James 1: 1-12 I. Background Information: (1:1) James could be the brother of Jesus (Mt.

13:55) or James, son of Zebedee (one of Jesus apostles. II. Trails and Christian Maturity: James appears to touch on matters that could threaten the integrity and strength of his readers faith. He is concerned that these believers progress to a mature, stable faith, and to do so, they need to maintain a distinctively Christian attitude towards potential stumbling-blocks. Letting trails accomplish their purpose (1:2-4) He issues a command: count it all joy. The command suggests the need for a definitive decision to take up a joyful attitude. The all modifying joy might suggest that the joy is to be unmixed with other emotions. Joy vs. happiness Applies to situations where joyful reaction would be most unnatural (v.2 trails) Trails has two basic meanings. Fighting against sin (internal) and persecution (external) Trails are to be considered by the believer as an occasion for rejoicing. Why should believers be joyful when faced with various trail? Trails are means of testing through which God works to perfect faith. Trails produce a deeper, stronger, more certain faith. (Romans 5:3-4) Full effect could mean the fruit of the spirit or the full effect of the trails. Wisdom, prayer and faith (1:5-8) Wisdom is said to be produced in its possessor of a full-blown godly character. V. 5 encourages us to come boldly with our requests to the unwaveringly gracious God. V. 6 talks about the importance of faith in prayer. Gods meeting of our requests, while not limited, is limited by the manner in which we ask. (Not selfish, foolish requests, we still have to do our part) What does faith mean? It means more than a belief that God will give what we ask; it also includes confident, unwavering trust in God. V.6b explains that like the surface of the sea, never having the same appearance from moment to moment, shifting and moving according to the direction and strength of the wind, the divided person has no fixed beliefs and direction. That person shifts with the wind, and his loyalty to God is constantly threatened. double-minded refers to his insincerity and inconsistence in his allegiance to God. whole-heart refers to you shall love the Lord your God with all you heat Poverty and wealth (1:9-11) V.9 boasting vs. joyous pride in valuing what God values V.10 reminds us that our confidence is in our identify in Christ. Rich vs. Poor

V.11 is saying that jus as the flower, seemingly flourishing one day, is dead the next, so the rich person will fade away in the midst of his pursuit (death). Trails and temptations (1:12-18) James is suggesting that the Christians must practice steadfastness in order to achieve a settled, steadfast character. (ex. athlete) Crown refers to the enjoyment of Gods presence on into eternity. Life is the reward for those who love God. The love for God is demonstrated by our willingness to suffer for the cause of Christ. III. Application: Give examples of how you might be faced with trails in life as you guys are now in high school? How can you apply this passage to your life? 1. Please share about one of the most joyful moments of your life, as well as one of the hardest moments of your life. 2. Whats the difference between joy and happiness? 3. How are you going to face trails now?

Schedule: (8:30-10:00) 8:30-8:40 Share about your week 8:40-8:50 Read (by sections) 8:50-9:00 Share what you see 9:00-9:05 Introduction 9:05-9:15 section 1 9:15-9:25 section 2 9:25-9:35 section 3 9:35-9:45 section 4 9:45-9:55 application 9 :55- pray