GPS ENG: Where does my Value Come From?

Read:

We live in a culture that constantly teaches us to measure our worth by what we have, what we do, and the level of success we achieve. Our home, work, children, a car, a bank account, education, and even appearance can easily become our source of identity. But James presents a completely different perspective. Let’s read James 1:9-11.

Observe:

• To which two people or groups does James address himself in these verses?

• In what should the person of humble circumstances take pride?

• What should the rich brother remember?

• To what does James compare riches?

• What do these verses teach us about the things we have in this life?

Discover:

First century society was characterized by a vast gap between social classes. Moreover, in that culture, wealth meant more than just possessing material goods; it could also signify greater honor, influence, and social access. That is why James’s words were so radical. He does not say, “The poor need to become rich.” Nor does he say, “The rich need to become poor.” What he does is lay bare our hearts.

• What can happen to our faith when we place our security in money, work, education or possessions?

• Why do we think that temporary things are more important than eternal ones?

• If our circumstances can change so quickly, where should we find our security?

• What does Matthew 6:19-21 say?

• What distinction does Jesus make between earthly treasures and heavenly treasures?

• What are earthly treasures, and what are heavenly treasures?

• What do the treasures we possess reveal?

Live It Out:

• If no one could see our house, our job, our car, our clothes, or our bank account, what would remain to define who we are?

• 2. Of all the things, possessions, and money you have, how much do you use to glorify God and expand His kingdom? Or do you have them solely for your own well-being and that of your family?

• James says that riches are temporary, like a flower. What things are we treating as permanent that are actually temporary?

A TRUTH to remember!!

“God never leads me into sin; He always provides a way out.”