The Small things are really big things
James 5:7-11
- In 5:6, James indicates that righteous people were being condemned and murdered. How hard do you think 5:7a would be in that context? How difficult is it to be patient in tough times? (Review 1:2–4 as you discuss this.)
- In 5:7b–8, James compares the life of walking by faith with the Lord to farming. In what way does a farmer's life apply to a Christian's need for patience? Does this apply to anything you are facing now?
- In 5:9, James addresses how impatience in our inner beings flows out and into our speech. See 3:2–12. What does he say? What advice would you give a person who complains a lot, based on James' teaching?
- Read 5:10–11a followed by Hebrews 11:32–38. What do we learn about a life of faith in God from the prophets? Do you find this encouraging or discouraging?
- Compare what James says about Job in 5:11b with 1:12. What would James say to those in our church who are going through trials?
- Picture yourself talking to new believers about James 5:7–11. What would you tell them it says about following Jesus? Do this in no more that two sentences.
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