God wants people to feel forgiven and offer forgiveness to others. Yet today many are burdened with guilt and are divided by anger, resentment and stress. This week we will explore God’s word as we discover the joy and peace that comes from accepting and giving forgiveness.
MONDAY: THE PAIN OF BEING UNFORGIVEN
1. David wrote Psalm 32 after he was confronted with the adulterous relationship he had with Bathsheba and the eventual murder of her husband (2 Samuel 11-12). In this Psalm he graphically describes the pain that fills a guilt-laden heart.
2. Read Psalm 32:1-2 - How does David describe a man who finds God forgiveness?
What physical affects did his guilt have on David? (Psalm 32:3-4)
3. In the midst of his guilt induced fatigue and frustration, what did David finally do? (Psalm 32:5) What resulted from David’s actions (32:5b)?
4. What one word would you use to describe David’s attitude/situation in Psalm 32:1-4? What one word would you use to describe David’s attitude/situation in Psalm 32:5-11?
FAITH STEP: What sins do you need to confess to God? Confess them in prayer and than claim his promises. Write down the last 7 words of Psalm 32:5 on an index card and carry it with you this week. Every time Satan tries to make you feel guilty over confessed sin, pull it out and read it aloud. Enjoy the forgiveness we have in Christ.
TUESDAY: THE PURCHASE OF FORGIVENESS
1. Read Ezekiel 18:4, 20; Romans 6:23. What is the ultimate consequence of sin?
2. God in his mercy, knowing that we could not save ourselves, allowed for a substitute to pay our debt for us. God in his wisdom provided that the innocent could die for the guilt, the pure could die in the place of the impure. This plan satisfied God’s justice while allowing his mercy to erase the marks of our sin. The problem was who could be found that was holy, pure and righteous to be acceptable to God as a substitute for us. God found the answer in His Son. Read 2 Corinthians 5:21. Who became sin for us? Why did he do this?
3. God’s forgiveness is freely offered to us, but it was not free. What price did Jesus pay for our forgiveness? Read these verse and write down the cost found in each verse – Isaiah 53:6, John 1:14, Hebrews 2:14-17, 2 Corinthians 5:21)
FAITH STEP: Romans 3:23 says the eternal life is a gift from God. But even though it is freely given to us we can see that the forgiveness we enjoy came at a great price to Jesus. Take a few minutes and write a thank you note to Jesus – thanking him for the gift he gave you.
WEDNESDAY: THE PAST IS PAST
1. 2 Samuel 11-12 tells the heartbreaking story of David and Bathsheba. While reading these chapters look for the answers to the following:
After David learned that Bathsheba was pregnant what plan did he develop in order to get rid of her husband?
How did God feel about David’s actions? (11:27)
What did Nathan say about David’s sin? (12:9-10)
How did David respond to Nathan’s rebuke? Did God forgive David? Did Davis still pay consequences for his sin? (12: 13)
2. Read 1 Kings 14:8. How does God later describe David? What does that shoe you about God?
FAITH STEP: David was not forgiven because of good works but because he confessed and repented of his sins. I Kings 14 shows us how God saw David after he confessed his sins. God didn’t see David in that light because he was innocent but because he was FORGIVEN! Are their sins you are still feeling guilty for that God has already forgiven? You need to act on those false feelings of guilt and claim God’s promises. God still did great things with David’s life after his sin and he will still use you for his glory as well. The past is past and I am free to live for God today! If there are sins you need to confess do so than move on in the light of God’s grace.
THURSDAY: LEARNING TO FORGIVE
The past three days we have tried to grasp the God’s forgiveness that HE has offered us. Learning how we are forgiven helps us to be forgiving. In a world where resentment and revenge rules the day it is good to know that in Christ we can find the freedom of that comes form being forgiving.
1. Read Colossians 3:13. What does it mean to “bear” with one another? List two ways that your family, friends or co-workers “bear” with you? According to this verse how are to forgive?
2. Read Ephesians 4:32. How are we to forgive each other?
3. Read 1 Corinthians 13:5. What does a loving person do with the wrongs committed against him?
4. The word for love in 1 Corinthians 13 is the Greek word for “unconditional love”. It is a commitment to do the right thing in spite of your feelings. Forgiveness too is a choice. It is doing the loving thing, desiring what is best for the one that hurt you in spite of your feelings. It is a process – a step of faith. It is releasing the one that hurt you from any desires to get revenge. It is being like God.
FAITH STEP: Who do you need to forgive? Write down their name. Pray FOR them (not about them), asking God to bless them and asking God to help you act more forgiving.
FRIDAY: HOW OFTEN SHOULD I FORGIVE?
1. Read Matthew 18:21-35. Peter putting a number on his question (7 times) shows that he was still being legalist-still keeping score. What did Jesus mean when he said to Peter you are to forgive 70 X 7 times (or 77 times)?
2. “The kingdom of heaven” in verse 23 does not refer to a physical realm but to the rule and reign of God. Jesus is saying in verse 23 that If you claim God as your king than this story illustrates how you are to live. Which character in this story does God want us to be like? Which one more accurately describes your relationship with others?
3. This parable can be divided into three scenes. Scene 1 is found in verses 23-27. Scenes two is found in verses 28-31 and scene three is found in verses 32-34. What title would you give each scene?
4. What was the only thing that saved the servant who owed the big debt? What is the only thing that saves you from the debt you owed God?
5. What does verse 35 teach us about forgiveness?
FAITH STEP: If you have children you may want to have a family time where you have each member act out the parable as the narrator reads the story. What lessons can you teach them? If you do not have children read the parable and ask. “What example in this story should I follow? What attitude should I avoid? What prayer should I pray after reading this story?
SATURDAY: OVERCOMING RESENTMENT
1. Forgiveness is something we need to do, not only because God commands it but because it is what is best for us. Resentment and hatred allows the one we resent to continue to control our life. Read the following Scriptures and jot down how resentment affected these people - Mark 16:18-19, Genesis 37:4, Acts 23:12.
2. Read Romans 12:17-21 to sees God’s cure for a resentful heart. Who is that you can do “good to” today to help you on the road to forgiving them? Think of something you can do and do it before Monday. Pray for God to help you grow I forgiveness.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Friday, October 19, 2007
MONEY
God says a lot about money, one reason being we spend most of our life making it, saving it and spending it. It is a central part of our existence therefore we should look at God’s word to make sure that we are handling it in a way that gives him the glory He is due. This week we will look at the Bible and some of the things it says about money.
MONDAY: LOVING MONEY
The Bible never suggests that it is a sin to be rich. In fact, some great men of faith have been among the wealthiest people of their day—men like Job, Abraham, David, and Solomon. It was God who gave these men their riches. However, while money itself is not sinful, the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. People who set their hearts on getting more money may eventually try anything, sacrifice morals and compromise values to achieve their goal.
1. Read Deuteronomy 8:18. Who gives the ability to get money?
2. What is the root of all kinds of evil (I Timothy 6:10)?
2. Read 1 Timothy 6:9. What happens to those whose goal in life is to accumulate wealth? What type of harmful and foolish desires can you think of that would tempt someone who loves money?
FAITH STEP: Looking at loving God or loving money, how do you know which is number 1 in your life? Make of list of at least three attitudes that a person who loves money would have? Find three Scriptures that talk about those attitudes. What do you learn? Pray asking God to delver you from those attitudes?
TUESDAY: FINDING CONTENTMENT
1. Look up the definition of “contentment”. What does it mean?
2. Hebrews 13:5-7. With what are we to be content? What to promises from God are found in this passage that should help us be content?
3. Read Philippians 4:10-13. What has Paul learned to be in spite of his circumstances? What do you think his secret is? (4:13)
FAITH STEP: Paul said he “learned” the secret of contentment. That means we too can learn to find contentment in any and every situation. How can the promises of God’s presence (Hebrews 13: 5), God’s provision (Hebrews13:6) and God’s power (Philippians 4:13) help you be content in life? Philippians 4:13 is often a verse taken out of context. Paul is not saying that God will allow me to do whatever I want in any and every situation. Of course God’s power can do that but there are things God does not intend to do (for example he did not remove Paul’s “thorn in the flesh”- 2 Corinthians 12:7-9). What Paul is saying that he has learned that he can endure every situation by depending on the strength provided by Christ. This week work on memorizing Philippians 4:13 and Hebrews 13:5.
WEDNESDAY: THE DANGER OF WEALTH
1. God does not condemn wealth, but he does warn of its dangers. Read Mark 10:17-31. Notice the man asked “what must I DO to inherit eternal life” (verse 17)? Who was he depending on for his salvation? How does that contrast to the attitude Jesus says we must have in Mark 10:15?
2. Why do you think Jesus told him to sell all he had and give it to the poor? Why do you think the man could not do what Jesus asked?
3. Mark 10:23-26 says it is very hard for the rich to be saved. According to 10:27 we can be saved only because of the work of God – not because of our worthiness.
FAITH STEP: You have probably read something similar to this before. While it may not be completely totally accurate it does illustrate a reality. The poorest of Americans are among the riches people in the world. “If we scaled down the world’s population so that we can see it as a global village of 100 people, it would break down like this. Of those 100 people, 70 would be unable to read and only one would have a college education. 50 would be suffering from malnutrition and over 80 would be living in substandard housing. Six of the villagers would be Americans and those six would possess half of the village's entire income. The rest of the 94 would exist on the other half. All 100 would need a Savior.” With the above information in mind, how does Mark 10:17-31 relate to me. Is there a possession that could keep me from inheriting eternal life?
THURSDAY: HOW GOD WANTS ME TO USE MONEY
1. Read I Timothy 6:17-19. List three examples from the news or your own experience that shows that wealth is uncertain. Why does God provide us what we need? What does he want us to be rich in? What does he want us to be willing to do?
2. Read Matthew 6:19-21. How does one store up treasures in heaven? What does the way you use your money show about where your heart is?
3. Read 2 Corinthians 9:11. Why does God bless us?
FAITH STEP: Read I John 3:16-17. Who can you think of that could benefit from your generosity? What are you going to do about this week?
FRIDAY: GIVING TO GOD
1. Read I Corinthians 16:1-2. On which day does God want me to give to His church? On which week?
2. Read 2 Corinthians 9:6-7. What promise does God make? What type of giver does God love?
3. Reading Malachi 3:10, Leviticus 27:30. What did God expect his people to give in the Old Testament? What is a “tithe? What do you think God expect His people to give today?
FAITH STEP: When is the last time you and your household prayerfully discussed how much you should give? Read 2 Corinthians 8:1-7. Write down three characteristics of the Macedonian’s giving. What impresses you about their attitude? As a family discuss and pray about your giving. This Sunday when you give focus on counting your blessings while “the basket is being past”. Make it a time of praise and thanksgiving.
SATURDAY: Look up the word “money” in your concordance. Find five verses and write them down. What lessons do you learn from each verse? Jot down at least five lessons learned. How can you apply these lessons to your life? Pray that God helps you be content with what you have, and that he will guide you as you use the money and possessions he blesses you for His glory.
MONDAY: LOVING MONEY
The Bible never suggests that it is a sin to be rich. In fact, some great men of faith have been among the wealthiest people of their day—men like Job, Abraham, David, and Solomon. It was God who gave these men their riches. However, while money itself is not sinful, the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. People who set their hearts on getting more money may eventually try anything, sacrifice morals and compromise values to achieve their goal.
1. Read Deuteronomy 8:18. Who gives the ability to get money?
2. What is the root of all kinds of evil (I Timothy 6:10)?
2. Read 1 Timothy 6:9. What happens to those whose goal in life is to accumulate wealth? What type of harmful and foolish desires can you think of that would tempt someone who loves money?
FAITH STEP: Looking at loving God or loving money, how do you know which is number 1 in your life? Make of list of at least three attitudes that a person who loves money would have? Find three Scriptures that talk about those attitudes. What do you learn? Pray asking God to delver you from those attitudes?
TUESDAY: FINDING CONTENTMENT
1. Look up the definition of “contentment”. What does it mean?
2. Hebrews 13:5-7. With what are we to be content? What to promises from God are found in this passage that should help us be content?
3. Read Philippians 4:10-13. What has Paul learned to be in spite of his circumstances? What do you think his secret is? (4:13)
FAITH STEP: Paul said he “learned” the secret of contentment. That means we too can learn to find contentment in any and every situation. How can the promises of God’s presence (Hebrews 13: 5), God’s provision (Hebrews13:6) and God’s power (Philippians 4:13) help you be content in life? Philippians 4:13 is often a verse taken out of context. Paul is not saying that God will allow me to do whatever I want in any and every situation. Of course God’s power can do that but there are things God does not intend to do (for example he did not remove Paul’s “thorn in the flesh”- 2 Corinthians 12:7-9). What Paul is saying that he has learned that he can endure every situation by depending on the strength provided by Christ. This week work on memorizing Philippians 4:13 and Hebrews 13:5.
WEDNESDAY: THE DANGER OF WEALTH
1. God does not condemn wealth, but he does warn of its dangers. Read Mark 10:17-31. Notice the man asked “what must I DO to inherit eternal life” (verse 17)? Who was he depending on for his salvation? How does that contrast to the attitude Jesus says we must have in Mark 10:15?
2. Why do you think Jesus told him to sell all he had and give it to the poor? Why do you think the man could not do what Jesus asked?
3. Mark 10:23-26 says it is very hard for the rich to be saved. According to 10:27 we can be saved only because of the work of God – not because of our worthiness.
FAITH STEP: You have probably read something similar to this before. While it may not be completely totally accurate it does illustrate a reality. The poorest of Americans are among the riches people in the world. “If we scaled down the world’s population so that we can see it as a global village of 100 people, it would break down like this. Of those 100 people, 70 would be unable to read and only one would have a college education. 50 would be suffering from malnutrition and over 80 would be living in substandard housing. Six of the villagers would be Americans and those six would possess half of the village's entire income. The rest of the 94 would exist on the other half. All 100 would need a Savior.” With the above information in mind, how does Mark 10:17-31 relate to me. Is there a possession that could keep me from inheriting eternal life?
THURSDAY: HOW GOD WANTS ME TO USE MONEY
1. Read I Timothy 6:17-19. List three examples from the news or your own experience that shows that wealth is uncertain. Why does God provide us what we need? What does he want us to be rich in? What does he want us to be willing to do?
2. Read Matthew 6:19-21. How does one store up treasures in heaven? What does the way you use your money show about where your heart is?
3. Read 2 Corinthians 9:11. Why does God bless us?
FAITH STEP: Read I John 3:16-17. Who can you think of that could benefit from your generosity? What are you going to do about this week?
FRIDAY: GIVING TO GOD
1. Read I Corinthians 16:1-2. On which day does God want me to give to His church? On which week?
2. Read 2 Corinthians 9:6-7. What promise does God make? What type of giver does God love?
3. Reading Malachi 3:10, Leviticus 27:30. What did God expect his people to give in the Old Testament? What is a “tithe? What do you think God expect His people to give today?
FAITH STEP: When is the last time you and your household prayerfully discussed how much you should give? Read 2 Corinthians 8:1-7. Write down three characteristics of the Macedonian’s giving. What impresses you about their attitude? As a family discuss and pray about your giving. This Sunday when you give focus on counting your blessings while “the basket is being past”. Make it a time of praise and thanksgiving.
SATURDAY: Look up the word “money” in your concordance. Find five verses and write them down. What lessons do you learn from each verse? Jot down at least five lessons learned. How can you apply these lessons to your life? Pray that God helps you be content with what you have, and that he will guide you as you use the money and possessions he blesses you for His glory.
Friday, October 12, 2007
BUILDING FAITH IN FAMILIES
This past Sunday we looked at the importance of establishing healthy family traditions. In this week’s study we will visit the home of Timothy to see how his family passed down a tradition of faith.
MONDAY: BUILDING A TRADITION OF FAITH
Timothy was a young preacher that was probably converted during Paul’s first missionary journey. Later the young man traveled with Paul and was sent to Ephesus to help the church deal with some heresy being taught. The books of 1 and 2 Timothy are letters written by Paul to his young protégé advising him on how to deal with being an evangelist. Let’s see what we can learn about his family.
1. Read Acts 16:1. What do we learn about Timothy’s mother? His father? 2. Read 2 Timothy 1:1-7. Who were Eunice and Lois? How does Paul describe their faith?
3. Paul said that their faith “lived in them”? What does it mean when someone’s faith “lives in them”?
4. Look at 2 Timothy 1:8. Why did Paul remind Timothy of the faith of his mother and grandmother?
FAITH STEP: How would your family/friends describe your faith? In what areas can they see your faith living in you? In what areas of your life do you need to show more faith? Make a list and ask God to help you be more faithful in those areas.
TUESDAY: PASSING YOUR FAITH ALONG: RELATIONSHIPS
1. The faith that lived in Lois and Eunice now lived in Timothy (2 Timothy 1:5). Look at the following verses and write down what evidence you find that shows Timothy had “caught” the faith passed down to him by his mother and grandmother . (Hebrews 13:23, Acts 17:13-15, 2 Timothy 4:14-15)
2. Read 2 Timothy 3:14-15. There are two factors that are key in building a tradition of faith. One factor is relationships (“…because you know those from whom you learned it…”) Not only did Lois and Eunice have a close relationship with Timothy, but they made sure that Timothy had relationships with other faithful Christians (like Paul).
3. In 2 Timothy 3:10-11 there are nine things listed that Timothy knew about from his relationship with Paul. Can you list them? How do you think witnessing these things in Paul’s life helped build Timothy’s faith? 4. What do you think Timothy learned from Paul about purpose? Faith? Patience? Love? The Lord?
FAITH STEP: Making sure your family has relationships with strong Christians is essential in building a tradition of faith. Do the friends your family “hangs around with” build your family’s faith? Make plans this week to spend some time with friends that will allow your children to see Christian faithfulness in action.
WEDNESDAY: PASSING YOUR FAITH ALONG: THE WORD
1. Return to 2 Timothy 3:14:15. The second key to passing faith along is found in verse 15. What was Timothy taught from infancy? What did teaching these make Timothy?
2. According to 2 Timothy 3:16. Where does Scripture come from? Why is it useful?
3. What is the result of the proper use of Scripture (3:17)? Is that a goal you have for every member of your family?
FAITH STEP: Timothy was taught Scripture from infancy but it is never too late to start teaching your family. What can you do in your household to help its members know the Holy Scripture? Try putting a list of 10-12 memory verses on the wall. As a family take a few minutes each day to work on memorizing a verse. When a member memorizes a verse, place a star by their name and have a family celebration. Set of goal of having all the verses memorized by a certain date. Make it fun! IF this doesn’t work think of something else. Be creative!
THURSDAY: IT TAKES THEM BOTH!
In 2 Timothy 3:14-15 we learned in order pass on a tradition of faith in our homes we need to have relationships with faith-building people AND Bile teaching. One without the other will not be effective. Teaching Scripture but having a teacher who does not live Scripture leads to resentment and cynicism. Living a “good life” but not properly teaching the Word of God leads to people missing the good news of Jesus. Building a tradition of faith takes both.
1. What does Paul tell Timothy to watch (1 Timothy 4:16)?
What is “doctrine”? According to the last part of 2 Timothy 2:15, how can one watch their doctrine?
2. 1 Timothy 4:12 gives tells us we can watch our life by being an example. In what 5 ways was Timothy told to be an example?
3. Paul tells Timothy to persevere in watching theses two areas (1 Timothy 4:16). Who will be saved by Timothy’s watchfulness?
FAITH STEP: Of the two areas mentioned, which do you need to be more watchful of? Look at I Timothy 4:12. Using a rating scale with one being “poor” and ten being “perfect”, rate your example when it comes to your speech. What about your lifestyle? The way you love? Your faith? Your purity? In what areas do you need to improve? How has your example helped in building faith in your family? How has it hurt?
FRIDAY: Refer back to Acts 16:1-2. We learn that Timothy’s father was a Greek (implying he was not a believer). We also can assume that he was not a practicing Jew because Timothy had never been circumcised, as required by Jewish law. The verb tense of “was” in referring to the father may imply that he was dead. Whatever the case Timothy did not have the positive religious influence of a father. I want us to look at some other folks who had to overcome one or more unbelieving parents to find a relationship with God.
1. Read 2 Kings 16:1-4. What sins did Ahaz commit as king? Now turn to 2 Kings 18:1-8. List three characteristics that describe the reign of Ahaz’s son Hezekiah?
2. Read 2 Kings 21:19-26. What sins characterized the reign of Amon? Read 2 Kings 22:1-2. What virtues characterized the reign of Amon’s son, Josiah?
3. Even if you came from a home that did not have a tradition of faithfulness to God, you can break the cycle and begin again just like Hezekiah and Josiah did. Begin by finding a Bible believing church and becoming a student of the word.
FAITH STEP: If you are a seeker e-mail for more info on how to become a child of God. If you are a child of God find someone this week who desires to find faith, pray for them and invite them to church or LIFE group.
SATURDAY: Revisit the life of Timothy by reading the letters that Paul wrote to him. (I and II Timothy) After each chapter write down one lesson you learned. You may be able to find something by asking after each chapter: Did I discover a sin I need to confess? A blessing I should praise God for? A command I should obey? An attitude I should change? There are a total of ten chapters in each book so there should be ten items listed when I am done. Spend a few minutes talking to God about each item.
MONDAY: BUILDING A TRADITION OF FAITH
Timothy was a young preacher that was probably converted during Paul’s first missionary journey. Later the young man traveled with Paul and was sent to Ephesus to help the church deal with some heresy being taught. The books of 1 and 2 Timothy are letters written by Paul to his young protégé advising him on how to deal with being an evangelist. Let’s see what we can learn about his family.
1. Read Acts 16:1. What do we learn about Timothy’s mother? His father? 2. Read 2 Timothy 1:1-7. Who were Eunice and Lois? How does Paul describe their faith?
3. Paul said that their faith “lived in them”? What does it mean when someone’s faith “lives in them”?
4. Look at 2 Timothy 1:8. Why did Paul remind Timothy of the faith of his mother and grandmother?
FAITH STEP: How would your family/friends describe your faith? In what areas can they see your faith living in you? In what areas of your life do you need to show more faith? Make a list and ask God to help you be more faithful in those areas.
TUESDAY: PASSING YOUR FAITH ALONG: RELATIONSHIPS
1. The faith that lived in Lois and Eunice now lived in Timothy (2 Timothy 1:5). Look at the following verses and write down what evidence you find that shows Timothy had “caught” the faith passed down to him by his mother and grandmother . (Hebrews 13:23, Acts 17:13-15, 2 Timothy 4:14-15)
2. Read 2 Timothy 3:14-15. There are two factors that are key in building a tradition of faith. One factor is relationships (“…because you know those from whom you learned it…”) Not only did Lois and Eunice have a close relationship with Timothy, but they made sure that Timothy had relationships with other faithful Christians (like Paul).
3. In 2 Timothy 3:10-11 there are nine things listed that Timothy knew about from his relationship with Paul. Can you list them? How do you think witnessing these things in Paul’s life helped build Timothy’s faith? 4. What do you think Timothy learned from Paul about purpose? Faith? Patience? Love? The Lord?
FAITH STEP: Making sure your family has relationships with strong Christians is essential in building a tradition of faith. Do the friends your family “hangs around with” build your family’s faith? Make plans this week to spend some time with friends that will allow your children to see Christian faithfulness in action.
WEDNESDAY: PASSING YOUR FAITH ALONG: THE WORD
1. Return to 2 Timothy 3:14:15. The second key to passing faith along is found in verse 15. What was Timothy taught from infancy? What did teaching these make Timothy?
2. According to 2 Timothy 3:16. Where does Scripture come from? Why is it useful?
3. What is the result of the proper use of Scripture (3:17)? Is that a goal you have for every member of your family?
FAITH STEP: Timothy was taught Scripture from infancy but it is never too late to start teaching your family. What can you do in your household to help its members know the Holy Scripture? Try putting a list of 10-12 memory verses on the wall. As a family take a few minutes each day to work on memorizing a verse. When a member memorizes a verse, place a star by their name and have a family celebration. Set of goal of having all the verses memorized by a certain date. Make it fun! IF this doesn’t work think of something else. Be creative!
THURSDAY: IT TAKES THEM BOTH!
In 2 Timothy 3:14-15 we learned in order pass on a tradition of faith in our homes we need to have relationships with faith-building people AND Bile teaching. One without the other will not be effective. Teaching Scripture but having a teacher who does not live Scripture leads to resentment and cynicism. Living a “good life” but not properly teaching the Word of God leads to people missing the good news of Jesus. Building a tradition of faith takes both.
1. What does Paul tell Timothy to watch (1 Timothy 4:16)?
What is “doctrine”? According to the last part of 2 Timothy 2:15, how can one watch their doctrine?
2. 1 Timothy 4:12 gives tells us we can watch our life by being an example. In what 5 ways was Timothy told to be an example?
3. Paul tells Timothy to persevere in watching theses two areas (1 Timothy 4:16). Who will be saved by Timothy’s watchfulness?
FAITH STEP: Of the two areas mentioned, which do you need to be more watchful of? Look at I Timothy 4:12. Using a rating scale with one being “poor” and ten being “perfect”, rate your example when it comes to your speech. What about your lifestyle? The way you love? Your faith? Your purity? In what areas do you need to improve? How has your example helped in building faith in your family? How has it hurt?
FRIDAY: Refer back to Acts 16:1-2. We learn that Timothy’s father was a Greek (implying he was not a believer). We also can assume that he was not a practicing Jew because Timothy had never been circumcised, as required by Jewish law. The verb tense of “was” in referring to the father may imply that he was dead. Whatever the case Timothy did not have the positive religious influence of a father. I want us to look at some other folks who had to overcome one or more unbelieving parents to find a relationship with God.
1. Read 2 Kings 16:1-4. What sins did Ahaz commit as king? Now turn to 2 Kings 18:1-8. List three characteristics that describe the reign of Ahaz’s son Hezekiah?
2. Read 2 Kings 21:19-26. What sins characterized the reign of Amon? Read 2 Kings 22:1-2. What virtues characterized the reign of Amon’s son, Josiah?
3. Even if you came from a home that did not have a tradition of faithfulness to God, you can break the cycle and begin again just like Hezekiah and Josiah did. Begin by finding a Bible believing church and becoming a student of the word.
FAITH STEP: If you are a seeker e-mail for more info on how to become a child of God. If you are a child of God find someone this week who desires to find faith, pray for them and invite them to church or LIFE group.
SATURDAY: Revisit the life of Timothy by reading the letters that Paul wrote to him. (I and II Timothy) After each chapter write down one lesson you learned. You may be able to find something by asking after each chapter: Did I discover a sin I need to confess? A blessing I should praise God for? A command I should obey? An attitude I should change? There are a total of ten chapters in each book so there should be ten items listed when I am done. Spend a few minutes talking to God about each item.
Friday, October 5, 2007
CONFLICT IN RELATIONSHIPS
This past Sunday in our series on blending families we dealt with the subject of handling conflict. One point made is that we should discover that potential causes of conflict before hand in order to as Barney Fife would say, “nip it in the bud”. This week we will look at some cause of relationship conflicts and how we can handle them.
MONDAY: GREED
1. Read Genesis 25:19-34. Who was partial to Jacob? Esau?
2. For what does Esau trade his birthright? In Old Testament times the birthright dealt with the material inheritance from the parents. The inheritance was divided into the number of sons plus one, with the oldest son getting the double share. By virtue of being the oldest twin Esau would receive the double inheritance. However, we see here that he trades away his birthright).
3. What sin do you think motivated Jacob to force Esau to trade away his birthright? What sin motivated Esau to give up his birthright so foolishly? Who do you think was more in the wrong?
FAITH STEP: In what areas of your life have you allowed greed to hurt your relationships? Esau “despised” or did not value his birthright. Are their some blessings God has given you that you have not valued? Are their blessings from God that you are forfeiting in order to get some temporary pleasure in the present at the expense of losing future blessings? Ask God to help you to never give up future blessings for present temporary satisfaction.
TUESDAY: SHOWING PARTIALITY
1. Read Genesis 27:1-42. (Blessings pronounced by the head of the family were considered binding in Patriarchal times. In this passage an aged Isaac seeks to put his in order by giving his blessing to Esau. ) Remembering Genesis 25:28 – Who was Rebekah’s favorite? Isaac’s favorite?
2. Who “cooks up” the plot so Jacob can steal Esau blessing?
3. What resulted from the parents’ partiality (See verses 41-45)?
FAITH STEP: In what relationships (at work, school, home or church) have you felt overlooked or favored? Are their relationships where you have been guilty of showing partiality? Read Genesis 32:1-21 and 33:1-20 and see how Jacob and Esau's relationship worked out. Are there some grudges, resentment you need to put behind you? Who is it you need to meet this week and patch up a relationship?
WEDNESDAY: OVER INDULGENCE
1. Eli had two sons, Hophni and Phinehas. What sins were they guilty of committing (I Samuel 2:12-17, 22)?
2. Read I Samuel 3:11-14. Why is the Lord angry with Eli? Why do you think Eli did not deal with his children’s sinful lifestyle? Read I Samuel 4:1-11 to see what eventually happened to Eli’s sons.
FAITH STEP: How can over indulging someone in a relationship harm that person instead of helping them? How does it harm your relationship with that person? When God convicts you of some sin or failure how do you react? Like Eli or like Samuel (See I Samuel 3:1-21)? What relationship do you need to make changes because over indulgence is hurting the person you love?
THURSDAY: JEALOUSY
1. In Genesis 37:1-4 we see another case of parental partiality. Who was the father guilty of the partiality? Why is this ironic (See Monday’s lesson)? What was the result of the partiality?
2. Did the brothers have a right to hate Joseph? Be jealous? What did their hatred and jealousy lead them to do (Genesis 37:12-36) – How many sins did you identify? What does this teach you about jealousy?
3. Jealousy is powerful. It allows the person you are jealous to control your emotions – you are giving them the power to control your life. Read the following Scriptures and write down how jealousy can affect relationships: Proverbs 6:34, I Corinthians 3:3, James 3:16.
FAITH STEP: Jealousy can destroy relationships. We can’t change the circumstances or deny our feelings, so we must overcome jealousy by changing your point of view. Read the following verses and see what we can do to help us over come envy? Galatians 6:4, Philippians 4:11, Romans 12:15, Colossians 3:2, Proverbs 23:17-19. Spend time in prayer asking God to help you overcome jealousy. Make a list of 10 blessings you have form God and spend time in praise thanking him for what you do have. Finish this sentence. “When I get to heaven the firs thing I am going to do is _____________. The right focus will help us overcome envy.
FRIDAY: UNRESOLVED ANGER
Anger is usually a symptom of a deeper problem. It is like a warning light on our car that should not be ignored but dealt with in order to help us live a better life. Anger is usually rooted in one of three causes: fear, frustrations or hurt.
1. What fears do you have in your relationships that may make you react in anger? Afraid people are not telling you the truth? Afraid you may lose something or someone?
2. What frustrations do you have that may cause anger? Do you feel unappreciated? Taken for granted at work or home? That no one cares?
3. What hurts are you carrying that may cause anger? Have you been rejected by someone? Mistreated? Abused? Finding the root cause of our anger is the beginning of learning to deal with it.
4. Read Ephesians 4:26-27. When should we deal with anger? How can unresolved anger give the devil a foothold?
5. Read the following verses and write down what you learn about how to deal with anger. James 1:19, Ephesians 4:29, Proverbs 13:10, Ephesians 4:15
FAITH STEP: Write down the fears, frustrations or hurts that is the root of your anger. In a non accusatory, non threatening way can you share these feelings with the person(s) who is the recipient of your anger? If you feel you cannot do that share your thoughts with a fellow Christian and have them pray with you about your anger.
SATURDAY: RELATIONSHIP ADVICE FROM GOD
Below are just a few commands from God. After reading each one answer the question – “How does this apply to my relationships with my family (children spouse, ex, in-laws etc.)? Co-workers/Classmates? Church family?
Colossians 3:13 (Conflict resolution)
Colossians 3:10-13 (Communications)
Philippians 2:3-4 (Decision making)
MONDAY: GREED
1. Read Genesis 25:19-34. Who was partial to Jacob? Esau?
2. For what does Esau trade his birthright? In Old Testament times the birthright dealt with the material inheritance from the parents. The inheritance was divided into the number of sons plus one, with the oldest son getting the double share. By virtue of being the oldest twin Esau would receive the double inheritance. However, we see here that he trades away his birthright).
3. What sin do you think motivated Jacob to force Esau to trade away his birthright? What sin motivated Esau to give up his birthright so foolishly? Who do you think was more in the wrong?
FAITH STEP: In what areas of your life have you allowed greed to hurt your relationships? Esau “despised” or did not value his birthright. Are their some blessings God has given you that you have not valued? Are their blessings from God that you are forfeiting in order to get some temporary pleasure in the present at the expense of losing future blessings? Ask God to help you to never give up future blessings for present temporary satisfaction.
TUESDAY: SHOWING PARTIALITY
1. Read Genesis 27:1-42. (Blessings pronounced by the head of the family were considered binding in Patriarchal times. In this passage an aged Isaac seeks to put his in order by giving his blessing to Esau. ) Remembering Genesis 25:28 – Who was Rebekah’s favorite? Isaac’s favorite?
2. Who “cooks up” the plot so Jacob can steal Esau blessing?
3. What resulted from the parents’ partiality (See verses 41-45)?
FAITH STEP: In what relationships (at work, school, home or church) have you felt overlooked or favored? Are their relationships where you have been guilty of showing partiality? Read Genesis 32:1-21 and 33:1-20 and see how Jacob and Esau's relationship worked out. Are there some grudges, resentment you need to put behind you? Who is it you need to meet this week and patch up a relationship?
WEDNESDAY: OVER INDULGENCE
1. Eli had two sons, Hophni and Phinehas. What sins were they guilty of committing (I Samuel 2:12-17, 22)?
2. Read I Samuel 3:11-14. Why is the Lord angry with Eli? Why do you think Eli did not deal with his children’s sinful lifestyle? Read I Samuel 4:1-11 to see what eventually happened to Eli’s sons.
FAITH STEP: How can over indulging someone in a relationship harm that person instead of helping them? How does it harm your relationship with that person? When God convicts you of some sin or failure how do you react? Like Eli or like Samuel (See I Samuel 3:1-21)? What relationship do you need to make changes because over indulgence is hurting the person you love?
THURSDAY: JEALOUSY
1. In Genesis 37:1-4 we see another case of parental partiality. Who was the father guilty of the partiality? Why is this ironic (See Monday’s lesson)? What was the result of the partiality?
2. Did the brothers have a right to hate Joseph? Be jealous? What did their hatred and jealousy lead them to do (Genesis 37:12-36) – How many sins did you identify? What does this teach you about jealousy?
3. Jealousy is powerful. It allows the person you are jealous to control your emotions – you are giving them the power to control your life. Read the following Scriptures and write down how jealousy can affect relationships: Proverbs 6:34, I Corinthians 3:3, James 3:16.
FAITH STEP: Jealousy can destroy relationships. We can’t change the circumstances or deny our feelings, so we must overcome jealousy by changing your point of view. Read the following verses and see what we can do to help us over come envy? Galatians 6:4, Philippians 4:11, Romans 12:15, Colossians 3:2, Proverbs 23:17-19. Spend time in prayer asking God to help you overcome jealousy. Make a list of 10 blessings you have form God and spend time in praise thanking him for what you do have. Finish this sentence. “When I get to heaven the firs thing I am going to do is _____________. The right focus will help us overcome envy.
FRIDAY: UNRESOLVED ANGER
Anger is usually a symptom of a deeper problem. It is like a warning light on our car that should not be ignored but dealt with in order to help us live a better life. Anger is usually rooted in one of three causes: fear, frustrations or hurt.
1. What fears do you have in your relationships that may make you react in anger? Afraid people are not telling you the truth? Afraid you may lose something or someone?
2. What frustrations do you have that may cause anger? Do you feel unappreciated? Taken for granted at work or home? That no one cares?
3. What hurts are you carrying that may cause anger? Have you been rejected by someone? Mistreated? Abused? Finding the root cause of our anger is the beginning of learning to deal with it.
4. Read Ephesians 4:26-27. When should we deal with anger? How can unresolved anger give the devil a foothold?
5. Read the following verses and write down what you learn about how to deal with anger. James 1:19, Ephesians 4:29, Proverbs 13:10, Ephesians 4:15
FAITH STEP: Write down the fears, frustrations or hurts that is the root of your anger. In a non accusatory, non threatening way can you share these feelings with the person(s) who is the recipient of your anger? If you feel you cannot do that share your thoughts with a fellow Christian and have them pray with you about your anger.
SATURDAY: RELATIONSHIP ADVICE FROM GOD
Below are just a few commands from God. After reading each one answer the question – “How does this apply to my relationships with my family (children spouse, ex, in-laws etc.)? Co-workers/Classmates? Church family?
Colossians 3:13 (Conflict resolution)
Colossians 3:10-13 (Communications)
Philippians 2:3-4 (Decision making)
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