James 1:5-11 | Faith That Moves Series | 9.21.25

Follow Along with the Message

Wisdom in Trials James 1:4-11
Other scripture references:
Galatians 2:20
Proverbs 4:5-7; 12:15
Romans 11:33-36
Isaiah 55:9-11
Colossians 3:16
Genesis 50:20

Trials + Perseverance + Wisdom over Time = Deep Spiritual Formation

Discuss the following questions, reflecting on your own past experiences or present circumstances. Phil used Joseph’s life as a biblical example of perseverance in the face of trial.
1. Can I trust that God is in control, even when my circumstances feel out of control?
2. Do I believe that God is good, even when my situation doesn’t look good?
3. Am I willing to wait on God’s timing, believing He is shaping something greater through my trial?

Phil passionately emphasized that to realize deep spiritual formation, we need to implement these practices to help us awaken and listen to God’s voice. Discuss successes and/or barriers you have experienced. What are some ways we can support each other as a Life Group in this journey?
 Scripture:  Encountering God through reading the Bible  
 Prayer:  Deepening our intimacy with God  
 Sabbath: Establishing rhythms of work and rest
 Silence and Solitude: Creating space for God 
 Self-Examination:  Bringing my whole self before God
 Day Away with the Lord
 Daily Office: Pausing throughout your day to be present with God 
 Discernment: Recognizing and Responding to the Presence of God 
 Honoring Your Body:  Flesh and Blood Spirituality 
 Rule of Life: Cultivating rhythms for spiritual formation 

Prayer for wisdom (pray as a group)
Lord, we trust that You are in control,
even when life feels out of control.
We believe that You are good,
even when our situation doesn’t look good.
We will wait on Your timing,
trusting that You are shaping something greater through our trials.
Give us wisdom, moment by moment,
to see life through Your eyes
and to walk in Your ways.