Welcome to our devotional plan on the book of James.
The book of James only has 5 chapters, so we are going to take our time on it. As we go through the chapters we will read or listen to the entire chapter, take a few days to break it up into smaller sections, then read or listen to the entire chapter again.
It is helpful to read the letters in small and larger sections as they are letters.
It’s important to remember that the chapters and headings were put in later and that the letter is ongoing and unfolds over the chapters, much like a movie.
As we start the book of James some brief information may be helpful.
James was the half-brother of Jesus who was a leader in the early church.
The book of James isn’t addressed to a specific church or people group but instead to all the Christian Jews living outside of Jerusalem.
James is assuming their foundational faith and their belief in Jesus, his death and resurrection.
The focus of James’ teaching is what it looks like to follow Jesus, a new way of living.
James is less focused on theological teaching but instead challenging how we interact with the world and how we treat each other in light of Jesus.
The book is sometimes blunt and often challenging. James doesn’t pull any punches.
The heart behind his teaching isn’t to tell off naughty Christians. Instead, it is to encourage us to follow the way of Jesus, the way that brings life and freedom, this new way of living that can also bring freedom and healing to those around us.
(Click on the daily links to take you straight to the verses in the Youversion app)
Let’s jump in together and read chapter 1.
Read or listen to Chapter 1.
Each day we will give some questions to help us reflect and engage with the passage.
Why do you think James felt it was important to start with and include these verses?
As you look back on your life, can you see where trials have brought about perseverance, maturity and even joy?
Jesus who gives us wisdom calmed storms. He gives wisdom generously. Yet we can be unstable, as if in ocean waves, if we doubt or rely on ‘other’ wisdom. Have you experienced this instability that James is talking about?
When was the last time you asked God for wisdom?
The power imbalance between the wealthy and poor is large today, imagine a couple of thousands of years ago in the context this was written.
How is James bringing dignity and value to these people, who were the majority at the time?
Jesus endured temptation and stayed pure. He is ready to help and bring life. Is there anything we need to ask for help in?
Stop and reflect on the good gifts that have come down from the Father.
James talks about listening and doing. Why do you think James chose to include this in his letter to the early Christians?
Quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to get angry. So often I get this the wrong way round. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you with this today.
Ask God to reveal anyone in your life that is in distress that you can bless.
Read or listen to the chapter as a whole. Is there anything you missed the first time?
Is there one thing that stands out?
Read or listen to chapter 2.
The majority of early Christians were poor and marginalised. Why do you think it was important for James to write about this?
Is there a type of person or people group that is judged quickly by appearance in our society? How would Jesus interact with these people?
We receive mercy from Jesus, who asks us to pass it on. What would that look like today?
We are saved by the finished work of Jesus alone. Jesus calls us to follow His example and teachings. Following is active.
Why can this be a challenging passage to read?
The church is called the Body of Christ, the hands and feet of Jesus. What would it look like for Christians to show and outwork the life of Jesus in our present day?
Look up the story of Rahab (Joshua 2). How was she faithful? What example does she bring?
Read or listen to the chapter as a whole. Is there anything you missed the first time?
Is there one thing that stands out?
Read or listen to chapter 3.
James talks a lot about our speech in this chapter. Why do you think he taught so much on it?
Reflect on how our tongues have both gotten us into trouble and brought life. Ask God to help you today.
What could you do to ensure blessings come out of your mouth today?
How could you praise God? Who could you encourage?
Jesus is the Prince of peace and calls us to be peacemakers. What does it look like to be a Christlike peacemaker today?
Wisdom from God is full of mercy. Is there wisdom that isn’t full of mercy? How can we make sure our wisdom is from God?
Read or listen to the chapter as a whole. Is there anything you missed the first time?
Is there one thing that stands out?
Read or listen to chapter 3.
Humility is key for walking with Jesus, why might this be?
How can you draw close to God today?
Jesus told us not to judge the speck in your friends eye when you have a log in your own. It is so much easier to judge others.
How could we be intentional today with how we encourage and build up instead of judging?
Who knows what tomorrow may bring. If we are honest, we realise that we control very little.
How can we submit our daily life to God?
Are there unknowns or uncertainty in your future? Bring these things to Jesus and ask for His help.
Read or listen to the chapter as a whole. Is there anything you missed the first time?
Is there one thing that stands out?
Read or listen to chapter 5.
James is very harsh against the rich. At the time, the rich exploited and took advantage of the poor. We like to think it doesn’t happen today but it still does.
What is Gods heart towards this?
Patience and endurance. Not words we love, but if we are honest, they are very helpful for life. We can do these because the Lord is near.
How does God’s presence help with patience and endurance?
Why do you think James talked so much about patience and endurance?
Who do you know that is sick or suffering? Take some time to pray for them now.
Are you sick or suffering? Perhaps it is the time to be bold and ask for prayer from someone else.
Why can it be difficult to ask for prayer?
Our last day of James! Well done!
Read or listen to the chapter as a whole. Is there anything you missed the first time?
Is there one thing that stands out?