If the Lord Wills
RLC Home Group Handout | May 31st, 2026
Grace that Works; “If the Lord Wills” | James 4:13-17
Recap
We are naturally inclined to grasp for lordship over our own lives, making plans and pursuing success as though we are in control, yet James reminds us that our lives are brief and uncertain—like a vapor that quickly vanishes. Instead of arrogant self-reliance, we are called to humbly surrender to the Lordship of Jesus, recognizing that only God knows the future and governs our lives. Therefore, rather than building our lives around temporary gain or presuming upon tomorrow, we submit our plans to God, seek His will through His Word and Spirit, and faithfully do what is right today. As our thesis states: We naturally grasp for lordship over our lives, but our lives are brief and uncertain; therefore, God calls us to humbly surrender to His Lordship and faithfully do what is right today.
References
Proverbs 21:5 – Diligent planning is good and leads to profit; contrasts with reckless living.
Revelation 19:16 – Jesus is declared “King of kings and Lord of lords,” affirming His ultimate authority.
Matthew 6:25–34 – Jesus teaches not to worry about tomorrow but to trust God and seek His kingdom first.
Ecclesiastes 1:2 – Earthly pursuits are “vanity” (vapor); they cannot satisfy eternally.
Romans 6:23 – Sin leads to death, but God offers eternal life through Christ.
Discussion Questions
Head
Is there anything that stood out or spoke to you in this week’s sermon?
Why does James call certain kinds of planning “arrogant boasting”? What makes it sinful rather than neutral?
What does it practically mean that Jesus is not only Savior but also “Lord of lords” over our daily decisions?
Heart
In what areas of your life are you most tempted to operate as if you are in control rather than submitted to God?
When you think about your future (career, family, finances), what fears or desires tend to drive your planning?
How does the reality that your life is a “vapor” affect the way you view your priorities and ambitions?
Where might comfort, success, or security be subtly competing with surrender to Jesus in your heart?
How do you personally wrestle with trusting God’s will when it differs from your own plans?
Hands
What ways can/do you discern God’s will for your life as you make plans, set priorities or make decisions?
What is one “good” you already know God is calling you to do that you have been putting off (v.17)?
How can you reorient your time, energy, or resources this week toward eternal priorities rather than temporary gain?