Choice 1: James 1. “Be Ye Doers of the Word and Not Hearers Only”

·           What words or phrases encourage you to look for direction from God?

James 1:5-6

5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

 6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.

·           How did James further define the phrase to “ask in faith”?

We need to ask in pure knowledge that God will answer our prayers.

·           How do Matthew 6:24 and 1 Kings 18:21 add to your understanding of James 1:8?

We need to follow God in pure faith and Him alone.   We can not follow the world and God.  We can not serve 2 masters.

·           From James 1:13–15, 19–27, make an outline of how we can better live the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Do not be tempted

Follow god not the world

Be meek

Act on the gospel.  Serve, the gospel is an action

Control our thoughts and words

Serve others. 

·           Give a few modern examples of how you have recently seen individuals exemplify James 1:22.

I have a friend that along with his wife and children have been gathering up supplies to create “Bags of Hope” to deliver out to the homeless.  They are serving those who are possibly without hope and faith.  They take the time to talk with them and share how they find hope and faith (the gospel)

2.    Read the institute student manual commentary for James 1:5–6, “If Any of You Lack Wisdom” (p. 409). Make a list of reasons why Elder Bruce R. McConkie (1915–1985) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said these verses have “had a greater impact ... upon mankind than any other” scripture.

These verses have had a greater impact on mankind than any other, they were the scriptures that Joseph read when he began his journey to find the “true church “they also help many today to do the same as Joseph, and ask in faith if the gospel is true.  What might have happened if Joseph had not read this particular scripture?  I don’t know the answer to this question, but I do know that he did and because of his faith we all have been blessed.