James 4:1-10
Introduction
Have you ever tried to have your cake and eat it too? Many Christians attempt to do just that when we live for the Lord while holding on to the flesh. A sharp rebuke in James 4:4 reminds us that it is impossible to live in this doubleminded state: “You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God?” Scripture tells us that as believers we cannot continue to operate in the flesh, if we desire to have intimacy with the Lord. Not only will our prayers be hindered by the sinfulness of operating in the flesh, but we also inadvertently cut off the flow of God’s grace in our lives by trying to maintain a double lifestyle. The key to receiving God’s abundance of grace for our daily living is tied to our rejection of sin and submission to the Lord. (James 4:5-6)
If we want to increase the flow of grace in our lives, we must get rid of sin! You may be thinking this is easier said than done but God empowers us to flee from sin. James 4:7-10 says, “Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Be miserable and mourn and weep; let your laughter be turned into mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you.” (James 4:7-10)
Getting Started
1. What has been your greatest take away from the “Magnificent Grace of God Series?
2. Why do believers attempt to have their cake and eat it too? In other words, why do we try to live for God while still holding on to the world?
Let’s Get Personal
1. What sins have been particularly difficult to let go of as you continue to draw near to God?
2. Have you ever been in a situation where God’s grace was seemingly blocked by your own sin?
Take the Next Step
1. Take a moment to share with your group what strong hold you need to release in order to fully experience the grace of God in your life.
2. What are some practical steps you can take in order to increase the flow of grace in your own life?
Renew Your Mind
“You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures.” James 4:3
