to know you all, and growing in Him together!
Hi there, I’m Shelly and I will be 26 in 2 weeks from today! I am a newlywed to my husband Drew. We got married on September 18th, 2010 and are loving married life. Drew is a software developer and I just quit my job yesterday so I can get my health back on track, as I am suffering from gallbladder surgery complications from a year ago. We do not plan on having a child until 2015, so right now we have 1 cat to keep us entertained!
I have been a baptized Christian for 4 years now. I just celebrates my baptism anniversary on June 23rd!
I am very new to Bible studies, so I am really looking forward to this and to meeting all of you!
I’m Sherri Smith, and I’ve been married for 3 years. I currently live in Las Vegas with my husband, a large poodle, and a crazy rabbit. My current profession is teaching – I teach Kindergarten 9 months of the year, and spend the other 3 running around like crazy.
No kids yet — but we’re leaving that up to God now. I thankfully have a husband who didn’t bat an eye when I sat down with him after a trip to Haiti this summer and said, “I think we need to pray about adopting TWO children internationally.”
I travel a lot during the summer and attend a lot of conferences — so I am going to do my best to keep up with the discussion.
I voted for James, and it got chosen – so I figure I have to at least try. =)
Hello! My name is Cori Lee Rice, I have been married to my best friend for almost 4 years. We were blessed with a handsome son last August. I am a Marketing Director with the blessing of being able to work at home three days a week. This allows me to spend lots of time with my precious little man and fulfill my wifely duties. I love the Lord and am so grateful for all He has given me.
Hi!! My name is Tracie, I love Jesus and how He captures me by His grace – daily. I’ve been married to my rock of a husband, Saul for 18 years and we have two precious daughters…Jordan, 6 and Taylor, 4. I’ve lived in San Antonio nearly 40 years, was born at Wilford Hall to an Airman (my Daddy) and his wife (my Momma!)
I’m a Clinical Nurse Educator/R.N. but haven’t traded time and skill for money in six years, since our first daughter was born. I count it a blessing to have stayed home with our Girlies. I am thrilled James was chosen. There’s a lot of wisdom in that book and I look forward to gleaning new understanding and insight as I walk this journey with my Sisters. Blessings in Christ Jesus… 
Hi there! I’m Bre’anna. I stay at home with our two boys, and we have a girl on the way. I’m from San Antonio, TX and am SO excited to study James with you all. Personally, I voted for 2 Timothy, but once I started studying James, I KNEW this was the book we were supposed to do.
Excited!