DEVOTIONAL: James 5:1-6, Treasuring God Over Gold

February 4th, 2025

FAITH THAT WORKS

James 5:1-6

Treasuring God Over Gold

Below you will find a 4-day Bible Reading Plan and Devotional Guide based on this week’s sermon’s themes.

You will also find a Dinner Table Discussion Guide to keep the conversation going in your family.

MISSED THE SERMON? WATCH IT HERE.

Day 1: Treasuring God Above All

Reading: Matthew 6:19-24

Devotional:

Jesus teaches us about the importance of storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth. Our hearts naturally follow where we place our treasure. Today, reflect on where your true treasures lie. Are you more focused on accumulating wealth and possessions, or on growing your relationship with God? Consider how you can shift your priorities to align more closely with God's kingdom. Pray for wisdom to see the eternal value in heavenly treasures and the temporal nature of earthly riches.

Day 2: The Danger of Loving Money

Reading: 1 Timothy 6:6-10, 17-19

Devotional:

Paul warns about the dangers of loving money and the importance of contentment. Reflect on areas in your life where the love of money might be taking root. Are there ways you've been tempted to compromise your faith for financial gain? Ask God to help you cultivate contentment and trust in His provision. Consider how you can use your resources to be "rich in good deeds" and generous towards others, storing up treasure for the coming age.

Day 3: Faith that Produces Good Works

Reading: James 2:14-26

Devotional:

James emphasizes that true faith is accompanied by good works. Today, examine your faith journey. How has your relationship with God manifested in tangible acts of love and service? Remember, we're not saved by works, but genuine faith will produce fruit. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas where your faith can be more active in loving others. Commit to taking one specific action today that demonstrates your faith in a practical way.

Day 4: Integrity in Financial Dealings

Reading: Proverbs 11:1-6, Leviticus 19:13

Devotional:

God values honesty and fairness in all our dealings, including financial matters. Reflect on your own financial practices. Are there areas where you've been tempted to cut corners or not fully honor your commitments? Remember that our conduct in business and finances is a reflection of our faith. Pray for the strength to maintain integrity, even when it's costly. Consider if there are any debts or obligations you need to address to honor God and others.

Dinner Table Discussion Questions

1.  What are some "treasures" in our lives that might fade or lose their value over time? How can we avoid putting too much stock in these things?

2.  What things make you feel safe that you could tend to trust in that thing over God? For instance: Where do you tend to place your security and value? Is it in material things, relationships, accomplishments, or something else?

3.  What does it mean to "defraud" someone? How does this apply to more than just withholding wages?

4.  How can our financial decisions, even seemingly small ones, impact others? How can we ensure we're using our resources to bless, not oppress?

5.  How does living in "luxury and self-indulgence" potentially blind us to God's way? Does this mean we can't enjoy nice things?

6.  What are some signs that our hearts might be growing "dull" to the things of God?

7.  How does the parable of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31) relate to this idea of treasure blinding us?