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Week 3 - Introduction: Faith that Fixes What's in the Mirror

Wisdom for a Blue Jean Faith (Week 3 Memory Verse)


“For if someone merely listens to the message and does not live it out, he is like someone who gazes at his own face in a mirror. For he gazes at himself and then goes out and immediately forgets what sort of person he was.” James 1:23-24 (NET)

I have a pair of painting jeans. Whenever I paint something—usually a room or the trim in our house—I wear them. They definitely show the wear and tear of the abuse I give them with the paint. (I am not very good at keeping the paint on the wall!) The jeans have spots of green paint that I used in my home office; there are blotches of white paint from the trim all around my house. There are various other colors as well that display the work that I have done. The jeans are the visible proof of what I have accomplished.

So far we have seen that faith is lived out when we face the trials and hardships of life. When we deal with such difficulties, we need to have our “jeans” on because we need durable and practical faith instead of merely “Sunday clothes” that look really nice but are fragile and vulnerable when put to the test. Our jeans are the visible proof that our faith has been tested and found real.

James calls us to live out our faith in very practical and real ways as we walk through this world. As we align our lives with the message of the Creator, we show the reality of our relationship to the one who made us and knows us best. Living in the midst of His will, we live with our “jeans” on.

How To Use This Study Guide (Review)

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Weekly:

Wisdom for a Blue Jean Faith —Each week you will have a verse to memorize that brings out an essential lesson or thought from the week’s study. Begin learning it the first day, hiding God’s Word in your heart.

Personal Stories —Each lesson includes a true story that relates the truths of the week’s lesson to a woman’s real life experience. Some of the names have been changed to protect the guilty! These stories will encourage you in your walk with God and your growth in godliness.

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Specific types of questions included in each day’s work:

1. Sharing Questions are designed for you to write stories, insights, and applications from your own life. You will never be forced to share one of these answers aloud (post a comment) with your group, but growing in community with one another requires us to be open and vulnerable so volunteer to share.

2. Responding to God Questions are reminders that we study God’s Word so that He can speak to us and we are changed thereby. We should be listening for His voice. These types of questions ask for a response to God’s personal message to you. I have found that writing out my prayers helps me to focus better on what I need to say to God. No one will ask you to read (post) yours, but you should always feel free to share your response with your group.

3. Stronger Jeans are optional questions designed for those who want to dig deeper. Some of the answers will be easy for even a beginning Bible student, and some will require more experience in God’s Word.

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Week 1: Faith for Hard Times

Week 2: Faith that Leans on God

Week 3: Faith that Fixes What's in the Mirror

Week 4: Faith that Doesn't Play Favorites

Week 5: Faith that is Alive

Week 6: Faith that Ties the Tongue

Week 7: Faith that Brings Peace

Week 8: Faith that Repents

Week 9: Faith that Looks to Jesus' Coming

Week 10: Faith that Prays

Week 3 - Day 1

You may not quite understand why I continue to have you reread verses in James. But I know that you are aware of the dangers in taking any sort of communication out of context. We hear it all the time when a public figure claims to have been misunderstood. The truth is that anything out of context is in danger of being interpreted wrongly. If there were ever a book that we want to be careful to understand correctly, it is God’s word. So I will continue asking you to reread portions of the book before we move into new sections. In fact, I would suggest that the more you read James in its entirely, the better!

Read James 1:17-20.

1. What has God done for believers according to 1:17-18? What three commands are we to follow in response to that truth of what God has done (1:19)?

2. How do we show that we truly love Jesus according to His words in John 14:15? Write down Jesus’ exact words.

3. Responding to God: Take time to reflect upon the goodness and mercy of God. Consider that the correct response to such love is to love Him back. Write a prayer or poem asking God to speak to you personally about ways to love Him. Ask Him to show you at least one specific way to obey Him out of love as you study this week.

Stronger Jeans (optional): Look for other verses about your love for God. There will be many in your exhaustive concordance under the word “love” so you may want to look at the cross-references in the margin of your Bible or a topical Bible. When you have a word that doesn’t have so many references, you can use the NET Bible at bible.org. Type in your word under “search for”.

4. Look at the other verses below and write down how they relate to the first and second commands of James 1:19:
a. Prov. 17:28
b. Prov. 10:19
c. Prov. 11:12-13
d. Prov. 13:3
e. Ecc. 5:2-3

5. Summarize the teaching of the previous verses in Proverbs and James in your own words. How would you explain it to someone else who tends to rush into saying what she thinks?

6. Sharing Question: Share the story of a time when you spoke too quickly instead of listening, with disastrous, or at least negative, results.

7. Responding to God: Spend time asking God for the grace to listen more and speak less. Think of one particular person with whom you are impatient and want to jump in and speak. Write a prayer asking God to remind you to keep your mouth shut when you interact with her or him. You may want to draw a picture of your mouth with God’s “hand” over it as a way to remember this lesson better.

Week 3 - Day 2

Read James 1:19-20. We looked in detail at the first two of the three commands in James 1:19 yesterday.

1. What is the third command? Why are we to do this according to James 1:20?

2. Prov. 17:27 deals with the relationship between anger and words. Explain it in your own words. You may want to read it in several translations. (An easy way to do that is to go to bible.org and put Proverbs 17 in the box in the upper left side. When the chapter comes up, click on the verse number. A number of translations of that verse will come up.)

Moo explains the meaning of God’s righteousness in the context of James 1:20: “We are on firmer ground in thinking that James uses the phrase ‘produce righteousness’ with the meaning it normally has in the Bible: do what God requires of his people. . . . James’s very simple point is that human anger does not produce behavior that is pleasing to God.”

3. Read these cross-references on anger and write down your insights:
a. Ecc. 7:9
b. Prov. 16:32
c. Prov. 29:22

Hiebert helps us understand anger:

Human anger is an instinctive reaction against that which is evil and injurious. The feeling of anger is not always wrong (cf. Mark 3:5). The individual who is never aroused and deeply stirred at evil is gravely deficient in moral character. James’ words do not forbid all anger, but this instinctive feeling needs careful control lest it blaze forth in unjustified and injurious reactions. The attitude of Scripture is consistently negative toward the indulgence in human wrath.

4. Read Eph. 4:25-27. What are the boundaries given here for righteous anger? From Hiebert’s comments above, how would you describe righteous anger in contrast with most of our anger?

Stronger Jeans (optional): Find other cross-references on anger or wrath. Write down any additional insights that you gain. (You can pull up all cross-references that use a particular English word from the NET Bible at bible.org. Go to the reference—in this case James 1:20. Highlight the word that you want to reference and it will take you to other verses that use that word.)

5. Sharing Question: Share with your group the story of a time when your anger did not accomplish God’s righteousness or when justified anger turned into sinful anger because your behavior did not reflect God or perhaps because you let it simmer!

6. Responding to God: Are you angry with someone right now? Is there a person who seems to anger you every time you interact with her/him? Is it all about you or is there really a righteous anger involved? Talk to God about becoming a person who reflects His forgiveness and patience even when there is justification. Write down your response to Him.

Week 3 - Day 3

Read James 1:19-21.

1. What is the condition, according to James 1:21, for God’s word to truly come into our hearts? Why would failure to do this hinder God’s word working in your life?

Vaughn explains the phrase “put away” (NET), “get rid of” (NIV), “putting aside” (NASB) or “lay aside” (NKJV): “The tense of the Greek word suggests a single and decisive act. The figure is that of stripping off and casting aside a dirty garment.”

2. Other authors use this picture of taking off something that is inconsistent with our faith. Read these verses and compare them with James 1:21:
a. Col. 3:8
b. Heb. 12:1
c. I Peter 2:1

3. What is the result of receiving, accepting, or welcoming God’s message (1:21)?

This is not the salvation that some of us normally think of—the one-time turning to Jesus in faith to forgive us and bring us into a relationship with God. There are actually three tenses of salvation: past tense, meaning that at that one time we were saved from the penalty of our sins; present tense, meaning that we are being saved from the power of sin as we depend upon God day by day; and future tense, meaning that we will someday be saved from the presence of sin when we live in the very presence of God. James 1:21 seems to be dealing with the present sense of that salvation. As we welcome that word in our hearts, we are becoming more and more like Jesus. God is using His word to work in us.

Stronger Jeans (optional): Study Psalm 119, which speaks of the work of the word in our lives. Which verses speak to you today?

4. Sharing Question: Relate about a time in your life when your heart was hardened to what God was saying in His word. You did not welcome or accept it. What happened to change that? How did God work to soften your heart?

5. Responding to God question: I like the way that the NET Bible puts it in 1:21—“humbly welcome the message implanted within you.” Honestly consider these questions before God: Do you accept God’s word that way? As you come to your daily study time, do you humbly welcome what God is saying to you? Or do you dread it because you feel guilty because you don’t want to hear it? Write down your thoughts.

Week 3 - Day 4

Read James 1:21-25. Your memory verse for this week is in this passage. If you haven’t already memorized it, work on it today. But be sure you review the previous weeks’ verses as well. I have found that I lose what I memorize if I don’t continue reviewing.

1. What two responses to God’s word are contrasted here?

2. What is James’ illustration in 1:23-24 and how does it help you understand your two possible responses to God’s word?

3. God’s people have always been in danger of forgetting. Read these passages and write down your thoughts:
a. Ex. 13:3
b. Num. 15:39
c. Deut. 6:10-12

4. Read Jer. 2:32; 3:19-20. What do you learn here about God’s feelings for His people Israel? Describe God’s feelings when His people forgot Him.

Stronger Jeans (optional): Based upon your previous Bible study, what biblical characters forgot God and/or His blessings? What happened as a result?

5. Sharing Question: How have you been guilty of forgetting your God and His blessings? Give specifics.

6. Responding to God question: Consider the hurt that God has felt over your forgetfulness of Him and His blessings in your life. Write a prayer of confession, asking for the forgiveness that He promises and longs to give!

Week 3 - Day 5

Read James 1:19-27. It’s good to review the entire paragraph here at the end of the week and remember all that you have studied.

Focus on 1:26-27.

1. In what specific way can we be deceived, according to these verses?

2. We see “Blue Jean Faith” in these verses. James gives us some specific ways that faith acts practically. List them.

3. Read Is. 1:10-17 and write down how it helps explain James 1:27.

4. Sharing Question: If you are a widow or an orphan, explain how Ps. 68:5 makes you feel. If you are not in those categories, consider how you can “care for orphans and widows in their misfortune” in one specific way this week. Share with your group what you did.

Stronger Jeans (optional): Read the story of the widow of Zarephath in 1 Kings 17:1-24. How does it confirm what we have seen about God’s heart for widows?

5. Responding to God: Write down your prayer or poem of response to God for speaking to you this week through His word. Thank Him for the power it has when you welcome it into your heart.

Week 3 - Personal Story

Nancy shares her story of actually living out God’s message instead of seeing it and hardening her heart against it.

Nancy’s story
I was in college, a new Christian, and always in a hurry when I got behind the wheel of my car. I wanted to get where I was going as quickly as possible. I knew the posted speed limit, but consistently chose to ignore it when it suited me to do so. When there was little traffic around me or when driving on a highway outside of town, I consistently chose to travel over the posted speed limit. During a 6 month period of time I was pulled over 3 times and given speeding tickets. I’ll never forget the third occasion when I was driving from Austin to Houston and saw the police car lights flashing in my rearview mirror. My heart sank. When the police officer stood beside my car talking to me, it was as if Jesus Himself was standing there. I felt so humbled before that officer and before God. God used that officer to convict me of my defiant attitude. God was showing me that I had a heart problem before Him, and I was in complete agreement with Him. The verses in Romans taught me that those in authority over me were placed there by God and for my good.

"Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except by God’s appointment, and the authorities that exist have been instituted by God. So the person who resists such authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will incur judgment (for rulers cause no fear for good conduct but for bad). Do you desire not to fear authority? Do good and you will receive its commendation, for it is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be in fear, for it does not bear the sword in vain. It is God’s servant to administer retribution on the wrongdoer."
Romans 13: 1-4

My defiance of the traffic laws was defiance of God Himself. I felt terrible and yet I felt relieved, too. I told God that day that I was through with my defiant attitude. In His grace and mercy He protected me from an accident during that time where I could have caused harm to myself and to others. I praise Him for loving me enough to remove me from that dangerous place of defiance.

Week 4 - Introduction: Faith that Doesn't Play Favorites

Wisdom for a Blue Jean Faith (Week 4 Memory Verse)

“My brothers and sisters, do not show prejudice if you possess faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ.” James 2:1 (NET)

Teacher’s pet—not a name we like to be called when we are kids. We don’t want anyone to think that we receive special treatment, even if it is true! I know that I never liked the person who was the teacher’s pet, but I liked the teacher even less for having favorites!

Even as adults we often play favorites. We defer to those with star power, money, or status. Even in the church we are guilty of giving preference to some over others. The same problem was found in the churches of James’ day, and he decided to deal with it in a straightforward way!

How To Use This Study Guide (Review)
___________________________________
Weekly:

Wisdom for a Blue Jean Faith
—Each week you will have a verse to memorize that brings out an essential lesson or thought from the week’s study. Begin learning it the first day, hiding God’s Word in your heart.

Personal Stories —Each lesson includes a true story that relates the truths of the week’s lesson to a woman’s real life experience. Some of the names have been changed to protect the guilty! These stories will encourage you in your walk with God and your growth in godliness.
___________________________________

Specific types of questions included in each day’s work:

1. Sharing Questions are designed for you to write stories, insights, and applications from your own life. You will never be forced to share one of these answers aloud (post a comment) with your group, but growing in community with one another requires us to be open and vulnerable so volunteer to share.

2. Responding to God Questions are reminders that we study God’s Word so that He can speak to us and we are changed thereby. We should be listening for His voice. These types of questions ask for a response to God’s personal message to you. I have found that writing out my prayers helps me to focus better on what I need to say to God. No one will ask you to read (post) yours, but you should always feel free to share your response with your group.

3. Stronger Jeans are optional questions designed for those who want to dig deeper. Some of the answers will be easy for even a beginning Bible student, and some will require more experience in God’s Word.
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Week 1: Faith for Hard Times
Week 2: Faith that Leans on God
Week 3: Faith that Fixes What's in the Mirror
Week 4: Faith that Doesn't Play Favorites
Week 5: Faith that is Alive
Week 6: Faith that Ties the Tongue
Week 7: Faith that Brings Peace
Week 8: Faith that Repents
Week 9: Faith that Looks to Jesus' Coming
Week 10: Faith that Prays

Week 4 - Day 1

Review James 1:27, and read James 2:1-13.

1. Copy James’ instruction in 2:1 that gives the context for this entire paragraph. This is your memory verse this week! Writing often helps me remember better!

James’ first argument against prejudice is that it is inconsistent with faith. Then, he gets more specific about the object of faith. It has become very unpopular to be very specific about faith. Our culture teaches that faith is the same, no matter what or whom it is in. It suggests that we can believe in almost anything and still call ourselves Christians; however, the Bible makes it clear that it is belief in the Lord Jesus Christ that binds us together in our faith.

So, before we go any further in our study, let’s look at the identity of Jesus, the focus of faith for the believer.

Hiebert calls James 2:1 James’ “confession of faith” because of the descriptive words that he uses in reference to Jesus.

2. Look up these cross-references to glory, writing down your thoughts about the significance of the word glory being used for Jesus:
a. Ex. 40:34
b. 1 Ki. 8:11
c. Isa. 40:3-5
d. Titus 2:13
e. Heb. 1:3
f. 2 Pet. 1:17

Moo explains his understanding of James’ description: “’Glory’ is that state of ‘being-like-God’ to which Christians are destined (e.g. Rom. 5:2; 8:18; 2 Cor. 4:17) and in which Jesus even now exists (Phil. 3:21; Col. 3:4; 2 Thess. 2:14; 1 Tim. 3:16; Tit. 2:13; Heb. 2:7, 9). Describing Jesus as the Lord of glory suggest particularly the heavenly sphere to which he has been exalted and from which he will come at the end of history to save and to judge (cf. Jas. 5:9).”

Stronger Jeans (optional): Go through all of the verses in Moo’s quote above and consider how they help you understand the concept of glory.

3. Read these stories. How did these people respond when they were faced with truths about Jesus?
Luke 5:1-8
John 20:26-29
Acts 26:1, 12-20

4. Responding to God question: Have you responded to Jesus as those in the previous question did? If not, continue to spend time in God’s word daily and ask Him to show you who Jesus really is. If you have confessed the same faith that James did, praise Jesus for His glory, for His identity as God Himself. Write down a prayer or poem extolling Him. Use the verses in question #2 as the foundation for your prayer.

5. Sharing Question: Share with the group how today’s lesson has made you feel. What were your feelings as you praised Jesus for being the very glory of Israel?

Week 4 - Day 2

Reread James 2:1-13. Now back to the command not to be prejudiced!

1. In your own words explain the illustration of prejudice that James used as an example of how favoritism might work in the church of that day.

Hiebert says that the word for partiality or prejudice “came to be used of any form of improper preferential treatment. In the New Testament it always denotes favoritism or partiality, a biased judgment based on external circumstances….”

Stronger Jeans (optional): Look up the Greek word for partiality or prejudice and some cross-references that use that same word. Write down any further insights.

2. What examples of prejudice or partiality have you seen in churches today?

3. Sharing Question: what prejudices, partialities, or favoritisms do you have? Maybe you don’t treat any group poorly but simply defer to those whom you consider higher up—the wealthy, the powerful, or the well-known. Would you be more likely to come to a worship service or church event if a “star” of some kind spoke? (There are “stars”, even in the church!)

4. Let’s look at some verses about God’s character. Write down your thoughts about how they relate to James’ teaching about prejudice:
a. Deut. 10:17-18
b. Rom. 2:11
c. Eph. 6:9
d. Col. 3:25

5. How does Gal. 3:28 parallel James’ teaching in chapter 2:1-13?

6. In James 2:4 what does he call the one who shows prejudice? Explain your understanding of James’ statement.

7. Responding to God: if God has convicted you about any sort of prejudicial behavior and thinking, confess that before Him today. Remember that He forgives our sins according to His mercy.

Week 4 - Day 3

Reread James 2:1-13. Today we will focus on vv. 5-7.

1. How do these verses relate to what James says here about the poor?
a. Luke 1:51-53
b. 1 Cor. 1:26-29

The question becomes whether these in Jas. 2:5 are poor in the sense of without money. Moo says that the word can refer to those materially poor and those who are poor “in a spiritual sense: humble and meek, recognizing their utter dependence on the Lord and trusting him for deliverance (see esp. Ps. 69:32; Isa. 29:19; 61:1; Amos 2:7, all of which use ptochos in the LXX).” Because James describes the poor as the “poor in this world” (Jas. 2:5), he feels that it opens up the possibility that this refers to both.

2. What did Jesus say about the poor in Matt. 5:3? Which of the above meanings would you give the word “poor” in James 2:5? Why?

Stronger Jeans (optional): Again, look up the other references mentioned by Moo in the quote above and see what they add to your understanding of the meaning of poor in the spiritual sense.

3. Sharing Question: In our Day One Study this week, we saw the majestic person of Jesus, who is God Himself. How does understanding that help you become more poor spiritually, if it does?

4. What were the rich people of that day doing to the poor and to God, according to James?

5. Sharing Question: Have you ever been mistreated, treated preferentially, or at least treated differently because of your status—socially, educationally, or monetarily— or because of your appearance (e.g., race, beauty, weight)? If so, share the situation and how you felt with your group.

6. Responding to God: Write a prayer asking God to convict you of any prejudice in favor of the wealthy or well-known, or against those without those things? Ask for the grace to have His attitude toward all.

Week 4 - Day 4

Reread James 2:1-13, noting particularly vv. 8-11.

1. What does James contrast with prejudice? What is the opposite action?

“’Royal law’ might be James’s way of referring to the sum total of demands that God, through Jesus, imposes on believers. . . Understood in this sense, the ‘royal law’ may well extend beyond the Mosaic law as fulfilled and reinterpreted by Jesus to include the teaching of Jesus,” says Douglas Moo.

Stronger Jeans (optional): Read your Bible notes or commentaries on the royal law.

2. How do these verses support what James says about the law?
a. Mt. 22:37-40
b. Luke 10:25-37

3. What did Jesus command his followers in John 13:34-35?

4. Sharing Question: As you have studied this week, you have probably recognized a group with which you “play favorites’ and a corresponding group that you treat differently. If you obeyed Jesus’ commandment, what would change today in your attitude or actions toward them?

5. What do you learn about any violations of the law in James 2:8-11?

We don’t think of our laws as connected this way. We speed but aren’t guilty of robbery. So this is hard to understand. Hiebert tries to help us grasp this better: “Our obedience to God’s will cannot be on a selective basis; we cannot choose that part which is to our liking and disregard the rest. God’s will is not fragmentary; the entire Law is the expression of His will for His people; it constitutes a grand unity. . . To violate any part of the God-given Law is an offense against the divine Law-giver.”

6. Responding to God: Talk to God about your violation of His law, knowing that it is a direct expression of His best for you and an offense against His own person. But realize that in Jesus, all of your sins are forgiven and taken away. Thank God for that truth.

Week 4 - Day 5

Reread James 2:1-13. Think about the context as we look more closely at vv.12-13.

1. What are we instructed to do?

The word judgment sounds scary. As believers, we know that our sins were judged at the cross because Jesus paid for them. We will never pay for them ourselves. But we also know that we will face judgment.

2. How do these verses help you with this, if they do?
a. Matt. 25:31-46
b. Rom. 2:7-8
c. 1 Cor. 3:9-15
d. 2 Cor. 5:10

Moo says, “God’s gracious acceptance of us does not end our obligation to obey him; it sets it on a new footing. No longer is God’s law a threatening, confining burden. For the will of God now confronts us as a law of liberty—an obligation we discharge in the joyful knowledge that God has both ‘liberated’ us from the penalty of sin and given us, in his Spirit, the power to obey his will.”

3. Sharing Question: Share your feelings as you consider this quote. Do you really joyfully obey God? On a scale of 1-10, how joyful are you in your obedience? I find that when I focus on God’s grace and love for me, I then have the joy that I should have. How can you increase your focus on Him rather than yourself in a practical way?

Stronger Jeans (optional): Use a concordance, topical Bible, or NET Bible tools to find other New Testament references to judgment and write down what you learn.

4. Responding to God: If a day of judgment came today, what would God say to you, both positive and negative? What things would cause you to shrink back in shame today if Jesus’ returned? Ask God for the grace to obey His law, not out of an attempt to gain his favor, but out of the love you feel because He has freed you!

Week 4 - Personal Stories

This week we have two very different stories of prejudice. First, a pastor’s wife shares her story of being judged by her age. The second story concerns the kinds of prejudice that we often encounter in our churches—and our hearts.

Karoline’s Story
Age is a funny thing. For so many years of my life, I wanted to be older. Older so that I could date, drive, go to college, marry, have children, etc. you name it. Older so that people wouldn’t brush me off as too young to know what I was talking about. My husband and I are in ministry. I am the “pastor’s wife”. I recently had a respected Christian woman from a church where we were on staff quip all too easily about my husband and me, “But they are so young, what do they know about ministry?” Here I was again, wishing I was older, so that the women in the church would think my words mattered and my husband respected. When would I ever be old enough? Was it when my kids would be in high school? Or do I have to have an empty nest?

My husband and I have recently been reconnected with the pastor that played a huge role in our spiritual growth in college. He had heard of what the Lord was doing in the church we are now serving. He said some words that have felt so good to hear, “I am proud of you, sincerely. Anybody who stays in the "good fight" even when the devil tries so hard to take us out is worthy of respect...” And there it was…a pastor who mentored us and married us was respecting us. I had to hold back the tears as I realized how much those words meant to me.

We all believe the Lord when He says, “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart (I Samuel 16:7).” But to actually put it into practice is another thing. As much as being dismissed because of my age has hurt me, I am convicted to realize my own tendencies. Do I listen to counsel from a woman younger than me the same way I do an older woman? No, I am ashamed to say that I don’t, and I should. Though age brings with it great experience, it is not the final test as to the worth of someone’s words. If the Lord thought it acceptable to speak through a donkey (Numbers 22:1-38), I must not dismiss the counsel of my younger sisters in Christ.

Meagan’s story
Right now there is a man who has been coming on and off to the church for worship over the last year and a half. He looks like he doesn't care about his appearance. His hair is wild with a wild beard. He has a belly, and his pants don't hitch up over his belly. He wears old ragged looking t-shirts that don't completely cover his rounded flesh. He has very poor social skills. He had an abusive father, an absent mother, was in the "slow" class in school, and has gone from one manual labor job to another over his working years (he is 45 years old). He is a single person.

When he first came to the church, people were mildly friendly to him. But when he kept coming, and when he started coming to events, Bible studies, and wanted to help with service projects, I noticed people keeping their distance, ignoring him, etc. I have been interested and frustrated at what I have observed. So, it was okay when he was just a strange visitor - but it's not okay when he says, "I want to be part of this family." Granted, he is definitely not the usual kind of guy, who sits in the pews in my rural congregation, and I personally feel a bit uncomfortable around him - but I believe God is stretching this body of believers to truly become the body of Christ.

Week 2 - Introduction: Faith that Leans on God


Wisdom for a Blue Jean Faith (Week 2 Memory Verse)

“All generous giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or the slightest hint of change.” James 1:17 (NET) http://net.bible.org/bible.php

Think of someone whom you know well—a husband, family member, or close friend. What if a person came up and described someone totally different and suggested that it was the same person? If someone described my husband as 6’5” and blonde, I would say that they have the wrong guy! And I would be right to take up for him because I know who he really is!

People of different cultures give us different pictures of God, proving the truth that we cannot fathom God with our own minds (Is. 55:8-9). We can see His power and divinity in the creation that He has made (Rom. 1:20), but beyond the basics, we can’t figure God out on our own. That is why God has always been in the business of revealing Himself to us. We can’t come to understand Him so He comes to us to show us what He is like; we read what He has revealed in the Bible. He doesn’t want us confusing Him with someone else!

When put in hard and difficult times, we sometimes have nothing else to rely upon other than what we know about God and so it is essential that we truly know Him. Pray that you will recognize who He really is so that your life lines up with Him and not a god from your own imagination, who will always disappoint!

How To Use This Study Guide (Review)
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Weekly:

Wisdom for a Blue Jean Faith —Each week you will have a verse to memorize that brings out an essential lesson or thought from the week’s study. Begin learning it the first day, hiding God’s Word in your heart.

Personal Stories —Each lesson includes a true story that relates the truths of the week’s lesson to a woman’s real life experience. Some of the names have been changed to protect the guilty! These stories will encourage you in your walk with God and your growth in godliness.
_________________________
Specific types of questions included in each day’s work:

1. Sharing Questions are designed for you to write stories, insights, and applications from your own life. You will never be forced to share one of these answers aloud (post a comment) with your group, but growing in community with one another requires us to be open and vulnerable so volunteer to share.

2. Responding to God Questions are reminders that we study God’s Word so that He can speak to us and we are changed thereby. We should be listening for His voice. These types of questions ask for a response to God’s personal message to you. I have found that writing out my prayers helps me to focus better on what I need to say to God. No one will ask you to read (post) yours, but you should always feel free to share your response with your group.

3. Stronger Jeans are optional questions designed for those who want to dig deeper. Some of the answers will be easy for even a beginning Bible student, and some will require more experience in God’s Word.
_________________________________
Week 1: Faith for Hard Times
Week 2: Faith that Leans on God
Week 3: Faith that Fixes What's in the Mirror
Week 4: Faith that Doesn't Play Favorites
Week 5: Faith that is Alive
Week 6: Faith that Ties the Tongue
Week 7: Faith that Brings Peace
Week 8: Faith that Repents
Week 9: Faith that Looks to Jesus' Coming
Week 10: Faith that Prays

Week 2 - Day 1

Last week we studied James 1:1-8 together, looking at trials in our lives. Review those verses to put today’s verses in context.

Now read what follows: James 1:9-12.

1. In this section James deals with life situations of two kinds of people: (1) the one of “humble means” (NET), “humble circumstances” (NIV) or “the lowly” (NKJV), and (2) the rich. Since they are in contrast, what kind of situation does humble describe? What does he tell the person in each situation to do?

2. Now this is a thinking question and your answer may be “none”. But think about it! What relationship do you see between James 1:2-8 and James 1:9-11? Why would James move into this seemingly new topic?

The word for “pride” (James 1:9 NET, NIV) is “kauchastho (boast). It is used in this identical form four times in Jer. 9:23-24 in the Greek Old Testament (the Septuagint).”

3. Since the same word is used in the same way in Jer. 9:23-24, read that passage. Then, explain what it means for a believer to “take pride in” (NIV; NET) her/his high position (James 1:9).

4. James says that the believer “of humble means” (NET) is to take pride in his high position. What do you learn about your high position as a follower of Jesus from these verses?
a. Luke 6:20
b. Eph. 1:3
c. Col. 1:22
d. Col. 1:27
e. Col. 3:3-4

Stronger Jeans (optional): Use your concordance to find other New Testament verses that deal with poverty or the poor. What do you learn from them?

5. Sharing Question: You may or may not have ever been in a position of monetary need. If you have, share with your group how that felt. If you have not, you may someday face a situation where you feel humbled by your circumstances, a need of any kind. Think through a practical way that you can remind yourself of your position before God when that happens.

6. Responding to God: Go through the verses from #4 in this lesson. Take each verse and thank God for what it says about your position as a believer. Or write a poem thanking Him for your high position.

Week 2 - Day 2

Yesterday we looked at James’ words to the believer of humble circumstances. Today we will study what he says to the rich.

Reread James 1:9-11.

There is debate among scholars as to whether James is speaking of rich believers or of wicked unbelievers here. If this is a believer, taking pride in his low position would mean that “the rich believer is to boast not in his wealth or his elevated social position, but in his identification with Christ and his people, a matter of ‘humiliation’ in the eyes of the world.”

Stronger Jeans (optional): Study your commentaries or study Bible about the meaning of “rich” here. Is it a believer or not? Explain the arguments for both views.

1. What pictures or illustrations does James use to teach the rich? What point is he trying to make to them?

In case you are wondering what James means when he says that the rich “pass away”, Moo has this to say: “The verb ‘pass away’ is never used in the NT to denote judgment. Rather, it typically has the idea ‘cease to exist.’”

2. Read these verses and write down how they relate to James’ teaching about the rich:
a. Isa. 40:6-8
b. Ps. 103:15-16
c. Ps. 49:16-17

3. Materialism is rampant in our American society today. How would truly believing James’s words here affect our attitudes toward money and other material possessions?

4. Sharing Question: What is God saying to you about money or material things? He may be showing you that you are selfishly hoarding money. You may realize that you value people with money more than others. Perhaps God is saying that you spend inordinate amounts of time shopping and buying things. What one thing can you do this week to let go of wrong attitudes or actions?

5. Responding to God: Write a prayer to God about what He showed you in the previous question. Write down your commitment to follow through with that one action.

Week 2 - Day 3

Read James 1:12.

1. How does this verse relate to James’ message in 1:2-11?

2. What makes the person in v. 12 “happy” (NET) or “blessed” (NASB; NKJV; NIV)?

Moo explains: “A person who is ‘blessed’ may not be ‘happy’ at all. For our emotional state may and will vary with the circumstances of life. But we can rest assured that, whatever those circumstances, if we endure them with faith and commitment to God, we will be recipients of God’s favor.”

3. Sharing Question: In your experience, have you ever been blessed but not necessarily happy? Tell your group what happened, how you were blessed, and how you felt.

Stronger Jeans (optional): Use a concordance or Greek dictionary and look up the word for blessed or happy in James 1:12. Look up some of the other verses that use the same Greek word.

4. Sharing Question: If you believe the promise of James 1:12, what encouragement does it give you today for your present trial? If you are not facing a trial right now, how can it help you next time that you do?

5. What are some other “crowns”, or rewards, promised?
a. 1 Thess. 2:19
b. 2 Tim. 4:8
c. 1 Pet. 5:4
d. Rev. 2:10

6. Responding to God: Draw a picture of your receiving a crown from Jesus. Which one might it be? Think about what that will feel like. Talk to God about it. And yes, you can draw!

Week 2 - Day 4

Read James 1:12-16.

1. What causes us to be tempted?

2. What does James 1:12-16 teach about God and His character?

Douglas Moo explains what we cannot see from our English translations:
The Greek word for ‘test’ in v. 12, peirazo, is the same word that is translated ‘tempt’ in vv. 13-14. Using this term as a link-word, therefore, James makes the transition from testing to temptation. God, James has said, promises a blessing to those who endure trials. Every trial, every external difficulty, carries with it a temptation, an inner enticement to sin. God may bring, or allow, trials; but he is not, James insists the author of temptation (v. 13).

Stronger Jeans (optional): Look for the word temptation in your concordance and find cross-references. What do you learn about temptation from them?

3. Sharing Question: Tell your group about a time when you faced a trial and ended up being tempted in some way—perhaps, not to trust God or to be angry or to run from the trial. How did you respond when tempted?

4. How did Jesus handle temptation? Read these verses and write down your insights:
a. Mt. 4:1-11
b. Mt. 26:36-46
c. Heb. 4:14-16

5. How can you apply the lessons of the verses in the previous question when you face temptation?

6. Responding to God: Think of a specific area of temptation with which you often deal and pray about it. Ask God to help you face temptation as Jesus did, with His power and His help.

Week 2 - Day 5

Read James 1:12-18.

1. What truths about God did James mention in 1:17-18?

2. How might knowing these truths help you when you deal with temptation or trials? In other words, why may you need to know them? What may you be tempted to believe about Him?

Be sure and memorize James 1:17. You may need to remember this truth about God next time you encounter a trial

Stronger Jeans (optional): Upon what other truths about God do you lean when you struggle with trusting God in a hard time? Find some verses that are helpful to you at those times. Pray for God to show you someone in your small group with which to share those verses. You may want to write a note which includes a verse. You may want to write out several verses on index cards for her to carry with her during her current trial.

3. Sharing Question: Write down the story of a difficult time in your life when you doubted the truths that James teaches about God here. Be prepared to share it with your group.

4. Sharing Question: How do the truths about you as a believer in 1:18 encourage you today? Why do you need that encouragement?

5. Responding to God: Write down your poem or prayer expressing your praise of God for what you learn about Him in James 1:17-18.

Week 2 - Personal Story

Jan's Story

I learned about God’s character as I went through tough times. I was married while still in college and soon had four healthy children and tried to be the best wife and mother that I knew how to be. They all loved the Lord and going to Sunday School and we were very involved in the church. My husband was very involved in his job and we seldom saw him, so when he was transferred to Houston, I thought it would be great for our family to be living in the Bible Belt and having their father around more.


Our boys were in Senior High and the girls in Junior High, and they had always walked to school, but now the boys would be taking the bus. Later I learned that their first day on the bus, they were both introduced to marijuana and found it very helpful in relaxing in their new environment and making new friends. We all had lots of adjustments to make and since my husband was now the manager of the Houston office, he was as busy as ever. By January of our first year, I was a Bible study discussion leader and found it so exciting. About that same time, our oldest son stole the car and tried to run away to Mexico, but was caught at the border. He thought we would be better off without him. We now know that he also had Aspberger Syndrome, a highly functional form of Autism. By the end of our first year in Houston, three of our children were on drugs and alcohol and the oldest had dropped out of school after being kicked out. Soon after, our fourth child joined the others because the other kids weren't allowed to play with her because of her brothers and sister. Our whole world had turned upside down and the children I loved were like complete strangers who were destroying themselves.


Even though I was in great pain, I knew that God was faithful and that all of my children belonged to Him. During that time, I began to experience God's grace and mercy. First he had placed me in the Bible study leadership group just when I needed them; every week, they prayed for me and my family, never judging me. Also, He began sending other people to me who were also experiencing pain and I was learning that God was able to use my weaknesses instead of what I thought were my strengths. (II Corin.12:9) That period of our lives lasted at least five years with various ups and downs, but God remained closer to me than at any other time in my life. In fact, I had such a peace during that time that my father-in-law said it proved that I was mentally ill from all that religious junk. God also protected all of our children during that time and they all say that they know it was my prayers that kept them alive. Experiencing God's grace and mercy during the worst period of my life has taken away any fear of what the future may hold for me or our children and grandchildren.

Introduction - Blue Jean Faith: A Study of James for Wise Women (10 week study) by Kay Daigle hosted by www.bible.org


Introduction

The letter from James is so practical and relevant to us in the 21st century. It always amazes me how God can speak through His Word although we are separated by time and culture from those who wrote it. It relates to our lives today thousands of years after it was written!

This study is designed to help us as women live life as God would have us live it. As we come to the Scriptures alone with God on a daily basis, He has an opportunity to speak to each of us personally; however, together we are stronger than we are separately. My prayer is that you will be faithful to show up to your small group (blog) week after week to encourage and challenge one another in your spiritual lives. God designed us for community, and we walk more closely with Him when we follow His plan. Be faithful to meet with your group (blog), even if the trials and stresses of life have made it impossible to complete your own work. God is at work, and He wants to use your group to speak to you and to use you to encourage the other women.

Remember that the Holy Spirit is your Teacher. When you come to verses that you do not understand, take time to pray and ask God to show you what He is saying. He may speak to you as you spend more time considering and meditating on the passage or as you compare it with other verses. Sometimes God uses other people to help—perhaps a fellow small group (blog) member, a small group leader, or a teacher. God’s word is truth and it will transform us when we open our hearts to its message. That is my prayer for you—open hearts and changed lives!
Kay Daigle
January 2007

How to Use This Study Guide

This study is designed to help you consistently spend time in God’s Word. You will gain more from this study if you do it day by day, answering just that day’s questions, rather than trying to stuff it all in at once. Each week’s lesson is divided into five days of homework to encourage you to listen daily to His voice. The Bible is God’s message to you, and He wants to speak with you personally.

Unless instructed otherwise, use only the Scriptures to answer the questions. Rather than go to commentaries or notes in a study Bible, enjoy the excitement of letting God speak to you from His word. When we need help in interpretation because of a difficult passage or because of cultural information, I will include it in the lesson. Trust God to help you answer the questions.

Although paraphrases are often easier to understand, it is best to study with a literal translation. Paraphrases are someone else’s interpretation, not the actual words. The NET Bible (http://net.bible.org/bible.php), the New King James, the New American Standard, or the New International are good choices.
Weekly:
Wisdom for a Blue Jean Faith —Each week you will have a verse to memorize that brings out an essential lesson or thought from the week’s study. Begin learning it the first day, hiding God’s Word in your heart.

Personal Stories —Each lesson includes a true story that relates the truths of the week’s lesson to a woman’s real life experience. Some of the names have been changed to protect the guilty! These stories will encourage you in your walk with God and your growth in godliness.
_________________________
Specific types of questions included in each day’s work:
1. Sharing Questions are designed for you to write stories, insights, and applications from your own life. You will never be forced to share one of these answers aloud (post a comment) with your group, but growing in community with one another requires us to be open and vulnerable so volunteer to share.

2. Responding to God Questions are reminders that we study God’s Word so that He can speak to us and we are changed thereby. We should be listening for His voice. These types of questions ask for a response to God’s personal message to you. I have found that writing out my prayers helps me to focus better on what I need to say to God. No one will ask you to read (post) yours, but you should always feel free to share your response with your group.

3. Stronger Jeans are optional questions designed for those who want to dig deeper. Some of the answers will be easy for even a beginning Bible student, and some will require more experience in God’s Word.
_________________________________
Week 1: Faith for Hard Times
Week 2: Faith that Leans on God
Week 3: Faith that Fixes What's in the Mirror
Week 4: Faith that Doesn't Play Favorites
Week 5: Faith that is Alive
Week 6: Faith that Ties the Tongue
Week 7: Faith that Brings Peace
Week 8: Faith that Repents
Week 9: Faith that Looks to Jesus' Coming
Week 10: Faith that Prays

Week 1 - Introduction: Faith for Hard Times

Wisdom for a Blue Jean Faith (Week 1 Memory Verse)

"Consider it nothing but joy when you fall into all sorts of trials, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect effect, so that you will be perfect and compete, not deficient in anything.”
James 1:2-4 (NET) http://net.bible.org/bible.php

Blue Jean Faith—what in the world does that mean? Blue jeans have always been worn by the working man and woman because of their practicality and durability. In recent years they have become stylishly popular as people have determined that comfort can be chic! But if you need long-lasting strength, denim is your logical choice. That is what we want in faith—a faith that lasts and is practical in our world today. We desire to have a faith that works right here and now!

As you begin this study, ask God to help you make your faith very practical. Ask Him to help you live out what you believe. Align yourself with God’s purpose and His plans. The best place to be in life is living right in line with the work and character of the Creator. If you will consistently spend time in God’s word and discuss it with other believers, God will show you how to live out your faith.

The book of James begins with one of those hard, but necessary topics: trials. The author deals in a very practical way with the subject and gives us insights to help us make it through difficult times. Begin today learning your memory verse, which we will call “wisdom for a Blue Jean Faith.” If you will place these truths in your heart week after week, by the end of this study you will have ten verses which can help you make your faith more durable and practical!

Week 1 - Day 1

1. Spend your time today reading through this book as if it were a letter from an old friend. Don’t worry at this point about understanding everything; just get a feel for the book. Record your initial thoughts and feelings.

2. Responding to God: Write a prayer to God, expressing your response to Him about something you read in James. Maybe you need to thank Him for a blessing. Perhaps you need to praise Him for something about His character. Or maybe you need to confess that you aren’t doing well at something He asks of you! You do not have to share your answer if you don't want to!

3. Stronger Jeans (optional): The book of James seems to involve many loosely related topics. As best you can, choose themes for each chapter and an overall theme of the book. If you know how to put it in a book chart, you may want to do that. This will be your optional assignment for the entire week.

Week 1 - Day 2

Today we begin looking in more detail at this book. Some questions will require you to observe simply what the verses say. These help you read the text more carefully, to be sure you are noting what it really says and grasping the main points. Other questions will ask you to think more deeply or to share. Before you begin today—and every day—ask God for insight into His word.

Read James 1:1.

1. Who wrote this book and how does he describe himself? How does he describe the people to whom he is writing?

The NET Bible (http://net.bible.org/bible.php) gives us insight into the Greek term used to describe the author: “Traditionally, ‘servant’ or ‘bondservant.’ Though doulos is normally translated ‘servant,’ the word does not bear the connotation of a free individual serving another. . . . The most accurate translation is ‘bondservant’ . . . in that it often indicates one who sells himself into slavery to another. But as this is archaic, few today understand its meaning.”

2. Sharing Question: What would it mean for you to be a slave, servant, or bondservant of Jesus Christ? Write down one thing that you would have to do differently today if you were to live that idea out.

Read James 1:2-4.

Douglas Moo with The NET Bible (http://net.bible.org/bible.php) comments: “’Pure joy’ is a good rendering of the Greek phrase pasan charan (lit., ‘all joy’) since the word pas here probably suggests intensity (complete and unalloyed joy) rather than exclusivity (nothing but joy).”

3. Consider this attitude that James tells you to adopt. Explain your understanding of it in light of Dr. Moo’s explanation. Does his explanation help you see how you could do this when all around is crashing?

4. James 1:3-4 tells us why we should adopt that kind of attitude. What is a purpose of various trials in your life according to these verses?

We will look more closely at the intended results of trials tomorrow.

5. Responding to God: Consider a trial with which you are currently dealing. It could be a health issue, a loss, grief over your circumstances, loneliness, financial need, or any other situation that has come into your life through no cause of your own. Talk to God about it. Write down a prayer asking Him to give you the grace to look at it from His perspective (vv. 3-4) with the right attitude (v. 2).

6. Stronger Jeans (optional): The book of James seems to involve many loosely related topics. As best you can, choose themes for each chapter and an overall theme of the book. If you know how to put it in a book chart, you may want to do that. This will be your optional assignment for the entire week.

Week 1 - Day 3

Review James 1:2-4 and what you learned yesterday about trials.

1. Compare the reactions to trials in the following verses with what you saw in James.
-a. Mt. 5:11-12
-b. Acts 5:41
-c. 2 Cor. 7:4
-d. Rom. 5:3-4

2. How different are these kinds of reactions to what you see in the world today? How do you generally see people respond to difficult times and overwhelming situations that they face?

We saw from James 1:2-4 that there are positive results to trials in a believer’s life. The word in James 1:3-4 translated “patience” (KJV), “perseverance” (NIV), or “endurance” (NET; NASB) is explained by D. Edmond Hiebert: “It presents the picture of being under a heavy load and resolutely staying there instead of trying to escape.”

What is your natural tendency in trials—to run or to stay? I think we would all agree that we prefer to run. How do we run? Sometimes running means that our focus is on asking God to take the load away rather than focusing on how He can use it for His kingdom and His glory. Sometimes running means that we put the load down and run away ourselves if we have that option!

Since this is a study for women, I want to be sure you don’t mistake this as a call to put up with physical abuse. Run and get help! But if the abuser is your husband, don’t give up on the relationship in the process. This is your husband so do everything within your power to preserve and rebuild the marriage that doesn’t risk you or your children.

1. Sharing Question: Share with your group a trial—doesn’t have to be a big one like financial ruin or a death threat—from which you chose to run rather than face it. Or share about a trial from which you learned endurance because you did stay under it.

2. Responding to God: Pray about a situation in your life right now that is so difficult that you want to avoid it. Pray for God to teach you “endurance” through this situation. Tell Him that you choose to carry the load until He takes it from you. Write down your prayer below.

3. Stronger Jeans (optional): The book of James seems to involve many loosely related topics. As best you can, choose themes for each chapter and an overall theme of the book. If you know how to put it in a book chart, you may want to do that. This will be your optional assignment for the entire week.

Week 1 - Day 4

Review James 1:2-4.

1. James says that endurance is a positive result of trials for the believer; however it is not the final result. What is the result of endurance, according to v.4?

Dr. Hiebert says that the term for perfect “does not imply absolute perfection, but rather the ethical character of the mature believer.”

I think that all of us who desire to be all that God wants us to be want to get to that point that he describes, but the way there is difficult. We prefer to run.

2. Consider others whom you admire as “mature believers.” What do you know about their lives and the trials they have endured? If possible, talk to one of them and ask how God has brought them to this place of maturity and trust of Him. Ask about their experiences and feelings. Without sharing names with your small group, share what you learned about the place of trials in the person’s maturation process.

3. Compare 1 Peter 1:3-7 with James 1:2-4.

4. Let’s look at some biblical figures who endured very difficult trials. Compare their stories to what James says about trials in 1:2-4.
-a. Joseph—His story is long but read these verses at least: Gen. 37:23-24, 26-28; 39:11-20; 45:3-8
-b. David—again, a long story! Read 1 Sam. 18:6-12; 20:32-33; 24:1-15; 26:5-11.
-c. Paul—can’t read everything he says either. Read 2 Cor. 6:4-10; Phil. 1:12-26; 2 Tim. 2:8-10; 4:14-17.

5. Sharing Question: What has God said to you from these stories about a trial with which you are dealing? What do you need to do about what you have learned?

6. Responding to God: Spend time praising God for the positives that He brings out of trials. Pray for the ability to have His perspective on your particular trial right now.

7. Stronger Jeans (optional): The book of James seems to involve many loosely related topics. As best you can, choose themes for each chapter and an overall theme of the book. If you know how to put it in a book chart, you may want to do that. This will be your optional assignment for the entire week.

Week 1 - Day 5

Today we will move on from James 1:2-4. I am sure that you are ready!

Read James 1:2-8.

1. Write down all that you learn about wisdom from this section of James.

2. In the context of trials, James provides this instruction about wisdom. How does it relate to trials? In other words, why would he give this information at this point in his letter?

Curtis Vaughn says, “To James wisdom was more than knowledge and more than intelligence. It was a moral and spiritual quality based upon the fear of the Lord—the sum of practical religion.”

3. Read these cross-references on wisdom and compare them with what James says.
a. Prov. 2:6
b. Prov. 3:13-14
c. Prov. 8:35
d. Prov. 9:1-6

4. What do you learn about God from James 1:5-8?

5. Responding to God: spend time thanking God for who He is according to these verses. Consider how you rely upon God’s revelation of Himself. Write down your response to His character below in a prayer or poem.

6. Stronger Jeans (optional): The book of James seems to involve many loosely related topics. As best you can, choose themes for each chapter and an overall theme of the book. If you know how to put it in a book chart, you may want to do that. This will be your optional assignment for the entire week.

Week 1 - Personal Story

Virginia’s story

It has been 7 years since that hot August day when my husband went out to check the mail and came back in the house looking like he was in shock. I asked what was wrong and he said "you will never believe what I found in the yard." He had found pages from the Bible ripped out and laying against the trunk of the tree. The pages were from the book of Job. I had been studying my Bible when he came into the room. I said "Honey, look down." My Bible was open on the footstool in front of me to the book of Job! That is what I had been studying for a Bible study I was writing at the time.

Well of course we tried to analyze it to death to try to determine what this could possibly mean in our lives. It wasn't until years later that we looked back and realized how God was preparing us for a ministry to people who suffer loss due to crimes against them, or because of natural disasters. And so we have seen firsthand the trauma to individuals who have encountered various trials that have been completely beyond their control.

Loss is difficult in anyone's life, but seeing it in the lives of others is much different than when the loss involves your children or your own personal health. Then it becomes devastating to you personally.

And so, that brings me to James 1:2. How can we count it all joy when we encounter various trials? The trials in our lives have been many. We have experienced difficulties in our lives of all types including health. Within a 5 month period, my daughter, my husband and I have all been diagnosed with different types of cancer. During this same period of time, we sold our house and moved with a closing date set. At the last minute, the sale fell through leaving us with double expenses. At the same time, we were criticized by those closest to us. Does this sound like a Job experience? Job suffered family, possession, and health loss as well as criticism from friends.

So what have we learned from this through the years to sustain us in current circumstances? We have learned that joy does not mean 'happy'. You can have joy without enjoying! You can even be in grief but still experience joy. Joy is deeper than being happy. It is abiding in you as you abide in Christ to strengthen you with His peace in times of trouble. If I am going to count the trials, then I need to also count the joy; all of it for all of them. I know from experience that every trial that has tested our faith HAS produced endurance in us. It is this endurance which has enabled us through the next set of trials. And in those moments when I have felt like giving in to despair, the still, small voice of God whispers; “Trust Me, keep your faith". In those moments when the devastation is overwhelming, God is there to give hope and comfort. He is an ever present help in times of trouble. Is the help when and how we want it? Of course not! If it were, it would be by our own will.

But God works His will in our troubles. And it is there, in His will that we find true joy because we know we didn't have anything to do with the result except to trust Him.

Then, somewhere along the way of trials no matter what they are, He will give nuggets of His truth to cling to; nuggets that come when you least expect them. At a low point in our trials I prayed and told the Lord how weak I was in faith. He strengthened my faith by reminding me first of Job. Then, in a message from a pastor, He reminded me from Rev 3:8 that He knew my strength was weak but that I had kept His word and trusted Him. He would open doors to us that no one could shut. That was my nugget of truth for that particular low point to strengthen me till the next one. It was my nugget of truth to spur me on to continue keeping His word and continue trusting Him. God is so awesome and amazing in how He gives real encouragement to enable us to press on. He knows when we are weak, and it is in our weakness that He is made strong.

And so how do we 'count it all joy when we encounter various trials'?
-By trusting Him through them – Psalm 56:3-4
-By keeping His word – Rev. 3:8, 10
-By keeping our faith alive with hope in Him – Rev. 2:10
-By praying for those who have been critical – Job 42:10

God will strengthen, He will comfort, He will provide, He will help to see you through. Then when you pass the test, you will have proven the power of God to be victorious over Satan and his schemes to destroy. You will experience joy beyond measure from the endurance of your faith.

Yes, there are times when difficulties may be discipline, but there are other times when trials are a test of our faith; not because we are sinful, but because we are faithful. When God allowed Satan to sift Job (Job 1:8), He knew of Job’s faithfulness to God and the victory to come that would prove the power of God in Job’s life. It is in knowing this and keeping the life of Job in our minds that has given us so much hope in our trials; therefore, in our trials there is true joy! The joy comes from deep, abiding faith and in due time, the reward. Praise Him.

“…Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” Rev. 2:10c

Happy 4th of July

Due to the 4th of July holiday, we will be starting our new 10- week bible study on Monday July 9th. The next bible study is called 'Blue Jean Faith: A Study of James for Wise Women' hosted by www.bible.org/ written by Kay Daigle. We hope you join us next week so we can share and learn together!!!