Choice 3: James 3–4. Living Our Religion

1.    Read James 1:19; 3:1–13; 4:11; and the institute student manual commentary for James 3:8, “The Importance of Taming the Tongue” (p. 410). Using these resources, make two lists:

Things We Say That Are Offensive to God	Things We Say That Are Pleasing to God
"The tongue boasteth, and is like fire" - words can hurt more than sticks and stones sometimes. The mouth can spit out lies and curses.  "He that speaketh evil of his brother, judgeth his brother." - It is only God's place to judge us individually.	When we are slow to speak, slow to rate, and swift at hearing.  Though the mouth can curse, it can also bless, and praise God.  "let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom." - (v.13)

2. Referring to the following chart, read James 4:1–4 and identify four symptoms of people who are friends of the world. Read James 4:7–12 and write a prescription that would help people overcome the “world.” Write your responses in the appropriate column:

Symptoms of Being in the World (James 4:1-4)

Prescription for Being out of the World (James 4:7-12

"Ye kill, and desire to have" -You kill each other, and still wish to be satisfied with your lusts.  "Ye ask, and receive not because ye ask amiss" - You ask of God, but with the wrong attitude and for the wrong reasons.  "Ye fight and war, yet ye have not because ye ask not" - You fight each other, but do not ask of God for help or peace.  "[Ye] desire to have, yet do not obtain" - You desire of things, but do not obtain because you do not work for them.

"Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." - We will not be tempted if we consistently resist Satan.  "Draw night to God, and He will draw nigh to you." - Come closer to God, and he will run to you.  "Speak not evil of one another, brethren" - Love one another.  "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up." - Do not become selfish and prideful; be aware of your insignificance to God.