Chapter One

James 1:2-12

Saved alone" was the message that Horatio Spafford received from his wife after the ship sank that was taking her and their four children to England in November 1873. After reuniting with his grieving wife at sea, the boat came near the area where his children had drowned. It is speculated that at that time he wrote the words that vividly described his own grief and faith: When sorrows like sea billows roll- Whatever my lot Thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul.

Sorrow is a natural response to trials. But in James 1:2-12 we discover why even in the darkest times of our lives we can say with convincing clarity, "It is well with my soul!"

Warming Up

1. How does joy differ from happiness?

Digging In

2. Read James 1:2-12. It seems strange that we should "consider it pure joy ... whenever [we] face trials of many kinds." Why are we to be joyful?

3. What is perseverance?

Why is it important in the Christian life?

4. How are perseverance and maturity developed in us by enduring trials (vv. 3-4)?

How does our attitude toward these trials affect our growth?

5. How do trials reveal the depth of our character?

What difficult experiences have increased your perseverance and maturity?

6. How might trials expose our need for God's wisdom (v. 5)?

7. According to James, how will God respond to our request for wisdom (v. 5)?

(Continues...)