​Group Discussion Questions

This week we discussed how we respond to life’s trials. Two main points for the sermon were, #1. The Christian views trials as a pathway to maturity and #2. Trials help me to be consciously aware of my need for God. Along the way we need to be aware of two battles we will face. #1. Doubt and #2. Comparison. As believers we need to remember “Trials will come; count them all as joy because God is good.”
 
Read James 1:2-4
Q. What are some of the emotions that come along with a trial. Is joy one of them?
 
Q. Can you look back on a “trial” in your life and see God’s good plan for it?
 
Q. What is a trial you are currently going through and how might God be using it to mature you?
 
Read James 1:5
Q. How have trials in your life lead you to a more conscious awareness of your need for God?
 
Read James 1:6-8
Q. In what way can you identify with the Father in Mark 9:24 when he said “I believe, but help my unbelief.”?
 
Q. What is one thing you could tell someone who is doubting God to encourage them in their present trial?
 
Read Psalm 73:1-15
Q. What trial was David going through?
 
Q. Who was David envious of and why? (v.3-12)
 
Q. What thoughts was he wrongly thinking about God. (v.12-15)
 
Read Psalm 73:16-28
Q. What brought David to his senses? (v.16-20)
 
Q. How did David say he acted when he was battling comparison? (v.21-22)
 
Q. What action step did David take after realizing his wrong? (21-22)
 
Read James 1:9-11
Q. How does this battle David faced relate to the battle warned of here in James?
 
Q. In what ways are you tempted to doubt and compare yourself to others?
 
Read James 1:12-18 & 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
“Trials will come; count them all as joy because God is good.”
Q. How can reminding yourself of the reason for trials change the way you respond to them in the future?
 
Q. What is one life changing step that God is asking you to take in response to what we saw this week?