- One of our great temptations is to believe that we have lots of control when we have very little control over our world.
- What are in danger of doing, when we believe that our plans can be fulfilled in our own power by virtue of our great planning?
- James calls this arrogance, boasting, and evil.
- Do you get angry when your goals, dreams, plans are thwarted?
- What do you typically do when your plans and purposes are hindered?
- What is the remedy to overconfident planning according to James?
- Do you allow God to alter your plans and respond with faith, patience, joy, and confidence? Why or why not?
- This famous text reminds us that God will work all things for our good. It’s not that our lives are always filled with good circumstances. It means that God will work good in our lives no matter what our circumstances look like.
- These verses of wisdom help us balance the need for us to plan and purpose, but also to submit to the God of the universe who is truly in control.
- Jesus skillfully encourages us not to be anxious.
- Read this text in preparation for the sermon on November 13.
