9 Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted: 10 But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away . 11 For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof falleth , and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth : so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways. 12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried , he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. 13 Let no man say when he is tempted , I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: 14 But every man is tempted , when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed . 15 Then when lust hath conceived , it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished , bringeth forth death. 16 Do not err , my beloved brethren. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. 18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS:
1) What is the “lowly brother” to glory in (v.9)?
2) What is the “rich” man to glory in? Why? (v.10-11)
3) What is the proof of, and reward for, our love for God (v.12)?
4) What must we refrain from saying when we are tempted (v.13)?
5) What causes us to be tempted (v.14)?
6) What is the three-step progression to death (v.14-15)?
7) Where does “every good and perfect gift” come from (v. 17)?
APPLICATION QUESTIONS:
1) Do you focus more on the blessings and favor of God or on your character? Why?
2) In what areas of your life do you need the Lord to work on you most?
3) How do you typically respond to temptation?
4) What must you do to overcome your areas of weakness, in the future?
LIFE LESSONS:
1) God blesses those who are not prideful (the humble).
2) Temptation always results from our inner desire for what God doesn’t want us to have.
3) Sin leads to spiritual and/or physical death.
4) We demonstrate our love for God by denying ourselves when we are tempted to do otherwise.
5) God only gives us what is best for us.
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