Bloom Church Podcast

Book Of James - Week 2

Judgement is when you assume to know why someone does what they do.

And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39

EVERY PERSON IS LOVED, VALUED AND SEEN BY GOD. - James says

Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” But if you favor some people over others, you are committing a sin. You are guilty of breaking the law. For the person who keeps all of the laws except one is as guilty as a person who has broken all of God’s laws. For the same God who said, “You must not commit adultery,” also said, “You must not murder.” So if you murder someone but do not commit adultery, you have still broken the law. So whatever you say or whatever you do, remember that you will be judged by the law that sets you free. There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others. But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you. James 2:8-13

4 WAYS TO OVERCOME JUDGING OTHERS

WE MUST VALUE PEOPLE

Philippians says

Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Philippians 2:3

SEEING VALUE IN PEOPLE IS NOT ABOUT THEIR VALUE TO YOU, BUT THEIR VALUE TO GOD.

WE MUST ACCEPT PEOPLE - Matther says

When Jesus heard this, he said, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do.” Matthew 9:12

Acceptance is not approval—it’s the starting place for love-filled relationship.

Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8

WE MUST FORGIVE PEOPLE

Forgiveness is not minimizing the hurt you feel. Forgiveness is not making excuses for what happened. Forgiveness is not saying the offense wasn’t wrong. Un-forgiveness locks you out of what God wants to do in your life.

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” - Matthew 6:14-15

Here is the simple truth

UN-FORGIVENESS WILL HARBOR RESENTMENT AND THAT WILL TURN INTO BITTERNESS

Job says Surely resentment destroys the fool - Job 5:2

Hebrews also says Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many - Hebrews 12:15

Roots absorb. Roots store. And Roots grow.

It spills over. It poisons relationships.

It impacts your marriage.
It strains relationships with your kids, your family, your friends.
It shows up in how you talk, how you react, how you see others.

Suddenly, the fruit of bitterness starts to grow in your life:

You start seeing the worst in people.
You justify gossip and criticism.
You secretly feel good when others fail.
You tear others down to make yourself feel better.

UN-FORGIVENESS, BITTERNESS, RESENTMENT HAS NO AUTHORITY IN MY LIFE..

“Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34

WE MUST PURSUE RELATIONSHIPS

Isolation creates the perfect conditions for judgment to grow.

Relationships only thrive when you're more focused on what you're giving than what you're getting.

“Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn others, or it will all come back against you. Forgive others, and you will be forgiven. Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.” Luke 6:37-38

People are shaped by the way we choose to see and serve them.

4 Questions to Ask Before You Judge Someone

How does Jesus view this person? - James says

"He chose to give birth to us by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his prized possession." – James 1:18

Can Jesus restore anyone? - 2 Corinthians says

"This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is

Is Jesus’ forgiveness available for all? - 1 John says

"But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness." – 1 John 1:9

Am I pursuing life-giving relationships? - Ecclesiastes says

"Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

“If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9 (NLT) (NO SLIDE)

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And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:1-2 NLT

HOME PLATE: CONNECT WITH GOD (WIN DEPENDENCE)

FIRST BASE: CHARACTER (WIN WITHIN)

SECOND BASE: COMMUNITY (WIN WITH OTHERS)

THIRD BASE: COMPETENCE (WIN RESULTS)

Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked; your feet from following evil. Proverbs 4:25-27 NLT

"What counts on the last day of your life is what you should count every day of your life."

“Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. Matthew 6:19-21 NLT

KNOW WHAT REALLY MATTERS

'Then he said, “Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own.” Then he told them a story: “A rich man had a fertile farm that produced fine crops. He said to himself, ‘What should I do? I don’t have room for all my crops.’ Then he said, ‘I know! I’ll tear down my barns and build bigger ones. Then I’ll have room enough to store all my wheat and other goods. And I’ll sit back and say to myself, “My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!”’ “But God said to him, ‘You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?’ “Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God.” Luke 12:15-21 NLT

GOD IS GREAT; WE’RE NOT

Remember the things I have done in the past. For I alone am God! I am God, and there is none like me. Only I can tell you the future before it even happens. Everything I plan will come to pass, for I do whatever I wish. Isaiah 46:9-10 NLT

'Who is able to advise the Spirit of the Lord? Who knows enough to give him advice or teach him? Has the Lord ever needed anyone’s advice? Does he need instruction about what is good? Did someone teach him what is right or show him the path of justice? Isaiah 40:13-14 NLT

STUFF IS TEMPORARY; SOULS ARE ETERNAL

'But the day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief. Then the heavens will pass away with a terrible noise, and the very elements themselves will disappear in fire, and the earth and everything on it will be found to deserve judgment. 2 Peter 3:10 NLT

“I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ.” Mahatma Gandhi

STRIVE TO EARN THE MOST IMPORTANT RELATIONAL COMMODITY: TRUST

TRUST MEANS YOU KEEP YOUR WORD!

'The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth. Proverbs 12:22 NLT

TRUST MEANS LOYALTY!

A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need. Proverbs 17:17 NLT

TRUST MEANS INTEGRITY!

'The godly walk with integrity; blessed are their children who follow them. Proverbs 20:7 NLT

TRUST MEANS DISCRETION.

A gossip goes around telling secrets, but those who are trustworthy can keep a confidence. Proverbs 11:13 NLT

ALIGN YOUR CALENDAR

'Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom. Psalms 90:12 NLT

DON’T LET BITTERNESS THROW YOU OUT

Surely resentment destroys the fool. Job 5:2 NLT

Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many. Hebrews 12:15 NLT

FORGIVENESS IS NOT…

MINIMIZING THE HURT YOU FEEL

MAKING EXCUSES FOR WHAT HAS HAPPENED

SAYING THAT THE OFFENSE WAS NOT WRONG

INSTANT RESTORATION OF TRUST.

CONTINUING THE RELATIONSHIP WITHOUT CHANGES.

I WILL FORGIVE BECAUSE I NEED FORGIVENESS

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EVERY CHOICE WE MAKE HAS A SPIRITUAL IMPLICATION ON OUR LIVES.

EVERY DECISION WE MAKE IS EITHER DRAWING US CLOSER TO JESUS OR PULLING US FURTHER FROM HIM.

6 TACTICS OF THE ENEMY:

DESTRUCTION – THE ENEMY SEEKS TO DESTROY LIVES THROUGH SIN, ADDICTION, FEAR, AND HOPELESSNESS.

OVERCOMING IT: PRACTICE A HEART OF GRATITUDE

PRACTICAL STEP: CREATE A GRATITUDE JOURNAL TO WRITE 1-3 THINGS YOU'RE THANKFUL FOR EACH DAY. START EVERY PRAYER WITH THANKS TO GOD.

EACH OPPORTUNITY PROVIDES US WITH A CHANCE TO TRUST IN GOD.

DISTRACTION: THE ENEMY USES BUSYNESS, ENTERTAINMENT, AND WORRIES TO PULL OUR FOCUS AWAY FROM GOD.

OVERCOMING IT: PRIORITIZE GOD’S KINGDOM FIRST

PRACTICAL STEP: SET BOUNDARIES WITH YOUR TECHNOLOGY, USE THE DO NOT DISTURB. GO OLD SCHOOL AND JUST USE A PHYSICAL BIBLE SO YOUR PHONE CAN’T DISTRACT. GET ACCOUNTABILITY, TO KEEP YOU FROM INAPPROPRIATE CONTENT, DO BIBLE STUDIES WITH FRIENDS.
DECEPTION: THE ENEMY DISTORTS TRUTH, LEADING PEOPLE INTO FALSE BELIEFS AND SIN DISGUISED AS "GOOD."

“SATAN LOVES TO KEEP US DOING SOMETHING GOOD, SO WE CAN AVOID DOING THE THING THAT’S THE BEST.”

OVERCOMING IT: KNOW AND STAND ON THE WORD OF GOD

PRACTICAL STEP: JOURNAL YOUR THOUGHTS FOR ONE DAY AND THEN MATCH THEM TO THE WORD OF GOD. YOU CAN EVEN SPLIT THEM BETWEEN NEGATIVE AND POSITIVE THOUGHTS.
DISUNITY: THE ENEMY SOWS DISCORD IN FAMILIES, CHURCHES, AND RELATIONSHIPS TO WEAKEN THE BODY OF CHRIST.

OVERCOMING IT: PURSUE PEACE AND RECONCILIATION

PRACTICAL STEP: CHOOSE FORGIVENESS OVER OFFENSE (COLOSSIANS 3:13). ENGAGE IN OPEN, LOVING COMMUNICATION. PRAY FOR UNITY IN YOUR HOME AND CHURCH. REJECT GOSSIP AND DIVISION. BE QUICK TO RESOLVE CONFLICTS IN A CHRISTLIKE WAY (MATTHEW 18:15-17).
DESENSITIZATION: THE ENEMY NORMALIZES SIN, MAKING US NUMB TO ITS DANGERS AND THE CONVICTION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.

OVERCOMING IT: GUARD YOUR HEART AND MIND

PRACTICAL STEP: BE MINDFUL OF WHAT YOU WATCH, LISTEN TO, AND ENGAGE WITH. SET BOUNDARIES ON MEDIA AND INFLUENCES THAT PROMOTE SIN. CONFESS AND REPENT REGULARLY TO KEEP YOUR HEART SENSITIVE TO GOD’S SPIRIT.

WHAT YOU FEED GROWS(MEANING YOU ARE ENSLAVED TO IT) SO CHOOSE YOUR CONTENT WISELY.

DECONSTRUCTION: THE ENEMY ATTACKS FAITH BY PLANTING DOUBT ABOUT GOD’S WORD, LEADING MANY TO REJECT BIBLICAL TRUTH.

29% OF EVANGELICAL CHRISTIANS DON’T BELIEVE IN A LITERAL HELL, AND 12% AREN’T SURE.

OVERCOMING IT: BUILD A FIRM FOUNDATION IN CHRIST

PRACTICAL STEP: STUDY AND DEEPEN YOUR UNDERSTANDING OF SCRIPTURE, LIKE SIGNING UP FOR BLI. ASK QUESTIONS AND SEEK BIBLICAL ANSWERS INSTEAD OF TURNING TO WORLDLY PERSPECTIVES. SURROUND YOURSELF WITH WISE, MATURE BELIEVERS WHO STRENGTHEN YOUR FAITH.

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This message is part of a series called "Seeds: Tomorrow Starts Today". This series uses the biblical metaphor of seeds to help us uncover how to understand the concept of potential and spiritual growth.

This week's message breaks down the process we go through to experience true growth. Growth requires intentionally planting the seed (our thoughts, beliefs, and actions) into rich soil (representing the condition of our hearts and environments). Ultimately, small acts of obedience lead to exponential growth and God's transformation in our lives.

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We are launching a new sermon series called Seeds: Tomorrow Starts Today. This series uses the biblical metaphor of seeds to help us uncover how to understand the concept of potential and growth. This message emphasizes that realizing our potential requires understanding that growth takes time, patience, and the right environment. We encourage you today to focus on your daily choices, nurture your spiritual life, and trust in God's timing to bear fruit as you achieve your full potential. Join us on Sundays at 11 am (CST) online. Visit Bloomhere.org/sermons for more messages like this one!

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My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. John 10:27 NLT

HOW TO PARTICIPATE:

ATTEND WEEKEND SERVICES.
READ ALONG IN THE GUIDE EACH WEEK.
DISCUSS IN YOUR LIFE GROUP.

THE BETTER YOU KNOW GOD, THE BETTER YOU HEAR GOD.

THE BIBLE IS WRITTEN FOR US, NOT TO US.

You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. 2 Timothy 3:15-17 NLT

And remember, our Lord’s patience gives people time to be saved. This is what our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you with the wisdom God gave him— speaking of these things in all of his letters. Some of his comments are hard to understand, and those who are ignorant and unstable have twisted his letters to mean something quite different, just as they do with other parts of Scripture… 2 Peter 3:15-16 NLT

For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 NLT

THE BIBLE IS A LIBRARY, NOT A BOOK.

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 2 Timothy 3:16 NLT

THE ACCURACY OF THE BIBLE IS BEYOND COMPREHENSION.

AUTHOR WRITTEN EARLIEST COPY TIMELINE # of MANUSCRIPTS

Caesar 100-44 B.C. 900 A.D. 1,000 yrs 10

Plato 427-347 B.C. 900 A.D. 1200 yrs 7

Thucydides 460-400 B.C. 900 A.D. 1300 yrs 8

Tacitus 100 A.D. 1100 A.D. 1000 yrs 20

Suetonius 75-16 A.D. 950 A.D. 800 yrs 8

Homer (Iliad) 900 B.C. 400 A.D. 500 yrs 643

New Testament 40-100 A.D. 125 A.D. 25-50 yrs 24,000

THE WAY THE BIBLE POINTS TO THE PERSON OF JESUS

“You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me! Yet you refuse to come to me to receive this life. John 5:39-40 NLT

“I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ.” Gandhi

…The scripture cannot be broken John 10:35 KJV

“We’re going up to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be betrayed to the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. They will sentence him to die. Then they will hand him over to the Romans to be mocked, flogged with a whip, and crucified. But on the third day he will be raised from the dead.”. Matthew 20:18-19 NLT

Then Jesus took them through the writings of Moses and all the prophets, explaining from all the Scriptures the things concerning himself; Suddenly, their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And at that moment he disappeared! They said to each other, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as he talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?” Luke 24:27;31-32 NLT

The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you. Romans 8:11 NLT

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The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you. John 15:19 NLT

He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them. 2 Corinthians 5:15 NLT

'Don’t be misled—you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith. Galatians 6:7-10 NLT

Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them. Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all! Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord. Instead, “If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads.” Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good. Romans 12:14-21 NLT

DO YOU WANT JUSTICE OR FREEDOM?

DO YOU WANT VENGEANCE OR PEACE?

Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Romans 12:17 NLT

Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many. Hebrews 12:15 NLT

for I can see that you are full of bitter jealousy and are held captive by sin. Acts 8:23 NLT

Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God. Ephesians 4:31-32; 5:1-2 NLT

YOUR GREATEST FREEDOM IS WHEN YOU UNDERSTAND YOU DON'T NEED GOD TO CHANGE YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES. YOU NEED GOD TO USE YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES TO CHANGE YOU FOR THE BETTER.

In my distress I prayed to the Lord, and the Lord answered me and set me free. The Lord is for me, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me? Psalms 118:5-6 NLT

3 QUESTIONS TO KEEP ME ACCOUNTABLE TO MY COMMITMENT AS A DISCIPLE

ARE MY CHOICES LEADING ME TOWARD COMPROMISE?

You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is good for you. And even though “I am allowed to do anything,” I must not become a slave to anything. 1 Corinthians 6:12 NLT

WE BECOME MORE SUSCEPTIBLE TO COMPROMISE WHEN WE HAVE NEGATIVE REFLECTIONS OR UNHEALTHY ASSUMPTIONS.

'But Jesus told him, “Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.” Luke 9:62 NLT

So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today. Matthew 6:34 NLT

ARE MY ACTIONS REPRESENTING HEAVEN?

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33 NLT

PRAYERFULLY ASK YOURSELF DAILY, “HOW WOULD JESUS RESPOND” AND THEN OBEY THAT.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Matthew 5:9 NIV

Makarios: Joy which has its secret within itself, that joy which is serene and untouchable, and self-contained that joy which is completely independent of all the chances and changes of life.

AS GOD’S CHILDREN WE ARE CALLED TO STRIVE FOR PEACE AS WE…

LOVE OUR ENEMIES But I say, love your enemies! Matthew 5:44 NLT

PRAY FOR OUR ENEMIES Pray for those who persecute you! Matthew 5:44 NLT pray that God will bless them. Romans 12:14 NLT

BLESS OUR ENEMIES Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them. Romans 12:14 NLT

BE THE BIGGER PERSON Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone; Instead, “If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads.” Romans 12:18;20 NLT

AM I CLOSED OFF TO THE NATURE AND HOLINESS OF GOD?

Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NLT

My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. John 10:10 NLT

Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? Matthew 16:24-26 NLT

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you can't get your external in order while your internal is out of order. - Pastor Mike Carlton

Deeply Authentic Love

"Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” - 1 Peter 4:8

"Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” - 1 John 3:18

“Hate what is evil and cling to what is good.” - Romans 9:9

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"Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” -Romans 12:10

Sacrificial Love

“There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” - John 15:13

“honor one another above yourselves” -Romans 12:10

"And walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” - Ephesians 5:2

"This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” - 1 John 4:10-11

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” Philippians 2:3-4

"And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” - Colossians 3:14

“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” - Romans 12:11

"You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. - Galatians 5:13

Love through Serving

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” - Romans 12:12

Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. - Hebrews 10:23

You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you do not see him now, you trust him; and you rejoice with a glorious, inexpressible joy. The reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls - 1Peter 1:8-9

Patience in affliction,- Romans12:12

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. - Romans 8:28

Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33

faithful in prayer. - Romans12:12

Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

The Lord is close to all who call on him, yes, to all who call on him in truth - Psalms 145:18

Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” - Romans 12:13

Hebrews 13:2 – "Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.

Love through generosity and Hospitality

And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony. - Revelation 12:11

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” - 1 Corinthians 13-4-7

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"Selfishness is the greatest curse of the human race." – William E. Gladstone

"Almost every sinful action ever committed can be traced back to a selfish motive. It is a trait we hate in other people but justify in ourselves." – Stephen Kendrick

"The most miserable people are those who care only about themselves, understand only their own troubles, and see only their own perspective." – Anonymous

'Then Hezekiah said to Isaiah, “This message you have given me from the Lord is good.” For the king was thinking, “At least there will be peace and security during my lifetime.” Isaiah 39:8 NLT

'For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind. James 3:16 NLT

Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. James 1:27 NLT

Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:37-40 NLT

'But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. John 1:12 NLT

And I will be your Father, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty. 2 Corinthians 6:18 NLT

You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family. Ephesians 2:19 NLT

'Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other. Romans 12:4-5 NLT

HOW IS A SPIRITUAL FAMILY BUILT?

THROUGH CONNECTION

THE DEEPER YOU CONNECT WITH PEOPLE THE MORE EMPATHY IS FORMED IN YOUR HEART. THE MORE DISCONNECTED YOU BECOME THE HARDER YOUR HEART BECOMES.

…whoever hardens their heart falls into trouble. Proverbs 28:14 NIV

THE DEEPER YOUR EMPATHY THE HEALTHIER THE RELATIONSHIPS

THE DEEPER YOUR EMPATHY THE GREATER YOUR PERSONAL GROWTH

HOW IS A SPIRITUAL FAMILY BUILT?

THROUGH CONNECTION
THROUGH COMMITMENT

…we all belong to each other. Romans 12:5 NLT

'Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Romans 12:15 NLT

HOW IS A SPIRITUAL FAMILY BUILT?

THROUGH CONNECTION
THROUGH COMMITMENT
THROUGH CONTRIBUTION

“THE WORK OF OUR LIVES IS TO GO FROM THIS DEPENDENCE TO DEPENDABILITY.” -RYAN HOLIDAY

THE BIGGER OUR CIRCLE GETS, THE BIGGER OUR HEART GETS, AND THE BETTER THE WORLD BECOMES.

'After washing their feet, he put on his robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was doing? You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am. And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. I tell you the truth, slaves are not greater than their master. Nor is the messenger more important than the one who sends the message. Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them. John 13:12-17 NLT

'For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’ “Then these righteous ones will reply, ‘Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? When did we ever see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ “And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!’' Matthew 25:35-40 NLT

'No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us. 1 John 4:12 NLT

'For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:28 NLT

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THE NEED FOR CONTROL IS THE CAUSE OF EVERY PROBLEM

Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see. Hebrews 11:1 NLT

Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 NLT

'Because of the privilege and authority God has given me, I give each of you this warning: Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us. Romans 12:3 NLT

HEALTH IS NOT STUMBLED UPON IT IS PURSUED AND IGNORING PROBLEMS WILL NEVER LEAD TO HEALTH.

THE PREREQUISITE TO TRUE FREEDOM IS TO DECIDE THAT YOU DON’T WANT TO SUFFER ANYMORE

YOU HAVE TWO FOUNDATIONAL CHOICES.

ONE CHOICE IS TO LEAVE THE PAIN INSIDE AND CONTINUE TO STRUGGLE WITH THE OUTSIDE.

THE OTHER CHOICE IS TO MAKE THE DECISION YOU DON'T WANT TO SPEND YOUR ENTIRE LIFE AVOIDING THE INNER PAIN AND YOU'D RATHER GET RID OF IT.

WHEN YOU AVOID PAIN AND CHANGE YOU BELIEVE EXTERNAL SITUATIONS ARE WHAT CAUSE INTERNAL PROBLEMS.

I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. John 16:33 NLT

OUR NEED FOR CONTROL AND THE FEAR THAT IT PRODUCES BLOCK OUR HEARTS.

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today. Matthew 6:33-34 NLT

UNSHAKABLE CONFIDENCE IS ROOTED IN A GODLY IDENTITY.

And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” Matthew 3:17 NIV

Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. You parents—if your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead? Or if they ask for a fish, do you give them a snake? Of course not! So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him. Matthew 7:7-11 NLT

YOU ARE DEEPLY AND COMPLETELY LOVED.

HOW DO YOU REMOVE THE THORNS?

DEAL WITH PAIN IMMEDIATELY

When I refused to confess my sin, my body wasted away, and I groaned all day long. Psalms 32:3 NLT

RELEASE YOUR PAIN AND SURRENDER TO GOD

Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall. Psalms 55:22 NLT

So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. 1 Peter 5:6-7 NLT

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:28-29 NLT

DECIDE YOUR GOD-GIVE IDENTITY AND WHAT YOU NEED TO DO TO PURSUE THAT

Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us. Romans 12:3 NLT

WHAT DO YOU WANT? ➡️ WHAT IS GETTING IN THE WAY?

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WHAT IS GETTING IN THE WAY? ⬅️ WHAT DO YOU REALLY WANT?

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WHAT DO YOU REALLY WANT? ➡️ WHAT ARE YOU WILLING TO COMMIT TO DO?

They stumble because they do not obey God’s word, and so they meet the fate that was planned for them. But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light. “Once you had no identity as a people; now you are God’s people. Once you received no mercy; now you have received God’s mercy.” 1 Peter 2:8-10 NLT

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THE FIRST RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY ADD TO OUR LIVES IS FAITH
THE SECOND RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY PURSUE IS MORAL EXCELLENCE
THE THIRD RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY GROW IN IS Knowledge
THE FOURTH RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY GROW IN IS self-control
THE fifth RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY PURSUE IS Perseverance
THE Sixth RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY GROW IN IS GODLINESS
THE seventh RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY GROW IN IS BROTHERLY KINDNESS
THE Eighth RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY GROW IN IS LOVE

Eros- Love found in romantic relationships. Connected to falling or being in love.

Storge- Love between family members. A protective love that can withstand hardships & trials

PhilEO-Love between close friends. Describes the emotional feeling of a close friend.

When David had finished speaking with Saul, Jonathan was bound to David in close friendship, and loved him as much as he loved himself. 1 Samuel 18:1 CSB

Agape - Love that is unconditional and sacrificial. The love that God is and shows.

Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 1 John 4:8 NIV

God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. 1 John 4:16 NIV

“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8 ESV

If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God’s secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn’t love others, I would be nothing. If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn’t love others, I would have gained nothing. Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. Prophecy and speaking in unknown languages and special knowledge will become useless. But love will last forever! Now our knowledge is partial and incomplete, and even the gift of prophecy reveals only part of the whole picture! But when the time of perfection comes, these partial things will become useless.

When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things. Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity.[c] All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely. Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:1-13

If you love [agape] me, you will keep my commandments. John 14:15

WHAT HINDERS US FROM LOVE?

LABELS

Once you label me, you negate me. Soren Kierkegaard.

Definitions belong to the definers- not the defined. Toni Morrison

FEAR

Fear stifles the effects of love, this idea its us versus them, agreement or approval. True love challenges this fear, digs deep to uncover its roots, and replace it with an expansive and fearless love.

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. 1 John 4:17-19

Outrage is a double edged sword that initially feels gratifying but gradually corrodes one’s being. Outrage is like a lot of other things that feel good but over times devour us from the inside out. Tim Kreider

You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love[Agape] your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. Matthew 5:43-45

FALSE TRUTH

What hinders the love of God from us to others is when we compromise his Truth with our experiential truths and values. It produces confusion in hearts and minds.

WHAT HELPS US TO LOVE?

LISTENING

Listening is an expression of love. Reflecting our willingness to care, understand, and value others.

So much of what we think we know about one another could be radically changed by a willingness to simply listen.

PRESENCE

We can’t love someone without Connection and that requires us to be PRESENT

Truth without love is brutality, and love without truth is hypocrisy - Warren Wiersbe

“Technoference” - use of technological devices that interferes with or interrupts everyday normal family relations and interactions

Withness - being with people in all their complexities and contradictions.

The word became flesh and blood moving into our neighborhood. John 1:14 MSG

For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. 2 Cor 5:14-15 ESV

ACTION

LOVE=CHARITY=ACTION

SHARING WITH OTHERS OUR TIME, TALENTS, TREASURE, AND TESTIMONY IS THE BEGINNING OF PUTTING LOVE IN ACTION

There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:13 NLT

Selfless love transcends the boundaries of conditional affection and defies the notion that love is a quid-pro-quo exchange.

This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. 1 John 4:9-16 NIV

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THE FIRST RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY ADD TO OUR LIVES IS FAITH
THE SECOND RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY PURSUE IS MORAL EXCELLENCE
THE THIRD RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY GROW IN IS Knowledge
THE THIRD RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY GROW IN IS self-control
THE fifth RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY PURSUE IS Perseverance
THE Sixth RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY GROW IN IS GODLINESS

Godliness is the reverent awareness of God's sovereignty over every aspect of life, and the attendant determination to honor him in all one's conduct.

“1 Tim 2:2b “that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”

2 Peter 3:11b “what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives” ).

Sanctification, separating oneself from sin & worldliness and growing in holiness & godliness through a conformity with the Holy Spirit.

THOUGHT We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5

WORD The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. Proverbs 18:21, Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. James 3:5-6

DEED“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Col 3:17

How do you know you are living a life of Godliness?

OUR FRUIT

"If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.” John 15:7-8

What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. James 2:14 & 17

No instead Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. Philippians 2:12-13

“I preached that they should repent and turn to God and demonstrate their repentance by their deeds.” Acts 26:20b

Jude 1:3 tells us that contenders of faith labor tirelessly for goodness, righteousness, and holiness.

HOW do we do this?!

HOLY SPIRIT: Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh? Gal 3:3 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. Galatians 5:16-18

HIS WORD: Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God. Matthew 4:4

PRAYER: And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Eph 6:18

MENTORS. “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”1 Corinthians 11:1

. But instead, it’s more about the conformity to the character and very nature of God through obedience to His will (jerry Bridges)

“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” Eph 4:22-24.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Gal 5:22-23

Again.. Against growing a life of godliness with the help of His Spirit, which will bear good fruit.. There is no law. There is no requirement for perfection, b/c Jesus is the perfect sacrifice. Should we go on sinning, No.

Well then, should we keep on sinning so the God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace.Romans 6:1

REPENT-turn away from unhealthy thoughts/attitudes/actions that move us away from Jesus and to move toward Him. In our thoughts, words, and actions.

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God has given us everything we need for living a Godly life. In view of this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, and knowledge with self control. The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. So dear brothers and sisters, work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen. Do these things and you will not fall away. 2 Peter 1:3,5,8,10 NLT

THE FIRST RUNG THAT - WE DILIGENTLY ADD TO OUR LIVES FAITH

THE SECOND RUNG - THAT WE DILIGENTLY PURSUE MORAL EXCELLENCE

THE THIRD RUNG - THAT WE DILIGENTLY GROW IN KNOWLEDGE

…and moral excellence with knowledge… 2 Peter 1:5 NLT

THE FOURTH RUNG IS WE DILIGENTLY PURSUE SELF CONTROL

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry… James 1:19

THE FIFTH RUNG IS WE DILIGENTLY PURSUE PERSEVERANCE

One day the members of the heavenly court came to present themselves before the Lord, and the Accuser, Satan, came with them. “Where have you come from?” the Lord asked Satan.

Satan answered the Lord, “I have been patrolling the earth, watching everything that’s going on.”

Then the Lord asked Satan, “Have you noticed my servant Job? He is the finest man in all the earth. He is blameless—a man of complete integrity. He fears God and stays away from evil.”

Satan replied to the Lord, “Yes, but Job has good reason to fear God. You have always put a wall of protection around him and his home and his property. Job 1:6-12

You have made him prosper in everything he does. Look how rich he is! But reach out and take away everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face. All right, you may test him,” the Lord said to Satan. “Do whatever you want with everything he possesses, but don’t harm him physically.” So Satan left the Lord’s presence. Job 1:6-12

One day when Job’s sons and daughters were feasting at the oldest brother’s house, a messenger arrived at Job’s home with this news: “Your oxen were plowing, with the donkeys feeding beside them, when the Sabeans raided us. They stole all the animals and killed all the farmhands. I am the only one who escaped to tell you.”While he was still speaking, another messenger arrived with this news: “The fire of God has fallen from heaven and burned up your sheep and all the shepherds. I am the only one who escaped to tell you.” While he was still speaking, a third messenger arrived with this news: “Three bands of Chaldean raiders have stolen your camels and killed your servants. I am the only one who escaped to tell you.” While he was still speaking, another messenger arrived with this news: “Your sons and daughters were feasting in their oldest brother’s home. Suddenly, a powerful wind swept in from the wilderness and hit the house on all sides. The house collapsed, and all your children are dead. I am the only one who escaped to tell you.” Job stood up and tore his robe in grief. Then he shaved his head and fell to the ground to worship. Job 1:13-20

God may be giving you exactly what you need it just looks different than what you thought.

Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2nd Corinthians 12:8-10

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4 NIV

Persevering through trials brings maturity to your relationship with God

MOST BELIEVERS NEVER WALK IN THE PROMISES OF GOD BECAUSE THEY WANT TO BYPASS THE REFINEMENT OF GOD!

These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world. 1 Peter 1:7

Then the Lord asked Satan, “Have you noticed my servant Job? He is the finest man in all the earth. He is blameless—a man of complete integrity. He fears God and stays away from evil. And he has maintained his integrity, even though you urged me to harm him without cause.”

Satan replied to the Lord, “Skin for skin! A man will give up everything he has to save his life. But reach out and take away his health, and he will surely curse you to your face!”

“All right, do with him as you please,” the Lord said to Satan. “But spare his life.” So Satan left the Lord’s presence, and he struck Job with terrible boils from head to foot.

Job scraped his skin with a piece of broken pottery as he sat among the ashes. His wife said to him, “Are you still trying to maintain your integrity? Curse God and die.”

But Job replied, “You talk like a foolish woman. Should we accept only good things from the hand of God and never anything bad?” So in all this, Job said nothing wrong. Job 2:3-10

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted. Psalms 34:18

WE PERSEVERE NO MATTER OUR CIRCUMSTANCES

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28

Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Even so, you have done well to share with me in my present difficulty. Philippians 4:11-14

WE ARE FAITHFUL AND WE PERSEVERE WHEN NOTHING CHANGES

Hope means that we must trust and wait for what is still unseen. For why would we need to hope for something we already have? So because our hope is set on what is yet to be seen, we patiently keep on waiting for its fulfillment. Romans 8:24-25 TPT

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. Romans 5:3-4

PERSEVERANCE STARTS SMALL AND BECOMES MONUMENTAL

Elijah climbed to the top of Mount Carmel and bowed low to the ground and prayed with his face between his knees. Then he said to his servant, “Go and look out toward the sea.” The servant went and looked, then returned to Elijah and said, “I didn’t see anything.” Seven times Elijah told him to go and look. Finally the seventh time, his servant told him, “I saw a little cloud about the size of a man’s hand rising from the sea.” Then Elijah shouted, “Hurry to Ahab and tell him, ‘Climb into your chariot and go back home. If you don’t hurry, the rain will stop you!’” And soon the sky was black with clouds. A heavy wind brought a terrific rainstorm. 1 Kings 18:42-45

No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us. And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:37-39

PERSEVERANCE LEADS TO RESTORATION

When Job prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes. In fact, the Lord gave him twice as much as before! Then all his brothers, sisters, and former friends came and feasted with him in his home. And they consoled him and comforted him because of all the trials the Lord had brought against him. Job 42:10-11

GOD DOESN’T EXPECT PERFECTION BUT HE DOES DESIRE PROGRESSION

Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works. James 2:26

When I was living among you, you lived in responsive obedience. Now that I’m separated from you, keep it up. Better yet, redouble your efforts. Be energetic in your life of salvation, reverent and sensitive before God. That energy is God’s energy, an energy deep within you… Philippians 2:12-13 MSG

It's about persevering, one day at a time

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34

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GOD HAS GIVEN US EVERYTHING WE NEED FOR LIVING A GODLY LIFE. IN VIEW OF

THIS, MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO RESPOND TO GOD’S PROMISES. SUPPLEMENT YOUR

FAITH WITH A GENEROUS PROVISION OF MORAL EXCELLENCE, AND MORAL

EXCELLENCE WITH KNOWLEDGE, AND KNOWLEDGE, WITH SELF CONTROL. THE

MORE YOU GROW LIKE THIS, THE MORE PRODUCTIVE AND USEFUL YOU WILL BE IN

THE KNOWLEDGE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. SO DEAR BROTHERS AND SISTERS,

WORK HARD TO PROVE THAT YOU REALLY ARE AMONG THOSE GOD HAS CALLED

AND CHOSEN. DO THESE THINGS AND AND YOU WILL NOT FALL AWAY.

2 PETER 1: 3, 5, 6, 8, 10

1ST RUNG - FAITH

2ND RUNG - MORAL EXCELLENCE

3RD RUNG - KNOWLEDGE

4TH RUNG - SELF CONTROL

THE ABILITY TO CONTROL ONESELF, IN PARTICULAR, ONE’S EMOTIONS AND

DESIRES, OR THE EXPRESSION OF THEM IN ONE’S BEHAVIOR.

FAILURE TO EXERCISE SELF-CONTROL DEMONSTRATES THAT WE WORSHIP

OURSELVES MORE THAN GOD.

WHEN WE PUT THE WILL OF OURSELVES OVER THE WILL OF GOD WE ARE

ESSENTIALLY WORSHIPING OURSELVES.

WHEN WE FAIL TO EXERCISE CONTROL OVER OUR NEEDS, DESIRES, AND EMOTIONS,

WE WILL HAVE A GREAT DEAL OF DAMAGE AROUND US.

WHEN WE FAIL TO EXERCISE CONTROL OF OUR TEMPER WE BREAK THE SPIRITS OF

PEOPLE AROUND US.

YOU BECOME WHAT THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE SAY ABOUT YOU.

THE TONGUE HAS POWER OF LIFE AND DEATH, AND THOSE WHO LOVE IT WILL EAT

ITS FRUIT.

ALLOW GOD TO CHANGE YOUR HEART
PUT A FILTER ON WHAT I ALLOW IN MY HEART
DECIDE TO SPEAK WORDS OF LIFE
SPEAK WORDS OF AFFECTION
SPEAK WORDS OF PRAISE
SPEAK WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT
SPEAK WORDS OF HEALING
SPEAK WORDS OF FAITH

BETTER A PATIENT PERSON THAN A WARRIOR, ONE WITH SELF CONTROL, THAN ONE

WHO TAKES A CITY.

LIKE A CITY WHOSE WALLS ARE BROKEN THROUGH IS A PERSON WHO LACKS SELF

CONTROL.

MY DEAR BROTHERS AND SISTERS, TAKE NOTE OF THIS: EVERYONE SHOULD BE

QUICK TO LISTEN, SLOW TO SPEAK, AND SLOW TO BECOME ANGRY, BECAUSE

HUMAN ANGER DOES NOT PRODUCE THE RIGHTEOUSNESS GOD DESIRES.

THEREFORE, GET RID OF ALL MORAL FILTH AND THE EVIL THAT IS SO PREVALENT

AND HUMBLY ACCEPT THE WORD PLANTED IN YOU, WHICH CAN SAVE YOU.

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'By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life… In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises… The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. So, dear brothers and sisters, work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen. Do these things, and you will never fall away. 2 Peter 1:3,5,8,10 NLT

THE FIRST RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY ADD TO OUR LIVES IS FAITH

FAITH IS SIMPLY STAYING SUBMITTED AND COMMITTED TO THE WILL OF GOD.

THE SECOND RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY PURSUE IS MORAL EXCELLENCE

Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence… 2 Peter 1:5 NLT

' “If you love me, obey my commandments. John 14:15 NLT

Samson led Israel for twenty years in the days of the Philistines. Judges 15:20 NIV

'The woman ran and told her husband, “A man of God appeared to me! He looked like osonne of God’s angels, terrifying to see. I didn’t ask where he was from, and he didn’t tell me his name. But he told me, ‘You will become pregnant and give birth to a son. You must not drink wine or any other alcoholic drink nor eat any forbidden food. For your will be dedicated to God as a Nazirite from the moment of his birth until the day of his death.’” Judges 13:6-7 NLT

One day Samson went to Gaza, where he saw a prostitute. He went in to spend the night with her. The people of Gaza were told, “Samson is here!” So they surrounded the place and lay in wait for him all night at the city gate. They made no move during the night, saying, “At dawn we’ll kill him.”Judges 16:1-2 NIV

RARELY DO WE GET TO THE WRONG PLACE IN LIFE BY ONE BAD CHOICE. WE GET THERE ONE STEP AT A TIME, ONE DAY AT A TIME, AND ONE BAD DECISION AT A TIME.

WE DON’T BELIEVE OUR BAD DECISIONS OR DISOBEDIENCE WILL COST US.

But Samson lay there only until the middle of the night. Then he got up and took hold of the doors of the city gate, together with the two posts, and tore them loose, bar and all. He lifted them to his shoulders and carried them to the top of the hill that faces Hebron. Judges 16:3 NIV

Some time later, he fell in love with a woman in the Valley of Sorek whose name was Delilah. Judges 16:4 NIV

IThe rulers of the Philistines went to her and said, “See if you can lure him into showing you the secret of his great strength and how we can overpower him so we may tie him up and subdue him. Each one of us will give you eleven hundred shekels of silver.” So Delilah said to Samson, “Tell me the secret of your great strength and how you can be tied up and subdued.” Judges 16:5-6 NIV

After putting him to sleep on her lap, she called for someone to shave off the seven braids of his hair, and so began to subdue him. And his strength left him. Then she called, “Samson, the Philistines are upon you!” He awoke from his sleep and thought, “I’ll go out as before and shake myself free.” But he did not know that the Lord had left him. Then the Philistines seized him, gouged out his eyes and took him down to Gaza. Binding him with bronze shackles, they set him to grinding grain in the prison. Judges 16:19-21 NIV

HOW DO YOU PURSUE MORAL EXCELLENCE?

So prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control. Put all your hope in the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. So you must live as God’s obedient children. Don’t slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn’t know any better then. But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. For the Scriptures say, “You must be holy because I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:13-16 NLT

GIRD YOUR MINDS

So prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control. Put all your hope in the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. 1 Peter 1:13 NLT

But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so run from all these evil things. 1 Timothy 6:11 NLT

WE HAVE TO GET TO THE POINT WHERE YOU LOVE FREEDOM OVER THE CONVENIENCE OF YOUR TEMPTATION

So get rid of every filthy habit and all wicked conduct. Submit to God and accept the word that he plants in your hearts, which is able to save you. James 1:21 GNB

GUARD YOUR HEARTS

So you must live as God’s obedient children. Don’t slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. 1 Peter 1:14 NLT

Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. Ephesians 5:11 NIV

GUIDE YOUR LIFESTYLE

But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. For the Scriptures say, “You must be holy because I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:16 NLT

'And you should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ. 1 Corinthians 11:1 NLT

MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO COMPROMISE

4 MAJOR TRIGGERS:

PLACE
TIME
MOOD

Tremble and in your anger do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the Lord. Psalms 4:4-5 NIV

PEOPLE

Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble. Proverbs 13:20 NLT

Do not be fooled. “Bad companions ruin good character.” 1 Corinthians 15:33 NIV

SURROUND YOURSELF WITH PEOPLE GOING THE DIRECTION YOU WANT TO GO

Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. Hebrews 10:24-25 NLT

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'The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you. John 15:19 NLT

By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires. In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone. The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But those who fail to develop in this way are shortsighted or blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their old sins. So, dear brothers and sisters, work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen. Do these things, and you will never fall away. Then God will give you a grand entrance into the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 1:3-11 NLT

“No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9 NLT

THE FIRST RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY ADD TO OUR LIVES IS FAITH

Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory. We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. Romans 5:1-5 NLT

FAITH IS SIMPLY STAYING SUBMITTED AND COMMITTED TO THE WILL OF GOD.

'These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world. 1 Peter 1:7 NLT

'Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. James 1:2-5 NLT

TRAGEDY IS WHEN WE ALLOW OUR CIRCUMSTANCES TO BLIND US FROM THE LEARNING EXPERIENCE.

'So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless. 1 Corinthians 15:58 NLT

'Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do. Psalms 1:1-3 NLT

'But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do. James 1:6-8 NLT

YOUR ATTITUDE IS THE KEY THAT ACTIVATES GOD MOVING IN YOUR LIFE.

God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12 NLT

'So, dear brothers and sisters, work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen. Do these things, and you will never fall away. 2 Peter 1:10 NLT

QUESTIONS TO EVALUATE WHERE YOUR FAITH IS AT

How do I respond when my faith is tested? Do I turn towards God or away from Him?
When circumstances seem uncertain or difficult how does that influence the way I view and treat others?
Do I feel peace and assurance because of my faith, even in tough times?
Am I open to God's guidance, even when it leads in unexpected directions?
Do I seek God regularly through prayer, reading Scripture, and worship?

HOW DO ADD DILIGENTLY TO YOUR FAITH?

'But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. James 1:22-24 NLT

READING THE BIBLE MUST BE A PRIORITY

'But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free… James 1:25 NLT

ACT ON WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS

…and if you do what it says… James 1:25 NLT

MEMORIZE AND MEDITATE ON THE SCRIPTURES.

…and don’t forget what you heard… James 1:25 NLT

RECIEVE GOD’S BLESSINGS

…then God will bless you for doing it… James 1:25 NLT

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God’s purpose in all this was to use the church to display his wisdom in its rich variety to all the unseen rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. Ephesians 3:10 NLT

You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family. Ephesians 2:19 NLT

See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are! But the people who belong to this world don’t recognize that we are God’s children because they don’t know him. 1 John 3:1 NLT

'But Christ, as the Son, is in charge of God’s entire house. And we are God’s house, if we keep our courage and remain confident in our hope in Christ. Hebrews 3:6 NLT

Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other. Romans 12:4-5 NLT

The scriptures are very clear that church is not something you are intended just to attend and receive from, but something you are designed to contribute to for the well-being of others!

You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God’s word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. Hebrews 5:12 NLT

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT

Physical needs.

Safety needs.

Love needs.

Esteem needs.

Cognitive needs.

Aesthetic needs.

Self-actualization needs.

So those who are last now will be first then, and those who are first will be last. Matthew 20:16 NLT

Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant… Matthew 20:20 NLT

For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many. Matthew 20:28 NLT

'I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them. John 13:15,17 NLT

'Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20 NLT

Self-Centered Discipleship

“It’s only the fruit from the tree in the middle of the garden that we are not allowed to eat. God said, ‘You must not eat it or even touch it; if you do, you will die.’” “You won’t die!” the serpent replied to the woman. “God knows that your eyes will be opened as soon as you eat it, and you will be like God, knowing both good and evil.” The woman was convinced. She saw that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked delicious, and she wanted the wisdom it would give her. So she took some of the fruit and ate it. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it, too. Genesis 3:3-6 NLT

At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him. Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, “Are you also going to leave?” Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life. We believe, and we know you are the Holy One of God. ” John 6:66-69 NLT

According to Jesus, discipleship is not about self-actualization or self-preservation; it is about self-denial.

'Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it.” Matthew 16:24-25 NLT

Spiritual Apathy

11 Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. 12 Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. 13 This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. Ephesians 4:11-13 NLT

Ministry is the pathway to maturity and many Christians will never obtain maturity until they travel the path of ministry.

How Do I Make A Disciple?

Discipleship is not difficult; it's just proximity over an extended period of time with a purpose.

And He appointed twelve, so that they would be with Him and that He could send them out to preach…Mark 3:14 (NASB)

“There is simply NO substitute for getting with people and it is ridiculous to imagine that anything less, short of a miracle, can develop strong Christian leadership. After all, if Jesus, the Son of God, found it necessary to stay almost constantly with his few disciples for 3 yrs, and even one of them was lost, how can a church expect to do this job on an assembly line basis a few days out of the year?” Quote from The Master Plan Evangelism

You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit…John 15:16 (NLT)

“When will we realize that evangelism is not done by something, but by someone? . . . It’s not better methods, but better men and women who know their Redeemer from personal experience…who see his vision and feel his passion for the world…who are willing to be nothing so that he might be everything.” Quote from The Master Plan Evangelism

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So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Then God blessed them and said, “Be fruitful and multiply”…Genesis 1:27-28 NLT

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28 NLT

NEEDS TO BE MET BY MOTHERS

Safety

Nurture

Basic Trust

Belonging and Invitation

Someone to Love

“Never! Can a mother forget her nursing child? Can she feel no love for the child she has borne? But even if that were possible, I would not forget you!” Isaiah 49:15 NLT

NEEDS TO BE MET BY FATHERS

Unconditional, expressed love

Security and Comfort

Praise and Affirmation

Provision

Purpose in Life

So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” Romans 8:15 NLT

WE LET THE BIBLE LEAD & GUIDE US, NOT OUR EMOTIONS AND EXPERIENCES.

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Psalms 119:105 NLT

WHAT IS THE BIBLICAL APPROACH TO RAISING KIDS?

WE MUST TEACH OUR KIDS CHRIST-LOVE OVER SELF-LOVE

The human heart is the most deceitful of all things… Jeremiah 17:9 NLT

WE TEACH OUR KIDS THAT CHRIST’S LOVE IS A SACRIFICIAL LOVE

For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many. Matthew 20:28 NLT

'There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:13 NLT

WE MUST TEACH OUR KIDS GODLY PRIORITIES

“Get out of here, Satan,” Jesus told him. “For the Scriptures say, ‘You must worship the Lord your God and serve only him.’” Matthew 4:10 NLT

“ the only hope of a decreasing self is an increasing Christ.” F.B. Meyer

WE MUST TEACH OUR KIDS THAT GODLY DISCIPLINE IS LOVE

'Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child; The rod of discipline [correction administered with godly wisdom and lovingkindness] will remove it far from him. Proverbs 22:15 AMP

THE DISCIPLINE OF GODLY PARENTS FOCUSES ON THE HEART, NOT JUST THE RULES.

'And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children? He said, “My child, don’t make light of the Lord ’s discipline, and don’t give up when he corrects you. For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child.” Hebrews 12:5-6 NLT

For the wages of sin is death… Romans 6:23 NLT

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In parenting More is caught than taught.

1. Parents are responsible for helping their teen build a solid FOUNDATION.

How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word. 10 With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments! 11 I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:9-11 (ESV)

2. With a solid foundation, parents guide teens to discover their IDENTITY in Christ.

Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Proverbs 4:23 NIV

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked Jeremiah 17:9 KJV

3. Teens need more than just their parents, they need Godly MENTORS

One of the biggest factors to shape your identity is the voices you’re allowing to speak into you life.

TEENAGERS NEED SPIRITUAL MENTORS LIKE:

Parents
Healthy Peers
Small Group Leaders
Pastors & Ministry Leaders

4. Teens need to explore their identity in Christ and find PURPOSE in the context of spiritual mentors.

Teens need to see and experience God’s GRACE through you.

3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. 4 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. Romans 5:3-4 NLT

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'If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God’s secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn’t love others, I would be nothing. If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn’t love others, I would have gained nothing. 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 NLT

If you want to change the culture in your home, you have to change the way you communicate.

For whatever is in your heart determines what you say. Matthew 12:34 NLT

'The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences. Proverbs 18:21 NLT

Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way. James 3:2 NLT

3 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT OUR WORDS/TONGUES

THE TONGUE IS SMALL BUT POWERFUL

'We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong. In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches….

James 3:3-5 NLT

THE TONGUE IS DIRECTIONAL

And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong. James 3:4 NLT

THE TONGUE HAS A QUICK IMPACT

'In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. James 3:5 NLT

HOW DO YOU COMMUNICATE IN A HEALTHY WAY?

STOP BEFORE YOU SPEAK

You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. James 1:19 NLT

A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even-tempered. Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent. Proverbs 17:27-28 NLT

THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK

T – is it True?

H – is it Helpful?

I – is it Inspiring?

N – is it Necessary?

K – is it Kind?

PRAY BEFORE YOU SPEAK

Take control of what I say, O LORD, and guard my lips. Psalms 141:3 NLT

If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. James 1:5 NLT

'Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy. Ephesians 4:23-24 NLT

FORGIVENESS IS NOT…

MAKING EXCUSES FOR WHAT HAS HAPPENED

SOMETHING THE OTHER PERSON EARNS OR DESERVES

FORGETTING OR AVOIDING

INSTANT RESTORATION OF TRUST.

FORGIVENESS is the conscious choice to give up your right to make the other person pay because you trust God to make things right.

HOW DOES FORGIVENESS WORK IN A GODLY WAY?

We recognize forgiveness is a conviction, not a circumstance.

So watch yourselves! “If another believer sins, rebuke that person; then if there is repentance, forgive. Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and asks forgiveness, you must forgive.” Luke 17:3-4 NLT

We understand why forgiveness is so difficult.

REQUIRES EMOTIONAL ENERGY

REQUIRES UNCOMFORTABLE CONVERSATIONS AND RISKY OUTCOMES

IT FEELS UNNATURAL

TAKES AWAY PERCEPTION OF CONTROL

WE FOCUS ONLY ON WHAT WE CAN CONTROL

'Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. Romans 12:18 NLT

SO WHAT CAN I CONTROL?

PRAY FOR GODS HELP

So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view…. 2 Corinthians 5:16 NLT

PRAY FOR THEM

You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! Matthew 5:43-44 NLT

DO THE OPPOSITE

Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the lord. Instead, “If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads.” Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good. Romans 12:17-21 NLT

But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. Romans 5:8 NLT

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The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. John 10:10 NLT

For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:12 NLT

'For wives, this means submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For a husband is the head of his wife as Christ is the head of the church. He is the Savior of his body, the church. As the church submits to Christ, so you wives should submit to your husbands in everything. For husbands, this means love your wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her to make her holy and clean, washed by the cleansing of God’s word. He did this to present her to himself as a glorious church without a spot or wrinkle or any other blemish. Instead, she will be holy and without fault. In the same way, husbands ought to love their wives as they love their own bodies. For a man who loves his wife actually shows love for himself. No one hates his own body but feeds and cares for it, just as Christ cares for the church. And we are members of his body. As the Scriptures say, “A man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.” This is a great mystery, but it is an illustration of the way Christ and the church are one. So again I say, each man must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband. Ephesians 5:22-33 NLT

CONNECTING WITH EACH OTHER

WHAT ARE THE THREE PRACTICAL WAYS TO CONNECT WITH MY HUSBAND

HAVE FUN WITH ME

“Come, my love, let us go out to the fields and spend the night among the wildflowers.” Song of Solomon 7:11 NLT

BE INTIMATE WITH ME

“Come, my love, let us go out to the fields and spend the night among the wildflowers. Let us get up early and go to the vineyards to see if the grapevines have budded, if the blossoms have opened, and if the pomegranates have bloomed. There I will give you my love.” Song of Solomon 7:11-12 NLT

“Let your wife be a fountain of blessing for you. Rejoice in the wife of your youth. She is a loving deer, a graceful doe. Let her breasts satisfy you always. May you always be captivated by her love.” Proverbs 5:18-19 NLT

RESPECT ME

…and the wife must respect her husband. Ephesians 5:33 NLT

WHAT ARE THE THREE PRACTICAL WAYS TO CONNECT WITH MY WIFE

GIVE ME NONSEXUAL ATTENTION

You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. James 1:19 NLT

To answer before listening— that is folly and shame. Proverbs 18:13 NIV

AFFIRM ME

How beautiful are your sandaled feet, O queenly maiden. Your rounded thighs are like jewels, the work of a skilled craftsman. Your navel is perfectly formed like a goblet filled with mixed wine. Between your thighs lies a mound of wheat bordered with lilies. Your breasts are like two fawns, twin fawns of a gazelle. Your neck is as beautiful as an ivory tower. Your eyes are like the sparkling pools in Heshbon. Song of Solomon 7:1-4 NLT

'When a man finds a wife, he has found a treasure! For she is the gift of God to bring him joy and pleasure. Proverbs 18:22 TPT

WHAT YOU FOCUS ON YOU BECOME PASSIONATE ABOUT!

BE THE SPIRITUAL LEADER IN OUR HOME.

For husbands, this means love your wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her to make her holy and clean, washed by the cleansing of God’s word. He did this to present her to himself as a glorious church without a spot or wrinkle or any other blemish. Instead, she will be holy and without fault. In the same way, husbands ought to love their wives as they love their own bodies. Ephesians 5:25-28 NLT

HOW DO WE GROW CLOSER TO EACH OTHER?

“The most important commandment is this…you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.” Mark 12:29-30 NLT

YOU GROW CLOSER TO EACH OTHER WHEN YOU GROW CLOSER TO GOD

PRAY TOGETHER EVERY DAY!

“Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14 NLT

“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.”Matthew 6:33 NLT

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“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free, and that the time of the Lord’s favor has come. ” He rolled up the scroll, handed it back to the attendant, and sat down. All eyes in the synagogue looked at him intently. Then he began to speak to them. “The Scripture you’ve just heard has been fulfilled this very day!” Luke 4:18-21 NLT

For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Romans 3:23 NLT

'But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. Romans 5:8 NLT

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring Good News… Luke 4:18 NLT

For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 NLT

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. John 14:6 NLT

…to bring Good News to the poor. Luke 4:18 NLT

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:3 ESV

HUMAN NATURE IS SELF-RELIANCE, BUT A DISCIPLES NATURE MUST BE SURRENDER

'He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.' John 3:30 NLT

He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released… Luke 4:18 NLT

I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners and need to repent. Luke 5:32 NLT

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” Matthew 5:4 ESV

For the wages of sin is death… Romans 6:23 NLT

'For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death. ' 2 Corinthians 7:10 ESV

that the blind will see… Luke 4:18 NLT

“We are all under the same mental calamity; we have all forgotten our names. We have all forgotten what we really are.” G.K. Chesterton

Everything is wearisome beyond description. No matter how much we see, we are never satisfied. No matter how much we hear, we are not content. History merely repeats itself. It has all been done before. Nothing under the sun is truly new. Ecclesiastes 1:8-9 NLT

When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased. Luke 3:21-22 NIV

IDENTITY - YOU ARE MY SON
AFFECTION - WHOM I LOVE
AFFIRMATION - WITH YOU I AM WELL PLEASED

the oppressed will be set free… Luke 4:18 NLT

God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children. And because we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, “Abba, Father.” Now you are no longer a slave but God’s own child. And since you are his child, God has made you his heir. Galatians 4:5-7 NLT

So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free. John 8:36 NLT

and that the time of the Lord’s favor has come. Luke 4:19 NLT

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” Matthew 5:6 ESV

He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end. Ecclesiastes 3:11 NLT

GOD IS EAGER TO SATISFY ALL THE SPIRITUAL CRAVING OF HIS CHILDREN BUT ONLY IN JESUS ARE WE FILLED AND SATISFIED!

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Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13 NLT

To win the world is to display the greatest love. God loved us so much that He gave! There is no greater love than to lay down your life for the well-being of others. The key to Joy is unconditional kindness to all people which is true compassion. The Great Commission is a command and the second judgment (1 Corinthians 3:12-15) is a reality.

“We are not only going to be judged for what we have done. we are going to be judged by what we could have done.” -AW Tozer

LOVELESSNESS RESULTS FROM SELF-LOVE

When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. He said to his disciples, “The harvest is great, but the workers are few. Matthew 9:36-37 NLT

But as he came closer to Jerusalem and saw the city ahead, he began to weep. “How I wish today that you of all people would understand the way to peace.” Luke 19:41-42 NLT

“Meanwhile, the older son was in the fields working. When he returned home, he heard music and dancing in the house, and he asked one of the servants what was going on. ‘Your brother is back,’ he was told, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf. We are celebrating because of his safe return.’ “The older brother was angry and wouldn’t go in. His father came out and begged him, but he replied, ‘All these years I’ve slaved for you and never once refused to do a single thing you told me to. And in all that time you never gave me even one young goat for a feast with my friends. Yet when this son of yours comes back after squandering your money on prostitutes, you celebrate by killing the fattened calf!’ “His father said to him, ‘Look, dear son, you have always stayed by me, and everything I have is yours. We had to celebrate this happy day. For your brother was dead and has come back to life! He was lost, but now he is found!” Luke 15:25-32 NLT

“There are two kinds of Christians, spiritual and carnal. The experience of the two is vastly different. In the life of the spiritual Christian the power of the Lord Jesus is being lived out; sin does not have dominion because the indwelling Holy Spirit continually manifests the life of the Lord Jesus. The carnal Christian is a true believer, yet in him the self-life is dominant and sin still has the upper hand. Such a Christian is defeated and has not yet learned to let the spirit of God take control of his personality. The carnal life is one of continual defeat and struggle. There is neither peace nor power, Joy nor liberty. The spirit is bound and there is little evidence of the fruit of the spirit of God.” -Dwight Hervey Small

It is possible for one to assume the place and privileges of a son while refusing to love their brother.

His father said to him, ‘Look, dear son, you have always stayed by me, and everything I have is yours. Luke 15:31 NLT

HUMILITY LEADS TO GRATITUDE, BUT PRIDE AND SELFISHNESS LEADS TO BITTERNESS

But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your heart, don’t cover up the truth with boasting and lying. For jealousy and selfishness are not God’s kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind. James 3:14-16 NLT

It is possible for one to serve the father Faithfully while not being in fellowship with Him.

but he replied, ‘All these years I’ve slaved for you and never once refused to do a single thing you told me to. And in all that time you never gave me even one young goat for a feast with my friends. Luke 15:29 NLT

YOU HAVE TO KNOW THE WHY BEHIND THE WHAT IN YOUR SERVICE TO THE FATHER.

It is possible for one to be the heir of all his father's possessions yet to have less joy and Liberty than one who possesses nothing.

Meanwhile, the older son was in the fields working. When he returned home, he heard music and dancing in the house, and he asked one of the servants what was going on. ‘Your brother is back,’ he was told, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf. We are celebrating because of his safe return.’ The older brother was angry and wouldn’t go in. Luke 15:25-28 NLT

IF YOU DO NOT SHARE IN THE FATHER’S BURDENS YOU CANNOT SHARE IN THE FATHER’S JOY.

So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him. Luke 15:20 NLT

For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do my own will. John 6:38 NLT

And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering. Romans 8:17 NLT

IF YOU STAY HOLY AND HUMBLE YOU ARE ON A HEAD-ON COLLISION FOR GREATNESS.

YOU CAN’T BE HUMBLE AND SELF-CENTERED AT THE SAME TIME

YOU CAN’T BE HUMBLE AND SELF-RIGHTEOUS AT THE SAME TIME

YOU CAN’T BE HUMBLE AND FULL OF SELF-PITY AT THE SAME TIME

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Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13 NLT

To belong is to be loved and to give love. Your identity is shaped when a community brings you in and validates that you belong and when you validate for others that they belong. However, the greatest validation that brings peace, security, joy, and growth in our lives is when the community we belong to Echoes the Word of God and His design for our lives.

“When we live outside of a healthy community, we not only lose others. We lose ourselves...Who we understand ourselves to be is dramatically affected for better or worse by those we hold closest to us. We only truly come to know ourselves in the context of others. The more isolated and disconnected we are, the more shattered and distorted our self-identity. We are not healthy when we are alone. We find ourselves as we connect to others.” Erwin McManus

Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back. Luke 6:38 NLT

You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate. Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn others, or it will all come back against you. Forgive others, and you will be forgiven. Luke 6:36-37 NLT

MATURITY SAYS, “I TAKE FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF MY LIFE AND FOR MY PHYSICAL, EMOTIONAL, MENTAL, AND SPIRITUAL WELL-BEING.”

4 THINGS THAT DESTROY RELATIONSHIPS

Selfishness destroys relationships

'What is causing the quarrels and fights among you? Don’t they come from the evil desires at war within you? You want what you don’t have, so you scheme and kill to get it. You are jealous of what others have, but you can’t get it, so you fight and wage war to take it away from them. Yet you don’t have what you want because you don’t ask God for it. ' James 4:1-2 NLT

'Selfishness only causes trouble. You are much better off to trust the LORD. ' Proverbs 28:25 GNB

Pride destroys relationships

'Pride leads to conflict… Proverbs 13:10 NLT

'Pride goes before destruction, and haughtiness before a fall.' Proverbs 16:18 NLT

'First pride, then the crash— the bigger the ego, the harder the fall.' Proverbs 16:18 MSG

Insecurity destroys relationships

'The fear of human opinion disables… Proverbs 29:25 MSG

Resentment destroys relationships

'Then I realized that my heart was bitter, and I was all torn up inside. I was so foolish and ignorant— I must have seemed like a senseless animal to you.' Psalms 73:21-22 NLT

'Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many. ' Hebrews 12:15 NLT

3 BENEFITS OF A LIFE-GIVING COMMUNITY

'How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony! For harmony is as precious as the anointing oil that was poured over Aaron’s head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe. Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon that falls on the mountains of Zion. And there the Lord has pronounced his blessing, even life everlasting.' Psalms 133:1-3 NLT

THERE IS AN ANOINTING IN OUR LIFE-GIVING RELATIONSHIPS

For harmony is as precious as the anointing oil that was poured over Aaron’s head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe. Psalms 133:2 NLT

The Christian needs another Christian who speaks God's word to him. He needs him again and again when he becomes uncertain and discouraged, for by himself he cannot help himself without belying the truth. He needs his brother man as a bearer and proclaimer of the Divine word of salvation. -Dietrich Bonhoeffer

THERE IS A HOPEFUL ANTICIPATION IN OUR LIFE-GIVING RELATIONSHIPS

Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon that falls on the mountains of Zion. Psalms 133:3 NLT

THERE IS A GLIMPSE OF HEAVEN IN OUR LIFE-GIVING RELATIONSHIPS

And there the Lord has pronounced his blessing, even life everlasting. Psalms 133:3 NLT

On the night when he was betrayed, the Lord Jesus took some bread and gave thanks to God for it. Then he broke it in pieces and said, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, he took the cup of wine after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant between God and his people—an agreement confirmed with my blood. Do this in remembrance of me as often as you drink it.” For every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you are announcing the Lord’s death until he comes again. 1 Corinthians 11:24-26 NLT

So let each individual first evaluate his own attitude and only then eat the bread and drink the cup. For continually eating and drinking with a wrong spirit will bring judgment upon yourself by not recognizing the body. This insensitivity is why many of you are weak, chronically ill, and some even dying. 1 Corinthians 11:28-30 TPT

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Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13 NLT

Faith is what brings meaning to life. God has a sovereign purpose in all things. That as God’s children we must trust that Jesus is who He says He is, salvation is real, the Word of God is true, and that nothing can separate us from the love of God!

Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see. Hebrews 11:1 NLT

FEAR IS CONQUERED BY FAITH AND FAITH IS FUELED BY TRUST

One day the widow of a member of the group of prophets came to Elisha and cried out, “My husband who served you is dead, and you know how he feared the Lord. But now a creditor has come, threatening to take my two sons as slaves.” 2 Kings 4:1 NLT

GOD CARES ABOUT YOUR SITUATION

'The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.' Psalms 34:17-18 NLT

“What can I do to help you?” Elisha asked. 2 Kings 4:2 NLT

Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it with good things. Psalms 81:10 NLT

But no, my people wouldn’t listen. Israel did not want me around. Psalms 81:11 NLT

YOUR MINDSET MATTERS

“Tell me, what do you have in the house?” 2 Kings 4:2 NLT

“Nothing at all...” she replied. 2 Kings 4:2 NLT

“Nothing at all, except a flask of olive oil,” she replied. 2 Kings 4:2 NLT

WE DO THE GIVING AND GOD DOES THE MULTIPLYING

And Elisha said, “Borrow as many empty jars as you can from your friends and neighbors. Then go into your house with your sons and shut the door behind you. Pour olive oil from your flask into the jars, setting each one aside when it is filled.” So she did as she was told. Her sons kept bringing jars to her, and she filled one after another. Soon every container was full to the brim! “Bring me another jar,” she said to one of her sons. “There aren’t any more!” he told her. And then the olive oil stopped flowing. When she told the man of God what had happened, he said to her, “Now sell the olive oil and pay your debts, and you and your sons can live on what is left over.” 2 Kings 4:3-7 NLT

WHEN WE STOP GIVING GOD STOPS PROVIDING

“Bring me another jar,” she said to one of her sons. “There aren’t any more!” he told her. And then the olive oil stopped flowing. 2 Kings 4:6 NLT

WHAT ARE THE PROVISIONS OF GOD?

1.HE GIVES US UNCONDITIONAL FORGIVENESS AND RESTORATION

He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases. Psalms 103:3 NLT

This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners”—and I am the worst of them all. But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life. 1 Timothy 1:15-16 NLT

BY GIVING US AN INHERITANCE

He redeems me from death and crowns me with love and tender mercies. Psalms 103:4 NLT

No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him. 1 Corinthians 2:9 NLT

We are Gods children

But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. John 1:12 NLT

We are heirs to God

Now you are no longer a slave but God’s own child. And since you are his child, God has made you his heir. Galatians 4:7 NLT

God says we are royalty!

But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. 1 Peter 2:9 NLT

We are Chosen, holy, and blameless

Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. Ephesians 1:4 NLT

BY GIVING US TRUE FULFILLMENT

He fills my life with good things. My youth is renewed like the eagle’s! Psalms 103:5 NLT

He took some bread and gave thanks to God for it. Then he broke it in pieces and gave it to the disciples, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” After supper he took another cup of wine and said, “This cup is the new covenant between God and his people—an agreement confirmed with my blood, which is poured out as a sacrifice for you. Luke 22:19-20 NLT

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Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do. Psalms 1:1-3 NLT

So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family. Ephesians 2:16 NLT

And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. Hebrews 10:19 NLT

THE QUESTION IS NOT “AM I GOING TO BE A PART OF A COMMUNITY OF FAITH?” BUT “HOW AM I GOING TO LIVE IN THIS COMMUNITY OF FAITH?”

And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. Hebrews 10:25 NLT

I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.” Psalms 122:1

COMMUNAL WORSHIP IS A WORKABLE STRUCTURE FOR OUR LIFE.

And now here we are, standing inside your gates, O Jerusalem. Psalms 122:2 NLT

Jerusalem is a well-built city; its seamless walls cannot be breached. Psalms 122:3 NLT

Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty (snobbish, high-minded, exclusive), but readily adjust yourself to [people, things] and give yourselves to humble tasks. Never overestimate yourself or be wise in your own conceits. Romans 12:16 AMPC

All the tribes of Israel—the Lord’s people—make their pilgrimage here. Psalms 122:4 NLT

COMMUNAL WORSHIP NUTURES OUR NEED TO BE IN RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD.

They come to give thanks to the name of the Lord, as the law requires of Israel. Psalms 122:4 NLT

But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. James 3:5 NLT

Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Philippians 4:4 NLT

"Feelings are important in many areas but completely unreliable in matters of faith" Eugene Peterson

COMMUNAL WORSHIP ALLOWS OUR ATTENTION TO BE CENTERED ON GOD’S DIRECTION.

Here stand the thrones where judgment is given, the thrones of the dynasty of David. Psalms 122:5 NLT

Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Philippians 2:1-2 NIV

COMMUNAL WORSHIP INFLUENCES OUR WEEK

Pray for peace in Jerusalem. Psalms 122:6 NLT

May all who love this city prosper. Psalms 122:6 NLT

O Jerusalem, may there be peace within your walls and prosperity in your palaces. For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, “May you have peace.” For the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek what is best for you, O Jerusalem. Psalms 122:7-9 NLT

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“So why do you keep calling me ‘Lord, Lord!’ when you don’t do what I say? I will show you what it’s like when someone comes to me, listens to my teaching, and then follows it. It is like a person building a house who digs deep and lays the foundation on solid rock. When the floodwaters rise and break against that house, it stands firm because it is well built. But anyone who hears and doesn’t obey is like a person who builds a house right on the ground, without a foundation. When the floods sweep down against that house, it will collapse into a heap of ruins.” Luke 6:46-49 NLT

JESUS CAN’T BE LESS THAN WHO HE IS

Lord our God, other lords besides you have ruled over us, but your name alone do we honor. Isaiah 26:13 NIV

HOW DO WE DISPLAY LOYALTY TO GOD?

LIVE WITH A FULL SUBMISSION TO HIS AUTHORITY

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. 1 Peter 3:15 NIV

May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Matthew 6:10 NLT

Yet I want your will to be done, not mine. Matthew 26:39 NLT

WE RECOGNIZE HIS OWNERSHIP

This is the message of Good News for the people of Israel—that there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all. Acts 10:36 NLT

Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. 1 Timothy 6:17 NLT

Unquestioning Obedience

So why do you keep calling me ‘Lord, Lord!’ when you don’t do what I say? Luke 6:46 NLT

“If you love me, obey my commandments.” John 14:15 NLT

GOD CALLS US TO SERVICE TO HIM AND TO OTHERS

So Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:42-45 NLT

JESUS NEVER REDUCES HIS STANDARDS TO ATTRACT DISCIPLES

QUESTIONS TO EVALUATE OUR SERVANTHOOD

AM I GENEROUS WITH MY TIME?

And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God. Hebrews 13:16 NLT

AM I GENEROUS WITH MY TALENTS?

Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, 5so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other. Romans 12:4-5 NLT

God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. 1 Peter 4:10 NLT

AM I GENEROUS WITH MY TREASURE?

“What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are careful to tithe even the tiniest income from your herb gardens, but you ignore the more important aspects of the law—justice, mercy, and faith. You should tithe, yes, but do not neglect the more important things. Matthew 23:23 NLT

They are being tested by many troubles, and they are very poor. But they are also filled with abundant joy, which has overflowed in rich generosity. For I can testify that they gave not only what they could afford, but far more. And they did it of their own free will. 2 Corinthians 8:2-3 NLT

AM I GENEROUS WITH MY TESTIMONY

And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony. Revelation 12:11 NLT

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The Lord gave another message to Jeremiah. He said, “Go down to the potter’s shop, and I will speak to you there.” So I did as he told me and found the potter working at his wheel. But the jar he was making did not turn out as he had hoped, so he crushed it into a lump of clay again and started over. Then the Lord gave me this message: “O Israel, can I not do to you as this potter has done to his clay? As the clay is in the potter’s hand, so are you in my hand.” Jeremiah 18:1-6 NLT 1. Jeremiah saw the potter Remember, I pray, that You have made me like clay. Job 10:9 NKJV In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1 NLT In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. John 1:1-2 NLT 2. Jeremiah saw the wheel And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28 NLT 3. Jeremiah saw the clay Sin is simply when we resist God’s Will. In a well-furnished kitchen there are not only crystal goblets and silver platters, but waste cans and compost buckets—some containers used to serve fine meals, others to take out the garbage. Become the kind of container God can use to present any and every kind of gift to his guests for their blessing. 2 Timothy 2:20-21 MSG LIFE WILL NEVER MAKE SENSE UNLESS YOU LIVE A LIFE BIGGER THAN YOURSELF For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. 5:8-10 NIV 1. ASK YOURSELF “What should I STOP doing” Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them… Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise… Ephesians 5:11;15 NIV Behind your darkness is God’s purpose for your life. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked; your feet from following evil. Proverbs 4:25-27 NLT 2. ASK YOURSELF “What should I START doing” Making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Ephesians 5:16-17 NIV Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it. James 4:17 NLT “Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.” Matthew 6:34 MSG 3. ASK YOURSELF “What AM I WAITING FOR” I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2 NLT People that procrastinate talk about a life of purpose. People who take initiative live a life of purpose. Why do you Matter? 1. You Matter to our Church God is looking for passionate disciples. I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the lord.” Psalms 122:1 NLT But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. John 4:23 NLT God is looking for compassionate disciples. For “Everyone who calls on the name of the lord will be saved.” But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is why the Scriptures say, “How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!” Romans 10:13-15 NLT 2. You Matter to our Community Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. James 5:16 NLT Well our Church must become larger and smaller at the same time Small groups create 3 things we all need A place to Connect A place to Protect A place to Grow 3. You Matter to God There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all. There are different kinds of service, but we serve the same Lord. God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us. A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other; But our bodies have many parts, and God has put each part just where he wants it… 1 Corinthians 12:4-7;18 When you live beyond yourself the meaning of life comes into focus and life has purpose! But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God. Acts 20:24 NLT

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PATHWAYS 2/5/2024 Week 5: The Case for Community LACK OF COMMUNITY CAN LEAD TO: Heart disease High blood pressure Immune disorders Mental health issues (higher stress & anxiety) Cancer Suicide PEOPLE WHO ARE CONNECTED WITH OTHERS HAVE: 50% increase in life longevity Strengthened immune system and fighting diseases Lower levels of anxiety & depression Greater empathy More trust & cooperative Others trust & are open to cooperation Improved physical, social & emotional well-being STUDIES SAY OVER 25% OF AMERICANS HAVE NO ONE TO CONFIDE IN, OR WHO THEY CONSIDER A CLOSE FRIEND Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8 NLT Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:16 NLT 1. THE NEED TO TAKE ___INITIATIVE__________________ 2. THE NEED FOR _____GOOD COMMUNITY________________ Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.” 1 Corinthians 15:33 NIV 3. THE NEED TO ___CARRY EACH OTHERS BURDENS________________ Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2 NIV 4. THE NEED FOR ___ACCOUNTABILITY___________ 4. THE NEED TO GO ____DEEPER__________ Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ Matthew 22:37-39 NLT There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:13 NLT

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Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God. 2 Corinthians 7:1 NLT

But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. For the Scriptures say, “You must be holy because I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:16 NLT

“I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth!” Revelation 3:15-16 NLT

“If you love your father or mother more than you love me, you are not worthy of being mine; or if you love your son or daughter more than me, you are not worthy of being mine. If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it.” Matthew 10:37-39 NLT

“Grace is costly because it compels a man to submit to the Yoke of Christ and follow Him. It is Grace because Jesus says, My yoke is easy and my burden is light.’” Dietrich Bonhoeffer

We Come

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28 NLT

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” John 14:6 NLT

So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free. John 8:36 NLT

“Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink—even if you have no money! Come, take your choice of wine or milk—it’s all free! Isaiah 55:1 NLT

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28 NLT

We Take

Take my yoke upon you. Matthew 11:29 NLT

Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Galatian 6:8-9 NLT

WHAT YOU HOLD ONTO BECOMES YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO MAINTAIN, BUT WHAT YOU SURRENDER TO GOD HE BEARS.

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33 NLT

We Learn

Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart… Matthew 11:29 NLT

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Psalm 139:23-24 NLT

Well then, since God’s grace has set us free from the law, does that mean we can go on sinning? Of course not! Don’t you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey? You can be a slave to sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God, which leads to righteous living. Romans 6:15-16 NLT

“If you love me, obey my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. John 14:15-17 NLT

We Receive Rest

The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. Lamentations 3:22-23 NLT

What is a yoke?

Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 18-20 NLT

But Jesus told him, “Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.” Luke 9:62 NLT

“When we are called to follow Christ, we are summoned to an exclusive attachment to his person. And Christianity without discipleship is always Christianity without Christ.” - Dietrich Bonhoeffer

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To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing. —Martin Luther King JR

You live fully in me and now I live fully in them so that they will experience perfect unity, and the world will be convinced that you have sent me, for they will see that you love each one of them with the same passionate love that you have for me. John 17:23 TPT

The mature children of God are those who are moved by the impulses of the Holy Spirit. And you did not receive the “spirit of religious duty,” leading you back into the fear of never being good enough. But you have received the “Spirit of full acceptance,” enfolding you into the family of God. And you will never feel orphaned, for as he rises up within us, our spirits join him in saying the words of tender affection, “Beloved Father!” For the Holy Spirit makes God’s fatherhood real to us as he whispers into our innermost being, “You are God’s beloved child!” Romans 8:14-16 TPT

PRAYER IS LESS ABOUT THE WORDS THAT YOU SAY, BUT THE MINDSET THAT YOU ATTACH TO YOUR PRAYERS!

Why do we have trouble praying?

Prayer can feel unnatural at first

Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. 1 Corinthians 1:27 NLT

Prayer is an admission of weakness

Desperate, I throw myself on you: you are my God! Hour by hour I place my days in your hand, safe from the hands out to get me. Warm me, your servant, with a smile; save me because you love me. Psalms 31:14-15 MSG

Prayer doesn't always lead to the results we pictured.

“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:8-9 NLT

“Prayer is a radical conversion of all our mental processes because in prayer we move away from ourselves, our worries, preoccupation, and self-gratification - and direct all that we recognize as ours to God in the simple trust that through his love all will be made new.” Henri Nouwen

How should a Disciple pray?

A Disciple Prays that God’s interest comes first

Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy. May your Kingdom come soon. May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Matthew 6:9-10 NLT

you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9

We have become his poetry, a re-created people that will fulfill the destiny he has given each of us, for we are joined to Jesus, the Anointed One. Even before we were born, God planned in advance our destiny and the good works we would do to fulfill it! Ephesians 2:10 TPT

A Disciple can pray with Authority

We are human, but we don’t wage war as humans do. We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments. 2 Corinthians 10:3-4 NLT

For who is powerful enough to enter the house of a strong man and plunder his goods? Only someone even stronger—someone who could tie him up and then plunder his house. Matthew 12:29 NLT

The Disciple should pray Audaciously

“You don’t have enough faith,” Jesus told them. “I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it would move. Nothing would be impossible. Matthew 17:20-21 NLT

The Disciple should pray with persistence

One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up. “There was a judge in a certain city,” he said, “who neither feared God nor cared about people. A widow of that city came to him repeatedly, saying, ‘Give me justice in this dispute with my enemy.’ The judge ignored her for a while, but finally he said to himself, ‘I don’t fear God or care about people, but this woman is driving me crazy. I’m going to see that she gets justice, because she is wearing me out with her constant requests!’” Then the Lord said, “Learn a lesson from this unjust judge. Even he rendered a just decision in the end. So don’t you think God will surely give justice to his chosen people who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? Luke 18:1-7 NLT

“Got love an importunate prayer so much that He will not give us much blessings without it. He knows that it is a necessary preparation for our receiving the richest blessing He is Longing To bestow.” Adoniram Judson

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if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV

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This is what the Lord says to the people of Judah and Jerusalem: “Plow up the hard ground of your hearts! Do not waste your good seed among thorns” Jeremiah 4:3 NLT

The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God. Psalms 51:17 NLT

So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27 NLT

Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy. Ephesians 4:24 NLT

When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father. John15:8 NLT

Fruit-bearing in character is a prerequisite to fruit-bearing in spiritual influence upon others.

When the ground soaks up the falling rain and bears a good crop for the farmer, it has God’s blessing. But if a field bears thorns and thistles, it is useless. The farmer will soon condemn that field and burn it. Hebrews 6:7-8 NLT

Fallow Ground has a hard surface.

Fallow Ground has overgrowth

Fallow Ground invites the Trampling of Traffic

Sow for yourselves righteousness; Reap in mercy; Break up your fallow ground, For it is time to seek the Lord, Till He comes and rains righteousness on you. Hosea 10:12 NKJV

Two things we must do to break up our fallow hearts.

Humble ourselves before God and confess our Sins

“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. 1 Peter 5:5-6 NLT

let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God. 2 Corinthians 7:1 NLT

“Holiness is not human life brought up to the highest possible development, but is Divine Life brought down to the lowest possible level of condescension.” Stuart Holden

Pride must be broken or it will break you!

Pride tells you that you can quit doing what you've always done even though it got you to success.

Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins. Wash me clean from my guilt. Purify me from my sin. For I recognize my rebellion; it haunts me day and night. Against you, and you alone, have I sinned; I have done what is evil in your sight. Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Do not banish me from your presence, and don’t take your Holy Spirit from me. Psalms 51:1-4;10-11 NLT

There must be an abhorrence of the sin in your life.

Then Jacob made this vow: “If God will indeed be with me and protect me on this journey, and if he will provide me with food and clothing, and if I return safely to my father’s home, then the Lord will certainly be my God. Genesis 28:20-21 NLT

When the man saw that he would not win the match, he touched Jacob’s hip and wrenched it out of its socket. Genesis 32:25 NLT

“ The experiences of men who walked with God in olden times agreed to teach that the Lord cannot fully bless a man until he has first conquered him. the degree of blessing enjoyed by any man will correspond exactly with the completeness of God's victory over him.” A W Tozer

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And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? Matthew 16:26 NLT

“While true Grace is the full justification of the sinner, cheap Grace is the justification of continued sin. The Christian continues too often to model himself on the world standards in nearly every possible sphere of life, counting it presumption to aspire to a life under grace different from that which life has been under sin.” Dwight Small

“Costly Grace is costly because it cost a man his life, and it is Grace because it gives a man the only true life. it is costly because it condemns sin, and Grace because it justifies the sinner.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, you want to be with me because I fed you, not because you understood the miraculous signs. But don’t be so concerned about perishable things like food. Spend your energy seeking the eternal life that the Son of Man can give you. For God the Father has given me the seal of his approval.” John 6:26-27 NLT

Where do you reside in your commitment to Jesus?

Three things that progress you towards the core.

Experience (Food, Blessings, Miracles)
Revelation (He is more than a man)
Conviction (Not a guilty feeling, but moved inwardly, “where else would I go”)

If you only live in experience you will never have a deep relationship with God. Experience causes you to live for yourself and self sooner or later becomes the only god you need.

The backslider in heart will be filled with his own ways, But a good man will be satisfied from above. Proverbs 14:14

🚩 THAT CAUSE A BACKSLIDDEN HEART

The backslidden in heart masks sins with religious works

The backslidden in heart is filled with their own feelings and emotions

The backslidden in heart is filled with their own intelligence

The backslidden in heart is filled with their own quarrels

The backslidden in heart is filled with compromises and temptations

The backslidden in heart is filled with their own cares and worries

The backslidden in heart is filled with condemnation and shame

Then he said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me.” Luke 9:23 NLT

If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. Luke 9:24 NLT

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“Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’” Matthew 1:23 NLT

Jesus had equal status with God but didn’t think so much of himself that he had to cling to the advantages of that status no matter what. Not at all. When the time came, he set aside the privileges of deity and took on the status of a slave, became human! Having become human, he stayed human. It was an incredibly humbling process. He didn’t claim special privileges. Instead, he lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death—and the worst kind of death at that—a crucifixion. Philippians 2:6-8 MSG

THE GIFT OF JESUS IS…

THE GIFT OF PEACE

You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.” Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying, “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.” Luke 2:12-14 NLT

And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him. Hebrews 11:6 NLT

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 NLT

THE GIFT OF UNDERSTANDING

Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who rose into the heavenly realm for us, and now sympathizes with us in our frailty. He understands humanity, for as a Man, our magnificent King-Priest was tempted in every way just as we are, and conquered sin. So now we come freely and boldly to where love is enthroned, to receive mercy’s kiss and discover the grace we urgently need to strengthen us in our time of weakness. Hebrews 4:14-16 TPT

THE GIFT OF LOVE

This is how we have discovered love’s reality: Jesus sacrificed his life for us. Beloved children, our love can’t be an abstract theory we only talk about, but a way of life demonstrated through our loving deeds. 1 John 3:16;18 TPT

And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God. Ephesians 3:18-19 NLT

✓ How wide is the love of God

“Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow.” Isaiah 1:18 NLT

He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west. Psalms 103:12 NLT

✓ How long is the love of God

I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me John 10:28 NLT

✓ How deep is the love of God

My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” Matthew 26:38-39 NLT

“He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds, you have been healed.” 1 Peter 2:24 NLT

✓ How high is the love of God

That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9 NLT

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“What do you Expect – Power of Expectations”

EXPECTATION

“…My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.” John 10:10 NLT

EXPECTATION

Expectations, with the right heart, are the breeding ground of miracles

FRUSTRATION

DISAPPOINTMENT

ANGER

If we aren’t careful, we could begin to project our frustration, disappointment, and anger towards God when He doesn't meet our expectations

“JOHN THE BAPTIST, WHO WAS IN PRISON, HEARD ABOUT ALL THE THINGS THE MESSIAH WAS DOING. SO HE (JOHN) SENT HIS DISCIPLES TO ASK JESUS, ARE YOU THE MESSIAH WE’VE BEEN EXPECTING, OR SHOULD WE KEEP LOOKING FOR SOMEONE ELSE?” – Matthew 11:2-3 NLT

“…are you the messiah we’ve been expecting, or should we keep looking for someone else?” Matthew 11:3 NLT

What happens when you go one way but God goes another?

GOD MAY NOT ALWAYS LIVE UP TO YOUR EXPECTATIONS, BUT HE WILL ALWAYS LIVE UP TO HIS WORD

Inspect Your Perspective

PERSPECTIVE INFLUENCES EXPECTATION

“Now while John the Baptizer was in prison…” Matthew 11:2 TPT

“THEN JESUS WENT FROM GALILEE TO THE JORDAN RIVER TO BE BAPTIZED BY JOHN. BUT JOHN TRIED TO TALK HIM OUT OF IT ‘I AM THE ONE WHO NEEDS TO BE BAPTIZED BY YOU,’ HE SAID, ‘SO WHY ARE YOU COMING TO ME?” Matthew 3:13-14 NLT

Is this the guy?!

“Lord if its you,” peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” Matthew 14:28 NLT

“…Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “lord jesus save me!” Matthew 14: 29-30 NLT

AN UNHEALTHY PERSPECTIVE WILL ALWAYS CAUSE YOU TO DOUBT WHERE YOU’RE GOING

Remember what God has done

STORMS CAN BE SCARY, BUT JESUS IS WITH US

IF GOD HAS BEEN FAITHFUL TO YOU IN THE PAST, HE IS GOING TO BE FAITHFUL IN THE PRESENT AND IN THE FUTURE.

Trust That God Will Do It

IF GOD HAS BEEN FAITHFUL TO YOU IN THE PAST, HE IS GOING TO BE FAITHFUL IN THE PRESENT AND IN THE FUTURE.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV

“God is not a man, so he does not lie. He is not human, so he does not change his mind. Has he ever spoken and failed to act? Has he ever promised and not carried it through?” Numbers 23:19 NLT

GOD CAN OVERCOME YOUR FAILURE IF YOU CONTINUE TO HAVE FAITH

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Late in the afternoon the twelve disciples came to him and said, “Send the crowds away to the nearby villages and farms, so they can find food and lodging for the night. There is nothing to eat here in this remote place.” But Jesus said, “You feed them.” “But we have only five loaves of bread and two fish,” they answered. “Or are you expecting us to go and buy enough food for this whole crowd?” For there were about 5,000 men there. Luke 9:12-14 NLT

About 5,000 men were fed that day, in addition to all the women and children! Matthew 14:21 NLT

Jesus replied, “Tell them to sit down in groups of about fifty each.” So the people all sat down. Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces, he kept giving the bread and fish to the disciples so they could distribute it to the people. They all ate as much as they wanted, and afterward, the disciples picked up twelve baskets of leftovers! Luke 9:14-17

When the day began to wear away. Luke 9:12 NKJV

But Jesus said, “You feed them.” Luke 9:13 NLT

Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces. Luke 9:16 NLT

he kept giving the bread and fish to the disciples so they could distribute it to the people. Luke 9:16 NLT

IT HAS TO BE BLESSED BEFORE IT CAN MULTIPLY

Now the law of Moses required that the priests, who are descendants of Levi, must collect a tithe from the rest of the people of Israel, who are also descendants of Abraham. But Melchizedek, who was not a descendant of Levi, collected a tenth from Abraham. And Melchizedek placed a blessing upon Abraham, the one who had already received the promises of God. And without question, the person who has the power to give a blessing is greater than the one who is blessed. Hebrews 7:5-7 NLT

IT HAS TO BE GIVEN AWAY TO MULTIPLY

Blessed are those who act justly, who always do what is right. Psalms 106:3 NIV

I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you… Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:1-2 NLT

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Then, six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was who had been dead, whom He had raised from the dead. There they made Him a supper; and Martha served, but Lazarus was one of those who sat at the table with Him. Then Mary took a pound of very costly oil of spikenard, anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil. But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, who would betray Him, said, “Why was this fragrant oil not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it. John 12:1-6 NKJV

THE ENEMY OF GENEROSITY

This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it. John 12:6 NKJV

Then Jesus said, “I chose the twelve of you, but one is a devil.” He was speaking of Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, one of the Twelve, who would later betray him. John 6:70-71

SUCCESS IS CONFRONTING OUR WEAKNESSES AND OVERCOMING THEM!

Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. 2 Corinthians 12:9

THE EXTRAVAGANCE OF GENEROSITY

And now, because of my devotion to the Temple of my God, I am giving all of my own private treasures of gold and silver to help in the construction 1 Chronicles 29:3 NLT

Solomon loved the Lord and followed all the decrees of his father, David, so the king went there and sacrificed 1,000 burnt offerings. 1 Kings 3:3-4 NLT

While Jesus was in the Temple, he watched the rich people dropping their gifts in the collection box. Then a poor widow came by and dropped in two small coins. “I tell you the truth,” Jesus said, “this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has.” Luke 21:1-4 NLT

EXTRAVAGANCE IS NOT THE AMOUNT, BUT THE ATTITUDE BEHIND IT!

She has done what she could and has anointed my body for burial ahead of time. Mark 14:8 NLT

they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord 2 Corinthians 8:5 NIV

THE MOST EXTRAVAGANT YOU CAN GIVE GOD IS YOUR HEART

THE REWARD OF GENEROSITY

I tell you the truth, wherever the Good News is preached throughout the world, this woman’s deed will be remembered and discussed. Mark 14:9 NLT

When Mary arrived and saw Jesus, she fell at his feet and said, “Lord, if only you had been here, my brother would not have died.”; “Roll the stone aside,” Jesus told them. But Martha, the dead man’s sister, protested, “Lord, he has been dead for four days. The smell will be terrible.” Jesus responded, “Didn’t I tell you that you would see God’s glory if you believe?”; Then Jesus shouted, “Lazarus, come out!” And the dead man came out, his hands and feet bound in graveclothes, his face wrapped in a headcloth. Jesus told them, “Unwrap him and let him go!” John 11:32;39-40;43-44 NLT

GENEROSITY IS A REFLECTION OF GRATITUDE

But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!) For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:4-6 NLT

Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him. Hebrews 11:6 NLT

You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 2 Corinthians 9:7 NLT

I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. Genesis 12:2 NIV

The Lord appeared to Abram and said, “To your offspring I will give this land.” So he built an altar there to the Lord, who had appeared to him. Genesis 12:7 NLT

For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 NLT

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Blessed Life – Week 4

The Principal of the First

What is up family? We are in week four of our series the blessed life based on a book with the same title written by pastor Robert Morris and this book radically changed my life! At the beginning of this series Pastor Mike made a challenge for you to not miss a week of this series because I truly believe these principles will radically transform your life, but if you miss any weeks so far you can go online and catch up because I really layout some foundational truth about our heart and the purpose behind why we do what we do in regards to these principles.

Today is probably one of the most difficult messages to speak and teach on as we are going to be tackling some meaty teachings today, but I believe it is probably the most important message out of the series as we are going to be talking about

The Principal of the Firsts

If God is 1st in your life, then everything comes into order. Now I’m not saying that you won't go through trials or tough times because even Jesus said we're going to go through trials; what I'm saying is despite the trials we go through, we have the proper alignment in life. If we routinely seek Him first and make God 1st, He will reveal solutions to our problems and struggles through the light of His presence and the power of His voice. His peace guards our hearts against chaotic thoughts and emotions. Wouldn't you rather go through life with your life in order instead of out of order?

This principle of the 1st is a theme throughout the entire Bible because it is laying out the placement of God in our lives. Watch what it says in Exodus:

Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, “Consecrate to Me all the firstborn, whatever opens the womb among the children of Israel, both of man and beast; it is Mine.” Exodus 13:1-2 NKJV

Consecrate means to set apart! Notice he says it is mine. These are very strong words God using in the original text very powerful statement where he's making a claim and leaving a very clear description to the people of Israel of what is of importance to him. The first.

“Every firstborn that comes from an animal which you have; the males shall be the Lord’s. But every firstborn of a donkey you shall redeem with a lamb; and if you will not redeem it, then you shall break its neck. And all the firstborn of man among your sons you shall redeem. Exodus 13:12-13 NKJV

Notice it says that every donkey you must break its neck if you don't redeem it which means you will lose it anyway. Think about that with your tithe and finances: if you don't redeem them they would become lost

Now to understand this principle of 1st there are several things we need to grasp about this principle.

THE FIRSTBORN MUST BE SACRIFICED OR REDEEMED

Now the question comes up how do you know which to do. How do you know if you're supposed to sacrifice it or redeem it? If it's clean it is to be sacrificed and if it's unclean he needs to be redeemed and what exodus says here is that it is redeemed with a clean animal. So to redeem the unclean donkey you needed a clean lamb to redeem it.

Now how does that apply today because that seems like some ancient stuff that we can't always comprehend in 2023? Think about it this way: how are you born do you think you were born clean or unclean?

For I was born a sinner—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me. Psalms 51:5

Romans says because of the sin of Adam that sin has spread to everyone. So we are born into sin with a sinful nature. However, Jesus was born into this world clean. The Bible says he was pure and never sinned and he was sacrificed so that we could be redeemed and clean. Now, why am I saying this?

JESUS IS GOD’S TITHE

God gave his 1st born son 1st watch what Roman says,

But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. Romans 5:8

Did you see that? God sent his son as a sacrifice before we got our act together. While we were still in sin he sent his tithe. He sent Jesus while we were still mocking him, beating him, spitting on him, and nailing him to a cross. While we were still consumed with the sin he hoped and desired that we would receive the free gift of Jesus’ sacrifice and receive the forgiveness that would redeem our unclean sin. I'm glad he didn't wait for me to get my act together to redeem me.

So he gave his son in faith!

We tithe 10% in faith… We put God 1st in trust! The first fruit means that the tithe comes 1st and for that to happen we need faith! God says give me the first lamb, the firstborn I want the 1st. Don't wait till you have 10 lambs and then hand over the scrawny one that you don't really want. No, give me the first before you even have 9 more that follows because that takes faith.

Many people think that the tithe the 10% is what causes the blessing but that's not the truth it's

Your faith and obedience cause the blessing

Now I really want you to see this principle in the eyes of faith. Think back all the way to the book of Joshua the people of Israel 40 years before were delivered from the powerful Egyptian army out of slavery and the people still did not have faith to trust God to be their provider and sustainer. When he brought them to the promised land their response was we cannot defeat the nations that live in this land and they were filled with doubt, not faith. So for 40 years, the people of Israel wandered in the desert until all the doubters became old and died away.

Now Joshua is in command and the people of Israel are ready to inherit the promised land that was theirs from the beginning. And they're stepping into their first battle to take down the mighty city of Jericho and watch what God instructs the people of Israel to do.

Jericho and everything in it must be completely destroyed as an offering to the Lord. Only Rahab the prostitute and the others in her house will be spared, for she protected our spies. “Do not take any of the things set apart for destruction, or you yourselves will be completely destroyed, and you will bring trouble on the camp of Israel. Everything made from silver, gold, bronze, or iron is sacred to the Lord and must be brought into his treasury.” Joshua 6:17-19

Now the logical thinking would be that after you win your first battle you would take the spoils of war to fund the mission of conquering the rest of the land. But God said everything from the first battle would be given to him as an offering. Why? Because it was the first city conquered in the promised land and that would make it the first fruit. He didn't say conquered 10 cities and give me the spoils from the 10th one he says give me the 1st and you can have the rest and that's going to take faith and of course, tithing takes faith to give the 1st.

FIRSTFRUITS MUST BE OFFERED

Honor the Lord with your possessions, And with the firstfruits of all your increase Proverbs 3:9 NKJV

All your increase which means bonuses and all the God brings into your home. Honor God with it. Now I want you to notice something this isn't the law in proverbs where God is kind of writing out the guidebook for the people of Israel. This is actually hundreds of years after the law was written we're Solomon is reinforcing that this is a principle, not just a rule.

The first of the firstfruits of your land you shall bring into the house of the Lord your God. Exodus 23:19 NKJV

Notice God says to bring the firstfruits not give first fruit Why is that? Because:

You can’t give what’s not yours

And we've already associated that the tithe is set apart for God so it is already his that's why we just bring it to the House of the Lord. So, you can either bring it or you steal it as we talked about 2 weeks ago in Malachi chapter 3.

Now, remember when we talked about how in the book of Joshua God commanded the people of Israel to take all the spoils they received from the battle of Jericho and offer 1it to God as an offering because it was the first fruits and that was their tithe? Well not everybody has faith and there was a dude Achan just didn't want to trust God and took matters into his own hands.

But Israel violated the instructions about the things set apart for the Lord. A man named Achan had stolen some of these dedicated things, so the Lord was very angry with the Israelites. Joshua 7:1-2

So Achan takes some the first fruit offering and keeps it for himself. Took what was set apart for himself and God becomes angry and now their mission which was redeemed is now cursed and the people of Israel go to battle and when they just came out and a victory that was amazing and miraculous they get beat handily by the men of Ai.

And Joshua goes and he's weeping on his face before God and God goes dude get up why you laying on your face like that because there's only one logical explanation as to why you were defeated you didn't obey the covenant and my commands by giving me the 1st. People stole from me and my blessings could not be there because there was sin in its place. And God says until you deal with this you'll never defeat your enemies until you get those things that were set apart and give him to me you won't have victory and so Joshua dealt with it and God blessed their mission.

Listen to me: when we don't tithe we are not setting apart what God called to be holy and we're not seeing our finances be redeemed but now we are cursing them.

Why would you want curses in your bank account because the Lord knows you already got enough problems in that bank account already. Wouldn't you want it blessed? Heres what I know:

IT TAKES FAITH TO TITHE AND IT TAKES FAITH TO BELIEVE THAT 90% BLESSED IS FAR BETTER THAN 100% CURSED.

Listen to what it says in Genesis 4:

And in the process of time it came to pass that Cain brought an offering of the fruit of the ground to the Lord. Genesis 4:3 NKJV

I want you to notice this it says in the process of time Cain brought an offering. It didn't say he brought the first fruit it just says an offering over the course of time.

Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat. And the Lord respected Abel and his offering, but He did not respect Cain and his offering. Genesis 4:4-5 NKJV

The Lord respected and accepted Abel's offering but did not accept Cain's offering and it's not that God wouldn't accept it that he couldn't accept it because God has to be 1st and can never be 2nd. God is above all and he is 1st and just because you don't make him 1st Doesn't change who he is and that means he could never be second. He is God!

Tithing represents who is 1st in your life. You can tell me all day long who's 1st in your life but your lifestyle and your choices are the real answer. The first belongs to God we can give God the first of our time. We can give him the first of our finances. What the tithe is really is giving our first to God. It is saying, God, I'm gonna give you the 1st and trust you redeem the rest.

So when we understand the principle of tithing we can look at our bank accounts and say God you come first And I trust now when I tithe 1st you're going to redeem the rest and provide for me. You can also say God I understand the principle a first because you come first in my schedule I give you the first portion of my week by attending church and believe you will redeem the rest of my week because I will honor you and model to my family God comes 1st.

Sadly some people view Monday as the beginning of the week other people think Friday is when their week begins because they think I'm going to party and have a good time but very few people view attending church as the tithe of their time by giving God the first of their week as they worship God and they serve in the body to see people that are far from Jesus have a welcoming loving experience in our church community. Even in business, this is why chick fila, hobby lobby and others, are BLESSED and still at the top of the lists for revenues minus 1 day of the week against their competition…bc they give the first part of their week. Number 3:

THE TITHE MUST BE FIRST

One-tenth of the produce of the land, whether grain from the fields or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord and must be set apart to him as holy. Leviticus 27:30

OK now let me use a little illustration here say I hire a contractor to remodel my kitchen and the contractor gives me a bid and says this is how much it's going to cost for materials, this is how much is going to cost to pay my workers, and this is the profit I'm going to make which will just say is $1000. Now the contractor doesn’t tithe on the material cost or on what he pays his workers he tithes on his profit which is his increase. So let's say I give him 10 $100 bills for his $1000 profit. What's his tithe? $100.

Now, which of the $100 bills is his tithe? Now what we do is we set some aside for a mortgage, set some aside for our car payment, set some aside for our utilities, set some aside for our food, and then we set some aside for our tithe. However, when we do that our tithe is not our first fruit which means Gods not first because our mortgage is getting our first fruit.

For if the firstfruit is holy, the lump is also holy; and if the root is holy, so are the branches. Romans 11:16 NKJV

I want you to see this is we made the first fruit holy it redeems the rest and makes the rest holy. In the root is only all the branches and its fruit becomes holy. If the tithe is 1st and God is 1st then the rest is holy. So your tithe is the first that leaves your hand.

Because if we're honest and we don't make the first fruit the first fruit which causes the rest to be holy what happens is we send some aside for a mortgage, we set some aside for our car payment, we set some aside for our utilities, we set some aside for our food, and oops we don't have quite enough to set aside for our tithe and God cannot accept and redeem that because he was not first. Remember in Malachai when God said you are robbing me. He also says you are not bringing me your first or your best offering when you do bring offerings and it is so dishonoring I wish you wouldn’t bring me any offering at all! God has to be 1st in our life and we have to trust that he has our best interests at heart. That's faith!

Now how does this work for me? I get paid every other Friday and my check is direct deposited so it just magically appears in my bank account and So what I've done is I set up recurring giving that the very first thing that comes out of my bank account on payday is my tithes and offerings. Now some people write checks and when they get paid the very first thing they do is write a tithe check or some people physically go online on their payday and give their tithe. But what they're doing and what I'm trying to do is to always make the first fruit the first fruit because I always want God to be 1st.

Now what if you get paid and go to pay your tithe and maybe you write a check or pay online on your payday but you get so busy one day that you get home that night and you're like I forgot to write my tithe check where I forgot to pay my tithe online and you jump online to pay your tithe and you realize your wife bought groceries already and you're like great my check already cursed for this pay period. No! That's not the way it works because God is not legalistic.

Tithing isn't about following rules it's about your heart and your intentions

2nd corinthians 9 says:

“Let giving flow from your heart, not from a sense of religious duty…” 2 Corinthians 9:7 TPT

We do it just because we want God to be 1st in our lives and he knows your heart.

{PERSONAL STORY} – MY FIRST YEAR TITHING – BLESSED AND REDEEMED FINANCES

That's why I tell you only you can keep yourself accountable to this and as one of your pastors I will teach you the truth but I'll not be looking at your paycheck and your donation and see if you're giving 10% that's between you and God. it's also why I say if you don't feel called to Bloom go to a church that you feel called to be a part of an apply these principles too because I care more about you being blessed and I don't want you to walk in the curse any longer. God has great things in store for you but he has to be 1st in your life.

And in the future, your children will ask you, ‘What does all this mean?’ Then you will tell them, ‘With the power of his mighty hand, the Lord brought us out of Egypt, the place of our slavery. Pharaoh stubbornly refused to let us go, so the Lord killed all the firstborn males throughout the land of Egypt, both people and animals. That is why I now sacrifice all the firstborn males to the Lord… Exodus 13:14-15

One day your children will come and ask you why do you sacrifice the first fruits to the Lord and you'll tell him we weren't always blessed like we are now. We didn't use to be farmers or ranchers we used to be slaves, but God redeemed us and out of a grateful heart we remember that and we understand that we never want to walk in this life without God being 1st. Because I don't want to take one step without God’s direction. because only a surrendered disciple can walk in the thriving will of God. That is still true for us today thousands of years later parents we model to our children what redemption and surrender looks like and if God is not first in your life and he is 2nd and 3rd in your life he will be 4th 5th and 6th in your children's lives. We explain to them the redemption we explain to them the goodness of God and we show them what freedom looks like and we explain why God is 1st in our lives.

So the question I want to end with

is God really first in your life?

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Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord. Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts. They do not compromise with evil, and they walk only in his paths. You have charged us to keep your commandments carefully. Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect your decrees! Psalms 119:1-5 NLT

And I say to you, make friends for yourselves by unrighteous mammon, that when you fail, they may receive you into an everlasting home. Luke 16:9 NKJV

He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. Therefore if you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? And if you have not been faithful in what is another man’s, who will give you what is your own? Luke 16:10-12 NKJV

No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. Luke 16:13 NKJV

WHAT IS MAMMON?

And they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, and a tower whose top is in the heavens; let us make a name for ourselves… Genesis 11:4 NKJV

'“How you are fallen from heaven, O shining star, son of the morning! You have been thrown down to the earth, you who destroyed the nations of the world. For you said to yourself, ‘I will ascend to heaven and set my throne above God’s stars. I will preside on the mountain of the gods far away in the north. I will climb to the highest heavens and be like the Most High.’ Isaiah 14:12-14 NLT

No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. Matthew 6:24 NKJV

Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Matthew 6:25-26 NKJV

MAMMON PROMISES US THINGS ONLY GOD CAN PROVIDE

Cause my heart to bow before your words of wisdom and not to the wealth of this world. Psalms 119:36 NLT

IS MONEY EVIL?

MONEY IS NOT EVIL IT IS NEUTRAL

For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows. 1 Timothy 6:10 NLT

And I say to you, make friends for yourselves by unrighteous mammon, that when you fail, they may receive you into an everlasting home. Luke 16:9 NKJV

ONLY GOD CAN TURN UNRIGHTEOUS MAMMON INTO SOULS

WHAT SHOULD I DO WITH MY MONEY?

If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. Luke 16:10 NLT

SATISFACTION IS ROOTED IN LIVING YOUR PURPOSE!

And if you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven? Luke 16:11 NLT

Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21 NKJV

Decide:

“When you have plans that are diligent, it leads to plenty.” Proverbs 21:5.

Discover:

“God will supply all your needs according to his riches in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19.

Dream:

“God can do exceedingly abundantly more than all we can ask for or imagine.” Ephesians 3:20

'They weep as they go to plant their seed, but they sing as they return with the harvest. Psalms 126:6 NLT

None of us can do everything but everybody can do something and together, we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us!

HOW CAN YOU KNOW WHERE YOUR HEART IS?

'And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? Matthew 16:26 NLT

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Life is good for the one who is generous and charitable, conducting affairs with honesty and truth. Psalms 112:5 TPT

Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT

“I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed. Ever since the time of your ancestors you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty. “But you ask, ‘How are we to return?’ Malachi 3:6-7 NIV

“Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. “But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ Malachi 3:8 NIV

“In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. Malachi 3:8-9 NIV

Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe,” says the Lord Almighty. “Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land,” says the Lord Almighty. Malachi 3:10-12 NIV

3 UNDERSTANDINGS ABOUT TITHING

TITHING IS A TEST

TITHING IS BIBLICAL

Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High, and he blessed Abram, saying, “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. And praise be to God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand.” Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything. Genesis 14:18-20 NIV

this memorial pillar I have set up will become a place for worshiping God, and I will present to God a tenth of everything he gives me. Genesis 28:22 NLT

One-tenth of the produce of the land, whether grain from the fields or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord and must be set apart to him as holy. Leviticus 27:30 NLT

And it shall be, when you come into the land which the Lord your God is giving you as an inheritance, and you possess it and dwell in it, you shall take some of the first of all the produce of the ground, which you shall bring from your land that the Lord your God is giving you, and put it in a basket and go to the place where the Lord your God chooses to make His name abide. Deuteronomy 26:1-2 NKJV

then you shall say before the Lord your God: ‘I have removed the holy tithe from my house, and also have given them to the Levite, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, according to all Your commandments which You have commanded me; I have not transgressed Your commandments, nor have I forgotten them. I have not eaten any of it when in mourning, nor have I removed any of it for an unclean use, nor given any of it for the dead. I have obeyed the voice of the Lord my God, and have done according to all that You have commanded me. Deuteronomy 26:13-14 NKJV

Look down from Your holy habitation, from heaven, and bless Your people Israel and the land which You have given us… Deuteronomy 26:15 NKJV

TITHING IS A BLESSING

Moreover he commanded the people who dwelt in Jerusalem to contribute support for the priests and the Levites, that they might devote themselves to the Law of the Lord. 2 Chronicles 31:4 NKJV

As soon as the commandment was circulated, the children of Israel brought in abundance the firstfruits of grain and wine, oil and honey, and of all the produce of the field; and they brought in abundantly the tithe of everything. And the children of Israel and Judah, who dwelt in the cities of Judah, brought the tithe of oxen and sheep; also the tithe of holy things which were consecrated to the Lord their God they laid in heaps. In the third month they began laying them in heaps, and they finished in the seventh month. 2 Chronicles 31:5-7 NKJV

And when Hezekiah and the leaders came and saw the heaps, they blessed the Lord and His people Israel. Then Hezekiah questioned the priests and the Levites concerning the heaps. And Azariah the chief priest, from the house of Zadok, answered him and said, “Since the people began to bring the offerings into the house of the Lord, we have had enough to eat and have plenty left, for the Lord has blessed His people; and what is left is this great abundance. 2 Chronicles 31:8-10 NKJV

I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:12-14 NLT

Level 1: Initial Giver… What do I do with my stuff?

Level 2: Consistent Giver… What do I do with God’s stuff? .

Level 3: Intentional Giver… What does God want me to do with God’s stuff?

Level 4: Spiritual Giver… What does God want me to GIVE from what GOD has provided?

Level 5: Surrendered Giver… What does God want me to KEEP from what GOD has provided?

If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? Matthew 16:25-26 NLT

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Blessed are those who act justly, who always do what is right. Psalms 106:3 NIV

Remember me, Lord, when you show favor to your people, come to my aid when you save them, that I may enjoy the prosperity of your chosen ones, that I may share in the joy of your nation and join your inheritance in giving praise. Psalms 106:4-5 NIV

You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ Acts 20:35

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Matthew 7:1-2 NIV

“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Luke 6:37-38 NIV

Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. Matthew 6:21 NLT

HOW TO DEVELOP A HEART OF GENEROSITY

But if there are any poor Israelites in your towns when you arrive in the land the Lord your God is giving you, do not be hard-hearted or tightfisted toward them. Instead, be generous and lend them whatever they need. Deuteronomy 15:7-8 NLT

DEAL WITH A SELFISH HEART

Do not be mean-spirited and refuse someone a loan because the year for canceling debts is close at hand. If you refuse to make the loan and the needy person cries out to the Lord, you will be considered guilty of sin. Deuteronomy 15:9

WHY DID GOD INVENT GIVING?

GIVING OVER ANY OTHER ACTIVITY WORKS SELFISHNESS AND GREED OUT OF OUR HEARTS

People may be pure in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their motives. Proverbs 16:2 NLT

when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure. James 4:3 NLT

DEAL WITH A GRIEVING HEART

Give generously to the poor, not grudgingly, for the Lord your God will bless you in everything you do. Deuteronomy 15:10 NLT

HOW DO YOU COMBAT GRIEF?

YOU HAVE THE PROPER PERSPECTIVE REGARDING “YOUR” MONEY

DEVELOP A GENEROUS HEART

Give him a generous farewell gift from your flock, your threshing floor, and your winepress. Share with him some of the bounty with which the Lord your God has blessed you. Deuteronomy 15:14 NLT

HOW DO YOU WALK IN GENEROSITY?

BY RENEWING OUR MINDS

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Romans 12:2 NLT

A heart touched by God desires to give

“I know that when I take time to talk to God and obey the promptings of the Holy Spirit I feel alive and life is joyous and exciting.” Peter Marshall

It is time for people to quit wandering, and it is time for people to connect with their God-given purpose.

“We are not saved to go to heaven. If so, why didn't we go to heaven right then? Heaven is a by-product. We are saved to tell others and to let Jesus Christ live in us.” -Jimmy Draper

DEVELOP A GRATEFUL HEART

Remember that you were once slaves in the land of Egypt and the Lord your God redeemed you! That is why I am giving you this command. Deuteronomy 15:15 NLT

live each day with holy awe and reverence throughout your time on earth. For you know that your lives were ransomed once and for all from the empty and futile way of life handed down from generation to generation. It was not a ransom payment of silver and gold, which eventually perishes, but the precious blood of Christ—who like a spotless, unblemished lamb was sacrificed for us. 1 Peter 1:17-19 TPT

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What am I doing?! – Purpose

“Why am I here”

Purpose

Do you feel like you are living in the purpose God designed you to live in?

You’re blatantly living in sin

“don’t let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires. Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to god, for your were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of god.” Romans 6:12-13 NLT

You lack joy and excitement
You don’t feel much fulfillment in life
You feel stuck
You have no direction

A life of purpose brings focus

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10 NIV

We will find our purpose less in what we do and more in what we are willing to surrender

Surrender leads to obedience and obedience fuels our purpose

“Its in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for…part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone.” Ephesians 1:11 MSG

“Your will be done” Matthew 6:10

Who we are doesn’t flow from what we do…what we do flows from who we are

“Jacob loved Joseph more than any of his other children because joseph had been born to him in his old age. So one day Jacob had a special gift made for Joseph – a beautiful robe.” Genesis 37:3 NLT

“When his brothers saw that their father loved him more than any of them, they hated him and could not speak a kind word to him.” Genesis 37:4 NIV

“…listen to this dream, he said, “we were out in the field, tying up bundles of grain. Suddenly my bundle stood up, and your bundles all gathered around and bowed low before mine!” His brothers responded, “So you think you will be our king, do you? Do you actually think you will reign over us?” and they hated him all the more because of his dreams and the way he talked about them.” Genesis 37:6-8 NLT

“The Lord was with Joseph, so he succeeded in everything he did as he served in the home of his Egyptian master. Potiphar noticed this and realized that the Lord was with Joseph, giving him success in everything he did. This pleased Potiphar, so he soon made joseph his personal attendant. He put him in charge of his entire household and everything he owned.” Genesis 39:2-4 NLT

“…now Joseph was well-built and handsome…” Genesis 39:6 NIV

“Come and sleep with me,” she demanded.” Genesis 39:7

“Look, he told her, “my master trusts me with everything in his entire household. No one here has more authority than I do. He has held back nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. How could I do such a wicked thing? It would be a great sin against God.” Genesis 39:8-9 NLT

“she grabbed him by his cloak demanding, “come on sleep with me!” joseph tore himself away, but he left his cloak in her hand as he ran from the house. When she saw that she was holding his cloak and he had fled, she called out to her servants. Soon all the men came running. “Look!” she said “ my husband has brought this Hebrew slave here to make fools of us! He came into my room to rape me, but I screamed. When he heard me scream, he ran outside and got away, but he left his cloak behind with me.” Genesis 39:12-18 NLT

If you ever feel like “Nothing gold can stay” that’s an indicator that you’re living in YOUR will not HIS

“but the Lord was with Joseph in the prison and showed him his faithful love. And the Lord made Joseph a favorite with the prison warden.” Genesis 39:21 NLT

“Before long, the warden put Joseph in charge of all the other prisoners and over everything that happened in the prison. The warden had no more worries, because Joseph took care of everything. The Lord was with him and caused everything he did to succeed.” Genesis 39:22-23 NLT

God wants to use you in every situation you are in

“I had a dream last night, and no one here can tell me what it means. But I have heard that when you hear about a dream you can interpret it.”

“it is beyond my power to do this,” joseph replied. “but God can tell you what it means and set you at ease.” Genesis 41:15-16 NLT

“Therefore, pharaoh should find an intelligent and wise man and put him in charge of the entire land of Egypt. Then Pharaoh should appoint supervisors over the land and let them collect one fifth of the crops during the seven good years. Have them gather all the food produced in the good years that are just ahead and bring it to Pharaoh’s storehouses. Store it away , and guard it so there will be food in the cities. That way there will be enough to eat when the seven years of famine come to the land of Egypt. Otherwise this famine will destroy the land.” Genesis 41:33-36 NLT

Our purpose is not found in a thing that we do, but rather in the type of life that we live

“He has saved us and called us to a holy life – not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time..” 2 Timothy 1:9 NIV

What will be the most important thing in my life?

Whatever is at the center of your life…is your God

Is Christ TRULY at the center of your life?

What will be the character of my life?

We take who we are into eternity…not what we did

The Fruits of the Spirit

Love
Joy
Peace
Patience
Kindness
Goodness
Faithfulness
Gentleness
Self Control
What will be the contributions of my life?

“…I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit – fruit that will last…” John 15:16 NIV

What will be the communication of my life?

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YOU WILL ONLY RISE UP TO THE LEVEL OF YOUR IDENTITY

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. James 1:2 NLT

YOU MUST SWITCH FROM PITY TO POTENTIAL IF YOU ARE GOING TO GROW IN LIFE.

A good reputation is more valuable than costly perfume. And the day you die is better than the day you are born. Ecclesiastes 7:1 NLT

GOD IS LESS CONCERNED WITH OUR SHORT-TERM HAPPINESS AS HE IS WITH OUR CHARACTER.

GOOD TIMES CAN BE DECEPTIVE

Better to spend your time at funerals than at parties. After all, everyone dies— so the living should take this to heart. Sorrow is better than laughter, for sadness has a refining influence on us. Ecclesiastes 7:2-3 NLT

'Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom. Psalms 90:12 NLT

“Life is like a parachute jump; you've got to get it right the first time” Elenor Roosevelt

…for sadness has a refining influence on us. Ecclesiastes 7:3 NLT

Sorrow is better than laughter… Ecclesiastes 7:3 NLT

THE KEY TO RESILIENCE IN LIFE AND EFFECTIVENESS IS BEING NEUTRAL

HARD TIMES BRING WISDOM

'A wise person thinks a lot about death, while a fool thinks only about having a good time. Better to be criticized by a wise person than to be praised by a fool. Ecclesiastes 7:4-5 NLT

THE SAD REALITY IS TOO MANY CHRISTIANS WALK AROUND WITH A NARCISSISTIC SPIRITUALITY

“God cannot use a man until he has hurt him deeply.” A. W. Tozer

For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child.” Hebrews 12:6 NLT

A fool’s laughter is quickly gone, like thorns crackling in a fire. This also is meaningless. Ecclesiastes 7:6 NLT

Finishing is better than starting. Patience is better than pride. Ecclesiastes 7:8 NLT

WISDOM BRINGS PROTECTION

'Wisdom and money can get you almost anything, but only wisdom can save your life. Ecclesiastes 7:12 NLT

'And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? Matthew 16:26 NLT

Accept the way God does things, for who can straighten what he has made crooked? Enjoy prosperity while you can, but when hard times strike, realize that both come from God. Remember that nothing is certain in this life. Ecclesiastes 7:13-14 NLT

'And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28 NLT

'How wonderful to be wise, to analyze and interpret things. Wisdom lights up a person’s face, softening its harshness. Ecclesiastes 8:1 NLT

Are you spending time with God?

Are you diving into the word of God?

Are you selflessly serving?

Are you intentionally doing life with life-giving people?

Are you making church a priority for your family?

Are you walking in the will of God?

Are you living at peace with others to the best of your ability?

'At about three o’clock, Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” which means “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?” Matthew 27:46 NLT

'Then Jesus shouted, “Father, I entrust my spirit into your hands!” And with those words he breathed his last. Luke 23:46 NLTå

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THE SOVEREIGNTY OF GOD LIES BEHIND EVERYTHING THAT HAPPENS

'I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. Romans 7:19 NLT

WHY DOES IT FEEL LIKE THERE IS INEQUITY IN THE WORLD?

And I saw something else under the sun: In the place of judgment—wickedness was there, in the place of justice—wickedness was there. Ecclesiastes 3:16 NIV

'I said to myself, “God will bring into judgment both the righteous and the wicked, for there will be a time for every activity, a time to judge every deed.” Ecclesiastes 3:17 NIV

'The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. 2 Peter 3:9 NLT

WHY DOES IT FEEL LIKE THERE IS OPPRESSION IN THE WORLD?

'Again I looked and saw all the oppression that was taking place under the sun: I saw the tears of the oppressed— and they have no comforter; power was on the side of their oppressors— and they have no comforter. Ecclesiastes 4:1 NIV

And I declared that the dead, who had already died, are happier than the living, who are still alive. But better than both is the one who has never been born, who has not seen the evil that is done under the sun. Ecclesiastes 4:2-3 NIV

WHY DOES IT FEEL LIKE THERE IS RIVALRY IN THE WORLD?

'And I saw that all toil and all achievement spring from one person’s envy of another. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind. Ecclesiastes 4:4 NIV

Fools fold their hands and ruin themselves. Better one handful with tranquillity than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind. Ecclesiastes 4:5-6 NIV

WHY DOES IT FEEL LIKE IT’S THINGS OVER PEOPLE IN THIS WORLD?

'Again I saw something meaningless under the sun: There was a man all alone; he had neither son nor brother. There was no end to his toil, yet his eyes were not content with his wealth. “For whom am I toiling,” he asked, “and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?” This too is meaningless— a miserable business! Ecclesiastes 4:7-8 NIV

'Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 NIV

WHY DOES IT FEEL LIKE POPULARITY IS SO IMPORTANT IN THE WORLD?

'Better a poor but wise youth than an old but foolish king who no longer knows how to heed a warning. The youth may have come from prison to the kingship, or he may have been born in poverty within his kingdom. I saw that all who lived and walked under the sun followed the youth, the king’s successor. There was no end to all the people who were before them. But those who came later were not pleased with the successor. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind. Ecclesiastes 4:13-16 NIV

HOW SHOULD WE RESPOND TO THESE FEELNGS?

THERE ARE TWO WAYS WE LEARN IN LIFE

WE LEARN THINGS IN RETROSPECT
WE LEARN THINGS BY WISDOM

YOUR ATTITUDE IS THE RUDDER THAT GUIDES YOUR LIFE

Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong. Ecclesiastes 5:1 NIV

'Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few. Ecclesiastes 5:2 NIV

'God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!; “Be still, and know that I am God! Psalms 46:1-3,10 NLT

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THE SOVEREIGNTY OF GOD LIES BEHIND EVERYTHING THAT HAPPENS

And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.” Genesis 2:16-17 NIV

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV

In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps. Proverbs 16:9 NIV

a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace. Ecclesiastes 3:2-8 NIV

What do workers gain from their toil? I have seen the burden God has laid on the human race. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. Ecclesiastes 3:9-11 NIV

'“You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased.”Revelation 4:11 NLT

FOUR PILLARS

GOD IS WISE

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28 NLT

You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people. Genesis 50:20 NLT

GOD IS ALSO MYSTERIOUS

He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV

Are we only fish to be caught and killed? Are we only sea creatures that have no leader? Habakkuk 1:14 NLT

Why then does my suffering continue? Why is my wound so incurable? Your help seems as uncertain as a seasonal brook, like a spring that has gone dry.” Jeremiah 15:18 NLT

WE CANNOT LET WHAT WE CANNOT KNOW DESTROY WHAT WE CAN ENJOY

I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. Ecclesiastes 3:12 NIV

That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God. Ecclesiastes 3:13 NIV

So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Matthew 6:34 NLT

REST IN THE SOVEREIGNTY OF GOD

'I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and v nothing taken from it. God does it so that people will fear him. Ecclesiastes 3:14 NIV

Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will leave this life. Job 1:21 CSB

'Whatever is has already been, and what will be has been before; and God will call the past to account. Ecclesiastes 3:15 NIV

'But God knew what would happen, and his prearranged plan was carried out when Jesus was betrayed. With the help of lawless Gentiles, you nailed him to a cross and killed him. But God released him from the horrors of death and raised him back to life, for death could not keep him in its grip. Acts 2:23-24 NLT

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Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many. Hebrews 12:15 NLT

“Unforgiveness is like drinking poison yourself and waiting for the other person to die.” -Marianne Williamson

'Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:14,17-21 NIV

TRUE JUSTICE IS PAYING ONLY ONCE FOR EACH MISTAKE. TRUE INJUSTICE IS PAYING MORE THAN ONCE FOR EACH MISTAKE.

HOW DO YOU RESPOND INWARDLY?

…For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. Luke 6:45 NIV

'Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. Romans 8:5-7 NIV

DO NOT TAKE THINGS PERSONALLY

HURT PEOPLE HURT PEOPLE

'A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. Ephesians 6:10-18 NLT

DO NOT LET ASSUMPTIONS LEAD YOU

The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts. Proverbs 26:22 NIV

A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends. Proverbs 16:28 NIV

'With their mouths the godless destroy their neighbors, but through knowledge the righteous escape. A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret. Proverbs 11:9,13 NIV

“Self-pity is of the devil, and if I wallow in it, I cannot be used by God for his purpose in the world.” -Oswald Chambers

to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24 ESV

HOW DO YOU RESPOND OUTWARDLY?
TAKE THE INITIATIVE

THE REASON WE FEAR CONFRONTATION IS BECAUSE WE FEAR BEING EXPOSED AND BEING VULNERABLE.

He replied, “I heard you walking in the garden, so I hid. I was afraid because I was naked.” Genesis 3:10 NLT

FEAR WILL MAKE YOU DO AT LEAST 1 OF 3 THINGS…. GET DISTANT, GET DEFENSIVE, AND/OR GET DEMANDING.

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 NLT

GO TO THE PERSON AND SPEAK IN LOVE

“If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back. But if you are unsuccessful, take one or two others with you and go back again, so that everything you say may be confirmed by two or three witnesses. Matthew 18:15-16 NLT

Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing. Proverbs 12:18 NLT

Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. James 1:19 NLT

GUIDELINES TO COMMUNICATING

REMAIN CALM
EXPRESS FEELINGS WITH WORDS NOT ACTIONS
BE SPECIFIC WITH WHAT IS BOTHERING YOU
DEAL WITH ONLY ONE ISSUE AT A TIME
NO “HITTING BELOW THE BELT”
AVOID CLAMMING UP

Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words, the kind that build up and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you. Ephesians 4:29 GNT

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Life of Community – Critical Need for Community

Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples. John 13:35 NLT

LOVE IN ACTION

“Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!” Romans 12:15-16 NLT

Community

Surgeon General’s Warning: Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation – Dr. Vivek H. Murthy

58% of Americans feel alone

73% of youth feel alone

Epidemic: an outbreak of disease that spreads quickly and affects many individuals at the same time

Disease: harmful deviation from the normal structure or functional state…

29% increased risk of heart disease

32% increased risk of stroke

50% increased risk of developing dementia

60% increased risk of premature death

The Critical Need for Community

1. We were created for community

“I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the Lord. They will be my people, and I will be their God, for they will return to me with all their heart.” Jeremiah 24:7

“The Lord God said, “it is not good for the man to be alone…” Genesis 2:18 NIV

Healthy Relationships keep us happier, healthier and help us live longer

2. We were created to navigate the highs and lows of life together

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2 NIV

True friends never get in the way unless the way is down

“he was blameless-a man of complete integrity. He feared God and stayed away from evil.” Job 1:1 NLT

“When three of Job’s friends heard of the tragedy he had suffered, they got together and traveled from their homes to comfort and console him. Their names were Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite. When they saw Job from a distance, they scarcely recognized him. Wailing loudly, they tore their robes and threw dust into the air over their heads to show their grief. Then they sat on the ground with him for seven days and nights. No one said a word to Job, for they saw that his suffering was too great for words.”

Job 2:11-13 NLT

Evaluate your current community

“Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, For he has no one to help him up.” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NKJV

Life altering moments raise life-defining questions

Can you share your heart with them?

Can you communicate your joys with them?

Can you communicate your sorrows with them?

Can you share frustrations with them?

Can you share victories with them?

Can you share prayer requests with them?

Do they pray with you or for you?

Do they lift you up or tear you down?

Do they encourage you?

Do they add value to you?

Do they care about your spouse/family?

You can have connections and still be lonely

LIFE-GIVING community

3. Community Provides encouragement and accountability

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Proverbs 27:17 NIV

4. Community provides shared joy and celebration

“Rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep” Romans 12:15

5. Community empowers us to fulfill our purpose

“All the believers were one in heart and mind.” Acts 4:32 NIV

TAKE HOME

Get in a life giving community

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Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples. John 13:35 NLT

Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Romans 12:13 NIV

When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. Romans 12:13 NLT

You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Acts 20:35 NLT

SIMPLY PUT, A GENEROUS LIFE IS A BLESSED LIFE.

The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. Proverbs 11:25 NLT

THERE IS NOTHING MORE CHRISTLIKE THAN TO SELFLESSLY GIVE

'For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 NIV

3 MINDSETS THAT SHAPE YOUR GENEROSITY

1. THERE IS NOT ENOUGH

You have planted much but harvest little. You eat but are not satisfied. You drink but are still thirsty. You put on clothes but cannot keep warm. Your wages disappear as though you were putting them in pockets filled with holes! Haggai 1:6 NLT

GENEROSITY DOES SOMETHING SPIRITUALLY IN OUR LIVES

'Elijah said to her, “Don’t be afraid. Go home and do as you have said. But first make a small loaf of bread for me from what you have and bring it to me, and then make something for yourself and your son. For this is what the Lord , the God of Israel, says: ‘The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the Lord sends rain on the land. 1 Kings 17:13-14 NIV

Then the woman said to Elijah, “Now I know that you are a man of God and that the word of the Lord from your mouth is the truth.” 1 Kings 17:24 NIV

2. THERE IS MORE THAN ENOUGH

3. THERE IS INFINITELY MORE THAN ENOUGH

“The lord will guarantee a blessing on everything you do and will fill your storehouses with grain. Deuteronomy 28:8 NLT

And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. As the Scriptures say, “They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever.” For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. 2 Corinthians 9:8-11 NLT

ACTION STEPS

GIVE JOYFULLY

And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 2 Corinthians 9:7 NLT

GIVE INTENTIONALLY

You must each decide in your heart how much to give. 2 Corinthians 9:7

GIVE EXPECTING

YOU CAN’T OUT GIVE GOD!

Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do,” says the lord of Heaven’s Armies, “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test! Malachi 3:10 NLT

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Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions. Matthew 7:20 NLT

Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter. Matthew 7:21 NLT

'Later, when the other five bridesmaids returned, they stood outside, calling, ‘Lord! Lord! Open the door for us!’ “But he called back, ‘Believe me, I don’t know you!’ “So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return. Matthew 25:11-13 NLT

“Money creates problems. climbing one mountain exposes another, higher peak. however, there is something better out there: real virtue. it is its own reward. virtue is the one good thing that reveals itself to be more than we expect and something that one cannot have in degrees. we simply have it or we don't. And that is why virtue is The Only Thing Worth striving for.” Ryan Holiday

“If the path you're on isn't making you a more generous, compassionate, hopeful, and merciful person (or, in other words, more like Jesus), then the destination isn't worth the journey.” Carey Nieuwhof

'You were cleansed from your sins when you obeyed the truth, so now you must show sincere love to each other as brothers and sisters. Love each other deeply with all your heart. 1 Peter 1:22 NLT

So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples. John 13:34-35 NLT

1. People of Love have an Authentic Affection

Be devoted to one another in love. Romans 121:10 NIV

How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony! For harmony is as precious as the anointing oil that was poured over Aaron’s head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe. Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon that falls on the mountains of Zion. And there the Lord has pronounced his blessing, even life everlasting. Psalms 133:1-3 NLT

“I also tell you this: If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you. For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.” Matthew 18:19-20 NLT

And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. Hebrews 10:25 NLT

'So let's not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time, we will harvest a good crop if we don't give up or quit. Therefore, every time we get the chance, let us work for the benefit of all, starting with the people closest to us in the community of faith. Galatians 6:9-10 MSG

2. People of Love Honor one another.

Honor one another above yourselves. Romans 12:10 NIV

My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others? For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes. If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor”—well, doesn’t this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives? Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” James 2:1-4,8 NLT

EVERY PERSON IS SPECIAL TO GOD, EVERY PERSON MATTERS TO GOD, & EVERY PERSON IS LOVED BY GOD.

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. Philippians 2:3-4 NLT

The LORD doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7 NLT

SEEING VALUE IN PEOPLE IS NOT ABOUT THEIR VALUE TO YOU, BUT THEIR VALUE TO GOD.

3. People of Love have a Spiritual Enthusiasm

Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Romans 12:11 NLT

So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless. 1 Corinthians 15:58 NLT

Ministry is the pathway to maturity in our faith.

HOW DO WE INTENTIONALLY PURSUE HEALTH IN OUR CHURCH FAMILY?

1. WE RESPECT ONE ANOTHER

2. WE SHOW LOVE AND AFFIRMATION

3. WE GIVE SUPPORT

4. WE SPEND TIME TOGETHER

5. WE HAVE CRITICAL CONVERSATIONS

6. WE HAVE A SHARED MISSION WITH A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY

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Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. Romans 12:9-17 NIV

I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:1-2 NLT

BOTH GIFTINGS AND GODLY CHARACTER MUST BE PRESENT FOR TRUE EFFECTIVENESS.

Love must be sincere. Romans 12:9 NIV

Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Romans 12:9 NLT

“ Be tolerate with others and strict with yourself.” Marcus Aurelius

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.Romans 12:9 NIV

You who love the Lord, hate evil! Psalms 97:10 NLT

Hate evil and love what is good; turn your courts into true halls of justice. Amos 5:15 NLT

hold on to what is good, reject every kind of evil. 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22 NIV

'If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. John 15:19 ESV

'Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world.”John 18:36 ESV

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 1 John 2:15 ESV

1. It is not enough to simply choose Good over Evil.

2. You will eventually drift toward your desires and feelings.

O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary, beholding your power and glory. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. So I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands. Psalm 63:1-4 ESV

So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Colossians 3:5NLT

Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming. Colossians 3:5-6 NLT

You used to do these things when your life was still part of this world. But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. Colossians 3:7-9 NLT

Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves… Colossians 3:12 NLT

you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Colossians 3:12-15 NLT

Mercy/Compassion

Kindness

Humility

Gentleness

Patience

Forgiveness

Love

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We need to learn how to walk in freedom so we make ourselves fully available to walk in His purpose for our lives

“In a well-furnished kitchen there are not only crystal goblets and silver platters, but waste cans and compost buckets—some containers used to serve fine meals, others to take out the garbage. Become the kind of container God can use to present any and every kind of gift to his guests for their blessing.” 2 Timothy 2:20-21 MSG

Will we be the conduit that God uses or not?

What in your life is keeping you from being the container or conduit that God wants to use?

Purpose

Life will never make sense until you live a life that is bigger than yourself

Purpose

“We have become his poetry, a recreated people that will fulfill the destiny {PURPOSE} he has given each of us, for we are joined to Jesus, the anointed one. Even before we were born, God planned in advance our destiny {PURPOSE} and the good works we would do to fulfill it!” Ephesians 2:10 TPT

“It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for... part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone.” Ephesians 1:11 MSG

A life of purpose brings focus

“Where there is no vision, the people perish…” Proverbs 29:18 KJV

God didn’t call us to a “just enough” life…he called us to a thriving life

“A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.” John 10:10 MSG

“No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.” Philippians 3:13-14

A life of purpose brings endurance

“So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should” 1 Corinthians 9:26-27

A life of purpose brings fulfillment

“And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches.” Philippians 4:19

When you align yourself with God, you will have an irrational amount of fulfillment

Your purpose will be found in living a life that is bigger than yourself

Fulfillment doesn’t chase success; fulfillment chases significance

“Once you’ve tasted significance, success will never satisfy” – John Maxwell

How Do I Find My Purpose?

“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord.” Ephesians 5:8-10 NIV

Live as children of the light (goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord.”

1. Ask ourselves: “What do I need to stop doing?”

“Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them... Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise...” Ephesians 5:11;15 NIV

Behind the darkness is God’s purpose for your life

“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then... you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Romans 12:2

“Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked; your feet from following evil.” Proverbs 4:25-27

2. Ask yourself: “What do I need to start doing?”

“Making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is” Ephesians 5:16-17 NIV

Dreams don’t just happen; They come to fruition by perseverance, character, and a fight for purpose

“remember, it is a sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it.” James 4:17

“God, I invite your searching gaze into my heart. Examine me through and through; find out everything that may be hidden within me. Put me to the test and sift through all my anxious cares. See if there is any path of pain I’m walking on, and lead me back to your glorious, everlasting ways – the path that brings me back to you.” Psalms 139:23-24 TPT

3. Ask yourself: “What am I waiting for?”

“I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians

People that procrastinate talk about a life of purpose; people who take initiative live a life of purpose

TAKE HOME

1. START DOING WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

You can start changing the world, by impacting your world

How you start impacts your future

2. GO ABOVE AND BEYOND

The things in life that mean the most are forged through sacrifice

“If a soldier demands that you carry his gear for a mile, carry it two miles.” Matthew 5:41

3. STAY COMMITTED TO THE PROCESS

“for everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven…a time to plant and a time to harvest.” Ecclesiastes 3:1-2

Life is a series of seasons and God blesses those who are faithful during the process

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The Word of God

“Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” Psalm 119:105 NLT

330,222,422 Americans as of 2020

9% = 29,720,018

Approx. 205,000,000 proclaimed believers of Jesus in America

29,720,018 = 14%

Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. Joshua 1:6-8

If we are not careful and intentional, the world’s noise is what will define our hearts, not the Word of God

“…Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. Joshua 1:8 NLT

You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me! Yet you refuse to come to me to receive this life. John 5:39-40

The reason people don’t believe that it has any power today is that we have stopped mixing our studying of the bible with faith

1. READING THE BIBLE DRAWS US CLOSER TO GOD

“IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE WORD, AND THE WORD WAS WITH GOD, AND THE WORD WAS GOD.” JOHN 1:1-5 NIV

“Come close to God, and God will come close to you...” James 4:8 NLT

2. READING THE BIBLE GIVES US DIRECTION

“I AM THE LORD YOUR GOD, WHO TEACHES YOU WHAT IS GOOD FOR YOU AND LEADS YOU ALONG THE PATHS YOU SHOULD FOLLOW.” ISAIAH 48:17 NLT

“I WILL GUIDE YOU ALONG THE BEST PATHWAY FOR YOUR LIFE. I WILL ADVISE YOU AND WATCH OVER YOU.” PSALM 32:8 NLT

“YOUR WORD IS A LAMP TO GUIDE MY FEET AND A LIGHT FOR MY PATH.” PSALM 119:105 NLT

IF WE FOLLOW GOD’S GUIDANCE IT WILL LEAD US TO PEACE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS

3. READING THE BIBLE BRINGS US HEALING

“MY CHILD, PAY ATTENTION TO WHAT I SAY. LISTEN CAREFULLY TO MY WORDS. DON’T LOSE SIGHT OF THEM. LET THEM PENETRATE DEEP INTO YOUR HEART, FOR THEY BRING LIFE TO THOSE WHO FIND THEM, AND HEALING TO THEIR WHOLE BODY.” PROVERBS 4:20-22 NLT

“YOU WILL KNOW THE TRUTH AND THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE” JOHN 8:32

4. READING THE BIBLE GIVES US NOURISHMENT

“PEOPLE DO NOT LIVE BY BREAD ALONE, BUT BY EVERY WORD THAT COMES FROM THE MOUTH OF GOD.” MATTHEW 4:4 NLT

5. READING THE BIBLE REMINDS US OF WHAT GOD THINKS OF US

“I KNEW YOU BEFORE I FORMED YOU IN YOUR MOTHER’S WOMB. BEFORE YOU WERE BORN I SET YOU APART AND APPOINTED YOU AS MY PROPHET TO THE NATIONS.” JEREMIAH 1:5 NLT

“..BUT YOU ARE GOD’S CHOSEN TREASURE – PRIESTS WHO ARE KINGS, A SPIRITUAL ‘NATION’ SET APART AS GOD’S DEVOTED ONES. HE CALLED YOU OUT OF DARKNESS TO EXPERIENCE HIS MARVELOUS LIGHT, AND NOW HE CLAIMS YOU AS HIS VERY OWN…”1 PETER 2:9 TPT

1. GET A BIBLE THAT MAKES SENSE TO YOU

2. DOWNLOAD THE BIBLE APP

3. START A PLAN TODAY

4. BE INTENTIONAL & PRIORITIZE

➡ READ THE TRUTH

➡ MEMORIZE THE TRUTH

➡ MEDITATE ON TRUTH

➡ UNDERSTAND THE TRUTH

✓HOW WIDE IS THE LOVE OF GOD

“Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow.” Isaiah 1:18

He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west. Psalms 103:12

✓HOW LONG IS THE LOVE OF GOD

I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me John 10:28

✓HOW DEEP IS THE LOVE OF GOD

Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form. Philippians 2:7

“He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” 1 Peter 2:24

✓HOW HIGH IS THE LOVE OF GOD

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Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God…. 2 Corinthians 2:15 NLT

And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength. Mark 12:30 NLT

“I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.” Romans 12:1 NLT

THE KEY TO A THRIVING RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD IS TRUST, WHICH IS DISPLAYED THROUGH ABANDONMENT TO GOD. THAT IS THE FOUNDATION OF WORSHIP.

Now he brought me back to the entrance to the Temple. I saw water pouring out from under the Temple porch to the east (the Temple faced east). The water poured from the south side of the Temple, south of the altar. He then took me out through the north gate and led me around the outside to the gate complex on the east. The water was gushing from under the south front of the Temple. He walked to the east with a measuring tape and measured off fifteen hundred feet, leading me through water that was ankle-deep. He measured off another fifteen hundred feet, leading me through water that was knee-deep. He measured off another fifteen hundred feet, leading me through water waist-deep. He measured off another fifteen hundred feet. By now it was a river over my head, water to swim in, water no one could possibly walk through. He said, “Son of man, have you had a good look?” Ezekiel 47:1-7 MSG

4 LEVELS OF CONTROL

ANKLE-DEEP

He walked to the east with a measuring tape and measured off fifteen hundred feet, leading me through water that was ankle-deep. Ezekiel 47:3 MSG

Be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do. James 1:6-8 NLT

KNEE-DEEP

He measured off another fifteen hundred feet, leading me through water that was knee-deep. Ezekiel 47:4 MSG

The LORD is good to those who depend on him, to those who search for him. Lamentations 3:25 NLT

So now that you know God (or should I say, now that God knows you), why do you want to go back again and become slaves once more to the weak and useless spiritual principles of this world? Galatians 4:9 NLT

WAIST-DEEP

He measured off another fifteen hundred feet, leading me through water waist-deep. Ezekiel 47:4 MSG

Taste and see that the lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him! Fear the lord, you his godly people, for those who fear him will have all they need. Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry, but those who trust in the lord will lack no good thing. Psalms 34:8-10 NLT

OVER YOUR HEAD-DEEP

He measured off another fifteen hundred feet. By now it was a river over my head, water to swim in, water no one could possibly walk through. Ezekiel 47:5 MSG

Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Galatians 5:24-25 NLT

THE REWARDS OF SURRENDER

Then he took me back to the riverbank. While sitting on the bank, I noticed a lot of trees on both sides of the river. He told me, “This water flows east, descends to the Arabah and then into the sea, the sea of stagnant waters. When it empties into those waters, the sea will become fresh. Wherever the river flows, life will flourish—great schools of fish—because the river is turning the salt sea into fresh water. Where the river flows, life abounds. Fishermen will stand shoulder to shoulder along the shore from En-gedi all the way north to En-eglaim, casting their nets. The sea will teem with fish of all kinds, like the fish of the Great Mediterranean. “The swamps and marshes won’t become fresh. They’ll stay salty. “But the river itself, on both banks, will grow fruit trees of all kinds. Their leaves won’t wither, the fruit won’t fail. Every month they’ll bear fresh fruit because the river from the Sanctuary flows to them. Their fruit will be for food and their leaves for healing.” Ezekiel 47:7-12 MSG

TREES REPRESENT HEALING
FISH REPRESENT HARVEST

Wherever the river flows, life will flourish…; Where the river flows, life abounds. Ezekiel 47:8-9 MSG

WHEN WE ABANDON OURSELVES TO GOD’S WILL & PRESENCE WE BECOME THE CHURCH. THEN WE GET TO BE A PART OF SEEING SOULS SAVED & PEOPLE HEALED.

HOW TO HAVE A LIFESTYLE OF WORSHIP

1. INCORPORATE GOD IN YOUR LIFE

“For the eyes of the LORD move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His.” 2 Chronicles 16:9 NLT

I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:5 NLT

2. CHOOSE TO REMAIN COMMITTED

If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. But even if he doesn’t, we want to make it clear to you, Your Majesty, that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up.” Daniel 3:17-18 NLT

3. BE OBEDIENT

Therefore, let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to his name. And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God. Hebrews 13:15-16 NLT

Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them.” John 14:21 NLT

4. SHOW REVERENCE

But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. John 4:23 NLT

He takes no pleasure in the strength of a horse or in human might. No, the lord’s delight is in those who fear him, those who put their hope in his unfailing love. Psalms 147:10-11 NLT

Fear of the lord leads to life, bringing security and protection from harm. Proverbs 19:23 NLT

….True worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way.” John 4:23 NLT

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REASONS WE STRUGGLE

BECAUSE OF WHAT WE’VE DONE TO OURSELVES
BECAUSE OF WHAT OTHERS HAVE DONE TO US
BECAUSE OF THE DEVIL HAS A PLAN FOR OUR LIVES

“The problem is most people overestimate or underestimate spiritual warfare. Funny how the devil likes when we over believe or under believe just don't bible believe” C.S. Lewis

Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. Ephesians 6:10-11 NLT

Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Ephesians 6:13 NLT

KNOWING YOUR SPIRITUAL CLIMATE IS CRITICAL TO RECEIVING THE VICTORY THAT IS ALREADY YOURS.

The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. John 10:10 NLT

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. Matthew 6:13 NIV

…The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. James 5:16 NLT

EFFECTIVE WARFARE PRAYERS

Now I, Paul, appeal to you with the gentleness and kindness of Christ—We are human, but we don’t wage war as humans do. 2 Corinthians 10:1;3 NLT

1. WE MUST GET OUR HEARTS RIGHT

Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil; Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:11:13-17 NLT

BELT OF TRUTH
BODY ARMOR OF RIGHTEOUSNESS
SHOES OF PEACE
SHIELD OF FAITH
HELMET OF SALVATION

CHARACTER ALWAYS TRUMPS KNOWLEDGE

2. WE MUST FIGHT WITH THE RIGHT WEAPONS

We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons… 2 Corinthians 10:4 NLT

OUR FOUR PRIMARY WEAPONS

WE DECLARE GODS WORD

…Take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:17 NLT

“The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry. It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it. Isaiah 55:10-11NLT

He launches his promises earthward—how swift and sure they come! Psalms 147:15 MSG

WE NEED TO REPEAT GOD’S PROMISES UNTIL WE EXPERIENCE GOD’S PROMISE

WE GIVE GOD PRAISE

Let the praises of God be in their mouths, and a sharp sword in their hands—Psalms 149:6 NLT

WE STAND BEHIND THE NAME OF JESUS

Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it! John 14:14 NLT

Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth. Philippians 2:9-10 NLT

WE HAVE VICTORY BECAUSE OF THE BLOOD OF JESUS

And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony. Revelations 12:11 NLT

3. WE MUST UNDERSTAND THE REAL BATTLE

…knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments. 2 Corinthians 10:4 NLT

And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil. Ephesians 4:26-27 NLT

Do what is good and run from evil so that you may live! Amos 5:14 NLT

Throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life. Ephesians 4:22 NLT

NEGATIVE OR INAPPROPRIATE RELATIONSHIPS
NEGATIVE WORDS
NEGATIVE ENVRIONMENTS
NEGATIVE MINDSETS

But if I am casting out demons by the power of God, then the Kingdom of God has arrived among you. For when a strong man like Satan is fully armed and guards his palace, his possessions are safe—until someone even stronger attacks and overpowers him, strips him of his weapons, and carries off his belongings. Luke 11:20-22 NLT

When an evil spirit leaves a person, it goes into the desert, searching for rest. But when it finds none, it says, ‘I will return to the person I came from.’ So it returns and finds that its former home is all swept and in order. Then the spirit finds seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they all enter the person and live there. And so that person is worse off than before. Luke 11:24-26 NLT

4. WE MUST HAVE THE RIGHT FOCUS

We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5 NLT

For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NLT

ACTION STEPS

EXPECT IT

Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. 1 Peter 4:12 NLT

DETECT IT

I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:12-14

REJECT IT

He launches his promises earthward—how swift and sure they come! Psalms 147:15 MSG

WE NEED TO REPEAT GOD’S PROMISES UNTIL WE EXPERIENCE GOD’S PROMISES.

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A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart. Luke 6:45 NLT

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit. Proverbs 18:21 NKJV

We all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way. James 3:2 NLT

I love you I hate you

We are having baby I wish you were never born

You look great You've gained weight

I’m giving you a raise You are incompetent

I see potential in you. You are a failure

You’re smart You’re stupid

You make me happy You annoy me

I forgive you I should have never married you

I do I want a divorce

WHEN WE PULL THE TRIGGER OF NEGATIVE WORDS TOWARDS SOMEONE IT’S LIKE SPIRITUALLY SHOOTING THEM. WE BECOME LIFE-TAKING!

So the lord God formed from the ground all the wild animals and all the birds of the sky. He brought them to the man to see what he would call them, and the man chose a name for each one. He gave names to all the livestock, all the birds of the sky, and all the wild animals. Genesis 2:19-20 NLT

THE TRUTH OF WORDS

1. THEY FLOW FROM OUR THOUGHTS

Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. 2 Corinthians 11:14 NLT

Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. 2 Corinthians 4:4 NLT

Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Proverbs 4:23

My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body. Proverbs 4:20-22 NLT

2. THEY SHAPE OUR FUTURE

WE MUST STOP SPEAKING NEGATIVITY INTO A LIFE THAT IS FILLED WITH POSSIBILITIES.

MIRACLES ARE RESTING ON THE TIP OF OUR TONGUES, AND WE HAVE TO WAKE THEM UP AND START SPEAKING THE PROMISES OF GOD AND HIS GOD-ORDAINED DESIGN IN OUR LIFE!

This was their report to Moses: “We entered the land you sent us to explore, and it is indeed a bountiful country—a land flowing with milk and honey. Here is the kind of fruit it produces. Numbers 13:27 NLT

But the people living there are powerful, and their towns are large and fortified. We even saw giants there, the descendants of Anak!… But Caleb tried to quiet the people as they stood before Moses. “Let’s go at once to take the land,” he said. “We can certainly conquer it!” But the other men who had explored the land with him disagreed. “We can’t go up against them! They are stronger than we are!”…We even saw giants there, the descendants of Anak. Next to them we felt like grasshoppers, and that’s what they thought, too!” Numbers 13:28;30-31;33 NLT

WE HAVE TO CONSTANTLY SPEAK ABOUT WHAT WE WANT TO BE IN LIFE.

3. THEY LEAD TO VICTORY

As evening came, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” So they took Jesus in the boat and started out, leaving the crowds behind (although other boats followed). But soon a fierce storm came up. High waves were breaking into the boat, and it began to fill with water. Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with his head on a cushion. The disciples woke him up, shouting, “Teacher, don’t you care that we’re going to drown?” When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Silence! Be still!” Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm. Then he asked them, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?” Mark 4:35-40 NLT

Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” Mark 4:35 NLT

God is not a man, so he does not lie. He is not human, so he does not change his mind. Has he ever spoken and failed to act? Has he ever promised and not carried it through? Numbers 23:19 NLT

WHEN WE PRAISE AND THANK GOD WE SEE BEYOND OUR CURRENT REALITY AND INTO OUR GOD-GIVEN DESTINY

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. Philippians 4:6-7 NLT

ACTION STEPS

GET INTO A PLACE OF GRATITUDE

Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. Colossians 4:2 NLT

SPEAK LIFE-GIVING WORDS TO OTHERS

Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Ephesians 4:29 NLT

SPEAK POSITIVELY ABOUT YOURSELF

…Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT

I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom, and I have clear direction for my life.

I am blessed with creativity, courage, ability, and with abundance.

I am blessed with a strong will, self-control, and self-discipline.

I am blessed with a great family, good friends, good health, and with faith, favor, and fulfillment.

I am blessed with success, supernatural strength, promotion, and divine protection.

I am blessed with an obedient heart and with a positive outlook on life.

I declare that any curse that has ever been spoken over me, any negative evil word that has ever come against me, is broken right now.

I am blessed in the city.

I am blessed in the country.

I am blessed when I go in.

I am blessed when I come out.

Everything I put my hands on is going to prosper and succeed.

I claim these promises in the powerful name of Jesus!

YOUR PRAYERS MUST BE CONSISTENT

HEAVEN MOVES POWERFULLY THROUGH OUR PRAYERS

And when the twenty-four elders and the four living creatures saw the Lamb had taken the scroll, they fell facedown at the feet of the Lamb and worshiped him. Each of them had a harp and golden bowls brimming full of sweet fragrant incense—which are the prayers of God’s holy lovers. Revelation 5:8 TPT

(The Angel) was given a great quantity of incense to offer up, consisting of the prayers of God’s holy people, upon the golden altar that is before the throne. And the smoke of the incense with the prayers of the holy ones billowed up before God from the hand of the angel. Then the angel filled the golden incense burner with coals of fire from the altar and hurled it onto the earth Revelation 8:3-5 TPT

CONTINUAL PRAYERS CAUSE A RELEASING OF THE MOVE OF GOD

So above all, constantly chase after the realm of God’s kingdom and the righteousness that proceeds from him. Matthew 6:33 TPT

Ask, and the gift is yours. Seek, and you’ll discover. Knock, and the door will be opened for you. For every persistent one will get what he asks for. Every persistent seeker will discover what he longs for. And everyone who knocks persistently will one day find an open door. Matthew 7:7-8 TPT

Tremendous power is released through the passionate, heartfelt prayer of a godly believer! Elijah was a man with human frailties, just like all of us, but he prayed and received supernatural answers. James 5:16-17 NLT

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Forgiveness

Forgiveness

The pain you feel today is the pain you can heal today

Bitterness

“…And make sure no one lives with a root of bitterness sprouting within them which will only cause trouble and poison the hearts of many.” Hebrews 12:15 TPT

Forgiveness is a choice

Why is it so hard to forgive others?

We have the wrong idea of forgiveness

Forgiveness is not:

Minimizing the hurt you feel or the offense that took place
Reconciliation

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Romans 12:18 NIV

Forgiveness is our choice

I will not let my external circumstances dictate the condition of my heart

Instant Restoration of Trust

Through true forgiveness, it is possible to build trust again

We don’t think its fair

Forgiveness

For(Give)ness

“but God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.” Romans 5:8 NLT

If we are waiting for the other person to be worthy of forgiveness we will never forgive

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:31-32 NLT

We don’t think we can forgive

“My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9

“THE LESSONS OF FORGIVENESS IN HEAVEN’S KINGDOM REALM CAN BE ILLUSTRATED LIKE THIS: THERE ONCE WAS A KING WHO HAD SERVANTS WHO HAD BORROWED MONEY FROM THE ROYAL TREASURY. HE DECIDED TO SETTLE ACCOUNTS WITH EACH OF THEM. AS HE BEGAN THE PROCESS, IT CAME TO HIS ATTENTION THAT ONE OF HIS SERVANTS OWED HIM ONE BILLION DOLLARS. SO HE SUMMONED THE SERVANT BEFORE HIM AND SAID TO HIM, ‘PAY ME WHAT YOU OWE ME.’ WHEN HIS SERVANT WAS UNABLE TO REPAY HIS DEBT, THE KING ORDERED THAT HE BE SOLD AS A SLAVE ALONG WITH HIS WIFE AND CHILDREN AND EVERY POSSESSION THEY OWNED AS PAYMENT TOWARD HIS DEBT. THE SERVANT THREW HIMSELF FACEDOWN AT HIS MASTER’S FEET AND BEGGED FOR MERCY. ‘PLEASE BE PATIENT WITH ME. JUST GIVE ME MORE TIME AND I WILL REPAY YOU ALL THAT I OWE.’ UPON HEARING HIS PLEAS, THE KING HAD COMPASSION ON HIS SERVANT, AND RELEASED HIM, AND FORGAVE HIS ENTIRE DEBT.”

“NO SOONER HAD THE SERVANT LEFT WHEN HE MET ONE OF HIS FELLOW SERVANTS, WHO OWED HIM TWENTY THOUSAND DOLLARS. HE SEIZED HIM BY THE THROAT AND BEGAN TO CHOKE HIM, SAYING, ‘YOU’D BETTER PAY ME RIGHT NOW EVERYTHING YOU OWE ME!’ HIS FELLOW SERVANT THREW HIMSELF FACEDOWN AT HIS FEET AND BEGGED, ‘PLEASE BE PATIENT WITH ME. IF YOU’LL JUST GIVE ME TIME, I WILL REPAY YOU ALL THAT IS OWED.’

“BUT THE ONE WHO HAD HIS DEBT FORGIVEN STUBBORNLY REFUSED TO FORGIVE WHAT WAS OWED TO HIM. HE HAD HIS FELLOW SERVANT THROWN INTO PRISON AND DEMANDED HE REMIAN THERE UNTIL HE REPAID THE DEBT IN FULL”

“WHEN HIS ASSOCIATES SAW WHAT WAS GOING ON, THEY WERE OUTRAGED AND WENT TO THE KING AND TOLD HIM THE WHOLE STORY. THE KING SAID TO HIM ‘YOU SCOUNDREL! IS THIS THE WAY YOU RESPOND TO MY MERCY? BECAUSE YOU BEGGED ME, I FORGAVE YOU THE MASSIVE DEBT THAT YOU OWED ME. WHY DIDN’T YOU SHOW THE SAME MERCY TO YOUR FELLOW SERVANT THAT I SHOWED TO YOU?

“IN A FURY OF ANGER, THE KING TURNED HIM OVER TO THE PRISON GUARDS TO BE TORTURED UNTIL ALL HIS DEBT WAS REPAID. IN THIS SAME WAY, MY HEAVENLY FATHER WILL DEAL WITH ANY OF YOU IF YOU DO NOT RELEASE FORGIVENESS FROM YOUR HEART…” MATTHEW 18:23-35 TPT

“…RELEASE FORGIVENESS FROM YOUR HEART…” MATTHEW 18:35 TPT

“FORGIVENESS IS SETTING THE PRISONER FREE, ONLY TO FIND OUT THE PRISONER WAS ME” CORRIE TEN BOOM

There is freedom on the other side of your forgiveness

Examine Your Heart and Be Honest with Yourself

You cannot win a battle you won’t admit you’re in

“Leave your troubles with the lord, and he will defend you; he never lets honest people be defeated.” Psalms 55:22 GNTD

Realize That God Knew There Would Be Offenses in our Lives and That He Equipped Us with All We Need to Properly Forgive

“…It’s impossible...” Luke 17:1 NKJV

“Then He said to His disciples…It’s impossible that no offenses should come…” Luke 17:1 NKJV

“Make allowance for each other’s faults and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all clothe yourselves with LOVE, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace.” Colossians 3:13-15 NLT

Love

Make the Choice to Forgive and Continue to Forgive

Forgiveness is not a One-Time Thing

“THEN PETER CAME TO HIM AND ASKED, ‘LORD, HOW OFTEN SHOULD I FORGIVE SOMEONE WHO SINS AGAINST ME? SEVEN TIMES?” “NO, NOT SEVEN TIMES,” JESUS REPLIED, “BUT SEVENTY TIMES SEVEN!” MATTHEW 18:21-22

Pray for the One Who Hurt You

“Father forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34

Take Home: Forgive Someone You Need to Forgive

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THE ACT OF GIVING UP CONTROL TO JESUS IS ACTUALLY THE BEGINNING OF FREEDOM!

Trust in the lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT

You are good and do only good; teach me your decrees. Psalms 119:68 NIV

Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. James 4:8 NLT

The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Psalms 37:23 NLT

For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:9 NLT

WHAT YOU HOLD ONTO BECOMES YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO MAINTAIN, BUT WHAT YOU SURRENDER TO GOD HE BARES.

Then Jesus said, Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28 NLT

Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you 1 Peter 5:7 NLT

3 AREAS WE MUST SURRENDER

MATERIALISM

You say, ‘I am rich. I have everything I want. I don’t need a thing!’ And you don’t realize that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked. Revelation 3:17 NLT

The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God’s word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life and the lure of wealth, so no fruit is produced. Matthew 13:22 NLT

ASK YOURSELF IF THERE IS ANYTHING IN YOUR LIFE YOU WOULD’NT GIVE UP IF GOD ASKED YOU TO. THEN ASK WHY?

ACTION STEP: EVALUATE THE GIVING IN YOUR LIFE.

Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine. Proverbs 3:9-10 ESV

Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.

“No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money.

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:21,24,33 NLT

And if your wealth increases, don’t make it the center of your life. Psalms 62:10 NLT

“Don't set your mind on things you don't possess as if they were yours, but count the blessings you actually possess and think how much you would desire them if they weren't already yours." -Marcus Aurelius

RELATIONSHIPS

If you want to be my disciple, you must hate everyone else by comparison—your father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even your own life. Otherwise, you cannot be my disciple. Luke 14:26 NLT

For the believing wife brings holiness to her marriage, and the believing husband brings holiness to his marriage….Don’t you wives realize that your husbands might be saved because of you? And don’t you husbands realize that your wives might be saved because of you? 1 Corinthians 7:14;16 NLT

even though God had told him, “Isaac is the son through whom your descendants will be counted.” Abraham reasoned that if Isaac died, God was able to bring him back to life again. Hebrews 11:18-19 NLT

ACTION STEP: EVALUATE IF THERE IS A RELATIONSHIP THAT HAS COME BETWEEN YOU AND GOD.

MYSELF

This vision is for a future time. It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled. If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed. Habakkuk 2:3 NLT

ACTION STEP: EVALUATE WHETHER YOU THINK YOUR WAYS ARE BETTER THAN HIS.

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33 NLT

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My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body. Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Proverbs 4:20-23 NLT

SPIRITUALLY OUR HEARTS REVEAL THE HEALTH OF OUR LIVES.

Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Proverbs 4:23 NLT

The lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the lord looks at the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7 NLT

FOUR BLOCKAGES OF THE HEART

SELFISHNESS

Then he said to the crowd, "If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me. Luke 9:23 NLT

BLOCKAGE CAN OCCUR WHEN WE WANT TO DO WHAT IS BEST FOR OURSELVES RATHER THAN WHAT IS BEST FOR GOD!

He (JESUS) chose to share the oppression of God’s people instead of enjoying the fleeting pleasures of sin. Hebrews 11:25 NLT

But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. James 3:14-16 NIV

BITTERNESS

It is impossible that no offenses should come… Luke 17:1 NKJV

A brother wronged is more unyielding than a fortified city; disputes are like the barred gates of a citadel. Proverbs 18:19 NIV

REJECTION

The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences. Proverbs 18:21 NLT

EVIL THOUGHTS

For from within, out of a person’s heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness. All these vile things come from within; they are what defile you.” Mark 7:21-23 NLT

THE HEART GOD DESIRES FOR US

A Heart for HIM

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 NLT

As they listen, their secret thoughts will be exposed, and they will fall to their knees and worship God, declaring, “God is truly here among you.” 1 Corinthians 14:25 NLT

A Heart for others

Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. 1 John 4:8-9 NLT

It is easy to justify not loving others
God's love is for everyone
God's love is made visible through action

This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. 1 John 4:10 NLT

Love is not love unless it is felt and seen

ACTION STEPS

And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations. Ezekiel 36:26-27 NLT

INVITE THE HOLY SPIRIT TO SHOW ME

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Psalms 139:23-24 NLT

INVITE THE HOLY SPIRIT TO CHANGE ME

Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Psalms 51:10 NLT

INVITE THE HOLY SPIRIT TO FILL ME

Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 5:18

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Freedom

God desires for you to live in freedom

“For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters.” Galatians 5:13

“Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling. For you have been called by God.” Ephesians 4:1 NLT

You can’t lead a life that is worthy of the calling God gave you if you aren’t walking in the freedom that He designed you to live in

To live in freedom we must choose freedom

Tree of Life

The Tree of Life takes the focus off me and my strengths and puts the focus on God and His strengths

“For I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 NKJV

Freedom was never meant to be hard

“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

“Then Jesus said, “Come to me…” Matthew 11:28

“And this is the way to have eternal life—to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to Earth.” John 17:3

The only way to experience freedom and life in its fullest is by truly knowing Jesus

Intimacy with God is what produces innocence in our lives

“If you love me, obey my commandments.” John 14:15

“...they realized they were naked.” Genesis 3:7 NIV

But Jesus said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.” Matthew 19:14

Innocence is a Conduit of God’s Power

How to Live from the Tree of Life

Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2

Understand fully your relationship with God

“Now you are no longer a slave but God’s own child. And since you are his child, God has made you his heir.” Galatians 4:7

Do you live as an heir or as a slave?

“Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.” Romans 5:1-2

You must recognize the choice between life and death

The choice is ours

God’s will and direction always aligns with His word and leads us to life. If it is against His word it will lead us to death.

“So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you.... Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him.” Colossians 3:5;10

“Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. So, letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.” Romans 8:5-7

Renew your mind through the word of God

You must replace the devil’s lies with the Truth of God

When we read the word, speak the word, and believe the word we defeat the devil!

“Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.” Ephesians 4:21-24

“Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:8-9

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Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. 1 Thessalonians 5:23 NLT

3 PARTS

THE SOUL

MIND

WILL

EMOTIONS

“So fear the Lord and serve him wholeheartedly. Put away forever the idols your ancestors worshiped when they lived beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt. Serve the Lord alone. But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord .” Joshua 24:14-15 NLT

THE BODY

Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death. James 1:14-15 NLT

THE SPIRIT

'Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart… Ecclesiastes 3:11 NLT

But the person who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with him. 1 Corinthians 6:17 NLT

YOU CAN’T GET YOUR EXTERNAL LIFE IN ORDER IF YOUR INTERNAL LIFE IS OUT OF ORDER.

Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Romans 7:24 NLT

Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 7:25 NLT

WHO IS IN CONTROL?

ARE MY CHOICES LEADING ME TOWARD COMPROMISE?

You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is good for you. And even though “I am allowed to do anything,” I must not become a slave to anything. 1 Corinthians 6:12 NLT

DON’T SETTLE FOR TEMPORARY CRAVINGS THAT CAN NEVER SUSTAIN YOU!

IS MY LIFE REFLECTING GOD?

“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. Matthew 5:14;16 NLT

For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of man. 2 Corinthians 8:21 NIV

THE WORLD SHOULD SEE OUR LIVES AND DESIRE WHAT WE HAVE IN JESUS!

Most People are insecure... Give them Confidence

Most People want to feel special... Compliment them

Most People want a bright future... Give them hope

Most People need to be understood... Listen to them

Most People want direction... walk with them

Most People are selfish... speak to their needs first

Most People get emotionally low... Encourage Them

Most People want to be included... Ask their opinion

Most People want success... Help them win

Most People want to be appreciated... Give them credit

AM I TREATING MY BODY AS TEMPLE?

WHAT IF YOU VIEWED YOUR OWN BODY WITH THAT MUCH RESPECT AND REVERANCE AND STRIVE TO LIVE A HOLY LIFE?

Don’t you realize that your bodies are actually parts of Christ? Should a man take his body, which is part of Christ, and join it to a prostitute? Never! 1 Corinthians 6:15 NLT

For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 1 Timothy 4:8 NIV

The expensive utensils are used for special occasions, and the cheap ones are for everyday use. If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work. 2 Timothy 2:20-21 NLT

ACTION STEPS

JESUS DID THREE SIMPLE THINGS.

HE MEASURED ALL INVESTMENTS OF TIME AGAINST HIS PURPOSE.
HE TOOK TIME FOR SOLITUDE WITH THE FATHER.
HE DIDN’T TRY TO DO TOO MUCH.

Properly understood and managed, time is easily one of our best friends. poorly appreciated and mismanaged, it becomes a formidable enemy. Gordon MacDonald

ALONE TIME

PERSONAL TIME

GROWTH TIME

Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. II Corinthians 4:16 NKJV

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Tree of Life TREE OF KNOWLEDGE OF GOOD & EVIL

FREEDOM BONDAGE

GRACE THE LAW

ETERNAL LIFE LEADS TO DEATH

GOD IS GOOD GOD IS GOOD TO HIS FAVORITES

GOD IS FORGIVING GOD IS A JUDGE

GOD IS LOVING GOD IS ANGRY

SIN SEPARATES US FROM LIFE AND BROADCASTS THE MESSAGE OF THE TREE OF KNOWLEDGE.

This includes you who were once far away from God. You were his enemies, separated from him by your evil thoughts and actions. Colossians 1:21 NLT

…God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross. Colossians 1:20 NLT

For “Everyone who calls on the name of the lord will be saved.” Romans 10:13 NLT

EVERY PERSON CAN LIVE IN FREEDOM THAT COMES FROM JESUS!

Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8 NLT

THE DEVIL MAKES YOU QUESTION GOD'S COMMANDS

He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?” Genesis 3:1 NIV

THE DEVIL CANNOT TAKE AWAY THE PROMISES OF GOD, BUT WHAT HE CAN DO IS MAKE YOU QUESTION THE PROMISES OF GOD

The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy... John 10:10 NLT

So that Satan will not outsmart us. For we are familiar with his evil schemes. 2 Corinthians 2:11 NLT

But the Lord God warned him, “You may freely eat the fruit of every tree in the garden—except the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. If you eat its fruit, you are sure to die.” Genesis 2:16-17 NLT

The serpent was the shrewdest of all the wild animals the Lord God had made. One day he asked the woman, “Did God really say you must not eat the fruit from any of the trees in the garden?” Genesis 3:1 NLT

THE MOMENT YOU START WRESTLING WITH A SIN YOU WILL ALLOW YOUR EMOTIONS TO DO THE ANSWERING

Do what is good and run from evil so that you may live! Amos 5:14 NLT

THE DEVIL MAKES YOU QUESTION GOD’S INTENTIONS
But the Lord God warned him, “You may freely eat the fruit of every tree in the garden— 17. except the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. If you eat its fruit, you are sure to die.” Genesis 2:16-17 NLT

THE DEVIL WANTS YOU TO IGNORE THE FREEDOM GOD GIVES YOU AND ONLY FOCUS ON YOUR LIMITATIONS

GOD IS NOT ROBBING YOU, HE IS PROTECTING YOU!

God’s way is perfect. All the Lord’s promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection. Psalms 18:30 NLT

For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation Psalms 100:5 NLT

THE DEVIL TAKES US THROUGH THE PROCESS OF TEMPTATION

Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death. James 1:14-15 NLT

TEMPTATION

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Hebrews 4:15 NIV

FANTASY

“You will never make yourself feel that you are a sinner, because there is a mechanism in you as a result of sin that will always be defending you against every accusation. We are all on very good terms with ourselves, and we can always put up a good case for ourselves. Even if we try to make ourselves feel that we are sinners, we will never do it. There is only one way to know that we are sinners, and that is to have some dim, glimmering conception of God.” -Martyn Lloyd-Jones

STEP TOWARDS SIN

Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 2 Timothy 2:22 NIV

ACT OF SIN

DEATH

There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death. Proverbs 14:12 NLT

THERE IS VICTORY OVER TEMPTATION

So don’t be misled, my dear brothers and sisters. Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. James 1:16-17 NLT

The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. 1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT

ACTION STEPS

MAKE A LIST OF WHO AND WHAT TRULY MATTERS IN YOUR LIFE
STAY AWAY FROM UNHEALTHY INFLUENCES
IN YOUR STRUGGLE YOU MUST GET OUT OF IT EMOTIONALLY AND GET THEIR SPIRITUALLY
DEVELOP LIFE-GIVING RELATIONSHIPS

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NIV

Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. James 5:16 NLT

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WE CAN LIVE IN FREEDOM EVERYDAY

Now the Lord God had planted a garden in the east, in Eden; and there he put the man he had formed. The Lord God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground—trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food. In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.” Genesis 2:8-9;16-17 NLT

KNOWLEDGE IS YOUR MINDSET.

Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?” Genesis 3:1 NIV

The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 2 Corinthians 10:4 NLT

The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, but God did say, ‘You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.’ ” “You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman.“For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” Genesis 3:2-5 NIV

There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death. Proverbs 14:12 NLT

There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death. Proverbs 16:25 NLT

When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. Genesis 3:6 NIV

3 ROOTS OF SIN

GOOD FOR FOOD- LUST
PLEASING TO THE EYE- GREED
GAINING WISDOM- PRIDE

For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. 1 John 2:16-17 NIV

Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves. Genesis 3:7 NIV

THE CHOICE BETWEEN DEATH & LIFE

DEATH SAYS: GETTING TO GOD MEANS I MUST DO MORE

God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. Ephesians 2:8-9 NLT

LIFE SAYS: RECEIVE THE FACT THAT JESUS HAS ALREADY DONE IT

“You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me! Yet you refuse to come to me to receive this life. John 5:39-40 NLT

DEATH SAYS: KEEP TRYING TO GET GOD’S APPROVAL

…So they hid from the lord God among the trees. Then the lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” He replied, “I heard you walking in the garden, so I hid. I was afraid because I was naked.” “Who told you that you were naked?” the lord God asked. “Have you eaten from the tree whose fruit I commanded you not to eat?” Genesis 3:8-11 NLT

LIFE SAYS: RECEIVE THE FACT THAT HE ALREADY LOVES YOU

But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. Romans 5:8 NLT

DEATH SAYS: WE OBEY OUT OF DUTY

LIFE SAYS: WE OBEY OUT OF DELIGHT

In fact, this is love for God: to keep his commands. And his commands are not burdensome…Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. 1 John 5:3;12 NIV

TEMPTATION OR COMPROMISE DOESN'T EXPOSE OUR WEAKNESSES IN WILLPOWER, BUT A WEAKNESS IN OUR RELATIONSHIP.

ACTION STEPS

FALL IN LOVE WITH JESUS

If you love me, keep my commands. John 14:15 NIV

SERVE GOD THROUGH RELATIONSHIPS NOT RULES

Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. Matthew 5:17 NIV

RESPOND TO ALL SIN WITH LIFE

So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death. Romans 8:1-2 NLT

GUARD YOUR HEART FROM GOING BACK.

Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8-9 NLT

WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO TO BE RIGHTEOUS AND GODLY?

Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! You can make this choice by loving the lord your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This is the key to your life… Deuteronomy 30:19-20 NLT

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WHEN ANGER LEADS TO ACTIONS THERE TENDS TO BE NEGATIVE REPERCUSSIONS

And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for

You have heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment.’ But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot, you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell. Matthew 5:21-22 NLT

ANGER AND INSULTS ARE AN UGLY SYMPTOMS OF A DESIRE TO GET RID OF SOMEONE WHO STANDS IN OUR WAY. - JOHN STOTT

'What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. ' James 4:1-2 NIV

So if you are presenting a sacrifice at the altar in the Temple and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you, leave your sacrifice there at the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person. Then come and offer your sacrifice to God. “When you are on the way to court with your adversary, settle your differences quickly. Otherwise, your accuser may hand you over to the judge, who will hand you over to an officer, and you will be thrown into prison. And if that happens, you surely won’t be free again until you have paid the last penny. Matthew 5:23-26 NLT

JESUS’ TWO EXAMPLES

BROTHERS
ENEMIES

NOT BEING CONTROLLED BY ANGER

ANGER IS NOT THE PROBLEM, BUT OUR RESPONSE CAN BE.

"What such a man needs is not courage but nerve control, cool-headedness. This he can get only by practice.” -Theodore Roosevelt

SOMETIMES ANGER LEADS US TO BE AGGRESSIVE

'Short-tempered people do foolish things… Proverbs 14:17 NLT

'Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back.' Proverbs 29:11 NLT

SOMETIMES ANGER LEADS US TO BE PASSIVE

'When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. ' Psalms 32:3

Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many. Hebrews 12:15 NLT

EXAMINE YOUR PRIORITIES

'From then on Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly that it was necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, and that he would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day he would be raised from the dead. But Peter took him aside and began to reprimand him for saying such things. “Heaven forbid, Lord,” he said. “This will never happen to you!” Jesus turned to Peter and said, “Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s.”

I DIE TO MYSELF

'My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. ' Galatians 2:20 NLT

take up your cross daily, and follow me. Luke 9:23 NLT

“A MAN ON HIS FACE CAN NEVER FALL DOWN” - LARRY STOCKSTILL

I DIE TO MY FLESH

'Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. ' Galatians 5:24 NLT

'We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin. For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin. ' Romans 6:6-7 NLT

“Always remember, others may hate you, but those who hate you don’t win unless you hate them. And then you destroy yourself.” Richard Nixon

A UNIFIED CHURCH IS OF THE UTMOST IMPORTANCE

'For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.' Ephesians 6:12 NLT

'Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means ‘rock’), and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven. Whatever you forbid on earth will be forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit on earth will be permitted in heaven.' Matthew 16:18-19 NLT

As for me, may I never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of that cross, my interest in this world has been crucified, and the world’s interest in me has also died. ' Galatians 6:14 NLT

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The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you. John 15:19 NLT

"It is impossible to please all men; there will always be those who criticize you, no matter what you do. So focus on doing what is right, and let the rest go." Epictetus

Makarios: Joy which has its secret within itself, that joy which is serene and untouchable, and self-contained that joy which is completely independent of all the chances and changes of life.

THE FOUR SOCIAL QUALITIES THAT ARE BLESSED

Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. Matthew 5:7 ESV

COMPASSIONATE IN SPIRIT: O the bliss of the merciful!

'Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested.' Hebrews 2:17-18 NLT

'For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. ' Romans 3:23 NLT

'Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord… Romans 7:24-25 NLT

A LACK OF MERCY AND COMPASSION IS EVIDENCE OF SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS

“Tolerant with others. Strict with yourself.” Marcus Aurelius

Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord . Instead, “If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads.” Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good. Romans 12:19-21 NLT

Later, Matthew invited Jesus and his disciples to his home as dinner guests, along with many tax collectors and other disreputable sinners. But when the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with such scum?” When Jesus heard this, he said, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do.” Then he added, “Now go and learn the meaning of this Scripture: ‘I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.’ For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.” Matthew 9:10-13 NLT

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Matthew 5:8 ESV

PURE HEART. PURE VISION: O bliss of the Sincere!

'“What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are so careful to clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside you are filthy—full of greed and self-indulgence! You blind Pharisee! First wash the inside of the cup and the dish and then the outside will become clean, too.' Matthew 23:25-26 NLT

'“Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?” Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.”' Matthew 22:36-40 NLT

Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. 1 Corinthians 9:24-25

WHAT YOU TRAIN FOR YOU BECOME!

INTENTIONAL WITH PRAYER
INTENTIONAL WITH BIBLE READING
INTENTIONAL WITH COMMUNITY

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Matthew 5:9 ESV

STRIVING FOR PEACE: O the bliss of those who create harmony!

'Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. ' Romans 12:17-18 NLT

PUBLIC CRITICISMS NEVER CHANGE ANYONE. HOWEVER, PRIVATE CONVERSATIONS IN LOVE DO.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Matthew 5:9 ESV

'And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering.' Romans 8:17 NLT

...by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. ' Colossians 1:20 NIV

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10 ESV

UNSWERVING LOYALTY: O the bliss of the sufferer for Christ!

Our bodies are buried in brokenness, but they will be raised in glory. They are buried in weakness, but they will be raised in strength. They are buried as natural human bodies, but they will be raised as spiritual bodies. For just as there are natural bodies, there are also spiritual bodies. 1 Corinthians 15:43-44 NLT

“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matthew 5:11-12 NIV

THE TRUTH IS THAT YOUR LOYALTY IS ROOTED IN YOUR TRUST LEVEL OF GOD AND THAT DETERMINES YOUR VICTORY!

'They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death. ' Revelation 12:11 NIV

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We are multipliers!

We are a Great Commission Church and we are an equipping center for disciples.

We are multipliers!

Individually, we are all responsible to disciple those younger in their faith and invite those far from Jesus into a life-giving community.

We are multipliers!

Corporately, we are called to plant churches, pastor cities, and father and mother leaders to multiply the Kingdom impact.

We are multipliers!

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts of the Apostles 1:8 NLT

WE BELIEVE AS A CHURCH IN THE SECOND COMING OF CHRIST, OR IN OTHER WORDS THE FACT THAT JESUS IS COMING AGAIN!

After saying this, he was taken up into a cloud while they were watching, and they could no longer see him. As they strained to see him rising into heaven, two white-robed men suddenly stood among them. “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why are you standing here staring into heaven?

Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!” Acts 1:9-11

OVER 300 REFERENCES IN N.T. OF JESUS’ RETURN

216/260 CHAPTERS IN THE N.T. REFERENCE JESUS’ RETURN

23 OF THE 27 N.T. BOOKS REFERENCE JESUS’ RETURN

But because God was so gracious, so very generous, here I am. And I’m not about to let his grace go to waste. Haven’t I worked hard trying to do more than any of the others? 1 Corinthians 15:10 MSG

Here's what I know great vision takes three things:

It takes a Praying Church, a Selfless Church, and a strategic Church.

But the leader in charge of the synagogue was indignant that Jesus had healed her on the Sabbath day. “There are six days of the week for working,” he said to the crowd. “Come on those days to be healed, not on the Sabbath.” But the Lord replied, “You hypocrites! Each of you works on the Sabbath day! Don’t you untie your ox or your donkey from its stall on the Sabbath and lead it out for water? This dear woman, a daughter of Abraham, has been held in bondage by Satan for eighteen years. Isn’t it right that she be released, even on the Sabbath?” Luke 13:14-16 NLT

GOD IS LESS INTERESTED IN WHAT YOU ARE DOING AND MORE INTERESTED IN WHY YOU ARE DOING WHAT YOU ARE DOING.

Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. James 1:27 NLT

The Lord is more pleased when we do what is right and just than when we offer him sacrifices. Proverbs 21:3 NLT

But Peter took him aside and began to reprimand him for saying such things. “Heaven forbid, Lord,” he said. “This will never happen to you!” Jesus turned to Peter and said, “Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s.”

“Paul and Silas have caused trouble all over the world,” they shouted, “and now they are here disturbing our city, too. Acts of the Apostles 17:6 NLT

Go after a life of love as if your life depended on it—because it does. 1 Corinthians 14:1-2 MSG

Give yourselves to the gifts God gives you. 1 Corinthians 14:1-2 MSG

Most of all, try to proclaim his truth. 1 Corinthians 14:1-2 MSG

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What is Influence – Week 4

INFLUENCE

WE ARE MULTIPLIERS

LOVE

THE CHARACTER OF POSITIVE INFLUENCE

How not to be a negative influence

How not to be negatively influenced

How to become a person of Influence

A Person of Influence has integrity with people

A Person of Influence Nurtures People and Relationships

A Person of Influence Has Faith in People

A Person of Influence Listens to People

A Person of Influence Seeks to Understand People

How to Become a Person of Influence

All we need is interaction to influence

A person of influence connects with People

When you connect with people you come alongside them

“Soon a Samaritan woman came to draw water, and Jesus said to her, “Please give me a drink.” He was alone at the time because his disciples had gone into the village to buy some food. The woman was surprised, for Jews refuse to have anything to do with Samaritans. She said to Jesus, “You are a Jew, and I am a Samaritan woman. Why are you asking me for a drink?” Jesus replied, “If you only knew the gift God has for you and who you are speaking to, you would ask me, and I would give you living water.” “But sir, you don’t have a rope or a bucket,” she said, “and this well is very deep. Where would you get this living water?…” Jesus replied, “Anyone who drinks this water will soon become thirsty again. But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.” “Please, sir,” the woman said, “give me this water! Then I’ll never be thirsty again, and I won’t have to come here to get water.”

“Go and get your husband,” Jesus told her. “I don’t have a husband,” the woman replied. Jesus said, “You’re right! You don’t have a husband— for you have had five husbands, and you aren’t even married to the man you’re living with now…”

When we see people as God sees them, have faith in them, nurture the interaction, listen with the intent to understand, and build an intentional connection we unlock the opportunity for God to shine through.

…Then Jesus told her, “I Am the Messiah!” Just then his disciples came back. They were shocked to find him talking to a woman, but none of them had the nerve to ask, “What do you want with her?” or “Why are you talking to her?” The woman left her water jar beside the well and ran back to the village, telling everyone,

“Come and see a man who told me everything I ever did! Could he possibly be the Messiah?” So the people came streaming from the village to see him….Many Samaritans from the village believed in Jesus because the woman had said, “He told me everything I ever did!” When they came out to see him, they begged him to stay in their village. So he stayed for two days, long enough for many more to hear his message and believe. Then they said to the woman, “Now we believe, not just because of what you told us, but because we have heard him ourselves. Now we know that he is indeed the Savior of the world.”” John 4:7-42 NLT

Don’t take people for granted
Possess a “Make a difference” mindset

Can we reach the masses better apart or better together?

Look for common ground
Recognize and have respect for difference in personality

“The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body. So it is with the body of Christ…we have all been baptized into one body by One Spirit, and we all share the same spirit. Yes the body has many different parts, not just one part. If the foot says, “I am not a part of the body because I am not a hand,” that does not make it any less a part of the body and if the ear says, “I am not part of the body because I am not an eye, would that make it any less a part of the body? If the whole body were an eye, how would you hear? Or if your whole body were an ear, how would you smell anything?” 1 Corinthians 12:12-17 NLT

Communication comes from the heart

As people of influence we need to be wall climbers not wall builders

Once Connected, move forward, be intentional, and lean in

A Person of Influence Empowers People

When we empower others, we are not influencing just them; we are influencing all the people they influence

When we empower we multiply

Evaluate the strengths of the person

No amount of knowledge or skill can drive someone to make an impact if they don’t desire to do it themselves

Give People Permission to succeed
Be there for support and feedback

“You’re never good your first time.” John Maxwell

Release them to continue on their own

A person of influence multiplies other influencers

“The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.” Matthew 9:37-38 NLT

MULTIPLIERS

We are multipliers!

We are a Great Commission Church which means we are multipliers.

Individually, we are all responsible to disciple those younger in their faith and invite those far from Jesus into a life-giving community.

Corporately, we are called to plant churches, pastor cities, and father and mother leaders to multiply the Kingdom impact.

We are multipliers!

Everyone has the potential to multiply influence by multiplying influencers

Be a person of character and integrity
Nurture your relationships and interactions
Have faith in people
Listen to people
Seek to understand people
Connect with people
Empower People

THEN

We can multiply

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How to Have Influence

What is Influence – Week 3

INFLUENCE

WE ARE MULTIPLIERS

“So don’t hide your light! Let it shine brightly before others, so that the commendable things you do will shine as light upon them, and then they will give their praise to your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16 TPT

LOVE

“If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal “1 Corinthians 13:1 NLT

THE CHARACTER OF POSITIVE INFLUENCE

How not to be a negative influence

How not to be negatively influenced

How to Become a Person of Influence

All we need is interaction to have influence

If our lives in any way connect with other people we have influence

“Then Joshua son of Nun secretly sent two spies from Shittim.

“Go, look over the land,” he said, “especially Jericho.” So they went and entered the house of a prostitute named Rahab and stayed there. The king of Jericho was told, “Look, some of the Israelites have come here tonight to spy out the land.” So the king of Jericho sent this message to Rahab: “Bring out the men who came to you and entered your house, because they have come to spy out the whole land.” But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them…Before the spies lay down for the night, she went up on the roof and said to them, “I know that the Lord has given you this land and that a great fear of you has fallen on us, so that all who live in this country are melting in fear because of you. We have heard how the Lord dried up the water of the Red Sea for you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to Sihon and Og, the two kings of the Amorites east of the Jordan, whom you completely destroyed. When we heard of it, our hearts melted in fear and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below. “Now then, please swear to me by the Lord that you will show kindness to my family, because I have shown kindness to you. Give me a sure sign that you will spare the lives of my father and mother, my brothers and sisters, and all who belong to them—and that you will save us from death.” “Our lives for your lives!” the men assured her…So she sent them away, and they departed. Then the two men started back…and came to Joshua son of Nun and told him everything that had happened to them. They said to Joshua, “The Lord has surely given the whole land into our hands; all the people are melting in fear because of us.””

Joshua 2:1-24 NIV

God will use anyone who is willing

Leadership depends less on titles than it does influence

“…for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.” 1 Peter 2:10 NLT

A Person of Influence has integrity with people
A Person of Influence Nurtures People and Relationships

Nurturing

The heart of the nurturing process is having genuine concern for others

When a person feels encouraged, they can face the impossible and overcome adversity

“Oxygen to the soul” - George M. Adams

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Ephesians 4:29 NIV

for most people, it’s not what they are that holds them back. It’s what they think they’re not.

Believe in people
Be present and help People
A Person of Influence Has Faith in People

Most people don’t have faith in themselves

Difficulties seldom defeat people; lack of faith in themselves usually does

Most people don’t have someone who has faith in them

Emphasize people’s strengths

Be in the Trenches with Others

“Pray in the spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayer and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the lord’s people” Ephesians 6:18 NIV

A Person of Influence Listens to People

“No Man would listen to you talk if he didn’t know it was his turn next.” - Edgar Watson Howe

My leadership became more effective the less I talked and the more I listened

“A fool is in love with his own opinion, but wisdom means being teachable” Proverbs 12:15 TPT

Listening Shows Respect

“Listening, not imitation, may be the sincerest form of flattery.” - Dr. Joyce Brothers

When we don’t pay attention to what others have to say, we send a message to them that we don’t value them

“the first duty of love is to listen”

Be impressed and interested, not impressive and interesting

Listening Builds relationships

“everyone needs someone who he feels really listens to him.” - C. Neil Strait

Our connection with God is a relationship not a one-way request line

Look at the person speaking!

Don’t interrupt

Focus on understanding

Determine the need in the moment

Check your emotions

Suspend your judgment

Always make listening a priority

A Person of Influence Seeks to Understand People

“The biggest mistake you can make in trying to talk convincingly is to put your highest priority on expressing your ideas and feelings. What most people really want is to be listened to, respected, and understood. The moment people see that they are being understood, they become more motivated to understand your point of view.” - David Burns

As believers we don’t justify sin

“Half of the controversies and conflicts that arise among people are caused not by differences of opinion or an inability to agree, but by their lack of understanding for one another.”

Everybody needs somebody

Everybody needs Grace

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INFLUENCE

“In the same way, let your light shine before others…” Matthew 5:16 NIV

Influence: the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something…

“…so that the commendable things you do will shine as light upon them, and then they will give their

praise to your Father in Heaven.” Matthew 5:16 TPT

You have influence

“If your life in any way connects with other people, you are an influencer.” – John Maxwell

On average, most people will influence around 10,000 others in an average lifetime

Your influence matters

What type of power are you giving your influence?

Positive and Negative

Positive Influence: the impact of a person, group or situation that motivates, encourages, or inspires others to make positive changes or decisions in their lives. It can lead to the growth, development and the well-being of individuals and communities

Negative Influence: the impact of a person, group or situation that encourages or leads others to make harmful or undesirable decisions or actions in their lives. It can result in harm, discouragement, and/or deterioration of individuals and communities

Love

“If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal “1 Corinthians 13:1 NLT

“Love is patient and kind, Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NLT

An Influencer is patient and kind

An Influencer is not jealous, boastful, proud, or rude

An Influencer does not demand their own way

An Influencer is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged

An Influencer does not rejoice about injustice

An Influencer rejoices whenever the truth wins out

An Influencer never gives up and never loses faith

An Influencer is always hopeful

An Influencer endures through every circumstance

The Character of a Positive Influencer

“Now, the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “did God really say, ‘you must not eat from any tree in the garden?’” The woman said to the serpent, “we may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, but God did say, ‘you must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it or you will die.”

“You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the women. For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it…” Genesis 3:1-6 NLT

HOW TO NOT BE A NEGATIVE INFLUENCE

Remind Ourselves of Who We Are

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Ephesians 2:10 NLT

Who You Are Determines What You Do

Speak Positively About People and Circumstances

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Ephesians 4:29 NIV

“With our tongues we bless God our Father; with the same tongues we curse the very men and women he made in his image. Curses and blessings out of the same mouth! My Friends, this cant go on. A spring doesn’t gush fresh water one day and brackish the next, does it? Apple trees don’t bear strawberries, do they? Raspberry bushes don’t bear apples, do they? Youre not going to dip into a polluted mud hole and get a cup of clear, cool water, are you? James 3:10-12 MSG

Have integrity with People

Commit Yourself to honesty, reliability, and confidentiality

Exemplify Humility

“Your boast becomes a prophecy of a future failure. The higher you lift up yourself in pride, the harder you’ll fall in disgrace.” Proverbs 16:18 TPT

Major in the Minor things

Keep the main thing the main thing

“Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations” Matthew 28:19 NLT

HOW TO NOT BE NEGATIVELY INFLUENCED BY OTHERS

Inspect Your Environments

Is this helping or hurting me walk in my God given calling?

There are environments that we can put ourselves into that are not conducive to the growth that God desires us to have in our lives

“Become wise by walking with the wise; hang out with fools and watch your life fall to pieces.” Proverbs 13:20 MSG

“….Bad Company corrupts good character” 1 Corinthians 15:33 NIV

Make a Plan to Change and Change

“your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change.” – Jim Rohn

Make the change despite criticism

“There is only one way to avoid criticism: do nothing, say nothing, and be nothing.” – Aristotle

“I will forgive their wrongdoing, and I will never again remember their sins” Hebrews 8:12 CSB

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“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. Matthew 5:14-16 NLT

If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal 1 Corinthians 13:1 NLT

We are multipliers!

We are a Great Commission Church which means we are multipliers.

Individually, we are all responsible to disciple those younger in their faith and invite those far from Jesus into a life-giving community.

Corporately, we are called to plant churches, pastor cities, and father and mother leaders to multiply the Kingdom impact.

We are multipliers!

God’s purpose in all this was to use the church to display his wisdom in its rich variety to all the unseen rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. Ephesians 3:10 NLT

When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” “Well,” they replied, “some say John the Baptist, some say Elijah, and others say Jeremiah or one of the other prophets.” Then he asked them, “But who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”

Jesus replied, “You are blessed, Simon son of John, because my Father in heaven has revealed this to you. You did not learn this from any human being. Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means ‘rock’), and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven. Whatever you forbid on earth will be forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit on earth will be permitted in heaven.” Matthew 16:13-19 NLT

A PERSON OF POSITIVE INFLUENCE BREAKS THE DISEASE OF ME.

This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:12-13 NLT

But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:43-45 NLT

A PERSON OF POSITIVE INFLUENCE WILL STOP AT NOTHING TO SEE THEIR LOVED ONES HEALED

Soon the house where he was staying was so packed with visitors that there was no more room, even outside the door. While he was preaching God’s word to them, four men arrived carrying a paralyzed man on a mat. They couldn’t bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, so they dug a hole through the roof above his head. Then they lowered the man on his mat, right down in front of Jesus. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “My child, your sins are forgiven.” Mark 2:2-5 NLT

“Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone.” James 4:4 NLT

“Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered — how fleeting my life is. Psalms 39:4 NLT

(God) who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth. 1 Timothy 2:4 NLT

Then Jesus said, “What is the Kingdom of God like? How can I illustrate it? It is like a tiny mustard seed that a man planted in a garden; it grows and becomes a tree, and the birds make nests in its branches.” He also asked, “What else is the Kingdom of God like? It is like the yeast a woman used in making bread. Even though she put only a little yeast in three measures of flour, it permeated every part of the dough.”Luke 13:18-21 NLT

We are multipliers!

We are a Great Commission Church which means we are multipliers.

We are multipliers!

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The apostles said to the Lord, “Show us how to increase our faith.” The Lord answered, “If you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘May you be uprooted and be planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you! Luke 17:5-6 NLT

“Consistency compounds. What you do each day matters, and will build over time.” John Maxwell

PRAYER IS A CONVERSATION THAT LEADS TO AN ENCOUNTER WITH GOD

Whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image. 2 Corinthians 3:16-18 NLT

Our prayers must be upward

As he entered a village there, ten men with leprosy stood at a distance, crying out, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” He looked at them and said, “Go show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed of their leprosy. One of them, when he saw that he was healed, came back to Jesus, shouting, “Praise God!” He fell to the ground at Jesus’ feet, thanking him for what he had done. This man was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, “Didn’t I heal ten men? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?” And Jesus said to the man, “Stand up and go. Your faith has healed you. ” Luke 17:12-19 NLT

WHEN WE WALK AROUND ENTITLED, DISMISSIVE, OR OBLIVIOUS TO ALL THAT WE HAVE WE ROB OURSELVES OF THE BLESSING OF CONTENTMENT AND OPEN OUR HEARTS TO RESENTMENT

Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship him as God or even give him thanks. Romans 1:21 NLT

Our prayers must be inward

Then Jesus told this story to some who had great confidence in their own righteousness and scorned everyone else: “Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: ‘I thank you, God, that I am not like other people—cheaters, sinners, adulterers. I’m certainly not like that tax collector! I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income.’ “But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, ‘O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.’ I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Luke 18:9-14 NLT

OUR PRAYERS MUST REVEAL THE FREENESS OF FORGIVENESS AND ITS ASTOUNDING COST.

Against you, and you alone, have I sinned; I have done what is evil in your sight. Psalms 51:4 NLT

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Psalms 139:23-24 NLT

Our prayers must be outward

WHEN GOD BLESSES US, OUR DESIRE SHOULD BE TO SHARE THAT BLESSING

When Jesus came by, he looked up at Zacchaeus and called him by name. “Zacchaeus!” he said. “Quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today.” Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy. But the people were displeased. “He has gone to be the guest of a notorious sinner,” they grumbled. Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood before the Lord and said, “I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have cheated people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!” Luke 19:5-8 NLT

THERE IS A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PRAYING FOR SOMETHING AND PRAYING THROUGH SOMETHING

Praying through is about consistency
Praying through is all about intensity.

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Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14

Prayer is a conversation that leads to an encounter with God.

“How sweet your words taste to me; they are sweeter than honey.” Psalms 119:103 NLT

But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do. James 1:6-8 NLT

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:16-19 NLT

Paul has 3 desires for them...

That Christ would dwell in their hearts through faith

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1 NLT

That they would be established in the love of Christ.

There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:13 NLT

But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. Romans 5:8 NLT

That they would be filled with all the fullness of God.

The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. John 10:10 NLT

…to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ… Ephesians 3:18 NLT

I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. Ephesians 1:18-19 NLT

may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ. Ephesians 3:18 NLT

How wide is the love of God...

“Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow.” Isaiah 1:18 NLT

He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west. Psalms 103:12 NLT

How long is the love of God?

You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. Psalms 139:13-16 NLT

I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me. John 10:28 NLT

How deep is the love of God?

Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form. Philippians 2:7 NLT

“He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” 1 Peter 2:24 NLT

Jesus cried out in a loud voice,...“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Matthew 27:46 NLT

How high is the love of God?

Father, I want these whom you have given me to be with me where I am. Then they can see all the glory you gave me because you loved me even before the world began! John 17:24 NLT

'It is the same way with the resurrection of the dead. Our earthly bodies are planted in the ground when we die, but they will be raised to live forever. Our bodies are buried in brokenness, but they will be raised in glory. They are buried in weakness, but they will be raised in strength. They are buried as natural human bodies, but they will be raised as spiritual bodies. For just as there are natural bodies, there are also spiritual bodies. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44 NLT

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At times I might shut up the heavens so that no rain falls, or command grasshoppers to devour your crops, or send plagues among you. Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land. 2 Chronicles 7:13-14 NLT

Prayer is done out of love, not an obligation.

Loving success and relationships more than God hardens our hearts and impairs our sense of purpose on earth, ironically making us less effective in fulfilling our dreams.

True health is spiritual, not physical!

And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? Matthew 16:26 NLT

Prayer is to know God better

And this is the way to have eternal life—to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth. John 17:3 NLT

This is what the Lord says: “Don’t let the wise boast in their wisdom, or the powerful boast in their power, or the rich boast in their riches. But those who wish to boast should boast in this alone: that they truly know me and understand that I am the Lord who demonstrates unfailing love and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth, and that I delight in these things. I, the Lord , have spoken! Jeremiah 9:23-24 NLT

“What makes life worthwhile is having a big enough objective, something which catches our imagination and lays hold of our allegiance; and this the Christian has in a way that no other person has. For what higher, more exalted, and more compelling goal can there be than to know God?” -J.I. Packer

Be still, and know that I am God! Psalms 46:10 NLT

I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. Ephesians 3:16-18

Without a powerful sense of God’s presence, good circumstances can lead to overconfidence and bad circumstances can lead to despair.

Prayer brings out the real you

Deserts are hard places in which to live, physically or spiritually.

Deserts are dry.

But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.” “Please, sir,” the woman said, “give me this water! Then I’ll never be thirsty again, and I won’t have to come here to get water.” John 4:14-15 NLT

Deserts teach us about dependence.

Give us today our daily bread. Matthew 6:11 NIV

Deserts provide a place to think, plan, and prepare.

To know God is a matter of personal involvement- mind, will, and emotions.

Mind- Reading, Hearing, Listening, and Receiving God’s Word.

Will- We are people of discipline and self-control, not slothfulness and instability.

Emotions- We lead our feelings they do not lead us.

"Feelings are important in many areas but completely unreliable in matters of faith" Eugene Peterson

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Philippians 4:6 NLT

Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 NLT

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“It has often been said that prayer is the greatest force in the universe. This is no exaggeration. It will bear constant repetition. In this atomic age when forces are being released that stagger the thought and Imagination of man, it is well to remember that prayer transcends all other forces.” F. J. Huegel

“Sinned as we have as a nation, yet to our sin we have added pride in our sinning. The world has lost the power to blush over its vice; the Church has lost her power to weep over it.” -Leonard Ravenhill

I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your old men will dream dreams, and your young men will see visions. In those days I will pour out my Spirit even on servants—men and women alike. And I will cause wonders in the heavens and on the earth… Joel 2:28-30 NLT

That is why the Lord says, “Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Don’t tear your clothing in your grief, but tear your hearts instead.” Return to the Lord your God, for he is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He is eager to relent and not punish. Joel 2:12-13 NLT

Blow the ram’s horn in Jerusalem! Announce a time of fasting; call the people together for a solemn meeting. Gather all the people— the elders, the children, and even the babies. Call the bridegroom from his quarters and the bride from her private room. Let the priests, who minister in the Lord’s presence, stand and weep between the entry room to the Temple and the altar. Joel 2:15-17 NLT

Blow the ram’s horn - Everyone needs to hear this message
Sanctify a Fast - Twofold. Understanding the seriousness of the situation and desiring to be totally dependent on God.
Call a Solemn Meeting - A designated time of prayer
Gather All the People - There must be Unity
Ministers of the Lord Weep - Leaders Go First

“This is what the lord says to Zerubbabel: It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the lord of Heaven’s Armies. Nothing, not even a mighty mountain, will stand in Zerubbabel’s way” Zechariah 4:6 NLT

Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NLT

PRAYER MUST BE A COMPASS THAT GUIDES US NOT A FLARE GUN TO RESCUE US.

Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. John 15:4 NLT

AN AUTHENTIC CHRISTIAN LIFE IS WHERE THOSE SPIRITUAL MOMENTS ARE NOT SPURTS IN OUR LIFE, BUT DAY-TO-DAY EXPERIENCES.

Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:5 NLT

LIFESTYLE OF PRAYER

THE PRIORITY OF PRAYER

But when Daniel learned that the law had been signed, he went home and knelt down as usual in his upstairs room, with its windows open toward Jerusalem. He prayed three times a day, just as he had always done, giving thanks to his God. Daniel 6:10 NLT

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH GOD AND KEEP IT!

THE PLACE OF PRAYER

Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray. Mark 1:35 NLT

THE PLAN OF PRAYER

Once Jesus was in a certain place praying. As he finished, one of his disciples came to him and said, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.” Jesus said, “This is how you should pray: Luke 11:1-2 NLT

THE PERSONS OF PRAYER

YOUR VIEW OF GOD DETERMINES YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM.

The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit, be with all of you. 2 Corinthians 13:14 MSG

THE AMAZING GRACE OF JESUS

So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most. Hebrews 4:14-16 NLT

“My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 NLT

THE EXTRAVAGANT LOVE OF THE FATHER

For this reason I kneel before the Father. Ephesians 3:14 NLT

The lord is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He will not constantly accuse us, nor remain angry forever. He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve. For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west. The lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him. Psalms 103:8-13 NLT

THE INTIMATE FRIENDSHIP OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever--the Spirit of truth. John 14:16-17 NLT

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Let all that I am praise the Lord; with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name. Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me. Psalms 103:1-2 NLT

He forgives all my sins… Psalms 103:3 NLT

and heals all my diseases… Psalms 103:3 NLT

He redeems me from death and crowns me with love and tender mercies… Psalms 103:4 NLT

He fills my life with good things… Psalms 103:5 NLT

My youth is renewed like the eagle’s! Psalms 103:5 NLT

God is not a man, so he does not lie. He is not human, so he does not change his mind. Has he ever spoken and failed to act? Has he ever promised and not carried it through? Listen, I received a command to bless; God has blessed, and I cannot reverse it! Numbers 23:19-20 NLT

HEALING IS A PART OF GOD’S COVENANT

The Lord replied, “Listen, I am making a covenant with you in the presence of all your people. I will perform miracles that have never been performed anywhere in all the earth or in any nation. And all the people around you will see the power of the Lord—the awesome power I will display for you. Exodus 34:10 NLT

If you think I’ve come to set aside the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets, you’re mistaken. I have come to fulfill and bring to perfection all that has been written. Indeed, I assure you, as long as heaven and earth endure, not even the smallest detail of the Law will be done away with until its purpose is complete. Matthew 5:17-18 NLT

But now Jesus the Messiah has accepted a priestly ministry which far surpasses theirs, since he is the catalyst of a better covenant which contains far more wonderful promises. Hebrews 8:6 TPT

HEALING IS A PART OF JESUS’ SACRIFICE

Yet it was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows (Or Yet it was our sicknesses he carried; it was our diseases) that weighed him down. And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God, a punishment for his own sins! But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed. Isaiah 53:4-5 NLT

HEALING IS A PART OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD

Heal the sick, and tell them, ‘The Kingdom of God is near you now.’ Luke 10:9 NLT

You won’t be able to say, ‘Here it is!’ or ‘It’s over there!’ For the Kingdom of God is already among you.” Luke 17:21 NLT

Go and announce to them that the Kingdom of Heaven is near. Heal the sick, raise the dead, cure those with leprosy, and cast out demons. Give as freely as you have received! Matthew 10:7-8 NLT

Just then, a man saw that it was Jesus, so he pushed through the crowd and threw himself down at his feet. His name was Jairus, a Jewish official who was in charge of the synagogue. He pleaded with Jesus, saying over and over, “Please come with me! My little daughter is at the point of death, and she’s only twelve years old! Come and lay your hands on her and heal her and she will live!” Immediately Jesus went with him, and the huge crowd followed, pressing in on him from all sides. Mark 5:22-24 NLT

And before he had finished speaking, people arrived from Jairus’ house and pushed through the crowd to give Jairus the news: “There’s no need to trouble the master any longer—your daughter has died.” But Jesus refused to listen to what they were told and said to the Jewish official, “Don’t yield to fear. All you need to do is to keep on believing.”; When they arrived at the home of the synagogue ruler, they encountered a noisy uproar among the people, for they were all weeping and wailing. Upon entering the home, Jesus said to them, “Why all this grief and weeping? Don’t you know the girl is not dead but merely asleep?” Then everyone began to ridicule and make fun of him. But he threw them all outside. Then he took the child’s father and mother and his three disciples and went into the room where the girl was lying. He tenderly clasped the child’s hand in his and said to her in Aramaic, “Talitha koum,” which means, “Little girl, wake up from the sleep of death.” Instantly the twelve-year-old girl sat up, stood to her feet, and started walking around the room! Mark 5:35-36;38-42 NLT

THREE POWERFUL TRUTHS WE MUST UNDERSTAND

JESUS WANTS TO BE IN THE ROOM WITH US
YOU HAVE TO PUSH OUT THE NEGATIVITY THAT IS TRYING TO TAKE JESUS’ PLACE
YOU NEED THOSE AROUND YOU TO BE IN UNITY WITH YOU

FAITH IS ALWAYS ACTIVATED BY ACTION

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'While Apollos was in Corinth, Paul traveled through the interior regions until he reached Ephesus, on the coast, where he found several believers. “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” he asked them. “No,” they replied, “we haven’t even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” “Then what baptism did you experience?” he asked. And they replied, “The baptism of John.” Paul said, “John’s baptism called for repentance from sin. Acts 19:1-4 NLT

But John himself told the people to believe in the one who would come later, meaning Jesus.” As soon as they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then when Paul laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in other tongues and prophesied. Acts 19:4-6 NLT

Philip, for example, went to the city of Samaria and told the people there about the Messiah. But now the people believed Philip’s message of Good News concerning the Kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ. As a result, many men and women were baptized. When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that the people of Samaria had accepted God’s message, they sent Peter and John there. As soon as they arrived, they prayed for these new believers to receive the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit had not yet come upon any of them, for they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then Peter and John laid their hands upon these believers, and they received the Holy Spirit. Acts 8:5,12,14-17 NLT

That Sunday evening the disciples were meeting behind locked doors because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders. Suddenly, Jesus was standing there among them! “Peace be with you,” he said. As he spoke, he showed them the wounds in his hands and his side. They were filled with joy when they saw the Lord! Again he said, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you.” Then he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. John 20:19-22 NLT

And just as they were telling about it, Jesus himself was suddenly standing there among them. “Peace be with you,” he said. “And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven.” Luke 24:36,49 NLT

During the forty days after he suffered and died, he appeared to the apostles from time to time, and he proved to them in many ways that he was actually alive. And he talked to them about the Kingdom of God. Once when he was eating with them, he commanded them, “Do not leave Jerusalem until the Father sends you the gift he promised, as I told you before. John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” Acts 1:3-5 NLT

This promise is to you, to your children, and to those far away —all who have been called by the Lord our God.” Acts 2:39 NLT

'When I first came to you, dear brothers and sisters, I didn’t use lofty words and impressive wisdom to tell you God’s secret plan. For I decided that while I was with you I would forget everything except Jesus Christ, the one who was crucified. I came to you in weakness—timid and trembling. And my message and my preaching were very plain. Rather than using clever and persuasive speeches, I relied only on the power of the Holy Spirit. I did this so you would trust not in human wisdom but in the power of God. Yet when I am among mature believers, I do speak with words of wisdom, but not the kind of wisdom that belongs to this world or to the rulers of this world, who are soon forgotten. No, the wisdom we speak of is the mystery of God —his plan that was previously hidden, even though he made it for our ultimate glory before the world began. But the rulers of this world have not understood it; if they had, they would not have crucified our glorious Lord. That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” 1 Corinthians 2:1-9 NLT

But it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God’s deep secrets. No one can know a person’s thoughts except that person’s own spirit, and no one can know God’s thoughts except God’s own Spirit. And we have received God’s Spirit (not the world’s spirit), so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us. When we tell you these things, we do not use words that come from human wisdom. Instead, we speak words given to us by the Spirit, using the Spirit’s words to explain spiritual truths. But people who aren’t spiritual can’t receive these truths from God’s Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them and they can’t understand it, for only those who are spiritual can understand what the Spirit means. Those who are spiritual can evaluate all things, but they themselves cannot be evaluated by others. For, “Who can know the Lord ’s thoughts? Who knows enough to teach him?” But we understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ. 1 Corinthians 2:10-16 NLT

Can you be baptized without speaking in tongues?
Can every believer speak in tongues.
How do you receive it?
Remove All Barriers
Request the gift of the Holy Spirit
Receive the Free Gift
Release Your Prayer Language

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Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, ________ Ephesians 3:30 ESV

Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us. Ephesians 3:30 ESV

“Don’t be afraid!” David said. “I intend to show kindness to you because of my promise to your father, Jonathan. I will give you all the property that once belonged to your grandfather Saul, and you will eat here with me at the king’s table!”2 Samuel 9:7 NLT

Mephibosheth bowed respectfully and exclaimed, “Who is your servant, that you should show such kindness to a dead dog like me?” 2 Samuel 9:8 NLT

But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live.

For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God.

So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children. And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering. Romans 8:13-17 NLT

Once when he was eating with them, he commanded them, “Do not leave Jerusalem until the Father sends you the gift he promised, as I told you before. John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” Acts 1:4-5 NLT

The gift of choice is God’s greatest gift to us because this separates Christianity from being a religion to a relationship.

So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him.” Luke 11:13 NLT

You will not fully understand God's goodness and live a dynamic life here on earth without a relationship with Holy Spirit.

Comfort

“If you love me, obey my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you. John 14:15-17 NLT

But one who prophesies strengthens others, encourages them, and comforts them. 1 Corinthians 14:3 NLT

Conviction

And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment. The world’s sin is that it refuses to believe in me. Righteousness is available because I go to the Father, and you will see me no more. John 16:8-10 NLT

Counsel

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future. John 16:13 NLT

If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. James 1:5 NLT

Yet you do not have because you do not ask. James 4:2 NKJV

Fellowship

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. 2 Corinthians 13:14 NLT

Gifts

And God confirmed the message by giving signs and wonders and various miracles and gifts of the Holy Spirit whenever he chose. Hebrews 2:4 NLT

Fruit

For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true. Ephesians 5:9 NLT

"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one Another." John 13:34-35 NIV

No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us. 1 John 4:12 NLT

Revealed Mysteries

That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard,

and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.”

But it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God’s deep secrets. No one can know a person’s thoughts except that person’s own spirit, and no one can know God’s thoughts except God’s own Spirit. And we have received God’s Spirit (not the world’s spirit), so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us. 1 Corinthians 2:9-12 NLT

Prayer Help

And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. Romans 8:26 NLT

Power

I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 NLT

Liberty

For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 NLT

Peter replied, “Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. This promise is to you, to your children, and to those far away—all who have been called by the Lord our God.” Acts 2:38-39 NLT

Repent
Be water Baptized
Receive the Holy Spirit

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Who Is the Holy Spirit?

What is This Person Like?

The Day of Pentecost

Gifts of the Holy Spirit

“Now, dear brothers and sisters, regarding your question about the special abilities the Spirit gives us. I don’t want you to misunderstand this.” 1 Corinthians 12:1

You must have a personal relationship with the Holy Spirit to impact the world in the way that you were created to

“Once when he was eating with them, he commanded them, “do not leave Jerusalem until the Father sends you the gift he promised, as I told you before. John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” Acts 1:4-5

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere – in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the Earth.” Acts 1:8

“Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being.” Philippians 2:6-7 NLT

“I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father.” John 14:12 NLT

And watch how He follows that statement up:

“But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don’t, the Advocate won’t come. If I do go away, then I will send him to you.” John 16:7

What are the Gifts of the Holy Spirit?

“There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all. There are different kinds of service, but we serve the same Lord. God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us. A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.” 1 Corinthians 12:4-7

No spiritual gift is greater or more necessary than the other.

The Holy Spirit gives us these gifts to help others

“To one person the Spirit gives the ability to give wise advice; to another the same Spirit gives a message of special knowledge. The same Spirit gives great faith to another, and to someone else the one Spirit gives the gift of healing. He gives one person the power to perform miracles, and another the ability to prophesy. He gives someone else the ability to discern whether a message is from the Spirit of God or from another spirit. Still another person is given the ability to speak in unknown languages, while another is given the ability to interpret what is being said. It is the one and only Spirit who distributes all these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have.” 1 Corinthians 12:8-11 NLT

EVERY gift is available to us when we cultivate a true relationship with the Holy Spirit.

“Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification.” 1 Corinthians 14:26

“Let all things be done for edification.” 1 Corinthians 14:26

When we place ourselves where people are present the Holy Spirit has the opportunity to move.

The Discerning Gifts

Word of Knowledge

The Holy Spirit, to see people healed, will reveal things to us that can draw out the pain in others.

Discerning of Spirits

“For we are not fighting against flesh and blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12

Word of Wisdom

The Declarative Gifts

Prophecy: A message of encouragement from God, delivered through a human vessel, to another person or persons

“But the one who prophesies strengthens others, encourages them, and comforts them.” 1 Corinthians 14:3

“Let your love be your highest goal! But you should also desire the special abilities the Spirit gives – especially the ability to prophesy.” 1 Corinthians 14:1

“A person who speaks in tongues is strengthened personally, but one who speaks a word of prophecy strengthens the entire church” 1 Corinthians 14:4

Love is the central focus of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. God loves His children and desperately wants to communicate His love to them

The Dynamic Gifts

Faith

The Gift of Special Faith

“but Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed steadily into heaven and saw the glory of God, and he saw Jesus standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand. And he told them, “Look, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand!” Then they put their hands over their ears and began shouting. They rushed at him and dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. His accusers took off their coats and laid them at the feet of a young man named Saul. As they stoned him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” He fell to his knees shouting, “Lord, don’t charge them with this sin!” and with that, he died.” Acts 7:55-59

Healing

Miracles

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.” Hebrews 13:8

We serve a never changing God

Expectation is the breeding ground of miracles

Repent
Be water baptized
Receive the Holy Spirit

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Who Is the Holy Spirit?

What is This Person Like?

The Day of Pentecost

Pentecost

Pentecostal

Pentecost

How many of us are glad that we invited Jesus into our lives, but afraid of a relationship with the Holy Spirit?

2 Types of Definitions for Pentecostal: Cultural & Biblical

The Holy Spirit is not limited to a group, a denomination, or associated with a form of legalism

Biblical Definition of Pentecostal: Someone who understands and appreciates the fulfillment of the Jewish Feast of Pentecost

A true relationship with the Holy Spirit isn’t weird; it’s necessary

“and I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper (comforter, advocate, intercessor, counselor, strengthener, standby) to be with you forever – the Spirit of Truth…” John 14:16-17 AMP

A life without the Holy Spirit leaves so many benefits & blessings left on the table

The Day of Pentecost

“When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” Acts 2:1-4 NKJV

When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.

A Specific Time, a Location, and an Attitude

The Time: Day of Pentecost

The Location: The Upper Room in Jerusalem

The Attitude: They were in Unity of heart and mind

The Time: Day of Pentecost

The Feast of Passover

The Feast of the Tabernacles

The Feast of Pentecost

The Location: The Upper Room in Jerusalem

And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven. And when this sound occurred, the multitude came together, and were confused, because everyone heard them speak in his own language. Then they were all amazed and marveled, saying to one another, “Look, are not all these who speak Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each in our own language in which we were born?—we hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God.” So they were all amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “Whatever could this mean?” Others mocking said, “They are full of new wine.” Acts 2:5-8; 12-13

“…speaking in our tongues the wonderful works of God.”

“So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family. Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself. We are carefully joined together in him, becoming a holy temple for the Lord. Through him you Gentiles are also being made part of this dwelling where God lives by his Spirit.” Ephesians 2:19-22

The Attitude: United

The Holy Spirit empowers us to live in a way that is consistent with our righteous position through Jesus

And the Holy Spirit also testifies that this is so. For he says,

“This is the new covenant I will make

with my people on that day, says the lord:

I will put my laws in their hearts,

and I will write them on their minds.” Hebrews 10:15-16

The law represents death the Holy Spirit brings about a new life

“So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1

And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Romans 7:18-19;24

“So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.” Romans 8:1-2

Sin keeps us from walking in righteousness, but the Holy Spirit gives us the power to conquer the sin that tries to kill us

For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children. And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering. Romans 8:13-17

How Can We Enter into a Relationship With The Holy Spirit?

Repent
Be Water Baptized
Receive the Holy Spirit

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What Is This Person Like?

If you don’t see the Holy Spirit as a person, you’ll never develop a personal relationship with Him.

“God, the Father”

“God, the Son”

“God, the Holy Spirit”

HOW DO YOU DEFINE A PERSON

A person is a being with a soul

“Behold! My Servant whom I have chosen, My Beloved in whom My soul is well pleased! Matthew 12:18 NKJV

He told them, “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” Matthew 26:38 NLT

Now the just shall live by faith; But if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him.” Hebrews 10:38 NKJV

A person’s soul is made up of three components: mind, will, and emotions.

1. The Mind of the Holy Spirit

“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:8-9 NLT

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. John 16:13 NLT

“the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything” John 14:26 NLT

Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. Romans 8:27 NKJV

2. The Will of the Holy Spirit

Now when they had gone through Phrygia and the region of Galatia, they were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia. Acts 16:6

God’s General Will
God’s Specific Will

And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering. Romans 8:17 NLT

We come to know the general will of God by His Word, while we come to know the specific will of God by His Voice.

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future. John16:13 NLT

No, what you see was predicted long ago by the prophet Joel:

‘In the last days,’ God says, ‘I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your young men will see visions, and your old men will dream dreams. Acts 2:16-17 NLT

3. The Holy Spirit’s Emotions

But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Galatians 5:22-23 NLT

And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. Ephesians 4:30 NLT

Grief is deep sadness you feel at the loss of intimacy with someone.

So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body. And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil. If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need. Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:25-32 NLT

Sin does not grieve the Holy Spirit because He is a killjoy and doesn't want you to have fun. Sin grieves the Holy Spirit because it hurts people and He loves people.

Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.” Acts 8:22-23 NKJV

Bitterness will poison you emotionally, spiritually, mentally, and physically.
Sin is an event; iniquity is a lifestyle. Sin is an act; iniquity is a habit.

INVITE THE HOLY SPIRIT TO SHOW YOU

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Psalms 139:23-24 NLT

INVITE THE HOLY SPIRIT TO CHANGE YOU

Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Psalms 51:10 NLT

INVITE THE HOLY SPIRIT TO FILL YOU

Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 5:18 NLT

Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 NLT

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“[W]e are not filled with an influence; we are not filled with a sensation; we are not filled with a set of ideas and truth; we are not filled with a blessing, but we are filled with a Person … and its very essence is the indwelling life of Christ Himself”― A.W. Tozer

But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.) And Christ lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God. The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you. Romans 8:9-11 NLT

Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NLT

But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don’t, the Advocate won’t come. If I do go away, then I will send him to you. John 16:7 NLT

Sadly most Christians acknowledge that The Holy Spirit is there, but they do not allow Him to have a functional impact in their lives.

Who is this person The Holy Spirit?

1. The Holy Spirit is our Helper

And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. John 14:16-17 NLT

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future. He will bring me glory by telling you whatever he receives from me. All that belongs to the Father is mine; this is why I said, ‘The Spirit will tell you whatever he receives from me.’ John 16:13-15 NLT

How does the Holy Spirit help us?

He is our Advocate

“But I will send you the Advocate—the Spirit of truth. He will come to you from the Father and will testify all about me. John 15:26 NLT

But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father. He is Jesus Christ, the one who is truly righteous. 1 John 2:1 NLT

He speaks to us

There is so much more I want to tell you, but you can’t bear it now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future. He will bring me glory by telling you whatever he receives from me. John 16:12-14 NLT

And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment. John 16:8 NLT

He convicts us

He shows righteousness

2. The Holy Spirit is a Friend

You can truly determine whether someone is a true friend by what they are adding to your life.

What values does the Holy Spirit add to our lives?

“When we are at our wits’ end for an answer, then the Holy Spirit can give us an answer. But how can He give us an answer when we are still well-supplied with all sorts of answers of our own? -Karl Barth

Power

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere. Acts 1:8 NLT

Love

And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. Romans 5:5 NLT

The Holy Spirit...seemed to go through me, body and soul. I could feel the impression, like a wave of electricity, going through and through me. Indeed it seemed to come in waves and waves of liquid love for I could not express it in any other way. -Charles Finney

No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us. 1 John 4:12 NLT

Fruit

But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!... Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Galatians 5:22-23;25 NLT

Gifts

It is the one and only Spirit who distributes all these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have. 1 Corinthians 12:11 NLT

Two obstacles that hinder our relationship with the Holy Spirit

1. Comfort

2. Volume

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Jesus told them. “I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it would move. Nothing would be impossible.” Matthew 17:20 NLT

Then Jesus said to the disciples, “Have faith in God. I tell you the truth, you can say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen. But you must really believe it will happen and have no doubt in your heart. I tell you, you can pray for anything, and if you believe that you’ve received it, it will be yours. Mark 11:22-24 NLT

1. YOU MUST START DREAMING

2. YOU MUST START DESIRING

3. YOU MUST START BEING AUDACIOUS

4. YOU MUST BEGIN

5. YOU MUST START EXPECTING

6. YOU MUST START AFFIRMING

SPEAKING ACTIVATES BELIEVING

Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way. We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong. In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. James 3:2-5 NLT

YOUR WORDS ARE POWERFUL

The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences. Proverbs 18:21 NLT

YOUR WORDS ARE DIRECTIONAL

And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong. James 3:4 NLT

YOUR WORDS HAVE A QUICK IMPACT

But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. James 3:5 NLT

Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Philippians 4:4 NLT

"Feelings are important in many areas but completely unreliable in matters of faith" Eugene Peterson

7. YOU MUST UNDERSTAND THERE IS A TIME OF WAITING

Faith is deliberate confidence in the character of God whose ways you may not understand at the time. -Oswald Chambers

Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:4-5 NLT

TRUST SAYS THAT LIFE WILL NEVER MAKE SENSE APART FROM GOD AND I WILL TRUST HIS NATURE AND HIS TIMING DESPITE WHAT SEASON I AM IN.

SOMETIMES YOUR SEASON OF WAITING IS BECAUSE YOU NEED PRUNING

I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. John 15:1-2 NLT

HE CANNOT BE A GOD THAT LOVES AND A GOD THAT IGNORES BECAUSE THEY CONTRADICT THEMSELVES.

We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. Romans 5:3-4 NLT

Purify me from my sins, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. Oh, give me back my joy again; you have broken me— now let me rejoice. Don’t keep looking at my sins. Remove the stain of my guilt. Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Psalms 51:7-10 NLT

SOMETIMES YOUR SEASON OF WAITING IS BECAUSE YOU NEED TO START SOWING

SOWING IN SHORT IS OBEDIENCE AND THAT IS THE FOUNDATION THAT PRODUCES GROWTH.

8. YOU MUST SURRENDER

May your Kingdom come soon. May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Matthew 6:10 NLT

He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.” Matthew 26:39 NLT

While Jesus was here on earth, he offered prayers and pleadings, with a loud cry and tears, to the one who could rescue him from death. And God heard his prayers because of his deep reverence for God. Even though Jesus was God’s Son, he learned obedience from the things he suffered. In this way, God qualified him as a perfect High Priest, and he became the source of eternal salvation for all those who obey him. Hebrews 5:7-9 NLT

God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church. Ephesians 1:22 NLT

If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully keep all his commands that I am giving you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the world. You will experience all these blessings if you obey the Lord your God: Your towns and your fields will be blessed. Your children and your crops will be blessed. The offspring of your herds and flocks will be blessed. Your fruit baskets and breadboards will be blessed. Wherever you go and whatever you do, you will be blessed. The Lord will conquer your enemies when they attack you. They will attack you from one direction, but they will scatter from you in seven! The Lord will guarantee a blessing on everything you do and will fill your storehouses with grain. The Lord your God will bless you in the land he is giving you. Deuteronomy 28:1-8 NLT

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TO GOD LITTLE THINGS ARE BIG THINGS

Do not despise these small beginnings, for the lord rejoices to see the work begin Zechariah 4:10

“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. Luke 16:10

I look up to the mountains—does my help come from there? My help comes from the lord, who made heaven and earth! Psalms 121:1-2 NLT

This understanding of eyes fixed on God creates something inside of us that we cannot sit still… We cannot settle for surviving and just getting by, but we must move forward…

WE MUST HAVE A PASSION FOR GROWTH, A FERVOR FOR PURPOSE, A RESOLVE TO ADVANCE, AND FAITH THAT GOD IS STILL IN THE MIRACLE BUSINESS!

1. YOU MUST START DREAMING

2. YOU MUST START DESIRING

3. YOU MUST START BEING AUDACIOUS

4. YOU MUST BEGIN

“I had deep within me the inability to do nothing. I knew I may die, but I also knew I would not die with a bullet in my back” Joshua Chamberlain

WHEN WE REALIZE AN INDECISION IS A DECISION WE WILL REALIZE AN INACTION IS AN ACTION.

Then I heard the Lord asking, “Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us?” I said, “Here I am. Send me.” Isaiah 6:8 NLT

GOD WILL TEST THE RESIDENCE OF OUR FAITH.

You have tested us, O God; you have purified us like silver. Psalms 66:10 NLT

5. YOU MUST START EXPECTING

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1 NIV

WHAT DO THE TESTS OF GOD DO?

IT IS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR US TO PROVE OURSELVES TO GOD.
IT IS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR GOD TO PROVE HIMSELF TO US.

By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice. He who had embraced the promises was about to sacrifice his one and only son, even though God had said to him, “It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.” Abraham reasoned that God could even raise the dead, and so in a manner of speaking he did receive Isaac back from death. Hebrews 11:17-19 NIV

And Abraham picked up the knife to kill his son as a sacrifice. At that moment the angel of the lord called to him from heaven, “Abraham! Abraham!” “Yes,” Abraham replied. “Here I am!” “Don’t lay a hand on the boy!” the angel said. “Do not hurt him in any way, for now I know that you truly fear God. You have not withheld from me even your son, your only son.” Then Abraham looked up and saw a ram caught by its horns in a thicket. So he took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering in place of his son. Abraham named the place Yahweh-Yireh (which means “the lord will provide”). Genesis 22:10-14 NLT

IT IS ONE THING TO KNOW GOD IS YOUR PROVIDER IT IS ANOTHER THING TO EXPERIENCE THAT GOD IS YOUR PROVIDER.

WHAT DO I FIND MY IDENTITY IN?
WHAT DO I FIND MY SECURITY IN?

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. Acts 1:8 NLT

“I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father. You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it! John 14:12-14 NLT

DO WE LOVE THE DREAM GOD GAVE US MORE THAN THE GOD WHO GAVE US THE DREAM?

Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth. My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever. Psalms 73:25-26 NLT

“Hope is the great power that can move you to success. Why? Because when a man expects to win, he does not hold anything back, but gives his project all that he's got. Most people fail not because they lack ability, intelligence, or opportunity, but they fail because they don't give it all they've got.” Dr. Norman Vincent Peale

Don’t you remember that our ancestor Abraham was shown to be right with God by his actions when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions made his faith complete. And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” He was even called the friend of God. James 2:21-23 NLT

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The people crossed the Jordan on the tenth day of the first month. Then they camped at Gilgal, just east of Jericho. It was there at Gilgal that Joshua piled up the twelve stones taken from the Jordan River. Then Joshua said to the Israelites, “In the future your children will ask, ‘What do these stones mean?’ Then you can tell them, ‘This is where the Israelites crossed the Jordan on dry ground.’ For the Lord your God dried up the river right before your eyes, and he kept it dry until you were all across, just as he did at the Red Sea when he dried it up until we had all crossed over. He did this so all the nations of the earth might know that the Lord ’s hand is powerful, and so you might fear the Lord your God forever.”Joshua 4:19-24 NLT

THE TRUTH IS THAT SUCCESS, IF NOT REFLECTED UPON PROPERLY, CAN BECOME YOUR GREATEST ENEMY TOWARDS PROGRESSION.

“There came a time in my life when I honestly prayed: “God, I want your power!” Time wore on and the power did not come. One day the burden was more than I could bear. “God, why haven't you answered that prayer?” God seemed to Whisper back his simple reply. “With plans no bigger than yours, you don't need my power.” - Carl Bates

I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. Ephesians 1:18-21 NIV

1. YOU MUST START DREAMING

2. YOU MUST START DESIRING

3. YOU MUST START BEING AUDACIOUS

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1 NIV

faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. James 2:17 NIV

FAITH WITHOUT A WORLDLY RISK IS A CONTRADICTION.

1. WHAT DOES GOD THINK?

2. WHAT DO YOU, IN YOUR OWN HEART THINK?

3. WHAT DO YOUR WISE FRIENDS THINK?

4. WHAT DOES YOUR COMMUNITY THINK?

For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. I Corinthians 4:15 NKJV

PLOW

PRAY

LISTEN

OBEY WOW

For, behold, I am for you, and I will turn to you [in favor], and you shall be cultivated and sown. Ezekiel 36:9 AMP

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“I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father. John 14:12 NLT

But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don’t, the Advocate won’t come. If I do go away, then I will send him to you. John 16:7 NLT

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8 NLT

But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Galatians 5:22-23 NLT

“Great damage is done if we ask a boy to become a king too soon, as is the case when a father abandons his family, walking out the door with the parting words, ‘You’re the man of the house now.’ A cruel thing to do, and an even more cruel thing to say, for the boy has not yet become a man, not yet learned the lessons of boyhood and then young manhood. He has not yet been a warrior, nor a lover, and he is in no way ready to become a king.” John Eldredge

“And now I entrust you to God and the message of his grace that is able to build you up and give you an inheritance with all those he has set apart for himself. “I have never coveted anyone’s silver or gold or fine clothes. You know that these hands of mine have worked to supply my own needs and even the needs of those who were with me. And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ” Acts 20:32-35 NLT

“Look, I am sending you the prophet Elijah before the great and dreadful day of the Lord arrives. His preaching will turn the hearts of fathers to their children, and the hearts of children to their fathers. Malachi 4:5

1. WHAT IS THE SPIRIT OF ELIJAH?

“What are you doing here, Elijah?” He replied again, “I have zealously served the Lord God Almighty. But the people of Israel have broken their covenant with you, torn down your altars, and killed every one of your prophets. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me, too.” Then the Lord told him, “Go back the same way you came, and travel to the wilderness of Damascus. When you arrive there, anoint Hazael to be king of Aram. Then anoint Jehu grandson of Nimshi to be king of Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from the town of Abel-meholah to replace you as my prophet. 1 Kings 19:13-16 NLT

When they came to the other side, Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me what I can do for you before I am taken away.” And Elisha replied, “Please let me inherit a double share of your spirit and become your successor.” “You have asked a difficult thing,” Elijah replied. “If you see me when I am taken from you, then you will get your request. But if not, then you won’t.” 2 Kings 2:9-10 NLT

As they were walking along and talking, suddenly a chariot of fire appeared, drawn by horses of fire. It drove between the two men, separating them, and Elijah was carried by a whirlwind into heaven. Elisha saw it and cried out, “My father! My father! I see the chariots and charioteers of Israel!” And as they disappeared from sight, Elisha tore his clothes in distress. Elisha picked up Elijah’s cloak, which had fallen when he was taken up. Then Elisha returned to the bank of the Jordan River. He struck the water with Elijah’s cloak and cried out, “Where is the Lord , the God of Elijah?” Then the river divided, and Elisha went across. When the group of prophets from Jericho saw from a distance what happened, they exclaimed, “Elijah’s spirit rests upon Elisha!” And they went to meet him and bowed to the ground before him. 2 Kings 2:11-15 NLT

2. THE SAD REALITY IS MANY WANT ELIJAH’S ANOINTING JUST NOT HIS RESPONSIBILITY.

When Elisha was in his last illness, King Jehoash of Israel visited him and wept over him. “My father! My father! I see the chariots and charioteers of Israel!” he cried. 2 Kings 13:14

Then Elisha died and was buried. 2 Kings 13:20

Groups of Moabite raiders used to invade the land each spring. Once when some Israelites were burying a man, they spied a band of these raiders. So they hastily threw the corpse into the tomb of Elisha and fled. But as soon as the body touched Elisha’s bones, the dead man revived and jumped to his feet! 2 Kings 13:20-21

3. WILL WE BE INHERITANCE HOARDERS OR BESTOWERS?

The Lord took hold of me, and I was carried away by the Spirit of the Lord to a valley filled with bones. He led me all around among the bones that covered the valley floor. They were scattered everywhere across the ground and were completely dried out. Then he asked me, “Son of man, can these bones become living people again?” “O Sovereign Lord ,” I replied, “you alone know the answer to that.” Then he said to me, “Speak a prophetic message to these bones and say, ‘Dry bones, listen to the word of the Lord ! This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Look! I am going to put breath into you and make you live again! I will put flesh and muscles on you and cover you with skin. I will put breath into you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the Lord .’” So I spoke this message, just as he told me. Suddenly as I spoke, there was a rattling noise all across the valley. The bones of each body came together and attached themselves as complete skeletons. Then as I watched, muscles and flesh formed over the bones. Then skin formed to cover their bodies, but they still had no breath in them. Then he said to me, “Speak a prophetic message to the winds, son of man. Speak a prophetic message and say, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Come, O breath, from the four winds! Breathe into these dead bodies so they may live again.’” So I spoke the message as he commanded me, and breath came into their bodies. They all came to life and stood up on their feet—a great army. Ezekiel 37:1-10 NLT

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WHEN WE CRITICIZE, INSULT, DEMEAN, AND CONDEMN PEOPLE IT IS ROOTED IN OUR OWN INSECURITIES.

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:23 NLT

“When he finally came to his senses, he said to himself, ‘At home even the hired servants have food enough to spare, and here I am dying of hunger! I will go home to my father and say, “Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son. Please take me on as a hired servant.”’ Luke 15:17-19 NLT

ACTIONS REVEAL OUR BELIEFS 100% OF THE TIME

WE CAN NOT LIVE BEYOND THE IDENTITY WE HAVE EMBRACED

1. WE MUST IDENTIFY AND REMOVE THE NEGATIVE

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. Hebrews 12:1 NLT

So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming. You used to do these things when your life was still part of this world. But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. Colossians 3:5-9 NLT

2. WE MUST FOCUS ON OUR TRUE IDENTITY

We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. Hebrews 12:2 NLT

Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him. Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. Colossians 3:10,12-14 NLT

“So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him. His son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son. ’ “But his father said to the servants, ‘Quick! Bring the finest robe in the house and put it on him. Get a ring for his finger and sandals for his feet. And kill the calf we have been fattening. We must celebrate with a feast, for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found.’ So the party began. Luke 15:20-24 NLT

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“We are all under the same mental calamity; we have all forgotten our names. We have all forgotten what we really are.” G.K. Chesterton

For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. A time to be born and a time to

die. A time to plant and a time to harvest. A time to kill and a time to heal. A time to tear down and a time to build up. A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to dance. A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones. A time to embrace and a time to turn away. A time to search and a time to quit searching. A time to keep and a time to throw away. A time to tear and a time to mend. A time to be quiet and a time to speak. A time to love and a time to hate. A time for war and a time for peace. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 NLT

What do people really get for all their hard work? I have seen the burden God has placed on us all. Ecclesiastes 3:9-10 NLT

4 TRUTHS WE MUST GRASP

1. GOD’S PLAN IS WISE

Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart… Ecclesiastes 3:11 NLT

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28 NLT

2. GOD’S PLAN IS ALSO MYSTERIOUS

…but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end. Ecclesiastes 3:11 NLT

Why then does my suffering continue? Why is my wound so incurable? Your help seems as uncertain as a seasonal brook, like a spring that has gone dry. Jeremiah 15:18 NLT

3. WE MUST ENJOY OUR PRESENT LIFE EVEN WHEN WE DON’T HAVE ALL THE ANSWERS.
So I concluded there is nothing better than to be happy and enjoy ourselves as long as we can. And people should eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God. Ecclesiastes 3:12-13 NLT

4. REST IN GOD’S SOVEREIGNTY

And I know that whatever God does is final. Nothing can be added to it or taken from it. God’s purpose is that people should fear him. Ecclesiastes 3:14 NLT

IDENTITY - YOU ARE MY SON
AFFECTION - WHOM I LOVE
AFFIRMATION - WITH YOU I AM WELL PLEASED

“We were built to count, as water is made to run downhill. We are placed in a specific context to count in ways no one else does. That is our identity.” Dallas Willard

You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! Psalms 139:15-17 NLT

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FOR EVERY OUTCOME YOU DESIRE, THERE MUST BE AN INPUT DISCIPLINE FOR IT TO BECOME A REALITY.

Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. James 2:17-18 NIV

OUTWARD DISCIPLINES

“When we live outside of healthy community, we not only lose others. We lose ourselves...Who we understand ourselves to be is dramatically affected for better or worse by those we hold closest to us. We only truly come to know ourselves in the context of others. The more isolated and disconnected we are, the more shattered and distorted our self-identity. We are not healthy when we are alone. We find ourselves as we connect to others.” Erwin McManus

Then the Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him.” Genesis 2:18 NLT

Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. Romans 12:4-5 NLT

…For he holds the whole body together with its joints and ligaments, and it grows as God nourishes it. Colossians 2:19 NLT

1. AUTHENTICITY

But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. Romans 5:8 NLT

You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name. This is my command: Love each other. John 15:16-17 NLT

QUIT DISQUALIFYING YOURSELF BECAUSE YOU COMPARE YOUR WEAKNESSES TO OTHERS STRENGTHS

A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other. In fact, some parts of the body that seem weakest and least important are actually the most necessary. And the parts we regard as less honorable are those we clothe with the greatest care. So we carefully protect those parts that should not be seen, while the more honorable parts do not require this special care. So God has put the body together such that extra honor and care are given to those parts that have less dignity. This makes for harmony among the members, so that all the members care for each other. If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad. 1 Corinthians 12:7;22-26 NLT

YOU MUST DISCOVER WHO YOU ARE BEFORE YOU CAN EVER DISCOVER WHAT YOU ARE CREATED TO DO.

Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us. Romans 12:3 NLT

2. SUBMISSION

Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. James 1:19

HURT PEOPLE HURT PEOPLE.

THE SOLUTION ALWAYS BEGINS WITH UNDERSTANDING

'For I wrote to you with many tears out of an extremely troubled and anguished heart —not to cause you pain, but that you should know the abundant love I have for you. ' 2 Corinthians 2:4 CSB

Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. If you think you are too important to help someone, you are only fooling yourself. You are not that important. Galatians 6:1-3 NLT

3. SERVICE

After washing their feet, he put on his robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was doing? You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am. And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow...Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them.' John 13:12-17 NLT

WHAT WE DO IN OUR PRIVATE TIMES IMPACTS HOW WE WILL BE IN OUR PUBLIC TIMES

Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 1 John 4:7-8 NLT

God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. 1 John 4:9-10 NLT

Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us. 1 John 4:11-12 NLT

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FOR EVERY OUTCOME YOU DESIRE, THERE MUST BE AN INPUT DISCIPLINE FOR IT TO BECOME A REALITY.

You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is good for you. And even though “I am allowed to do anything,” I must not become a slave to anything. 1 Corinthians 6:12 NLT

So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. 1 Corinthians 9:26-27 NLT

At this time Aramean raiders had invaded the land of Israel, and among their captives was a young girl who had been given to Naaman’s wife as a maid. One day the girl said to her mistress, “I wish my master would go to see the prophet in Samaria. He would heal him of his leprosy.” 2 Kings 5:2-3 NLT

So Naaman told the king what the young girl from Israel had said. “Go and visit the prophet,” the king of Aram told him. “I will send a letter of introduction for you to take to the king of Israel.” So Naaman started out, carrying as gifts 750 pounds of silver, 150 pounds of gold, and ten sets of clothing. The letter to the king of Israel said: “With this letter I present my servant Naaman. I want you to heal him of his leprosy.” When the king of Israel read the letter, he tore his clothes in dismay and said, “Am I God, that I can give life and take it away? Why is this man asking me to heal someone with leprosy? I can see that he’s just trying to pick a fight with me.” 2 Kings 5:4-7 NLT

But when Elisha, the man of God, heard that the king of Israel had torn his clothes in dismay, he sent this message to him: “Why are you so upset? Send Naaman to me, and he will learn that there is a true prophet here in Israel.” So Naaman went with his horses and chariots and waited at the door of Elisha’s house. But Elisha sent a messenger out to him with this message: “Go and wash yourself seven times in the Jordan River. Then your skin will be restored, and you will be healed of your leprosy.” But Naaman became angry and stalked away. “I thought he would certainly come out to meet me!” he said. “I expected him to wave his hand over the leprosy and call on the name of the Lord his God and heal me! Aren’t the rivers of Damascus, the Abana and the Pharpar, better than any of the rivers of Israel? Why shouldn’t I wash in them and be healed?” So Naaman turned and went away in a rage. 2 Kings 5:8-12 NLT

But his officers tried to reason with him and said, “Sir, if the prophet had told you to do something very difficult, wouldn’t you have done it? So you should certainly obey him when he says simply, ‘Go and wash and be cured!’” So Naaman went down to the Jordan River and dipped himself seven times, as the man of God had instructed him. And his skin became as healthy as the skin of a young child, and he was healed! 2 Kings 5:13-14 NLT

GREAT OPPORTUNITIES OFTEN DISGUISE THEMSELVES IN SMALL TASKS.

INWARD DISCIPLINES

1. MEDITATION

Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. Joshua 1:7-8 NLT

2. STUDY

And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul’s message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth. As a result, many Jews believed, as did many of the prominent Greek women and men. Acts 17:11-12 NLT

As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. Proverbs 27:17 NLT

3. PRAYER

Pray like this: Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy. May your Kingdom come soon. May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us today the food we need, and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us. And don’t let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one. Matthew 6:9-13 NLT

ADORATION AND WORSHIP

CONFESSION AND TRANSFORMATION

GOD’S KINGDOM AND GOD'S AGENDA

MY AGENDA AND REQUESTS

4. FASTING

He must increase, but I must decrease. John 3:30 ESV

…not my will, but yours be done. Luke 22:42 NIV

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33 NLT

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My child, listen to what I say, and treasure my commands. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight, and ask for understanding. Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures. Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God. Proverbs 2:1-5 NLT

Godly Wisdom

You Are What You Eat

“Tell me what you eat, and I will tell you what you are…” – Jean Anthelme Brillat-Savarin

“Show me your friends and I’ll show you your future”

“You are the average of the 10 people you spend the most time with”

“Become wise by walking with the wise; hang out with fools and watch your life fall to pieces.” Proverbs 13:20 MSG

“Well, I am the good influence in our friend group!”

“…Bad company corrupts good character” 1 Corinthians 15:33 NIV

If you stay in an unhealthy relationship long enough it will eventually change you

Inspect

Is walking in my God given calling worth a temporary discomfort?

Is passive comfort worth giving up your God given calling?

Can you share your heart with them?

Can you communicate your joys with them?

Can you communicate your sorrows with them?

Can you share frustrations with them?

Can you share victories with them?

Can you share prayer requests with them?

Do they pray with you or for you?

Do they lift you up or tear you down?

Do they encourage you?

Do they add value to you?

Do they care about your spouse/family?

Healthy Boundaries

Determine who you are giving permission to have an influence in your life

You walk in the safety of wise counsel

“Where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counselors there is safety” Proverbs 11:14 NKJV

Your character is protected

“…Bad company corrupts good character” 1 Corinthians 15:33 NIV

You will be sharpened

“As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” Proverbs 27:17

You’re not alone

“Friends can destroy one another, but a loving friend can stick closer than family” Proverbs 18:24 GW

TAKE HOME:

Inspect Your Current Environment

Is this helping or hurting me walk in my God given calling?

Change Yourself & Your Environment

“Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change” – Jim Rohn

God gave me conviction

“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth.” John 14:16-17 NLT

Challenge Yourself in Your New Environment

LifeGroups

Move Forward Despite Criticism

"There is only one way to avoid criticism: do nothing, say nothing, and be nothing." – Aristotle

“I will forgive their wrongdoing, and I will never again remember their sins” Hebrews 8:12 CSB

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My child, listen to what I say, and treasure my commands. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight, and ask for understanding. Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures. Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God. Proverbs 2:1-5 NLT

ANYTHING OR ANYONE DIFFERENT CAN BE DIFFICULT

Again I say, don’t get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only start fights. A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. 2 Timothy 2:23-24 NLT

D. I. R. T.

DON’T IGNORE RELATIONAL TENSION

GUARD RAILS OF COMMUNICATION

1. REMAIN CALM AND GENTLE

A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. Proverbs 15:1 NLT

People with understanding control their anger; a hot temper shows great foolishness. Proverbs 14:29 NLT

Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back. Proverbs 29:11 NLT

Control your temper, for anger labels you a fool. Ecclesiastes 7:9 NLT

Better to be patient than powerful; better to have self-control than to conquer a city. Proverbs 16:32 NLT

2. COMMUNICATE THE INFORMATION TRUTHFULLY AND ACCURATELYThe tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing, but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness. Proverbs 15:2 NLT

The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth. Proverbs 12:22 NLT

Then keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies! Psalms 34:13 NLT

Truthful words stand the test of time, but lies are soon exposed. Proverbs 12:19 NLT

Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. Colossians 3:9 NLT

Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body. Ephesians 4:15,25 NLT

3. REMEMBER GOD IS THE ULTIMATE JUDGE The Lord is watching everywhere, keeping his eye on both the evil and the good. Proverbs 15:3 NLT

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:18 NIV

SOMEONE ELSE’S SIN IS NEVER A JUSTIFICATION FOR YOU TO SIN.

Who are you to condemn someone else’s servants? Their own master will judge whether they stand or fall. And with the Lord’s help, they will stand and receive his approval. So why do you condemn another believer? Why do you look down on another believer? Remember, we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God. So let’s stop condemning each other. Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not cause another believer to stumble and fall. So then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up. Romans 14:4,10,12-13,19 NLT

4. ATTACK THE PROBLEM NOT THE PERSON

The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit. Proverbs 15:4 NIV

BLAMING PREVENTS PROGRESS

But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. Don’t lie to each other… Colossians 3:8-9 NLT

5. STAY TEACHABLE

Only a fool despises a parent’s discipline; whoever learns from correction is wise. Proverbs 15:5 NLT

To learn, you must love discipline; it is stupid to hate correction. Proverbs 12:1 NLT

DON’T TRADE AWAY YOUR INTEGRITY FOR JUSTIFICATION

“And why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye. Matthew 7:3;5 NLT

S.T.A.T.E YOUR FEELINGS

1. Share your facts (without interpretation)

2. Tell your story (explain your conclusions)

3. Ask questions instead of starting with accusations

4. Talk tentatively (remember you are sharing perspective)

5. Encourage testing (invite opposing views)

FOCUS ON RESTORATION NOT PERFECTION

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Matthew 5:9 NIV

IT IS ALWAYS MORE REWARDING TO RESOLVE THE CONFLICT THAN TO DISSOLVE THE RELATIONSHIP.

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PEOPLE INTERPRET WHAT YOU SAY NOT WHAT YOU INTENDED TO SAY.

1. THE WISE UNDERSTAND THAT OUR WORDS PRODUCE EITHER LIFE OR DEATHBlessings crown the head of the righteous, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked. Proverbs 10:6 NIV

The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences. Proverbs 18:21 NLT

In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself. James 3:5-6 NLT

Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God. And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! Does a spring of water bubble out with both fresh water and bitter water? James 3:9-11 NLT

If you are wise and understand God’s ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom. But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your heart, don’t cover up the truth with boasting and lying. For jealousy and selfishness are not God’s kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind.

But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness. James 3:13-18 NLT

Blessings crown the head of the righteous, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked. Proverbs 10:6 NIV

2. THE WISE LISTEN MORE THAN THEY SPEAK
Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning, but a rod is for the back of one who has no sense. The wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin. Proverbs 10:13-14 NIV

You know the biggest lie that people believe about wise smart people is that they know everything and they have to tell everybody they know everything. So we think the wisest people in the world or those that talk the most it's actually the opposite. if you read the gospels I want you to understand something about Jesus he asked 10 times more questions that he gave answers. Which means he was in a constant state of listening to whoever he was having a conversation with and then asking questions based on their responses to get them to a place a true understanding. The greatest skill you can have as a leader, a disciple maker, a spouse, a parent, and a friend is the ability to listen.

WHAT MAKES A GREAT LISTENER?
ATTITUDE
ACTIONS

ESSENTIALS FOR EXCELLENT LISTENING

YOU HAVE TO CHOOSE TO LISTEN

“Seek first to understand, then to be understood” -Stephen Covey

START WITH THE OTHER PERSON’S WORLD
LISTEN BEYOND WORDS
BEWARE OF ADVISING FROM YOUR OWN EXPERIENCES
LISTEN FOR THE “AHA” OR “UH-OH” MOMENT

3. THE WISE DON’T DIE ON EVERY HILL Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues. Proverbs 10:19 NIV

Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble. Proverbs 21:23 NLT

4. THE WISE ADD VALUE WITH THEIR WORDS
The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of sense. Proverbs 10:21 NIV

Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. Proverbs 16:24 NIV

The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts. Proverbs 18:8 NIV

But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness. James 3:17-18 NLT

Now you may think you're the farthest thing from that right now well here's the beautiful thing about Jesus we've all fallen short of his glorious standard and we are all sinners in desperate need of his forgiveness in the Bible says when he washes us clean the old has gone in the newest here and we have the beautiful opportunity to change directions and move off of that Spectrum of curses and negativity in move towards the spectrum of life and blessings.

ALTAR

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1. WHAT DO WE WANT?

2. WHY DO WE WANT IT?

3. HOW BADLY DO WE WANT IT?

For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you. Proverbs 2:10-11 NIV

Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her; those who hold her fast will be blessed. Proverbs 3:13-18 NIV

I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me. With me are riches and honor, enduring wealth and prosperity. My fruit is better than fine gold; what I yield surpasses choice silver. I walk in the way of righteousness, along the paths of justice, bestowing a rich inheritance on those who love me and making their treasuries full. Proverbs 8:17-21 NIV

WHAT SEPARATES THE WISE FROM THE UNWISE?

1. THE WISE BELIEVE GOD’S WORDS ARE 100% TRUE

My son, if you accept my words… Proverbs 2:1 NIV

TO GROW YOU HAVE TO FULLY TRUST

You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the eternal Rock. Isaiah 26:3-4 NLT

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV

IN OUR PATIENCE WE RECEIVE GOD'S INSTRUCTION FOR GROWTH

All who wait patiently for him are happy; your Teacher will not hide any longer. Your eyes will see your Teacher, and whenever you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear this command behind you: “This is the way. Walk in it.” Isaiah 30:18;20-21 CSB

Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar. Proverbs 30:5-6 NIV

2. THE WISE REFLECT ON THE PROMISES OF GOD
…store up my commands within you Proverbs 2:1 NIV

My son, keep my words and store up my commands within you. Keep my commands and you will live; guard my teachings as the apple of your eye. Bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart. Proverbs 7:1-3 NIV

READ THE WORD OF GOD REGULARLY…store up my commands within you; guard my teachings as the apple of your eye. Proverbs 7:1 -2 NIV

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Psalms 119:105 NLT

THE CENTER FOR BIBLE ENGAGEMENT SURVEYED MORE THAN 400,000 PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD.
SOMEONE WHO ENGAGES THE BIBLE 4 OR MORE TIMES A WEEK IS:30% LESS LIKELY TO STRUGGLE WITH LONELINESS32% LESS LIKELY TO HAVE ANGER ISSUES42% LESS LIKELY TO HAVE BITTERNESS IN YOUR RELATIONSHIPS57% LESS LIKELY TO STRUGGLE WITH ALCOHOLISM59% LESS LIKELY TO VIEW PORNOGRAPHY60% LESS LIKELY TO FEEL SPRIRITUALLY STAGNANT228% INCREASE IN SHARING YOUR FAITH WITH OTHERS230% INCREASE IN A DESIRE TO DISCIPLE OTHERS407% MORE LIKELY TO MEMORIZE SCRIPTURE

MEMORIZE THE PROMISES OF GODBind them on your fingers; Proverbs 7:3 NIV
PROCLAIM THE PROMISES OF GOD
…write them on the tablet of your heart. Proverbs 7:3 NIV

3. THE WISE LET WISDOM SPEAK LOUDER THAN THEIR EMOTIONS

turning your ear to wisdom…Proverbs 2:2 NIV

Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Proverbs 4:25-26 NIV

THE WORD OF GOD IS A GUIDE, A GUARD, AND A GAUGE.

4. THE WISE UNDERSTAND APPLICATION IS WHAT LEADS TO WISDOM

…applying your heart to understanding— Proverbs 2:2 NIV

Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth. He who gathers crops in summer is a prudent son, but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son. Proverbs 10:4-5 NIV

Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest. Proverbs 6:6-8 NIV

A - ATTITUDE OF INITIATIVE

N - NATURE OF INTEGRITY

T - THIRST FOR INDUSTRY

S - SOURCE OF INSIGHT

5. THE WISE SEEK WISE COUNSEL

indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding… Proverbs 2:3 NIV

Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. Proverbs 15:22 NIV

Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm. Proverbs 13:20 NIV

THE NUMBER ONE REASON PEOPLE DO NOT SEEK WISE COUNSEL IS BECAUSE THEY LACK HUMILITY.

HUMILITY IS SIMPLY AWARENESS

What's it like being on the other side of me?

Who am I refusing to listen to?

What person or situation do I refuse to see another perspective on?

What am I missing?

and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. Proverbs 2:4-5 NIV

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THE RUTHLESS ELIMINATION OF HURRY

BUSYNESS

HOW ARE YOU DOING?

“THE PROBLEM ISN’T WHEN YOU HAVE A LOT TO DO; ITS WHEN YOU HAVE TOO MUCH TO DO AND THE ONLY WAY TO KEEP THE QUOTA UP IS TO HURRY.” – JOHN MARK COMER

“YOU MUST RUTHLESSLY ELIMINATE HURRY FROM YOUR LIFE.” – DALLAS WILLARD

“THERE IS NOTHING ELSE. HURRY IS THE GREAT ENEMY OF SPIRITUAL LIFE IN OUR DAY. YOU MUST RUTHLESSLY ELIMINATE HURRY FROM YOUR LIFE.” – DALLAS WILLARD

HURRY IS NOT JUST A DIS-ORDERED SCHEDULE. HURRY IS A DIS-ORDERED HEART.

“IF THE DEVIL CAN’T MAKE YOU SIN, HE’LL MAKE YOU BUSY.” – CORRIE TEN BOOM

“HURRY IS NOT OF THE DEVIL; HURRY IS THE DEVIL.” – CARL JUNG

BOTH SIN AND BUSYNESS HAVE THE SAME EFFECT – THEY CUT OFF YOUR CONNECTION TO GOD, PEOPLE AND YOUR OWN SOUL

“Today a number of historical circumstances are blindly flowing together and accidentally conspiring to produce a climate within which it is difficult not just to think about God or to pray, but simply to have any interior depth whatsoever…We, for every kind of reason, good and bad, are distracting ourselves into spiritual oblivion. It is not that we have anything against God, depth and spirit, we would like these, it is just that we are habitually to preoccupied to have any of these show up on our radar screens. We are more busy than bad, more distracted than nonspiritual, and more interested in the movie theater, the sports stadium, and the shopping mall and the fantasy life they produce in us than we are in church. Pathological busyness, distraction, and restlessness are major roadblocks today within our spiritual lives.” – Ronald Rolheiser

“For many of us the great danger is not that we will renounce our faith. It is that we will become so distracted and rushed and preoccupied that we will settle for a mediocre version of it. We will just skim our lives instead of actually living them.” John Ortberg

“I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.” Ephesians 3:16-19 NLT

LOVE

“You must love the lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: love your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 22:36-39 NLT

HURRY AND LOVE ARE INCOMPATIBLE

LOVE

“HURRY AND LOVE ARE OIL AND WATER: THEY SIMPLY DO NOT MIX.” – JOHN MARK COMER

“Love is patient and kind.” 1 Corinthians 13:4 NLT

“God walks “slowly” because He is love. If he is not love He would have gone much faster. Love has its speed. It is an inner speed. It is a spiritual speed. It is a different kind of speed from the technological speed to which we are accustomed. It is “slow” yet it is lord over all other speeds since it is the speed of love.” – Kosuke Koyama

“But in the upside-down Kingdom, our value system is turned on it’s head: hurry is of the devil; slow is of Jesus, because Jesus is what love looks like in flesh and blood” – John Mark Comer

“As Jesus was saying this, the leader of a synagogue came and knelt before him. “My daughter has just died,” he said, “but you can bring her back to life again if you just come and lay your hand on her.” So Jesus and his disciples got up and went with him.” Matthew 9:18-19 NLT

“Just then a woman who had suffered for twelve years with constant bleeding came up b Jesus turned around, and when he saw her he said, “Daughter, be encouraged! Your faith has made you well.” And the woman was healed at that moment.” Matthew 9:20-22 NLT

JESUS’ UNHURRY ALLOWED FOR AN INTERRUPTION, WHICH LED TO AN OPPORTUNITY TO LOVE, WHICH ENDED IN A MIRACLE

HURRY SICKNESS

MOVING FROM ONE CHECK OUT LINE TO ANOTHER BECAUSE IT LOOKS SHORTER/FASTER
COUNTING THE CARS IN FRONT OF YOU AND EITHER GETTING IN THE LANE THAT HAS THE LEAST OR IS GOING THE FASTEST
MULTI-TASKING TO THE POINT OF FORGETTING ONE OF THE ACTUAL TASKS
IRRITABILITY
HYPERSENSATIVITY
RESTLESSNESS
WORKAHOLISM (OR NONSTOP ACTIVITY)
EMOTIONAL NUMBNESS
OUT OF ORDER PRIORITIES
LACK OF CARE FOR YOUR BODY
ESCAPIST BEHAVIORS
SLIPPAGE OF SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES
ISOLATION

A HURRIED LIFE OF SPEED IS THE NEW NORMAL IN OUR SOCIETY, AND IT’S TOXIC

“The thief’s (devil) purpose is to steal and kill and destroy.” John 10:10 NLT

TAKE HOME:

SLOW DOWN

TAKE TIME TO PAUSE

WHAT YOU GIVE YOUR ATTENTION TO CONSISTENTLY IS THE PERSON YOU BECOME

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If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. Matthew 16:25 NLT

And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God. Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Ephesians 3:18-20 NLT

QUESTIONS THAT DETERMINE WHOSE WAY WE ARE CHOOSING

Then Balak tried again. This time he sent a larger number of even more distinguished officials than those he had sent the first time. They went to Balaam and delivered this message to him: “This is what Balak son of Zippor says: Please don’t let anything stop you from coming to help me. I will pay you very well and do whatever you tell me. Just come and curse these people for me!” But Balaam responded to Balak’s messengers, “Even if Balak were to give me his palace filled with silver and gold, I would be powerless to do anything against the will of the Lord my God. Numbers 22:15-18 NLT

1. DO WE PREFER GOD’S WILL OR THE WORLDS WEALTH?

MONEY PROMISES THINGS ONLY GOD CAN DELIVER

Those who love money will never have enough. How meaningless to think that wealth brings true happiness! Ecclesiastes 5:10 NLT

For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows. 1 Timothy 6:10 NLT

“No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money. “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?… Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:24-27;33 NLT

I’ll say it again—it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God!” The disciples were astounded. “Then who in the world can be saved?” they asked. Jesus looked at them intently and said, “Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible.” Matthew 19:24-26 NLT

So the next morning Balaam got up, saddled his donkey, and started off with the Moabite officials. But God was angry that Balaam was going, so he sent the angel of the Lord to stand in the road to block his way. As Balaam and two servants were riding along… This time when the donkey saw the angel, it lay down under Balaam. In a fit of rage Balaam beat the animal again with his staff. Then the Lord gave the donkey the ability to speak. “What have I done to you that deserves your beating me three times?” it asked Balaam. “You have made me look like a fool!” Balaam shouted. “If I had a sword with me, I would kill you!” “But I am the same donkey you have ridden all your life,” the donkey answered. “Have I ever done anything like this before?” “No,” Balaam admitted. Then the Lord opened Balaam’s eyes, and he saw the angel of the Lord standing in the roadway with a drawn sword in his hand. Balaam bowed his head and fell face down on the ground before him Why did you beat your donkey those three times?” the angel of the Lord demanded. “Look, I have come to block your way because you are stubbornly resisting me. Three times the donkey saw me and shied away; otherwise, I would certainly have killed you by now and spared the donkey.” Then Balaam confessed to the angel of the Lord, “I have sinned. I didn’t realize you were standing in the road to block my way. I will return home if you are against my going.” But the angel of the Lord told Balaam, “Go with these men, but say only what I tell you to say.” So Balaam went on with Balak’s officials….Balak asked Balaam. “Didn’t you believe me when I said I would reward you richly?” Balaam replied, “Look, now I have come, but I have no power to say whatever I want. I will speak only the message that God puts in my mouth.” Numbers 22:21-22;27-35;37-38 NLT

2. DO WE UNDERSTAND GOD IS EVER-PRESENT IN OUR LIVES?

YOUR EMOTIONS HAVE “THEIR” BEST INTEREST AT HEART, NOT YOUR BEST INTEREST AT HEART!

YOU MUST LIVE UP TO YOUR CALLING AND RESIST LIVING DOWN TO YOUR COMPROMISE!

For the Lord sees clearly what a man does, examining every path he takes. Proverbs 5:21 NLT

The eyes of the LORD search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him. 2 Chronicles 16:9 NLT

King Balak flew into a rage against Balaam. He angrily clapped his hands and shouted, “I called you to curse my enemies! Instead, you have blessed them three times. Now get out of here! Go back home! I promised to reward you richly, but the Lord has kept you from your reward.” Balaam told Balak, “Don’t you remember what I told your messengers? I said, ‘Even if Balak were to give me his palace filled with silver and gold, I would be powerless to do anything against the will of the Lord.’ I told you that I could say only what the Lord says! Numbers 24:10-13 NLT

3. ARE WE WILLING TO MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE OVER THE POPULAR CHOICE?

DOING THE RIGHT THING IS ALWAYS THE RIGHT THING

For they loved human praise more than the praise of God. John 12:43 NLT

IF YOU LIVE FOR PEOPLE'S PRAISE THEN YOU WILL DIE BY THEIR CRITICISM

If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first. The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you. John 15:18-19 NLT

I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 NLT

Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ’s servant. Galatians 1:10 NLT

HOW TO CHOOSE GOD’S WAY?

WE MUST NEVER BE ASHAMED OF JESUS AND THE WORD OF GODJesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Matthew 28:18 NLT
WE MUST DECIDE TO LIVE THE MANDATE JESUS HAS GIVEN US?
Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19 NLT
WE MUST CHAMPION NEXT STEPSTeach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. Matthew 28:20 NLT
WILL WE WALK WITH THE CONFIDENCE THAT JESUS IS WITH US?
And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Matthew 28:20 NLT

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STAY SUBMITTED AND COMMITTED TO THE WILL OF GOD!

You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever. Psalms 16:11 NLT

Jacob loved Joseph more than any of his other children because Joseph had been born to him in his old age. So one day Jacob had a special gift made for Joseph—a beautiful robe. But his brothers hated Joseph because their father loved him more than the rest of them. They couldn’t say a kind word to him. Genesis 37:3-4 NLT

1. GRASP THAT PERSPECTIVE IMPACTS YOUR FUTURE

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. James 1:2 NLT

The Lord was with Joseph, so he succeeded in everything he did as he served in the home of his Egyptian master. Genesis 39:2 NLT

But the Lord was with Joseph in the prison and showed him his faithful love. And the Lord made Joseph a favorite with the prison warden. Genesis 39:21 NLT

Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT

2. DON’T FIGHT THE PROCESS

So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. James 1:4 NLT

GOD CARES MORE ABOUT YOUR CHARACTER THAN YOUR COMFORT.

“My child, don’t make light of the lord’s discipline, and don’t give up when he corrects you. For the lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child.” As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? Hebrews 12:5-7 NLT

So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. 1 Peter 1:6-7 NLT

3. DECIDE TO FULLY TRUST

YOUR ATTITUDE IS THE KEY THAT ACTIVATES GOD MOVING IN YOUR LIFE.

God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12 NLT

4. UNDERSTAND THE PROCESS OF TEMPTATION

Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death. James 1:14-15 NLT

TEMPTATION
FANTASY
STEP TOWARDS SIN
ACT OF SIN
DEATH

There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death. Proverbs 14:12 NLT

The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. Galatians 5:17 NLT

Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Galatians 5:24-25 NLT

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Then Goliath, a Philistine champion from Gath, came out of the Philistine ranks to face the forces of Israel. He was over nine feet tall! He wore a bronze helmet, and his bronze coat of mail weighed 125 pounds. He also wore bronze leg armor, and he carried a bronze javelin on his shoulder. The shaft of his spear was as heavy and thick as a weaver’s beam, tipped with an iron spearhead that weighed pounds. His armor bearer walked ahead of him carrying a shield. Goliath stood and shouted a taunt across to the Israelites. “Why are you all coming out to fight?” he called. “I am the Philistine champion, but you are only the servants of Saul. Choose one man to come down here and fight me! If he kills me, then we will be your slaves. But if I kill him, you will be our slaves! I defy the armies of Israel today! Send me a man who will fight me!” When Saul and the Israelites heard this, they were terrified and deeply shaken. 1 Samuel 17:4-11 NLT

YOUR GOLIATH DOES NOT HAVE THE ABILITY TO DEFINE YOUR FUTURE. HOWEVER, YOUR RESPONSE TO YOUR GOLIATH DOES.

1. RECOGNIZE THE LIES OF YOUR GOLIATH

As he was talking with them, Goliath, the Philistine champion from Gath, came out from the Philistine ranks. Then David heard him shout his usual taunt to the army of Israel. 1 Samuel 17:23 NLT

Who is this pagan Philistine anyway, that he is allowed to defy the armies of the living God? 1 Samuel 17:26 NLT

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 NLT

Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. Romans 3:24 NLT

So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free. John 8:36 NLT

Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. Ephesians 1:4 NLT

For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:10 NLT

Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 NLT

And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 ESV

YOU HAVE TO PICK ONE. EITHER GOLIATH IS THE LIAR OR GOD IS THE LIAR.

2. STEWARDSHIP IN THE SMALL THINGS GIVES US THE STRENGTH IN THE BIG THINGS

“Don’t worry about this Philistine,” David told Saul. “I’ll go fight him!” “Don’t be ridiculous!” Saul replied. “There’s no way you can fight this Philistine and possibly win! You’re only a boy, and he’s been a man of war since his youth.” But David persisted. “I have been taking care of my father’s sheep and goats,” he said. “When a lion or a bear comes to steal a lamb from the flock, I go after it with a club and rescue the lamb from its mouth. If the animal turns on me, I catch it by the jaw and club it to death. I have done this to both lions and bears, and I’ll do it to this pagan Philistine, too, for he has defied the armies of the living God! The Lord who rescued me from the claws of the lion and the bear will rescue me from this Philistine!” Saul finally consented. “All right, go ahead,” he said. “And may the Lord be with you!” 1 Samuel 17:32-37 NLT

Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin. Zechariah 4:10 NLT

AS YOU DWELL ON YOUR DAILY VICTORIES YOU START GEARING YOUR MIND TO REPEAT THOSE ACTIONS.

“Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered—how fleeting my life is.You have made my life no longer than the width of my hand. My entire lifetime is just a moment to you; at best, each of us is but a breath.” Psalms 39:4-5 NLT

“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. Luke 16:10 NLT

3. YOU CAN NOT BE SUSTAINED OFF OF SOMEONE ELSE’S ANOINTING

'Then Saul gave David his own armor—a bronze helmet and a coat of mail. David put it on, strapped the sword over it, and took a step or two to see what it was like, for he had never worn such things before. “I can’t go in these,” he protested to Saul. “I’m not used to them.” So David took them off again. 1 Samuel 17:38-39 NLT

And finally Saul son of Kish was chosen from among them. But when they looked for him, he had disappeared! So they asked the Lord, “Where is he?” And the Lord replied, “He is hiding among the baggage.” 1 Samuel 10:21-22 NLT

Meanwhile, Saul stayed at Gilgal, and his men were trembling with fear. Saul waited there seven days for Samuel, as Samuel had instructed him earlier, but Samuel still didn’t come. Saul realized that his troops were rapidly slipping away. So he demanded, “Bring me the burnt offering and the peace offerings!” And Saul sacrificed the burnt offering himself. 1 Samuel 13:7-9 NLT

Just as Saul was finishing with the burnt offering, Samuel arrived. Saul went out to meet and welcome him, but Samuel said, “What is this you have done?” Saul replied, “I saw my men scattering from me, and you didn’t arrive when you said you would, and the Philistines are at Micmash ready for battle. 1 Samuel 13:10-11 NLT

Now go and completely destroy the entire Amalekite nation—men, women, children, babies, cattle, sheep, goats, camels, and donkeys.” Saul and his men spared Agag’s life and kept the best of the sheep and goats, the cattle, the fat calves, and the lambs—everything, in fact, that appealed to them. They destroyed only what was worthless or of poor quality. 1 Samuel 15:3,9 NLT

Early the next morning Samuel went to find Saul. Someone told him, “Saul went to the town of Carmel to set up a monument to himself; then he went on to Gilgal.” 1 Samuel 15:12 NLT

YOU CAN NOT GET YOUR EXTERNAL IN ORDER IF YOUR INTERNAL IS OUT OF ORDER.

Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else. For we are each responsible for our own conduct. Galatians 6:4-5 NLT

A GROWING RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS IS INTENTIONAL, NOT ACCIDENTAL.

4. DON’T COMPARE YOUR GOLIATH TO YOURSELF BUT COMPARE HIM TO YOUR GOD

David replied to the Philistine, “You come to me with sword, spear, and javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies—the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. Today the Lord will conquer you, and I will kill you and cut off your head. And then I will give the dead bodies of your men to the birds and wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel! And everyone assembled here will know that the Lord rescues his people, but not with sword and spear. This is the Lord’s battle, and he will give you to us!” 1 Samuel 17:45-47 NLT

But Moses told the people, “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.” Exodus 14:13-14 NLT

Let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Hebrew 12:1-2 NLT

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1. MAKE SURE YOU ARE FOLLOWING THE RIGHT PERSON

Ruth the Moabitess asked Naomi, “Will you let me go into the fields and gather fallen grain behind someone with whom I find favor?” Ruth 2:2 CSB

Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble. Proverbs 13:20 NLT

A person’s heart plans his way, but the Lord determines his steps. Proverbs 16:9 CSB

2. THE DILIGENT REAP THE HARVEST WHILE THE IDLE REAP SCARCITY

She asked, ‘Will you let me gather fallen grain among the bundles behind the harvesters? ’ She came and has been on her feet since early morning, except that she rested a little in the shelter.” Ruth 2:7 CSB

Work brings profit, but mere talk leads to poverty! Proverbs 14:23 NLT

Idle hands make one poor, but diligent hands bring riches. The son who gathers during summer is prudent; the son who sleeps during harvest is disgraceful. Proverbs 10:4-5 CSB

The eyes of the LORD search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him. 2 Chronicles 16:9 NLT

3. DON’T CHASE AFTER FLEETING URGES

Then Boaz said to Ruth, “Listen, my daughter. Don’t go and gather grain in another field, and don’t leave this one, but stay here close to my female servants. See which field they are harvesting, and follow them. Ruth 2:8-9 CSB

There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death. Proverbs 14:12 NLT

4. FAITHFULNESS MUST PRECEDE FRUITFULNESS

Boaz answered her, “Everything you have done for your mother-in-law since your husband’s death has been fully reported to me: how you left your father and mother and your native land, and how you came to a people you didn’t previously know. May the Lord reward you for what you have done, and may you receive a full reward from the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge.” Ruth 2:11-12 CSB

When she got up to gather grain, Boaz ordered his young men, “Let her even gather grain among the bundles, and don’t humiliate her. Pull out some stalks from the bundles for her and leave them for her to gather. Don’t rebuke her.” So Ruth gathered grain in the field until evening. She beat out what she had gathered, and it was about twenty-six quarts of barley. Ruth 2:15-17 CSB

YOUR CONSISTENCY DETERMINES YOUR CHARACTER AND YOUR CHARACTER DETERMINES YOUR DESTINY.

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33 NIV

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33 NLT

5. SURRENDER IS THE PATHWAY TO REST

So she lay down at his feet until morning but got up while it was still dark. Then Boaz said, “Don’t let it be known that a woman came to the threshing floor.” And he told Ruth, “Bring the shawl you’re wearing and hold it out.” When she held it out, he shoveled six measures of barley into her shawl, and she went into the town. Ruth 3:14-15 CSB

Anyone trusting in his riches will fall, but the righteous will flourish like foliage. Proverbs 11:28 NLT

TRUE PEACE IS DISCOVERED WHEN CONSCIOUSLY RECOGNIZE OUR PROVIDER CONSISTENTLY

Look at the ravens. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds! “Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith? Luke 12:24,27-28 NLT

Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry, but those who trust in the Lord will lack no good thing. Psalms 34:10 NLT

Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father…James 1:17 NLT

6. WHEN WE TOTALLY SURRENDER TO GOD HE WILL TOTALLY FIGHT FOR OUR WELL-BEING!

She went to her mother-in-law, Naomi, who asked her, “What happened, my daughter?” Then Ruth told her everything the man had done for her. Naomi said, “My daughter, wait until you find out how things go, for he won’t rest unless he resolves this today.” Ruth 3:16;18 CSB

So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.”For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children. And since we are his children, we are his heirs. Romans 8:15-17 NLT

DO YOU WANT THE LEFTOVERS, THE BUNDLES, OR THE FIELD?

Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do. James 1:6-8 NLT

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Do it AFRAID

PRESSURE IS A PRIVILEGE

“Things are not going well for those who returned to the province of Judah. They are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem has been torn down, and the gates have been destroyed by fire.” Nehemiah 1:3 NLT

“ When I heard this, I sat down and wept. In fact, for days I mourned, fasted, and prayed to the God of Heaven.” Nehemiah 1:4 NLT

“Early the following spring, in the month of Nisan, during the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes’ reign, I was serving the king his wine. I had never before appeared sad in his presence. So the king asked me, “Why are you looking so sad? You don’t look sick to me. You must be deeply troubled.” Nehemiah 2:1-2 NLT

“…Then I was terrified...” Nehemiah 2:2 NLT

“…I was terrified, but I replied” Nehemiah 2:2-3 NLT

A NERVOUS FEELING IS A GOOD THING

“Long live the king! How can I not be sad? For the city where my ancestors are buried is in ruins, and the gates have been destroyed by fire.” The king asked, “Well, how can I help you?” Nehemiah 2:3-4 NLT

“With a prayer to the God of Heaven, I replied… “ Nehemiah 2:4-5 NLT

WE PRAY

“The right words will be there. The Holy Spirit will give you the right words when the time comes.” Luke 12:12 MSG

GOD WILL PROVIDE THE COURAGE IF HE GAVE YOU THE CALL

Moses pleaded with the LORD, “O Lord, I’m not very good with words. I never have been, and I’m not now, even though you have spoken to me. I get tongue-tied, and my words get tangled.” Then the LORD asked Moses, “Who makes a person’s mouth? Who decides whether people speak or do not speak, hear or do not hear, see or do not see? Is it not I, the LORD? Now go! I will be with you as you speak, and I will instruct you in what to say.” Exodus 4:11-12 NLT

“If it please the king, and if you are pleased with me, your servant, send me to Judah to rebuild the city where my ancestors are buried.” The king, with the queen sitting beside him, asked “how long will you be gone? When will you return?” After I told him how long I would be gone, the king agreed to my request.” Nehemiah 2:5-6 NLT

“And please give me a letter addressed to Asaph, the manager of the king’s forest, instructing him to give me timber. I will need it to make beams for the gates of the Temple fortress, for the city walls, and for a house for myself…” Nehemiah 2:8 NLT

WHEN WE OPERATE USING GOD’S COURAGE WE ALLOW BOLDNESS TO OVERCOME OUR FEAR

“…and the king granted these requests because the gracious hand of God was on me.” Nehemiah 2:8 NLT

WE SHOULD BE DOING THINGS THAT MAKE US AFRAID
WE SHOULD BE DOING THINGS THAT REQUIRE THE HAND OF GOD

“IF YOU’RE BIG ENOUGH FOR YOUR DREAM, YOUR DREAM ISN’T BIG ENOUGH FOR GOD!” – MARK BATTERSON

GOD CHOSE YOU FOR THE DREAM HE PUT INSIDE YOU

IF GOD CALLED YOU TO IT HE WILL EQUIP YOU THROUGH IT

WE SHOULD SPEAK WHEN AFRAID

“…I was terrified, but I replied” Nehemiah 2:2-3 NLT

DON’T LET FEAR KEEP YOU FROM WALKING IN OBEDIENCE

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Women should be silent during the church meetings. It is not proper for them to speak. They should be submissive, just as the law says. If they have any questions, they should ask their husbands at home, for it is improper for women to speak in church meetings. 1 Corinthians 14:34-35 NLT

Women should learn quietly and submissively. I do not let women teach men or have authority over them. Let them listen quietly. 1 Timothy 2:11-12 NLT

1. NEVER READ A VERSE ALONE

2. REMEMBER, THAT THE BIBLE IS WRITTEN FOR US BUT NOT TO US.

3. THE BIBLE DOES NOT CONTRADICT ITSELF

Now, dear brothers and sisters, regarding your question about the special abilities the Spirit gives us. I don’t want you to misunderstand this. There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all. There are different kinds of service, but we serve the same Lord. A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other. To one person the Spirit gives the ability to give wise advice ; to another the same Spirit gives a message of special knowledge. The same Spirit gives great faith to another, and to someone else the one Spirit gives the gift of healing. He gives one person the power to perform miracles, and another the ability to prophesy. He gives someone else the ability to discern whether a message is from the Spirit of God or from another spirit. Still another person is given the ability to speak in unknown languages, while another is given the ability to interpret what is being said. It is the one and only Spirit who distributes all these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have. 1 Corinthians 12:1,4-5,7-11 NLT

DID PAUL HONOR WOMEN OR DISCOUNT THEM?

PHOEBE

I commend to you our sister Phoebe, who is a deacon in the church in Cenchrea. Welcome her in the Lord as one who is worthy of honor among God’s people. Help her in whatever she needs, for she has been helpful to many, and especially to me. Romans 16:1-2 NLT

PRISCILLA AND HER HUSBAND, AQUILA

Give my greetings to Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in the ministry of Christ Jesus. Romans 16:3 NLT

Meanwhile, a Jew named Apollos, an eloquent speaker who knew the Scriptures well, had arrived in Ephesus from Alexandria in Egypt. He had been taught the way of the Lord, and he taught others about Jesus with an enthusiastic spirit and with accuracy. However, he knew only about John’s baptism. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him preaching boldly in the synagogue, they took him aside and explained the way of God even more accurately. Acts of the Apostles 18:24-26 NLT

MARY & JUNIA

Give my greetings to Mary, who has worked so hard for your benefit. Greet Andronicus and Junia, my fellow Jews, who were in prison with me. They are highly respected among the apostles and became followers of Christ before I did. Romans 16:6-7 NLT

DID PETER HONOR WOMEN?

‘In the last days,’ God says, ‘I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your young men will see visions, and your old men will dream dreams. In those days I will pour out my Spirit even on my servants—men and women alike— and they will prophesy.’ Acts 2:17-18 NLT

HOW DID JESUS VIEW WOMEN?

WHAT ARE OTHER BIBLICAL EXAMPLES?

MIRIAM

I brought you up out of Egypt and redeemed you from the land of slavery. I sent Moses to lead you, also Aaron and Miriam. Micah 6:4 NIV

DEBORAH

Now Deborah, a prophet, the wife of Lappidoth, was leading Israel at that time. Judges 4:4 NIV

HULDAH

IPROVERBS 31

WHAT WAS GOD’S INTENTION AT CREATION?

So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Then God blessed them and said, “Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it. Reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that scurry along the ground.” Genesis 1:27-28 NLT

The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” Genesis 2:18 NIV

But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light. “Once you had no identity as a people; now you are God’s people. Once you received no mercy; now you have received God’s mercy.” 1 Peter 2:9-10 NLT

But our bodies have many parts, and God has put each part just where he wants it. How strange a body would be if it had only one part! The eye can never say to the hand, “I don’t need you.” The head can’t say to the feet, “I don’t need you.” All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is a part of it. 1 Corinthians 12:18-19,21,27 NLT

“Our souls are not hungry for fame, comfort, wealth, or power. Those rewards create almost as many problems as they solve. Our souls are hungry for meaning, for the sense that we have figured out how to live so that our lives matter, so that the world will be at least a little bit different for our having passed through it.” Rabbi Harold Kushner

1. FIND THE GIFTS GOD HAS FOR YOU

'A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other. ' 1 Corinthians 12:7 NLT

2. CULTIVATE THE GIFTS GOD HAS GIVEN YOU

'Let love be your highest goal! But you should also desire the special abilities the Spirit gives. 1 Corinthians 14:1 NLT

'This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you. ' 2 Timothy 1:6 NLT

3. USE THE GIFTS GOD HAS GIVEN YOU

'God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. ' 1 Peter 4:10 NLT

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1. WHO WAS GENESIS WRITTEN TO?

QUESTIONS THAT WE HAVE TODAY ABOUT GENESIS

1. How old is the earth?

2. Was the earth created in six literal twenty-four days or six long periods of time?

3. Does the lack of major transitional forms in the fossil records disprove evolution?

4. Could primitive nucleic acids, amino acids, and other building blocks of life have formed and organized themselves into self-replicating, self-sustaining units, laying the foundation for cellular biochemistry?

5. Was there really a talking snake?

6. Were there dinosaurs on Noah’s ark?

7. If God created Adam as the first person, did he have a belly button?

QUESTIONS ISRAEL LIKELY HAD THAT GENESIS WAS WRITTEN TO ANSWER

1. Are we going to survive here in the desert? Are we safe here?

2. Is there really only one God? What about all the Egyptian gods? Are they angry we left Egypt?

3. Is this God who rescued us still here, or are we alone?

4. What do we have to do to please this one God so we will have crops that won’t fail and have food for our families?

5. Should we worship the sun and the moon like the Egyptians? Or do we worship like the Canaanites, who are now nearby?

6. Is the Egyptian story of how the world was made the true one?

7. How do we live as free people?

2. WHAT IS CLEAR AND WHAT IS UNCLEAR?

HERE IS WHAT IS CLEAR… GOD IS THE CREATOR

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1 NLT

'The earth was formless and empty, and darkness covered the deep waters. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters. Genesis 1:2 NLT

Like an eagle that rouses her chicks and hovers over her young, so he spread his wings to take them up and carried them safely on his pinions. Deuteronomy 32:11 NLT

HERE IS WHAT IS UNCLEAR… HOW EXACTLY GOD CREATED EVERYTHING

DID GOD CREATE THE EARTH IN 6 DAYS? MAYBE

DID IT TAKE LONGER? MAYBE

IS THE EARTH YOUNG? MAYBE

IS THE EARTH OLD? MAYBE

My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:8-9 NLT

But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day. 2 Peter 3:8 NLT

Hebrew word YOM

References twelve hours in Gen. 1:5

References a growing season or time in Gen. 4:3 & Is. 30:8

References an eternity or lifetime in Gen. 44:32

References a physical lifetime in Gen. 43:9 & Deut. 4:40;19:9

References a time period equal to forty days in Deut. 10:10

Jesus was in the center of the procession, and the people all around him were shouting, “Praise God for the Son of David! Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Praise God in highest heaven!” Matthew 21:9 NLT

3. WHY DID GOD GIVE GENESIS TO THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL?

1. Nile to blood came against the false gods Hapi the bull god, god of the Nile; Isis, goddess of the Nile; Khnum, ram god, guardian of the Nile; others

2. Frogs against the false god Heqet, goddess of birth, with a frog head

3. Gnats against the false god Set, god of the desert storms

4. Flies against the false god Uatchit, possibly represented by the fly

5. Death of livestock against the false gods Hathor, goddess with a cow head; Apis, the bull god, symbol of fertility

6. Boils against the false gods Sekhmet, goddess with power over disease; Sunu, the pestilence god; Isis, healing goddess

7. Hail against the false gods Nut, the sky goddess; Osiris, god of the crops and fertility; Set, god of the desert storms

8. Locusts against the false gods Nut, the sky goddess; Osiris, god of the crops and fertility

9. Darkness against the false gods Re, the sun god; Horus, a sun god; Nut, a sky goddess; Hathor, a sky goddess

10. Death of firstborn against the false gods Min, god of reproduction; Heqet, goddess who attended women at childbirth; Isis, goddess who protected children; Pharaoh’s firstborn son considered a god

The Lord had said to Abram, “Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father’s family, and go to the land that I will show you. I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who treat you with contempt. All the families on earth will be blessed through you.” So Abram departed as the Lord had instructed, and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he left Haran. Genesis 12:1-4 NLT

Then the Lord took Abram outside and said to him, “Look up into the sky and count the stars if you can. That’s how many descendants you will have!” And Abram believed the Lord, and the Lord counted him as righteous because of his faith. Genesis 15:5-6 NLT

When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, “I am El-Shaddai—‘God Almighty.’ Serve me faithfully and live a blameless life. I will make a covenant with you, by which I will guarantee to give you countless descendants.” At this, Abram fell face down on the ground. Then God said to him, “This is my covenant with you: I will make you the father of a multitude of nations! What’s more, I am changing your name. It will no longer be Abram. Instead, you will be called Abraham, for you will be the father of many nations. I will make you extremely fruitful. Your descendants will become many nations, and kings will be among them! “I will confirm my covenant with you and your descendants after you, from generation to generation. This is the everlasting covenant: I will always be your God and the God of your descendants after you. And I will give the entire land of Canaan, where you now live as a foreigner, to you and your descendants.” Genesis 17:1-8 NLT

GOD’S PURPOSE THROUGH GENESIS WAS NOT TO JUST TO DELIVER THEM OUT OF EGYPT BUT TO DRIVE EGYPT OUT OF THEM.

So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children. And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering. Romans 8:15-17 NLT

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Alaska: No moose on sidewalks

Arizona: It is illegal for a donkey to sleep in a bathtub

Kentucky: It is illegal to carry ice cream in your back pocket

Connecticut: It is illegal to sell a pickle that does not bounce

1. THE BIBLE IS A LIBRARY, NOT A BOOK.

“You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me! Yet you refuse to come to me to receive this life. John 5:39-40 NLT

2. THE BIBLE IS WRITTEN FOR US, NOT TO US.

For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 NLT

3. DO NOT READ A VERSE BY ITSELF.

“What is the single most important practical skill I’ve ever learned as a Christian? Here it is: Never read a Bible verse. That’s right, never read a Bible verse. Instead, always read a paragraph at least.” - Greg Koukl, Author & Apologist

4. THE ACCURACY OF THE BIBLE IS BEYOND COMPREHENSION

5. THE WAY THE BIBLE POINTS TO THE PERSON OF JESUS

“I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ.” Gandhi

…The scripture cannot be broken John 10:35 KJV

“We’re going up to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be betrayed to the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. They will sentence him to die. Then they will hand him over to the Romans to be mocked, flogged with a whip, and crucified. But on the third day he will be raised from the dead.”. Matthew 20:18-19 NLT

They said his body was missing, and they had seen angels who told them Jesus is alive! Some of our men ran out to see, and sure enough, his body was gone, just as the women had said.” Then Jesus said to them, “You foolish people! You find it so hard to believe all that the prophets wrote in the Scriptures. Wasn’t it clearly predicted that the Messiah would have to suffer all these things before entering his glory?” Then Jesus took them through the writings of Moses and all the prophets, explaining from all the Scriptures the things concerning himself; Suddenly, their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And at that moment he disappeared! They said to each other, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as he talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?” Luke 25:23-27;31-32 NLT

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THE PURPOSE OF THE SHEPHERD

I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. John 10:11

1. THE SHEPHERD PROVIDES

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. Psalms 23:1-2 ESV

And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

2. THE SHEPHERD RESTORES

He restores my soul…. Psalms 23:3 ESV

The angel of the Lord appeared to him and said, “Mighty hero, the Lord is with you!” Judges 6:12 NLT

you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession 1 Peter 2:9 NOT

3. THE SHEPHERD LEADS

He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. Psalms 23:3 ESV

The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice. They won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice.” John 10:3-5 NLT

4. THE SHEPHERD SUPPORTS

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalms 23:4 ESV

The first time I was brought before the judge, no one came with me. Everyone abandoned me. 2 Timothy 4:16 NLT

May it not be counted against them. But the Lord stood with me and gave me strength so that I might preach the Good News in its entirety for all the Gentiles to hear. And he rescued me from certain death. 2 Timothy 4:16-17 NLT

For God has said, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.” Hebrews 13:5 NLT

5. THE SHEPHERD DEFENDS

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; Psalms 23:5 ESV

By embracing death, taking it into himself, he (Jesus) destroyed the Devil’s hold on death and freed all who cower through life, scared to death of death. Hebrews 2:14-15 MSG

6. THE SHEPHERD BLESSES.

You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever. Psalms 23:5-6 ESV

THE LOVE OF THE SHEPHERD

I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep. I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep. John 10:11,14-15 NLT

'He was despised and rejected— a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief. We turned our backs on him and looked the other way. He was despised, and we did not care.

Yet it was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows that weighed him down. And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God, a punishment for his own sins! But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed.

All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God’s paths to follow our own. Yet the Lord laid on him the sins of us all. He was oppressed and treated harshly, yet he never said a word. He was led like a lamb to the slaughter. And as a sheep is silent before the shearers, he did not open his mouth. Unjustly condemned, he was led away. No one cared that he died without descendants, that his life was cut short in midstream. But he was struck down for the rebellion of my people. He had done no wrong and had never deceived anyone.

But he was buried like a criminal; he was put in a rich man’s grave. But it was the Lord’s good plan to crush him and cause him grief. Yet when his life is made an offering for sin, he will have many descendants. He will enjoy a long life, and the Lord’s good plan will prosper in his hands. When he sees all that is accomplished by his anguish, he will be satisfied. And because of his experience, my righteous servant will make it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins. Isaiah 53:3-11 NLT

After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these? ” “Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.” “Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him. Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?” “Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.” “Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said. A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.” John 21:15-17 NLT

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“And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’ The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Mark 12:30-31 NLT

“…love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength…” Mark 12:30 NLT

Me’od

Me’od: Muchness

“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Romans 12:2 NLT

WE CAN’T EXPECT AN ORDINARY LIFE WHEN WE SERVE AN EXTRAORDINARY GOD

“And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’ The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these.” Mark 12:31 NLT

“…Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” Ephesians 6:10-17 NLT

THE BELT OF TRUTH

“…for he is a liar, and the father of lies.” John 8:44 NLT

BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS

“Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” Proverbs 4:3 NLT

SHOES OF PEACE

“A FINAL WORD: BE STRONG IN THE LORD AND IN HIS MIGHTY POWER. PUT ON ALL OF GOD’S ARMOR SO THAT YOU WILL BE ABLE TO STAND FIRM AGAINST ALL STRATEGIES OF THE DEVIL….THEREFORE, PUT ON EVERY PIECE OF GOD’S ARMOR SO YOU WILL BE ABLE TO RESIST THE ENEMY IN THE TIME OF EVIL. THEN AFTER THE BATTLE YOU WILL STILL BE STANDING FIRM. STAND YOUR GROUND, PUTTING ON THE BELT OF TRUTH AND THE BODY ARMOR OF GOD’S RIGHTEOUSNESS. FOR SHOES, PUT ON THE PEACE THAT COMES FROM THE GOOD NEWS SO THAT YOU WILL BE FULLY PREPARED.” EPHESIANS 6:10 –11,13-15 NLT

PEACE IS NOT THE ABSENCE OF PROBLEMS; IT’S THE ADDITION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT’S POWER IN THE PROBLEMS

THE SPIRITUAL POSTURE YOU HAVE GOING INTO THE BATTLE DETERMINES YOUR PEACE THROUGHOUT THE FIGHT

“For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.” Ephesians 6:15 NLT

THE SHIELD OF FAITH

“…hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.” Ephesians 6:16 NLT

CHOOSE FAITH IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES

THE HELMET OF SALVATION

“But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation. For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of his Son.” Romans 5:8-10 NLT

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“When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, 'I used everything you gave me’” -Erma Bombeck

If you love your father or mother more than you love me, you are not worthy of being mine; or if you love your son or daughter more than me, you are not worthy of being mine. If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it. Matthew 10:37-39 NLT

And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’ The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ Mark 12:30-31 NLT

WHEN YOU ARE INTIMATELY CONNECTED WITH SOMEONE YOU HAVE A DEEP DESIRE TO DO WHAT THEY LOVE.

LOVING JESUS WITH ALL YOUR SOUL IS HAVING THE SAME DESIRES THAT HE DESIRED.

WHEN WE ARE TRULY ALL IN WE ARE WILLING TO GO ALL OUT

1. BELIEVED

WHEN YOU TRULY BELIEVE IN SOMETHING IT COMPELS YOU TO DO CERTAIN THINGS.

2. CHARACTER

“No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us” 1 John 4:12 NLT

When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for some money. Peter and John looked at him intently, and Peter said, “Look at us!” The lame man looked at them eagerly, expecting some money. But Peter said, “I don’t have any silver or gold for you. But I’ll give you what I have. In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, get up and walk!” Then Peter took the lame man by the right hand and helped him up. And as he did, the man’s feet and ankles were instantly healed and strengthened. He jumped up, stood on his feet, and began to walk! Then, walking, leaping, and praising God, he went into the Temple with them. Acts 3:1-10 NLT

OUR CHARACTER IS A REFLECTION OF THE LOVE AND PURSUANT NATURE OF OUR GOD!

3. BOLDNESS

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you… Acts 1:8 NLT

“But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them?; So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.”Romans 10:14;17 NLT

“My heart is filled with bitter sorrow and unending grief for my people, my Jewish brothers and sisters.* I would be willing to be forever cursed—cut off from Christ!—if that would save them.” Romans 9:2-3 NLT**

But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. Romans 5:8 NLT

Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Romans 12:9-10

LOVE IS NOT SPOKEN, IT IS EXPERIENCED

Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the man, “Young man, your sins are forgiven.” Luke 5:18-20 NLT

ACCEPT THE PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY

BUILD A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP

SHARE YOUR PERSONAL STORY

GIVE A PERSONAL INVITE

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And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’ The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ Mark 12:30-31

“For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ” 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 ESV

ochuroma (okh-oo'-ro-mah); to fortify, a strong castle, a prisoner locked by deception.

DEMOLISHING THE STRONGHOLD OF THE MIND

1. IDENTIFY THE STRONGHOLD

“Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants.” 2 Timothy 2:26 NLT

“When he (the devil) lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” John 8:44 ESV

We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ” 2 Corinthians 10:5 ESV

____ MATERIAL/FINANCIAL STRONGHOLD

____ ADDICTIVE/HABITUAL STRONGHOLD

____ PERSONAL/PHYSICAL STRONGHOLD

____ RELATIONAL STRONGHOLD

____ SPIRITUAL STRONGHOLD

2. ATTACK THE STRONGHOLD WITH GOD’S WEAPONS

A wise man attacks the city of the mighty and pulls down the stronghold in which they trust. Proverbs 21:22 NIV

For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. 2 Corinthians 10:3-4 ESV

The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants...These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions... Galatians 5:17 NLT

STOP AND PHYSICALLY ASK YOURSELF…

“WHY AM I FEELING WHAT I AM FEELING RIGHT NOW?”

“WHY AM I REALLY FEELING WHAT I AM FEELING RIGHT NOW?”

STOP AND PHYSICALLY ASK YOURSELF…

“WHAT LIE AM I BELIEVING TO MAKE THIS FEELING TRUE?”

STOP AND PHYSICALLY PRAY

3. DESTROY STRONGHOLDS WITH GOD’S TRUTH

We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ” 2 Corinthians 10:5 ESV

Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:7-9 NLT

“And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:32

“So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.” John 8:36

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One of them, an expert in religious law, tried to trap him with this question: “Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?” Matthew 22:35NLT

Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:36-40 NLT

Jesus replied, “The most important commandment is this: ‘Listen, O Israel! The Lord our God is the one and only Lord. And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’ The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these.” The teacher of religious law replied, “Well said, Teacher. You have spoken the truth by saying that there is only one God and no other. And I know it is important to love him with all my heart and all my understanding and all my strength, and to love my neighbor as myself. This is more important than to offer all of the burnt offerings and sacrifices required in the law.” Realizing how much the man understood, Jesus said to him, “You are not far from the Kingdom of God.” And after that, no one dared to ask him any more questions. Mark 12:29-34 NLT

1. GOD MUST BE FIRST

The Lord our God is the one and only Lord. Mark 12:29 NLT

God is not a man, so he does not lie. He is not human, so he does not change his mind. Numbers 23:19 NLT

God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. James 1:17 NLT

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. John 14:6 NLT

Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation… Colossians 1:15 NLT

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8 NLT

As the Scriptures say, “People are like grass; their beauty is like a flower in the field. The grass withers and the flower fades. But the word of the Lord remains forever.” 1 Peter 1:24-25 NLT

THE DEVIL WANTS US TO TRADE AWAY COMMITTED DISCIPLESHIP FOR A CONVENIENT CHRISTIANITY.

Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God. 2 Corinthians 4:4 NLT

Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. I am the Lord your God. So do not act like the people in Egypt, where you used to live, or like the people of Canaan, where I am taking you. You must not imitate their way of life. You must obey all my regulations and be careful to obey my decrees, for I am the Lord your God. If you obey my decrees and my regulations, you will find life through them. I am the Lord. Leviticus 18:2-5 NLT

PROGRESSING IN GOD’S WILL IS ONLY ACHIEVED BY SURRENDERING YOUR WILL.

…not my will, but yours be done. Luke 22:42 NIV

Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. Matthew 16:24-25 NLT

2. GIVE JESUS YOUR WHOLE HEART

And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart… Mark 12:30 NLT

A good tree can’t produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can’t produce good fruit. A tree is identified by its fruit. Figs are never gathered from thornbushes, and grapes are not picked from bramble bushes. A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart. Luke 6:43-45 NLT

YOUR HEARTS SOIL IS HARD

This message came to me from the Lord: “Son of man, these leaders have set up idols in their hearts. They have embraced things that will make them fall into sin. Ezekiel 14:2-3 NLT

YOUR HEARTS SOIL IS SHALLOW

YOUR HEARTS SOIL IS CROWDED

YOUR HEARTS SOIL IS FERTILE

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do. James 1:2-8 NLT

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The thief’s (devil) purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. John 10:10 NLT

When an evil spirit leaves a person, it goes into the desert, searching for rest. But when it finds none, it says, ‘I will return to the person I came from.’ So it returns and finds that its former home is all swept and in order. Then the spirit finds seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they all enter the person and live there. And so that person is worse off than before. Luke 11:24-26 NLT

A GROWING RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS IS INTENTIONAL, NOT ACCIDENTAL.

So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming. You used to do these things when your life was still part of this world. But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds.

Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him. Colossians 3:5-10 NLT

SEED

You will always harvest what you plant. Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Galatians 6:7-9 NLT

YOU CAN’T GET YOUR EXTERNAL LIFE IN ORDER WHEN YOUR INTERNAL LIFE IS OUT OF ORDER.

SO MANY PEOPLE HAVE OUTCOME WISHES WITH NO INPUT DISCIPLINES AND THEY WONDER WHY THEY ARE FRUSTRATED.

READING AND STUDYING THE BIBLE

CONFESSING SINS REGULARLY

SERVING IN THE CHURCH

PRAYING FOR AN UNBELIEVER AND THEIR GROWTH AND INVITING THEM INTO YOUR LIFE.

SOIL

“bad company corrupts good character.” 1 Corinthians 15:33 NLT

Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Philippians 4:8 NLT

SEASON

Does a farmer always plow and never sow? Is he forever cultivating the soil and never planting?; The farmer knows just what to do, for God has given him understanding.; Isaiah 28:24;26

WE WANT INSTANTLY WHAT IS ONLY DEVELOPED THROUGH CONSISTENCY

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Reset – Week 9

Reset: To set, adjust or fix in a new or different way

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 NKJV

“Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation. Whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:11-13 NLT

“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:12-13 NIV

THE SECRET TO CONTENTMENT

THE SECRET SAUCE

“This is why I tell you to never be worried about your life, for all that you need will be provided, such as food, water, clothing - everything your body needs. Isn’t there more to your life than a meal? Isn’t your body more than clothing? Look at all the birds – do you think they worry about their existence? They don’t plant or reap or store up food, yet your Heavenly Father provides them each with food. Aren’t you much more valuable to your Father than they?” Matthew 6:25-26 TPT

REGARDLESS OF MY CIRCUMSTANCES, MY POSSESSIONS, OR MY STATUS, I KNOW THAT I AM A CHILD OF GOD WHO LOVES ME, CARES FOR ME AND WILL PROVIDE EVERYTHING I NEED FOR ALL THAT HE DESIRES ME TO DO FOREVER

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 NKJVFOUR TRUTHS TO DEVELOPING AN ATTITUDE OF CONTENTMENT

AN ATTITUDE OF CONTENTMENT HAS VERY LITTLE TO DO WITH CIRCUMSTANCES

“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” Philippians 4:11 NIV

“Her masters’ hopes of wealth were now shattered, so they grabbed Paul and Silas and dragged them before the authorities at the marketplace…a mob quickly formed against Paul and Silas, and the city officials ordered them stripped and beaten with wooden rods. They were severely beaten, and then they were thrown into prison. The jailer was ordered to make sure they didn’t escape. So the jailer put them into the inner dungeon and clamped their feet in the stocks.” Acts 16:19,22-24 NLT

“Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and signing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening.” Acts 16:25 NLT

“Suddenly, there was a massive earthquake, and the prison was shaken to its foundations. All the doors immediately flew open, and the chains of every prisoner fell off!” Acts 16:26 NLT

YOUR ATTITUDE CAN CHANGE, JUST LIKE YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES

“I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want” Philippians 4:12 NIV

YOUR ATTITUDE IS YOUR CHOICE

“After they were severely beaten, they were thrown into prison and the jailer was commanded to guard them securely. So the jailer placed them in the innermost cell of the prison and had their feet bound and chained. Paul and Silas, undaunted, prayed in the middle of the night and sang songs of praise to God…” Acts 16:23-25 TPT

UNDAUNTED: undismayed; not discouraged; not forced to abandon purpose or effort

UNDAUNTED: not at all afraid or worried about dealing with something, especially something that would frighten or worry most people.

JESUS

AN ATTITUDE OF CONTENTMENT CAN BE DEVELOPED IF WE RELY ON THE SECRET SAUCE

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 NKJV

“…My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am made strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 NLT

“Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and signing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening.” Acts 16:25 NLT

“Suddenly, there was a massive earthquake, and the prison was shaken to its foundations. All the doors immediately flew open, and the chains of every prisoner fell off! The jailer woke up to see the prison doors wide open. He assumed the prisoners had escaped, so he drew his sword to kill himself. But Paul shouted to him, “Stop! Don’t kill yourself! We are all here!” The jailer called for lights and ran to the dungeon and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. Then he brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” Acts 16:26-30 NIV

GOD CAN BREAK THE CHAINS OF YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES WHEN YOU LEAN ON HIS STRENGTH RATHER THAN YOUR OWN

ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO WITNESS TO OTHERS IS BY HOW YOU RESPOND TO ADVERSITY

AN ATTITUDE OF CONTENTMENT WILL REMIND YOU WHO GOD CREATED YOU TO BE NOT WHO YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES TRY TO AFFECT YOU TO BE

“…in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” Romans 8:37 NIV

WHEN I STARTED ACTING LIKE A 1480

“For we are God’s masterpiece…” Ephesians 2:10 NLT

WHEN YOUR REMEMBER WHO YOU ARE IN CHRIST, YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES, BOTH PAST AND PRESENT, DON’T HAVE TO DETERMINE YOUR FUTURE

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Now I appeal to Euodia and Syntyche. Please, because you belong to the Lord, settle your disagreement. Philippians 4:2 NLT

ANYTHING OR ANYONE DIFFERENT CAN BE DIFFICULT

If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Romans 12:18 ESV

THREE HINDRANCES OF CONFLICT

HINDERS MY CONNECTION WITH GOD

…Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 1 John 4:7-8 NLT

HINDERS MY PRAYERS

In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you live together… Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered. 1 Peter 3:7 NLT

HINDERS MY HAPPINESS

So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. Romans 8:6 NLT

HOW DO WE HAVE HEALTHY CONFRONTATION?

1. WE MUST VALUE THE PERSON

I love you and long to see you, dear friends, for you are my joy and the crown I receive for my work. Philippians 4:1 NLT

The LORD doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7

SEEING VALUE IN PEOPLE IS NOT ABOUT THEIR VALUE TO YOU, BUT THEIR VALUE TO GOD.

YOU ARE FIGHTING FOR THEM NOT AGAINST THEM!

If any household or town refuses to welcome you or listen to your message, shake its dust from your feet as you leave. Matthew 10:14

2. YOU CAN’T SWEEP IT UNDER THE RUG

Now I appeal to Euodia and Syntyche. Please, because you belong to the Lord, settle your disagreement. And I ask you, my true partner, to help these two women, for they worked hard with me in telling others the Good News. Philippians 4:2-3 NLT

DON’T ADDRESS IN AN EMOTIONAL STATE

Again I say, don’t get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only start fights. A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. 2 Timothy 2:23-24 NLT

GIVE ENOUGH TIME FOR EMOTIONS TO SUBSIDE, BUT NOT ENOUGH FOR ANIMOSITIES TO BUILD

DON’T ADDRESS IN PUBLIC
DON’T TALK ABOUT THE PERSON. TALK TO THE PERSON.

If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless. James 1:26 NLT

A gossip goes around telling secrets, so don’t hang around with chatterers. Proverbs 20:19 NLT

A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; gossip separates the best of friends. Proverbs 16:28 NLT

A gossip goes around telling secrets, but those who are trustworthy can keep a confidence. Proverbs 11:13 NLT

Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Ephesians 4:29 NLT

3. LISTEN FOR THE HURT

Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. James 1:19

HURT PEOPLE HURT PEOPLE.

THE SOLUTION ALWAYS BEGINS WITH UNDERSTANDING

For we must bear the “burden” of being considerate of the doubts and fears of others… Romans 15:2 TLB

“You cannot effectively move toward conflict resolution until each participate experiences for themselves to be fully heard with regard to their perspective-what they want and why” -Jim Melamed

Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Philippians 2:4-5

WHEN YOU ACTIVELY LISTEN EMOTIONS DROP AND THE TRUTH COMES OUT.

4. ADMIT YOUR PART OF THE CONFLICT

DON’T TRADE AWAY YOUR INTEGRITY FOR JUSTIFICATION

5. WE MUST FORGIVE PEOPLE

“Unforgiveness is like drinking poison and hoping the other person dies.” -Anne Lamont

Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many. Hebrews 12:15

UNFORGIVENESS WILL HARBOR RESENTMENT AND THAT WILL TURN INTO BITTERNESS

UNFORGIVENESS, BITTERNESS, RESENTMENT HAS NO AUTHORITY IN MY LIFE AND THE ANTIDOTE IS FORGIVENESS….

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34

Then the king called in the man he had forgiven and said, ‘You evil servant! I forgave you that tremendous debt because you pleaded with me. Shouldn’t you have mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had mercy on you?’ Then the angry king sent the man to prison to be tortured until he had paid his entire debt. “That’s what my heavenly Father will do to you if you refuse to forgive your brothers and sisters from your heart.” Matthew 18:32-35 NLT

ALTAR

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Now I appeal to Euodia and Syntyche. Please, because you belong to the Lord, settle your disagreement. Philippians 4:2 NLT

ANYTHING OR ANYONE DIFFERENT CAN BE DIFFICULT

If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Romans 12:18 ESV

THREE HINDRANCES OF CONFLICT

HINDERS MY CONNECTION WITH GOD

…Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 1 John 4:7-8 NLT

HINDERS MY PRAYERS

HINDERS MY HAPPINESS

So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. Romans 8:6 NLT

HOW DO WE HAVE HEALTHY CONFRONTATION?

1. WE MUST VALUE THE PERSON

I love you and long to see you, dear friends, for you are my joy and the crown I receive for my work. Philippians 4:1 NLT

The LORD doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7

SEEING VALUE IN PEOPLE IS NOT ABOUT THEIR VALUE TO YOU, BUT THEIR VALUE TO GOD.

YOU ARE FIGHTING FOR THEM NOT AGAINST THEM!

If any household or town refuses to welcome you or listen to your message, shake its dust from your feet as you leave. Matthew 10:14

2. YOU CAN’T SWEEP IT UNDER THE RUG

DON’T ADDRESS IN AN EMOTIONAL STATE

GIVE ENOUGH TIME FOR EMOTIONS TO SUBSIDE, BUT NOT ENOUGH FOR ANIMOSITIES TO BUILD

DON’T ADDRESS IN PUBLIC
DON’T TALK ABOUT THE PERSON. TALK TO THE PERSON.

If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless. James 1:26 NLT

A gossip goes around telling secrets, so don’t hang around with chatterers. Proverbs 20:19 NLT

A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; gossip separates the best of friends. Proverbs 16:28 NLT

A gossip goes around telling secrets, but those who are trustworthy can keep a confidence. Proverbs 11:13 NLT

Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Ephesians 4:29 NLT

3. LISTEN FOR THE HURT

Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. James 1:19

HURT PEOPLE HURT PEOPLE.

THE SOLUTION ALWAYS BEGINS WITH UNDERSTANDING

For we must bear the “burden” of being considerate of the doubts and fears of others… Romans 15:2 TLB

Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Philippians 2:4-5

WHEN YOU ACTIVELY LISTEN EMOTIONS DROP AND THE TRUTH COMES OUT.

4. ADMIT YOUR PART OF THE CONFLICT

DON’T TRADE AWAY YOUR INTEGRITY FOR JUSTIFICATION

5. WE MUST FORGIVE PEOPLE

“Unforgiveness is like drinking poison and hoping the other person dies.” -Anne Lamont

Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many. Hebrews 12:15

UNFORGIVENESS WILL HARBOR RESENTMENT AND THAT WILL TURN INTO BITTERNESS

UNFORGIVENESS, BITTERNESS, RESENTMENT HAS NO AUTHORITY IN MY LIFE AND THE ANTIDOTE IS FORGIVENESS….

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34

ALTAR

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Reset: To set, adjust or fix in a new or different way

“I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done for me. Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ and become one with him. I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith. I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death, so that one way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead! I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.” Philippians 3:7-14 NLT

“…all the things I once thought were so important are gone in my life. Compared to the high privilege of knowing Christ Jesus as my Master, firsthand, everything I once thought I had going for me is insignificant - dog dung” Philippians 3:8 MSG

“If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more” Philippians 3:4 NIV

“…A legitimate birth, circumcised on the eighth day; an Israelite from the elite tribe of Benjamin; a strict and devout adherent to God’s law; a fiery defender of the purity of my religion, even to the point of persecuting the church; a meticulous observer of everything set down in God’s law book.” Philippians 3:5-6 MSG

“The very credentials these people are waving around as something special, I’m tearing up and throwing out with the trash – along with everything else I used to take credit for.” Philippians 3:7 MSG

CLEAR EYES, FULL HEARTS, CAN’T LOSE

WHAT IS YOUR FOCUS?

“I said to myself, “Come on, lets try pleasure. Let’s look for the “good things” in life.” But I found that this, too, was meaningless. So I said, “laughter is silly. What good does it doo to seek pleasure?” After much thought, I decided to cheer myself with wine. And while still seeking wisdom, I clutched at foolishness. In this way, I tried to experience the only happiness most people find during their brief life in this world. I also tried to find meaning by building huge homes for myself and by planting beautiful vineyards. I made gardens and parks, filling them with all kinds of fruit trees. I build reservoirs to collect the water to irrigate my many flourishing groves. I bought slaves, both men and women, and others were born into my household. I also owned large herds and flocks, more than any of the kings who had lived in Jerusalem before me. I collected great sums of silver and gold, the treasure of many kings and provinces. I hired wonderful singers, both men and women, and had many beautiful concubines. I had everything a man could desire! I became greater than all who had lived in Jerusalem before me, and my wisdom never failed me. Anything I wanted, I would take.” Ecclesiastes 2:1-10 NLT

YOUR LEVEL OF HONESTY DETERMINES YOUR LEVEL OF GROWTH

WHAT YOU OWN ISN’T A PROBLEM UNTIL IT OWNS YOU

“But as I looked at everything I had worked so hard to accomplish, it was all so meaningless – like chasing the wind.” Ecclesiastes 3:11 NLT

WHAT DO I NOT WANT?

“But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ” Philippians 3:7-8 NIV

WHAT DO I WANT?

“…That I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ – the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. I want to know Christ – yes to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the from the dead.” Philippians 3:9-11 NIV

“…Ive dumped it all in the trash so that I could embrace Christ and be embraced by him. I didn’t want some petty, inferior brand of righteousness that comes from keeping a list of rules when I could get the robust kind that comes from trusting Christ – God’s righteousness. I gave up all that inferior stuff so I could know Christ personally, experience his resurrection power, be a partner in his suffering, and go all the way with him to death itself. If there was any way to get in on the resurrection from the dead, I wanted to do it.” Philippians 3:9-11 MSG.

THE FRIENDS YOU KNOW BEST ARE THE ONES YOU SPEND THE MOST TIME WITH

“When I think of all this, (hes talking about God’s plan and His LOVE) I fall to my knees and pray to the Father, the creator of everything in heaven and on earth. I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. ” Ephesians 3:14-17 NLT

WHAT DO I NOT WANT?

WHAT DO I WANT?

HOW DO I GET WHAT I WANT?

“I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but Ive got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward - to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back.” Philippians 3:12-14 MSG

“Im not saying that I have this all together…” Philippians 3:12 MSG

“By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this…” Philippians 3:13 MSG

“But I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward – to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back.” Philippians 3:13-14 MSG

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though I could have confidence in my own effort if anyone could. Indeed, if others have reason for confidence in their own efforts, I have even more! I was circumcised when I was eight days old. I am a pure-blooded citizen of Israel and a member of the tribe of Benjamin—a real Hebrew if there ever was one! I was a member of the Pharisees, who demand the strictest obedience to the Jewish law. I was so zealous that I harshly persecuted the church. And as for righteousness, I obeyed the law without fault. I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done. Philippians 3:4-7 NLT

YOU HAVE TO GIVE UP TO GO UP!

'Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ and become one with him. I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith. Philippians 3:8-9 NLT

for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 2 Corinthians 11:14 NIV

Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves. You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act. Can you pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Matthew 7:15-16 NLT

MANIPULATION IS WHY MOST PEOPLE CHOOSE NOT TO WALK IN THEIR GOD-GIVEN IDENTITY.

Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. 1 John 2:15-16 NIV

POISON #1: THE LUST OF THE FLESH

The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. John 10:10 NLT

For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot. Romans 8:6-7 ESV.

For forty days and forty nights he fasted and became very hungry. During that time the devil came and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become loaves of bread.” Matthew 4:2-3 NLT

But Jesus told him, “No! The Scriptures say, ‘People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Matthew 4:4 NLT

THE ANTIDOTE TO POISON #1 IS INTEGRITY

Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts. 2 Timothy 2:22 NLT

POISON #2: THE LUST OF THE EYES

Next the devil took him to the peak of a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. “I will give it all to you,” he said, “if you will kneel down and worship me.” “Get out of here, Satan,” Jesus told him. “For the Scriptures say, ‘You must worship the Lord your God and serve only him.’ ”Matthew 4:8-10 NLT

No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money. Matthew 6:24 NLT

THE ANTIDOTE TO POISON #2 IS GENEROSITY

Let all that I am praise the Lord; with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name. Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me. He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases. He redeems me from death and crowns me with love and tender mercies. He fills my life with good things. My youth is renewed like the eagle’s! Psalms 103:1-5 NLT

The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. Proverbs 11:25 NLT

POISON #3: THE PRIDE OF LIFE

Then the devil took him to the holy city, Jerusalem, to the highest point of the Temple, and said, “If you are the Son of God, jump off! For the Scriptures say, ‘He will order his angels to protect you. And they will hold you up with their hands so you won’t even hurt your foot on a stone.’ ” Jesus responded, “The Scriptures also say, ‘You must not test the Lord your God.’ Matthew 4:5-7 NLT

Many people did believe in him, however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn’t admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue. For they loved human praise more than the praise of God. John 12:42-43 NLT

THE ANTIDOTE TO POISON #3 IS HUMILITY

And all of you, dress yourselves in humility as you relate to one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. 1 Peter 5:5-7 NLT

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Reset – Week 4

Reset: To set, adjust or fix in a new or different way

The Depths of Jesus’ Servanthood

“…make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had…

“Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross” Philippians 2:2-8 NLT

No task was beneath Jesus, and no person was unworthy

Jesus’ Six Steps of Servanthood

He Gave Up His Divine Form

“Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to.” Philippians 2:6 NLT

He Emptied Himself of Any Rights

“Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave” Philippians 2:7 NLT

He Became a Man

“…and was born as a human being.” Philippians 2:7 NLT

He Became a Servant

“Rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.” Philippians 2:7 NIV

He Was Obedient to the Point of Death

“And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death…” Philippians 2:8 NIV

“This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.” John 15:13-14 NLT

He Died a Terrible Kind of Death

“Therefore, (for that reason) God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” Philippians 2:9-11 NLT

“Look at how much encouragement you’ve found in your relationship with the Anointed One (Jesus)! You are filled to overflowing with his comforting love. You have experienced a deepening friendship with the Holy Spirit and have felt his tender affection and mercy. So I’m asking you, my friends, that you be joined together in perfect unity – with one heart, one passion, and united in one love. Walk together with one harmonious purpose and you will fill my heart with unbounded joy. Be free from pride-filled opinions, for they will only harm your cherished unity. Don’t allow self-promotion to hide in your hearts, but in authentic humility put others first and view others as more important than yourselves. Abandon every display of selfishness. Possess a greater concern for what matters to others instead of your own interests. And consider the example that Jesus, the Anointed One, has set before us. Let his mindset become your motivation.” Philippians 2:1-5 TPT

Our Responsibility

“Being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.” Philippians 2:2 NKJV

Unity

“So I’m asking you, my friends, that you be joined together in perfect unity”

Humility is the pathway to Unity

“And I ask not only for these disciples but also for all those who will one day believe in me through their message. I pray for them all to be joined together as one even as you and I, Father, are joined together as one. I pray for them to become one with us so that the world will recognize that you sent me. For the very glory you have given to me I have given them so that they will be joined together as one and experience the same unity that we enjoy. You live fully in me and now I live fully in them so that they will experience perfect unity, and the world will be convinced that you have sent me, for they will see that you love each one of them with the same passionate love that you have for me.” John 17:20-23 TPT

Our Opinions

“Be free from pride-filled opinions, for they will only harm your cherished unity” Philippians 2:3 TPT

Do I think my views or judgements are always right?

Do I listen to others?

Do I desire to hear other’s opinions?

Our Attitudes Towards Others

“…In authentic humility put others first and view others as more important than yourselves. Abandon every display of selfishness. Possess a greater concern for what matters to others instead of your own interests.” Philippians 2:3-4 TPT

Do I put the needs of others above my needs?

Do I view others as less important than me?

I really want to encourage you to take the time to think and reflect on this..ill be honest. There was a time in my life where I would’ve answered yes to this…here’s what. I know:
Be honest with yourself when answering these…even if it hurts!

Do I want to help others progress in life?

Our Level of Honesty Determines our Level Growth

Serve At Church

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And I want you to know, my dear brothers and sisters, that everything that has happened to me… Philippians 1:12 NLT

I have worked harder, been put in prison more often, been whipped times without number, and faced death again and again. Five different times the Jewish leaders gave me thirty-nine lashes. Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked. Once I spent a whole night and a day adrift at sea. I have traveled on many long journeys. I have faced danger from rivers and from robbers. I have faced danger from my own people, the Jews, as well as from the Gentiles. I have faced danger in the cities, in the deserts, and on the seas. And I have faced danger from men who claim to be believers but are not. I have worked hard and long, enduring many sleepless nights. I have been hungry and thirsty and have often gone without food. I have shivered in the cold, without enough clothing to keep me warm. Then, besides all this, I have the daily burden of my concern for all the churches. Who is weak without my feeling that weakness? Who is led astray, and I do not burn with anger? If I must boast, I would rather boast about the things that show how weak I am. 2 Corinthians 11:23-30 NLT

Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock. But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn’t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash. Matthew 7:24-27 NLT

OUR PERCEPTION OF REALITY IS AFFECTED BY HOW SPIRITUALLY GROUNDED WE ARE

YOUR ATTITUDE DETERMINES YOUR ALTITUDE

WHY DO STORMS HAPPEN?

1. SOMETIMES GOD IS TRYING TO GET YOUR ATTENTION

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. James 1:2-4 NLT

2. SOMETIMES PEOPLE SIN AGAINST US

'Then He said to the disciples, “It is impossible that no offenses should come... Luke 17:1 NKJV

'And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. ' Romans 8:28 NLT

YOUR ATTITUDE IS THE KEY THAT ACTIVATES GOD MOVING IN YOUR LIFE.

EVERY STORM OF LIFE LEAVES YOU WITH A CHOICE. RUN FROM IT OR GROW FROM IT.

And I want you to know, my dear brothers and sisters, that everything that has happened to me here has helped to spread the Good News. Philippians 1:12 NLT

THE MESSAGE OF JESUS IS BEING SPREAD AMONG THE ROMAN SOLDIERS
For everyone here, including the whole palace guard, knows that I am in chains because of Christ. Philippians 1:13 NLT

PAUL IS INSPIRING OTHER BELIEVERS
And because of my imprisonment, most of the believers here have gained confidence and boldly speak God’s message without fear. Philippians 1:14 NLT

For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better. But if I live, I can do more fruitful work for Christ. So I really don’t know which is better. Philippians 1:21-22 NLT

DEATH WOULD BE TO PAUL’S ADVANTAGE
I’m torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me. Philippians 1:23 NLT

TO LIVE IS TO THEIR ADVANTAGEBut for your sakes, it is better that I continue to live. 'Knowing this, I am convinced that I will remain alive so I can continue to help all of you grow and experience the joy of your faith. Philippians 1:24-25 NLT

THE IRONY IS THAT OUR WEAKNESS IS POWER WHEN PLACED IN THE HANDS OF GOD!

1. BELIEVE THAT GOD IS HOLY & GOOD

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8 NLT

“Holy, holy, holy is the lord of Heaven’s Armies! The whole earth is filled with his glory!” Isaiah 6:3 NLT

Taste and see that the lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him! Psalms 34:8

For the lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation. Psalms 100:5

“That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Matthew 6:25-27

Let Go of Control

You can make many plans, but the Lord’s purpose will prevail. Proverbs 19:21 NLT

“Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.” Then an angel from heaven appeared and strengthened him. Luke 22:42-43 NLT

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Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now. And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. So it is right that I should feel as I do about all of you, for you have a special place in my heart. You share with me the special favor of God, both in my imprisonment and in defending and confirming the truth of the Good News. God knows how much I love you and long for you with the tender compassion of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:3-8 NLT

1. A CONTINUOUSLY GROWING LOVE

I pray that your love will overflow more and more… Philippians 1:9 NLT

One day an expert in religious law stood up to test Jesus by asking him this question: “Teacher, what should I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus replied, “What does the law of Moses say? How do you read it?” The man answered, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” “Right!” Jesus told him. “Do this and you will live!” The man wanted to justify his actions, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” Luke 10:25-29 NLT

“Now which of these three would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by bandits?” Jesus asked. The man replied, “The one who showed him mercy.” Then Jesus said, “Yes, now go and do the same.” Luke 10:36-37 NLT

2. THAT YOU KEEP ON GROWING

…and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. Philippians 1:9 NLT

Verse 11 is Mentor

Verse 12 is Ministry

Verse 13 is Maturity

3. DISCOVER WHAT IS TRULY IMPORTANT

For I want you to understand what really matters… Philippians 1:10 NLT

If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? Matthew 16:25-26 NLT

'Anyone who builds on that foundation may use a variety of materials—gold, silver, jewels, wood, hay, or straw. But on the judgment day, fire will reveal what kind of work each builder has done. The fire will show if a person’s work has any value. If the work survives, that builder will receive a reward. But if the work is burned up, the builder will suffer great loss. The builder will be saved, but like someone barely escaping through a wall of flames. 1 Corinthians 3:12-15 NLT

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1. THE ENEMY OF GENEROSITY

This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it. John 12:6 NKJV

Then Jesus said, “I chose the twelve of you, but one is a devil.” He was speaking of Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, one of the Twelve, who would later betray him. John 6:70-71

SUCCESS IS CONFRONTING OUR WEAKNESSES AND OVERCOMING THEM!

Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. 2 Corinthians 12:9

2. THE EXTRAVAGANCE OF GENEROSITY

And now, because of my devotion to the Temple of my God, I am giving all of my own private treasures of gold and silver to help in the construction 1 Chronicles 29:3

Solomon loved the Lord and followed all the decrees of his father, David, so the king went there and sacrificed 1,000 burnt offerings. 1 Kings 3:3-4

While Jesus was in the Temple, he watched the rich people dropping their gifts in the collection box. Then a poor widow came by and dropped in two small coins. “I tell you the truth,” Jesus said, “this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has.” Luke 21:1-4

EXTRAVAGANCE IS NOT THE AMOUNT, BUT THE ATTITUDE BEHIND IT!

She has done what she could and has anointed my body for burial ahead of time. Mark 14:8

they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord 2 Corinthians 8:5 NIV

THE MOST EXTRAVAGANT YOU CAN GIVE GOD IS YOUR HEART

3. THE REWARD OF GENEROSITY

I tell you the truth, wherever the Good News is preached throughout the world, this woman’s deed will be remembered and discussed. Mark 14:9

GENEROSITY IS A REFLECTION OF GRATITUDE

Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him. Hebrews 11:6

I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. Genesis 12:2 NIV

The Lord appeared to Abram and said, “To your offspring I will give this land.” So he built an altar there to the Lord, who had appeared to him. Genesis 12:7

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Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord. Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts. They do not compromise with evil, and they walk only in his paths. You have charged us to keep your commandments carefully. Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect your decrees! Psalms 119:1-5 NLT

And I say to you, make friends for yourselves by unrighteous mammon, that when you fail, they may receive you into an everlasting home. Luke 16:9 NKJV

He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. Therefore if you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? And if you have not been faithful in what is another man’s, who will give you what is your own? Luke 16:10-12 NKJV

No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. Luke 16:13 NKJV

1. WHAT IS MAMMON?

Then they said to one another, “Come, let us make bricks and bake them thoroughly.” They had brick for stone, and they had asphalt for mortar. And they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, and a tower whose top is in the heavens; let us make a name for ourselves… Genesis 11:3-4 NKJV

No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. Matthew 6:24 NKJV

Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Matthew 6:25-26 NKJV

MAMMON PROMISES US THINGS ONLY GOD CAN PROVIDE

Cause my heart to bow before your words of wisdom and not to the wealth of this world. Psalms 119:36

2. IS MONEY EVIL?

MONEY IS NOT EVIL IT IS NEUTRAL

For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows. 1 Timothy 6:10

And I say to you, make friends for yourselves by unrighteous mammon, that when you fail, they may receive you into an everlasting home. Luke 16:9 NKJV

ONLY GOD CAN TURN UNRIGHTEOUS MAMMON INTO SOULS

3. WHAT SHOULD I DO WITH MY MONEY?

If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. Luke 16:10

SATISFACTION IS ROOTED IN LIVING YOUR PURPOSE!

And if you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven? Luke 16:11

Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21 NKJV

HOW CAN YOU KNOW WHERE YOUR HEART IS?

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Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, “Consecrate to Me all the firstborn, whatever opens the womb. among the children of Israel, both of man and beast; it is Mine.” Exodus 13:1-2 NKJV

every firstborn that comes from an animal which you have; the males shall be the Lord’s. But every firstborn of a donkey you shall redeem with a lamb; and if you will not redeem it, then you shall break its neck. And all the firstborn of man among your sons you shall redeem. Exodus 13:12-13 NKJV

1. THE FIRSTBORN MUST BE SACRIFICED OR REDEEMED

For I was born a sinner—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me. Psalms 51:5

JESUS IS GOD’S TITHE

But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. Romans 5:8

MANY THINK THAT THE TITHE IS WHAT CAUSES THE BLESSING, BUT THAT'S NOT THE TRUTH; IT'S YOUR FAITH THAT CAUSES THE BLESSING!

Jericho and everything in it must be completely destroyed as an offering to the Lord. Only Rahab the prostitute and the others in her house will be spared, for she protected our spies. “Do not take any of the things set apart for destruction, or you yourselves will be completely destroyed, and you will bring trouble on the camp of Israel. Everything made from silver, gold, bronze, or iron is sacred to the Lord and must be brought into his treasury.” Joshua 6:17-19

2. FIRSTFRUITS MUST BE OFFERED

Honor the Lord with your possessions, And with the firstfruits of all your increase Proverbs 3:9 NKJV

The first of the firstfruits of your land you shall bring into the house of the Lord your God. Exodus 23:19 NKJV

But Israel violated the instructions about the things set apart for the Lord. A man named Achan had stolen some of these dedicated things, so the Lord was very angry with the Israelites. Joshua 7:1-2

IT TAKES FAITH TO TITHE AND IT TAKES FAITH TO BELIEVE THAT 90% BLESSED IS FAR BETTER THAN 100% CURSED.

And in the process of time it came to pass that Cain brought an offering of the fruit of the ground to the Lord. Genesis 4:3 NKJV

Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat. And the Lord respected Abel and his offering, but He did not respect Cain and his offering. Genesis 4:4-5 NKJV

3. THE TITHE MUST BE FIRST

One-tenth of the produce of the land, whether grain from the fields or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord and must be set apart to him as holy. Leviticus 27:30

For if the firstfruit is holy, the lump is also holy; and if the root is holy, so are the branches. Romans 11:16 NKJV

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Life is good for the one who is generous and charitable, conducting affairs with honesty and truth. Psalms 112:5 TPT

Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6

“I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed. Ever since the time of your ancestors you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty. “But you ask, ‘How are we to return?’ Malachi 3:6-7 NIV

“Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. “But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ Malachi 3:8 NIV

“In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. Malachi 3:8-9 NIV

Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe,” says the Lord Almighty. “Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land,” says the Lord Almighty. Malachi 3:10-12 NIV

3 UNDERSTANDINGS ABOUT TITHING

1. TITHING IS A TEST

Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. Malachi 3:10 NIV

2. TITHING IS BIBLICAL

Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High, and he blessed Abram, saying, “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. And praise be to God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand.” Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything. Genesis 14:18-20 NIV

this memorial pillar I have set up will become a place for worshiping God, and I will present to God a tenth of everything he gives me. Genesis 28:22

One-tenth of the produce of the land, whether grain from the fields or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord and must be set apart to him as holy. Leviticus 27:30

And it shall be, when you come into the land which the Lord your God is giving you as an inheritance, and you possess it and dwell in it, you shall take some of the first of all the produce of the ground, which you shall bring from your land that the Lord your God is giving you, and put it in a basket and go to the place where the Lord your God chooses to make His name abide. Deuteronomy 26:1-2 NKJV

then you shall say before the Lord your God: ‘I have removed the holy tithe from my house, and also have given them to the Levite, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, according to all Your commandments which You have commanded me; I have not transgressed Your commandments, nor have I forgotten them. I have not eaten any of it when in mourning, nor have I removed any of it for an unclean use, nor given any of it for the dead. I have obeyed the voice of the Lord my God, and have done according to all that You have commanded me. Deuteronomy 26:13-14 NKJV

Look down from Your holy habitation, from heaven, and bless Your people Israel and the land which You have given us… Deuteronomy 26:15 NKJV

“What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are careful to tithe even the tiniest income from your herb gardens, but you ignore the more important aspects of the law—justice, mercy, and faith. You should tithe, yes, but do not neglect the more important things. Mathew 23:23

3. TITHING IS A BLESSING

Moreover he commanded the people who dwelt in Jerusalem to contribute support for the priests and the Levites, that they might devote themselves to the Law of the Lord. 2 Chronicles 31:4 NKJV

As soon as the commandment was circulated, the children of Israel brought in abundance the firstfruits of grain and wine, oil and honey, and of all the produce of the field; and they brought in abundantly the tithe of everything. And the children of Israel and Judah, who dwelt in the cities of Judah, brought the tithe of oxen and sheep; also the tithe of holy things which were consecrated to the Lord their God they laid in heaps. In the third month they began laying them in heaps, and they finished in the seventh month. 2 Chronicles 31:5-7 NKJV

And when Hezekiah and the leaders came and saw the heaps, they blessed the Lord and His people Israel. Then Hezekiah questioned the priests and the Levites concerning the heaps. And Azariah the chief priest, from the house of Zadok, answered him and said, “Since the people began to bring the offerings into the house of the Lord, we have had enough to eat and have plenty left, for the Lord has blessed His people; and what is left is this great abundance. 2 Chronicles 31:8-10 NKJV

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Blessed are those who act justly, who always do what is right. Psalms 106:3 NIV

You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ Acts 20:35

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Matthew 7:1-2 NIV

“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Luke 6:37-38 NIV

Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. Matthew 6:21

HOW TO DEVELOP A HEART OF GENEROSITY

But if there are any poor Israelites in your towns when you arrive in the land the Lord your God is giving you, do not be hard-hearted or tightfisted toward them. Instead, be generous and lend them whatever they need. Deuteronomy 15:7-8

1. DEAL WITH A SELFISH HEART

Do not be mean-spirited and refuse someone a loan because the year for canceling debts is close at hand. If you refuse to make the loan and the needy person cries out to the Lord, you will be considered guilty of sin. Deuteronomy 15:9

WHY DID GOD INVENT GIVING?

GIVING OVER ANY OTHER ACTIVITY WORKS SELFISHNESS AND GREED OUT OF OUR HEARTS

People may be pure in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their motives. Proverbs 16:2

when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure. James 4:3

2. DEAL WITH A GRIEVING HEART

Give generously to the poor, not grudgingly, for the Lord your God will bless you in everything you do. Deuteronomy 15:10

SELFISHNESS ATTACKS US BEFORE WE GIVE AND GRIEF ATTACKS US AFTER WE GIVE.

HOW DO YOU COMBAT GRIEF?

YOU HAVE THE PROPER PERSPECTIVE REGARDING “YOUR” MONEY

3. DEVELOP A GENEROUS HEART

Give him a generous farewell gift from your flock, your threshing floor, and your winepress. Share with him some of the bounty with which the Lord your God has blessed you. Deuteronomy 15:14

HOW DO YOU WALK IN GENEROSITY?

BY RENEWING OUR MINDS

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Romans 12:2

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross. Philippians 2:3-8 NLT

4. DEVELOP A GRATEFUL HEART

Remember that you were once slaves in the land of Egypt and the Lord your God redeemed you! That is why I am giving you this command. Deuteronomy 15:15

live each day with holy awe and reverence throughout your time on earth. For you know that your lives were ransomed once and for all from the empty and futile way of life handed down from generation to generation. It was not a ransom payment of silver and gold, which eventually perishes, but the precious blood of Christ—who like a spotless, unblemished lamb was sacrificed for us. 1 Peter 1:17-19 TPT

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QUESTION: CAN YOU TEACH ON THE “END TIMES”? HOW DO WE PREPARE FOR THE SECOND COMING OF JESUS?

WE BELIEVE AS A CHURCH IN THE SECOND COMING OF CHRIST, OR IN OTHER WORDS THE FACT THAT JESUS IS COMING AGAIN!

Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!” Acts 1:9-11

OVER 300 REFERENCES IN N.T. OF JESUS’ RETURN

216/260 CHAPTERS IN THE N.T. REFERENCE JESUS’ RETURN

23 OF THE 27 N.T. BOOKS REFERENCE JESUS’ RETURN

However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows. Matthew 24:36

Later, Jesus sat on the Mount of Olives. His disciples came to him privately and said, “Tell us, when will all this happen? What sign will signal your return and the end of the world?” Jesus told them, “Don’t let anyone mislead you, for many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah.’ They will deceive many. And you will hear of wars and threats of wars, but don’t panic. Yes, these things must take place, but the end won’t follow immediately. Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in many parts of the world. But all this is only the first of the birth pains, with more to come. “Then you will be arrested, persecuted, and killed. You will be hated all over the world because you are my followers. And many will turn away from me and betray and hate each other. And many false prophets will appear and will deceive many people. Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. And the Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations will hear it; and then the end will come. Matthew 24:3-14

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS?

✓ WARS & THREATS

✓ FAMINES & EARTHQUAKES

✓ HATRED ALL OVER THE WORLD FOR BELIEVERS

✓ SIN WILL BE RAMPANT

✓ LOVE WILL GROW COLD

✓ THE GOSPEL BEING PREACHED TO THE WHOLE WORLD

✓ WORLD WIDE SATELLITE TECHNOLOGY

And for three and a half days, all peoples, tribes, languages, and nations will stare at their bodies. No one will be allowed to bury them. Revelation 11:9 NLT

✓ WORLDWIDE FINANCIAL TECHNOLOGY

WHAT IS THE WORLD’S RESPONSE?

Most importantly, I want to remind you that in the last days scoffers will come, mocking the truth and following their own desires. They will say, “What happened to the promise that Jesus is coming again? From before the times of our ancestors, everything has remained the same since the world was first created.” 2 Peter 3:3-4

✓ MOCK THE TRUTH

✓ FOLLOW THEIR DESIRES

WHAT IS THE REALITY?

But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day. The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. But the day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief. Then the heavens will pass away with a terrible noise, and the very elements themselves will disappear in fire, and the earth and everything on it will be found to deserve judgment. 2 Peter 3:8-10

✓ GOD WANTS ALL TO BE SAVED

✓ MANY PEOPLE WILL NOT BE READY

Two men will be working together in the field; one will be taken, the other left. Two women will be grinding flour at the mill; one will be taken, the other left.“So you, too, must keep watch! For you don’t know what day your Lord is coming. Matthew 24:40-42

WHAT IS MY RESPONSE?

“Then the Kingdom of Heaven will be like ten bridesmaids who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. The five who were foolish didn’t take enough olive oil for their lamps, but the other five were wise enough to take along extra oil. When the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep. “At midnight they were roused by the shout, ‘Look, the bridegroom is coming! Come out and meet him!’ “All the bridesmaids got up and prepared their lamps. Then the five foolish ones asked the others, ‘Please give us some of your oil because our lamps are going out.’ “But the others replied, ‘We don’t have enough for all of us. Go to a shop and buy some for yourselves.’ “But while they were gone to buy oil, the bridegroom came. Then those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was locked. Later, when the other five bridesmaids returned, they stood outside, calling, ‘Lord! Lord! Open the door for us!’ “But he called back, ‘Believe me, I don’t know you!’ “So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return. Matthew 25:1-13 NLT

➡ WE SHOULD BE CLEAR-HEADED

The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. 1 Peter 4:7 ESV

For I have told you often before, and I say it again with tears in my eyes, that there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ. They are headed for destruction. Their god is their appetite, they brag about shameful things, and they think only about this life here on earth. But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior. Philippians 3:18-20

But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so run from all these evil things. Pursue righteousness and a godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness. Fight the good fight for the true faith. Hold tightly to the eternal life to which God has called you. Then no one can find fault with you from now until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. 1 Timothy 6:11-12,14 NLT

➡ WE SHOULD ELEVATE OUR RELATIONSHIPS

Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins. Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay. 1 Peter 4:8-9

➡ WE SHOULD MAKE A DIFFERENCE

God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. Do you have the gift of speaking? Then speak as though God himself were speaking through you. Do you have the gift of helping others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies. Then everything you do will bring glory to God through Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 4:10-11

➡ WE SHOULD RECEIVE JESUS’ FORGIVENESS

Since everything around us is going to be destroyed like this, what holy and godly lives you should live? 2 Peter 3:11

Seek the Lord while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. Let the wicked change their ways and banish the very thought of doing wrong. Let them turn to the Lord that he may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously. Isaiah 55:6-7

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QUESTION: CAN WE TALK MORE IN-DEPTH ABOUT SIN STRUGGLES IN THE CHURCH, IE: LUST, SEXUAL SIN, AND ADDICTIONS, ETC...

1. WHY DO WE DEAL WITH IT?

Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused. They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen. That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires… Romans 1:21,25-26 NLT

Run from sexual sin! No other sin so clearly affects the body as this one does. For sexual immorality is a sin against your own body. 1 Corinthians 6:18 NLT

YOU WERE BOUGHT WITH A PRICE

YOU ARE NOT YOUR OWN. YOU BELONG TO GOD.

HIS SPIRIT WAS PUT IN YOU

HONOR GOD WITH YOUR BODY

IT MEANS YOU ARE FREE FROM GODS WRATH

for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God’s righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. Romans 3:23-25 ESV

And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation. Romans 5:9 NLT

IT MEANS YOU ARE FREE FROM SATAN

You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for he forgave all our sins. He canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross. In this way, he disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities. He shamed them publicly by his victory over them on the cross. Colossians 2:13-15 NLT

IT MEANS YOU ARE FREE FROM SIN

For you know that God paid a ransom to save you from the empty life you inherited from your ancestors. And it was not paid with mere gold or silver, which lose their value. It was the precious blood of Christ, the sinless, spotless Lamb of God. 1 Peter 1:18-19 NLT

IT MEANS YOU ARE FREE FROM OURSELVES AND OTHERS

He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them. 2 Corinthians 5:15 NLT

God paid a high price for you, so don’t be enslaved by the world. 1 Corinthians 7:23 NLT

2. HOW DO WE CONQUER IT?

But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. 1 Corinthians 9:27 ESV

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But God’s truth stands firm like a foundation stone with this inscription: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and “All who belong to the Lord must turn away from evil.” Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts. 2 Timothy 2:19,22 NLT

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Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. James 4:7-8 NLT

'For if you live by its (sinful nature) dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. Romans 8:13 NLT

A- AVOID

N- NO (WITHIN 5 SECONDS)

T- TURN

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Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. Colossians 3:1-2 NLT

for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:20 NLT

They will mock him, spit on him, flog him with a whip, and kill him, but after three days he will rise again. Mark 10:34 NLT

A- AVOID

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T- TURN

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let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Hebrews 12:1-2 NLT

So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Galatians 6:9 NLT

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'You have died with Christ, and he has set you free from the spiritual powers of this world. So why do you keep on following the rules of the world, such as, “Don’t handle! Don’t taste! Don’t touch!”? Such rules are mere human teachings about things that deteriorate as we use them. These rules may seem wise because they require strong devotion, pious self-denial, and severe bodily discipline. But they provide no help in conquering a person’s evil desires. Colossians 2:20-23 NLT

You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever. Psalms 16:11 NLT

The commandments of the Lord are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are clear, giving insight for living. Reverence for the Lord is pure, lasting forever. The laws of the Lord are true; each one is fair. They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold. They are sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb. Psalms 19:8-10 NLT

A- AVOID

N- NO (WITHIN 5 SECONDS)

T- TURN

H- HOLD

E- ENJOY

M- MOVE

I walked by the field of a lazy person, the vineyard of one with no common sense. I saw that it was overgrown with nettles. It was covered with weeds, and its walls were broken down. Then, as I looked and thought about it, I learned this lesson: A little extra sleep, a little more slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest— then poverty will pounce on you like a bandit; scarcity will attack you like an armed robber. Proverbs 24:30-34 NLT

who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works. Titus 2:14 NLT

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18 to 29-year-olds that grew up as Christians

10% are Resilient Disciples

5 PRACTICES OF RESILIENT DISCIPLES

1. THEY EXPERIENCE INTIMACY WITH JESUS WHICH FORMS A RESILIENT IDENTITY

2. DEVELOP MUSCLES OF CULTURAL DISCERNMENT IN A COMPLEX AND ANXIOUS CULTURE

3. THEY BUILD MEANINGFUL, INTERGENERATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS

4. THEY ARE MOTIVATED AND TRAINED FOR VOCATIONAL DISCIPLESHIP

5. RESILIENT DISCIPLES CURB THEIR ENTITLEMENT AND SELF-CENTERED TENDENCIES BY ENGAGING IN COUNTERCULTURAL MISSION

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT

If you want to be my disciple, you must, by comparison, hate everyone else—your father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even your own life. Otherwise, you cannot be my disciple. And if you do not carry your own cross and follow me, you cannot be my disciple. But don’t begin until you count the cost. Luke 14:26-28 NLT

WITHOUT INTENTIONALITY WE WILL DRIFT TOWARDS CONFORMITY AND COMPLACENCY

let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Romans 12:2 NLT

For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:10 NLT

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. John 14:6

My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. John 10:10 NLT

that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!) Ephesians 2:5 NLT

He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less. John 3:30 NLT

God blesses those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth. Matthew 5:5 NLT

WHAT GETS RID OF SELF-CENTERED WAYS AND CHECKS ENTITLEMENT IS SERVICE, SACRIFICE, SILENCE, SOLITUDE, LETTING GO OF CONTROL, AND THINKING LESS ABOUT YOURSELF. DAVID KINNAMAN

HOW DO WE LIVE ON MISSION WHILE IN EXILE?

1. EXILES SHOULD MAKE PRAYER A MISSION.

And work for the peace and prosperity of the city where I sent you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, for its welfare will determine your welfare. Jeremiah 29:7 NLT

2. EXILES SHOULD BE FAITHFUL AND HOLY

Now I am glad I sent it, not because it hurt you, but because the pain caused you to repent and change your ways. It was the kind of sorrow God wants his people to have, so you were not harmed by us in any way. For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. There’s no regret for that kind of sorrow. But worldly sorrow, which lacks repentance, results in spiritual death. 2 Corinthians 7:9-10 NLT

So you must live in reverent fear of him during your time here as “temporary residents.” 1 Peter 1:17 NLT

3. EXILES SHOULD BE FRUITFUL

Build homes, and plan to stay. Plant gardens, and eat the food they produce. Marry and have children. Then find spouses for them so that you may have many grandchildren. Multiply! Do not dwindle away! Jeremiah 29:5-6 NLT

4. EXILES MUST BE WARY, REALISTIC, AND HOPEFUL

Do not let your prophets and fortune-tellers who are with you in the land of Babylon trick you. Do not listen to their dreams, because they are telling you lies in my name. I have not sent them,” says the Lord . Jeremiah 29:8-9 NLT

For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 NLT

5. EXILES SHOULD TAKE EPIC RISKS TO SAY AND DO WHAT IS RIGHT

And I want you to know, my dear brothers and sisters, that everything that has happened to me here has helped to spread the Good News. For everyone here, including the whole palace guard, knows that I am in chains because of Christ. And because of my imprisonment, most of the believers here have gained confidence and boldly speak God’s message without fear. Philippians 1:12-14 NLT

6. EXILES MUST FIND THEIR HOME IN GOD

'In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,” says the Lord. Jeremiah 29:12-14 NLT

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18 to 29-year-olds that grew up as Christians

22% are Prodigals

30% are Nomads

38% are Habitual Churchgoers

10% are Resilient Disciples

5 PRACTICES OF RESILIENT DISCIPLES

1. THEY EXPERIENCE INTIMACY WITH JESUS WHICH FORMS A RESILIENT IDENTITY

2. DEVELOP MUSCLES OF CULTURAL DISCERNMENT IN A COMPLEX AND ANXIOUS CULTURE

3. THEY BUILD MEANINGFUL, INTERGENERATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS

4. THEY ARE MOTIVATED AND TRAINED FOR VOCATIONAL DISCIPLESHIP

'A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other. ' 1 Corinthians 12:7 NLT

“A SPIRITUAL GIFT IS A SPECIAL SUPERNATURAL ABILITY THAT GOD GIVES TO EACH OF HIS CHILDREN SO THAT TOGETHER WE CAN ADVANCE HIS PURPOSES IN THIS WORLD.” -PASTOR CHRIS HODGES

Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20 NLT

'In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. Romans 12:6 NLT

FOUR LIVED TRUTHS OF A VOCATIONAL DISCIPLE

1. I CLEARLY SEE HOW THE WORK I AM DOING SERVES GOD

2. I FIND PURPOSE AND MEANING IN THE WORK I DO

3. AS A CHRISTIAN, IS IMPORTANT TO MOLD THE CULTURE OF MY WORKPLACE

4. I AM DRIVEN TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD

Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward. Colossians 3:23-24 NLT

1. WE HAVE TO DISCOVER OUR WHY

'You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.' Psalms 139:13-14 NLT

“Humans were made to have meaning. Without purpose, life is meaningless. A meaningless life is a life without hope or significance. This is a profound statement and one that everyone should spend time pondering. God gives purpose. Purpose gives meaning. Meaning gives hope and significance. There is awesome truth contained within that logic.” Rick Warren

QUESTION 1: WHAT DO YOU CRY ABOUT?

QUESTION 2: WHAT DO YOU SING ABOUT?

“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

QUESTION 3: WHAT DO YOU DREAM ABOUT?

2. WE UNDERSTAND SUSTAINABLE INFLUENCE IS BASED ON CHARACTER NOT TALENT

You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. Matthew 5:14,16 NLT

MARK 1: A WISE PERSON TRUSTS IN GOD

MARK 2: A WISE PERSON WALKS IN HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS

MARK 3: A WISE PERSON SEEKS GOOD COUNSEL

MARK 4: A WISE PERSON USES WORDS WISELY

MARK 5: A WISE PERSON EXERCISES SELF-CONTROL

MARK 6: A WISE PERSON MANAGES THEIR RESOURCES

MARK 7: A WISE PERSON LIVES IN PEACE

3. WE UNDERSTAND WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER

He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love. Ephesians 4:16

4. WE TAKE ADVANTAGE OF WHERE WE ARE AT AND WE GROW INTO WHERE DESIRE TO BE.

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18 to 29-year-olds that grew up as Christians

22% are Prodigals

30% are Nomads

38% are Habitual Churchgoers

10% are Resilient Disciples

5 PRACTICES OF RESILIENT DISCIPLES

1. THEY EXPERIENCE INTIMACY WITH JESUS WHICH FORMS A RESILIENT IDENTITY

2. DEVELOP MUSCLES OF CULTURAL DISCERNMENT IN A COMPLEX AND ANXIOUS CULTURE

3. THEY BUILD MEANINGFUL, INTERGENERATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS

I write to you, fathers, Because you have known Him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, Because you have overcome the wicked one. I write to you, little children, Because you have known the Father. 1 John 2:13 NKJV

GOD'S IDEA OF A HEALTHY CHURCH IS MULTIGENERATIONAL

Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Philippians 2:1-5 NLT

Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Colossians 3:13 NLT

“We don’t merely bear one another’s burdens; the true burden is bearing one another. We overlook offense. We forgive. We show mercy and grace. We disabuse ourselves of our own pipe dreams and illusions of Christian community in order for the power of that community to take effect.” -Dietrich Bonhoeffer

INSTEAD OF CULTIVATING COMMUNITY, WE ARE CULTIVATING ISOLATION

'Then the Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone.” Genesis 2:18 NLT

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Philippians 2:3-5 NLT

HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS IN A GODLY COMMUNITY CAN ANSWER SOME OF OUR DEEPEST LONGINGS.

AM I LOVED?
WHO ARE MY FRIENDS?
DOES ANYONE CARE ABOUT ME?

“Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God.” 2 Corinthians 2:15 NLT

“Now he uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere, like a sweet perfume.” 2 Corinthians 2:14 NLT

You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God’s word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. Hebrews 5:12 NLT

1. WE SHOW UP

2. WE ALLOW EMOTIONS AND VULNERABILITIES TO BE SHARED WITHOUT JUDGEMENT

Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them... Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Romans 12:9,15 NLT

When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. Psalms 32:3 NIV

3. WE BECOME MENTORS

Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. Romans 12:9-13 NLT

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18 to 29-year-olds that grew up as Christians

22% are Prodigals

30% are Nomads

38% are Habitual Churchgoers

10% are Resilient Disciples

5 PRACTICES OF RESILIENT DISCIPLES

1. THEY EXPERIENCE INTIMACY WITH JESUS WHICH FORMS A RESILIENT IDENTITY

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 NLT

So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. James 4:7-8 NLT

TWO FACTORS THAT HINDER OUR INTIMACY WITH JESUS

1. WE HAVE AN ELECTIVE IDENTITY

You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. Psalms 139:13-16 NLT

And yet, O Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, and you are the potter. We all are formed by your hand. Isaiah 64:8 NOT

“What sorrow awaits those who argue with their Creator. Does a clay pot argue with its maker? Does the clay dispute with the one who shapes it, saying, ‘Stop, you’re doing it wrong!’ Does the pot exclaim, ‘How clumsy can you be?’” Isaiah 45:9 NLT

2. WE HAVE A SELF-CREATED VERSION OF JESUS

You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it. Matthew 7:13-14 NLT

If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it. Matthew 10:38-39 NLT

If you love your father or mother more than you love me, you are not worthy of being mine… Matthew 10:37 NLT

HOW DO WE EXPERIENCE INTIMACY WITH JESUS?

1. WE EXPERIENCE JESUS TOGETHER

And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. Acts 2:46-47 ESV

2. WE EXPERIENCE JESUS BY SOLELY FOLLOWING HIM

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. John 14:6 NLT

3. WE EXPERIENCE JESUS BY ASKING THE CHALLENGING QUESTIONS OF LIFE

4. WE EXPERIENCE JESUS BY GETTING CLOSE AND STAYING CLOSE

O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water. Psalms 63:1 NLT

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18 to 29-year-olds that grew up as Christians

22% are Prodigals

30% are Nomads

38% are Habitual Churchgoers

10% are Resilient Disciples

Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. Ephesians 4:11-13 NLT

After that generation died, another generation grew up who did not acknowledge the Lord or remember the mighty things he had done for Israel. The Israelites did evil in the Lord’s sight and served the images of Baal… and they intermarried with them. Israelite sons married their daughters, and Israelite daughters were given in marriage to their sons. And the Israelites served their gods. Judges 2:10-11; 3:6 NLT

He did what was pleasing in the Lord’s sight and followed the example of his ancestor David. He did not turn away from doing what was right... Never before had there been a king like Josiah, who turned to the Lord with all his heart and soul and strength, obeying all the laws of Moses. And there has never been a king like him since. 2 Kings 22:2; 23:25 NLT

So Josiah removed all detestable idols from the entire land of Israel and required everyone to worship the Lord their God. And throughout the rest of his lifetime, they did not turn away from the Lord, the God of their ancestors. 2 Chronicles 34:33 NLT

“O Israel,” says the Lord, “if you wanted to return to me, you could. You could throw away your detestable idols and stray away no more. Then when you swear by my name, saying, ‘As surely as the Lord lives,’ you could do so with truth, justice, and righteousness. Then you would be a blessing to the nations of the world, and all people would come and praise my name.” Jeremiah 4:1-2 NLT

I FEAR THE CHURCH TODAY WANTS A KING JOSIAH REFORMATION INSTEAD OF A JEREMIAH RESTORATION

This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says to all the captives he has exiled to Babylon from Jerusalem: “Build homes, and plan to stay. Plant gardens, and eat the food they produce. Marry and have children. Then find spouses for them so that you may have many grandchildren. Multiply! Do not dwindle away! And work for the peace and prosperity of the city where I sent you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, for its welfare will determine your welfare.” This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says: “Do not let your prophets and fortune-tellers who are with you in the land of Babylon trick you. Do not listen to their dreams, because they are telling you lies in my name. I have not sent them,” says the Lord. This is what the Lord says: “You will be in Babylon for seventy years. But then I will come and do for you all the good things I have promised, and I will bring you home again. For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. Jeremiah 29:4-13 NLT

I do everything to spread the Good News and share in its blessings. Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified. 1 Corinthians 9:23-27 NLT

1. RESILIENT DISCIPLES EXPERIENCE INTIMACY WITH JESUS

2. RESILIENT DISCIPLES ARE DEVELOPING CULTURAL DISCERNMENT

3. RESILIENT DISCIPLES FORGE MEANINGFUL INTERGENERATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS

4. RESILIENT DISCIPLES ARE TRAINED FOR VOCATIONAL DISCIPLESHIP

5. RESILIENT DISCIPLES CURB THEIR ENTITLEMENT AND SELF-CENTERED TENDENCIES TO LIVE A LIFE OF MISSION

Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! You can make this choice by loving the Lord your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This is the key to your life. Deuteronomy 30:19-20 NLT

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“…Since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others.” Romans 12:5 NLT

QUADRANT 4: A CALL TO ACTION

Work brings profit, but mere talk leads to poverty! Proverbs 14:23 NLT

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as though you were working for the Lord and not for people. Colossians 3:23 GNT

DREAMS ARE CONCEIVED ON YOUR KNEES AND ACHIEVED ON YOUR FEET.

ADVICE

The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice. Proverbs 12:15 NIV

Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers. Proverbs 11:14 NLT

WHAT DO YOU WANT? WHAT IS GETTING IN THE WAY?

WHAT IS GETTING IN THE WAY? WHAT DO YOU REALLY WANT?

WHAT DO YOU REALLY WANT? WHAT ARE WILLING TO COMMIT TO DO?

STRUCTURE

The prudent give thought to their steps. Proverbs 14:15 NIV

But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way. 1 Corinthians 14:40 NIV

CHALLENGE

Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. Hebrews 10:24 NLT

DEVELOPMENT

Praise the Lord, who is my rock. He trains my hands for war and gives my fingers skill for battle. Psalms 144:1 NLT

CONSISTENCY BUILDS CONFIDENCE AND CONFIDENCE CREATES MOMENTUM

SERVICE

And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”Acts 20:35 NLT

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People Fuel – Week 5

“…Since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the other.” Romans 12:5 NLT

QUADRANT 1: BE PRESENT

TRUE, DEEP RELATIONSHIPS ARE BUILT ON THE FOUNDATION OF TRUST

QUADRANT 2: CONVEY THE GOOD

AFFIRMATION

ENCOURAGEMENT

RESPECT

HOPE

FORGIVENESS

CELEBRATION

“Then he said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me. Luke 9:23

QUADRANT 3: PROVIDE REALITY

WITHOUT QUADRANTS 1 AND 2, QUADRANT 3 DOESN’T HAVE A LEG TO STAND ON

CLARIFICATION

CLARIFICATION: HELPING A PERSON THINK CLEARLY ENOUGH TO SEE AN ANSWER.

So quickly my dude just fires back:

Have you ever wished you HAD more clarity…? This guy does: 10 min later she texts back and says:

“As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to Him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” “Why do you call me good? ” Mark 10:17-18 NIV

“Jesus answered. “No one is good except for God alone” Mark 10:18 NIV

PERSPECTIVE

INSIGHT

INSIGHT: CONVEY A DEEPER UNDERSTANDING

“Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water. I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” John 4:13-14

FEEDBACK

FEEDBACK ISN’T A BAD THING

“Let a righteous man strike me – that is a kindness; let him rebuke me – that is oil on my head” Psalms 141:5

CONFRONTATION

CONFRONTATION: FACING ANOTHER PERSON WITH A REALITY ALONGSIDE AN APPEAL AND WARNING TO CHANGE

FEEDBACK CAN OFFER AFFIRMATION AND POSITIVITY OR IT CAN BE A CHALLENGE AND BE NEGATIVE

CONFRONTATION IS ALWAYS CORRECTIVE

“Jesus returned to the Mount of Olives, but early the next morning he was back again at the Temple. A crowd soon gathered, and he sat down and taught them. As he was speaking, the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. They put her in front of the crowd. “Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery. The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?”

“…Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger. They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, “All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!”

“Then he stooped down again and wrote in the dust. When the accusers heard this they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman. Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?” No, Lord,” she said. And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.” John 8:8-11

“The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.” John 10:10

“…I am the way , the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” John 14:6

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“…Since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others.” Romans 12:5 NLT

Then he said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me. Luke 9:23

The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. Proverbs 11:25 NLT

THE NUTRIENTS LIST

QUADRANT 2: CONVEY THE GOOD

Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. Proverbs 16:24 NIV

AFFIRMATION

Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. Hebrews 10:24

ENCOURAGEMENT

“It’s as simple as this: the cure for discouragement is encouragement.” -Dr. John Townsend

So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 NLT

RESPECT

Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor. 1 Peter 2:17 NIV

“Men are developed the same way gold is mined. Several tons of dirt must be moved to get an ounce of gold; but you don’t go into the mine looking for dirt. You go in looking for gold.” -Andrew Carnegie

When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. He said to his disciples, “The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.” Matthew 9:36-38 NLT

HOPE

For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 NLT

FORGIVENESS

Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:31-32 NLT

CELEBRATION

Rejoice with those who rejoice… Romans 12:15 NIV

In the same way, there is more joy in heaven over one lost sinner who repents and returns to God than over ninety-nine others who are righteous and haven’t strayed away! Luke 15:7 NLT

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“…Since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others.” Romans 12:5 NLT

Then the Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone”. Genesis 2:18 NLT

FUNCTIONAL NEEDS

RELATIONAL NEEDS

OBSTACLES TO ASKING FOR HELP

FEELING WEAK

Pride leads to destruction, and arrogance to downfall. Proverbs 16:18 GNT

FEELING SELFISH
TRUST ISSUES
SHAME
NOT FEELING DESERVING
THE LEADER’S DILEMMA

They triumphed over him (devil) by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their *testimony. Revelation 12:11 NIV*

MISUNDERSTANDING OF THE BIBLE

Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NLT

He (Jesus) told them, “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” Matthew 26:38 NLT

God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. 1 Peter 4:10 NLT

Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. James 5:16 NLT

Then Jesus told this story: “A man planted a fig tree in his garden and came again and again to see if there was any fruit on it, but he was always disappointed. Finally, he said to his gardener, ‘I’ve waited three years, and there hasn’t been a single fig! Cut it down. It’s just taking up space in the garden.’ “The gardener answered, ‘Sir, give it one more chance. Leave it another year, and I’ll give it special attention and plenty of fertilizer. If we get figs next year, fine. If not, then you can cut it down.’” Luke 13:6-9 NLT

THE FRUIT OF OUR LIVES

1. PERSONAL

BEHAVIORS
THOUGHTS
VALUES
EMOTIONS

2. PEOPLE

QUALITY ONE: VULNERABILITY

“The Capacity to be vulnerable allows us to truly know each other, to support each other, and to be a source of life and energy for each other. People who do not have several vulnerable relationships often struggle with isolation, energy problems, and self-doubt.” Dr. John Townsend

QUALITY TWO: THE CAPACITY TO SOLVE RELATIONAL PROBLEMS

3. PERFORMANCE

TRUNK OF CHARACTER

We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. Romans 5:3-4 NLT

ASPECT ONE: BONDING

ASPECT TWO: BOUNDARIES

ASPECT THREE: REALITY

ASPECT FOUR: CAPABILITY

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“…Since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others.” Romans 12:5 NLT

My servant grew up in the Lord’s presence like a tender green shoot, like a root in dry ground. There was nothing beautiful or majestic about his appearance, nothing to attract us to him. He was despised and rejected—a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief. We turned our backs on him and looked the other way. He was despised, and we did not care. Isaiah 53:2-3 NLT

“Listen! A farmer went out to plant some seed. As he scattered it across his field, some of the seed fell on a footpath, and the birds came and ate it. Other seed fell on shallow soil with underlying rock. The seed sprouted quickly because the soil was shallow. But the plant soon wilted under the hot sun, and since it didn’t have deep roots, it died. Other seed fell among thorns that grew up and choked out the tender plants so they produced no grain. Still other seeds fell on fertile soil, and they sprouted, grew, and produced a crop that was thirty, sixty, and even a hundred times as much as had been planted!” Then he said, “Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand.” Mark 4:3-9 NLT

THOSE WITH NO DEPTH
THOSE THAT ARE EMOTIONALLY DRIVEN
THOSE THAT JUST WANT A SOLUTION TO THEIR PROBLEM
THOSE THAT FLOURISH

WHAT ARE THE INGREDIENTS IN SOIL OF FLOURISHING GROWTH?

1. GRACE

Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory. So just as sin ruled over all people and brought them to death, now God’s wonderful grace rules instead, giving us right standing with God and resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 5:1-2,21 NLT

But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. 1 John 4:8-10 NLT

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14 NKJV

2. TRUTH

“Truth informs, educates, enlightens, corrects, and confronts us.” - Dr. John Townsend

3. TIME

Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Psalms 90:12 NIV

GROWTH IS NOT INSTANTANEOUS, BUT A PROCESS

So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Galatians 6:9 NLT

You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the eternal Rock. Isaiah 26:3-4

Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do. James 1:6-8

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“…Since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others.” Romans 12:5 NLT

Then the Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone”. Genesis 2:18 NLT

FUNCTIONAL NEEDS

RELATIONAL NEEDS

OBSTACLES TO ASKING FOR HELP

FEELING WEAK

Pride leads to destruction, and arrogance to downfall. Proverbs 16:18 GNT

FEELING SELFISH
TRUST ISSUES
SHAME
NOT FEELING DESERVING
THE LEADER’S DILEMMA

They triumphed over him (devil) by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their *testimony. Revelation 12:11 NIV*

MISUNDERSTANDING OF THE BIBLE

He (Jesus) told them, “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” Matthew 26:38 NLT

God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. 1 Peter 4:10 NLT

Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. James 5:16 NLT

THE FRUIT OF OUR LIVES

1. PERSONAL

BEHAVIORS
THOUGHTS
VALUES
EMOTIONS

2. PEOPLE

QUALITY ONE: VULNERABILITY

QUALITY TWO: THE CAPACITY TO SOLVE RELATIONAL PROBLEMS

3. PERFORMANCE

TRUNK OF CHARACTER

ASPECT ONE: BONDING

ASPECT TWO: BOUNDARIES

ASPECT THREE: REALITY

ASPECT FOUR: CAPABILITY

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Serving

Serve – Week 3

AS BELIEVERS, WE ARE CALLED TO LIVE A LIFE BIGGER THAN OURSELVES

YOU CANNOT BE A CHRISTIAN AND LIVE WITH A “ME” MENTALITY

“Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross.” Philippians 2:3-8 NLT

“…Things are not going well for those who returned to the province of Judah. They are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem has been torn down, and the gates have been destroyed by fire.” Nehemiah 1:3 NLT

“Early the following spring, in the month of Nisan, (not the car 😉) during the twentieth year of King Artexerxes reign, I was serving the king his wine. I had never before appeared sad in his presence. So the king asked me, “why are you looking so sad? You don’t look sick to me. You must be deeply troubled.” Then I was terrified, but I replied, “long live the king! How can I not be sad? For the city where my ancestors are buried is in ruins, and the gates have been destroyed by fire.” The king asked, “well, how can I help you?” With a prayer to the God of Heaven, I replied, “if it please the king, and if you are pleased with me, your servant, send me to Judah to rebuild the city where my ancestors are buried.” The king, with the queen sitting beside him asked, “How long will you be gone? When will you return?” After I told him how long I would be gone, the king agreed to my request.” Nehemiah 2:1-6 NLT

WHAT WOULD OUR CHURCH, CITY, STATE, COUNTRY, WORLD LOOK LIKE IF WE WERE THAT CONCERNED ABOUT SOULS GOING TO HELL EVERY DAY?

GOD WILL EQUIP YOU FOR THE IMPACT HE WANTS YOU TO MAKE

IF GOD CALLED YOU TO IT TRUST THAT HE WILL EQUIP YOU TO DO IT!

“I also said to the king, “ if it please the king, let me have letters addressed to the governors of the province west of the Euphrates River, instructing them to let me travel safely through their territories on my way to Judah. And please give me a letter addressed to Asaph, the manager of the king’s forest, instructing him to give me timber. I will need it to make beams for the gates of the Temple fortress, for the city walls, and for a house for myself.” And the king granted these requests because the gracious hand of God was on me.” Nehemiah 2:6-8 NLT

GOD ALWAYS MAKES A WAY

“IF GOD GAVE YOU THE VISION HE WILL GIVE YOU ACCESS TO THE PROVISION” - T.D. JAKES

“The king asked, “well, how can I help you?” Nehemiah 2:4 NLT

“You know very well what trouble we are in. Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire. Let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem and end this disgrace.” Nehemiah 2:17 NLT

“Then I told them about how the gracious hand of God had been on me, and about my conversation with the king. They replied at once, “Yes, lets rebuild the wall!” So they began the good work” Nehemiah 2:18 NLT

“The Eliashib the high priest and the other priests started to rebuild at the Sheep Gate…the fish gate was built by the sons of Hasenaah…meremoth son of Uriah…repaired the next section of the wall…The old city gate was repaired by Joiada…next to them were Melatiah…next was Uzziel…who also worked on the wall.” Nehemiah 3:1-8 NLT

“Sanballat was very angry when he learned that we were rebuilding the wall. He flew into a rage and mocked the Jews, saying in front of his friends and the Samaritan army officers, “What does this bunch of poor feeble Jews think they’re doing? Do they think they can build the wall in a single day by just offering a few sacrifices? Do they actually think they can make something of stones from a rubbish heap – and charred ones at that?” Nehemiah 4:1-2 NLT

“Tobias the Ammonite, who was standing beside him, remarked, “ that stone wall would collapse if even a fox walked along the top of it!” Nehemiah 4:3 NLT

“ANYONE WHO STEPS INTO THE ARENA OF LEADERSHIP MUST BE PREPARED TO PAY A PRICE. TRUE LEADERSHIP EXACTS A HEAVY TOLL ON THE WHOLE PERSON AND THE MORE EFFECTIVE THE LEADERSHIP, THE HIGHER THE PRICE!” – CHARLES SWINDOLL

“God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in Heaven.” Matthew 5:11-12 NLT

HAVE A HEART FOR YOUR JERUSALEM

“…Love your neighbor as yourself. No other commandment is greater than these. “ Mark 12:31 NLT

HAVE THE CONFIDENCE TO SHARE WHAT GOD HAS PUT ON YOUR HEART

“IF GOD GAVE YOU THE VISION HE WILL GIVE YOU ACCESS TO THE PROVISION” - T.D. JAKES

GATHER YOUR FELLOW STONE-LAYERS

“Discover creative ways to encourage others and motivate them toward acts of compassion, doing beautiful works as expressions of love. This is not the time to pull away and neglect meeting together, as some have formed the habit of doing. In fact, we should come together even more frequently, eager to encourage and urge each other onward as we anticipate that day dawning.” Hebrews 10:24-25 TPT

PURPOSE IS GREATER THAN PERSECUTION

REJOICE

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Serving

Serve – Week 2

COUCH POTATO: A PERSON WHO TAKES LITTLE OR NO EXERCISE AND WATCHES A LOT OF TELEVISION

PEW POTATO

CHRISTIANITY ISN’T PASSIVE. IT’S VERY MUCH ACTIVE!

SERVE

I DON’T FEEL LIKE I HAVE ANYTHING TO OFFER

I DON’T HAVE TIME

MINISTRY IS FOR PASTORS

LOOKS LIKE EVERYTHING IS ALREADY BEING DONE…THEY DON’T NEED ME

THEY DON’T HAVE ANYTHING THAT FITS MY GIFTS

I’M TOO OLD

I’M TOO YOUNG

OFFERING MY GIFTS WOULD BE PRIDEFUL

WHAT’S AVAILABLE ISN’T APPEALING TO ME

GOD DESIGNED YOU TO SERVE

“God made us what we are. In Christ Jesus, God made us to do good works, which God planned in advance for us to live our lives doing” Ephesians 2:10 NCV

“God has given each of you some special abilities; be sure to use them to help each other, passing on to others God’s many kinds of blessings” 1 Peter 4:10 TLB

GOD GIFTED YOU TO SERVE

“God has given each of you some special abilities; be sure to use them to help each other, passing on to others God’s many kinds of blessings” 1 Peter 4:10 TLB

WE ARE INCOMPLETE WITHOUT YOU AND YOUR GIFTINGS

“The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body. So it is with the body of Christ. Some of us are Jews, some are Gentiles, some are slaves, and some are free. But we have all been baptized into one body by one Spirit, and we all share the same Spirit. Yes, the body has many different parts, not just one part. If the foot says, “I am not a part of the body because I am not a hand,” that does not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear says, “I am not part of the body because I am not an eye,” would that make it any less a part of the body? If the whole body were an eye, how would you hear? Or if your whole body were an ear, how would you smell anything? But our bodies have many parts, and God has put each part just where he wants it. How strange a body would be if it had only one part! Yes, there are many parts, but only one body. The eye can never say to the hand, “I don’t need you.” The head can’t say to the feet, “I don’t need you.” In fact, some parts of the body that seem weakest and least important are actually the most necessary. And the parts we regard as less honorable are those we clothe with the greatest care. So we carefully protect those parts that should not be seen, while the more honorable parts do not require this special care. So God has put the body together such that extra honor and care are given to those parts that have less dignity. This makes for harmony among the members, so that all the members care for each other. If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad. All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is a part of it.” 1 Corinthians

GOD CALLED YOU TO SERVE

GOD CALLS US TO SERVE HIS CHURCH

“And he has appointed some with grace to be apostles, and some with grace to be prophets, and some with grace to be evangelists, and some with grace to be pastors, and some with grace to be teachers. And their calling is to nurture and prepare all the holy believers to do their own works of ministry, and as they do this they will enlarge and build up the body of Christ.” Ephesians

GROWTH TRACK GOD CALLS US TO SERVE OUR CITY

“This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says to all the captives he has exiled to Babylon from Jerusalem: “Build homes, and plan to stay. Plant gardens, and eat the food they produce. And work for the peace and prosperity of the city where I sent you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, for its welfare will determine your welfare.” Jeremiah 29:4-5,7 NLT

SOMETIMES YOU ARE THE ANSWER GOD SENDS FOR YOUR PRAYER

JESUS SHOWED US HOW TO SERVE

“I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you.” John 13:15 NLT

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.” Philippians 2:3-5

NO TASK WAS BENEATH JESUS, AND NO PERSON WAS UNWORTHY

ARE YOU STRUGGLING TO LOVE OTHERS?

ARE YOU DOING TOO MUCH?

HOW CAN YOU PLACE OTHERS FIRST IN YOUR DAY TO DAY LIFE?

ARE YOU LISTENING TO THE PROMPTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT?

“IF WE’RE GROWING, WE’RE ALWAYS GOING TO BE OUT OF OUR COMFORT ZONE” – JOHN MAXWELL

TAKE HOME:

SIGN UP FOR SERVE DAY

GO THROUGH GROWTH TRACK

NO TASK WAS BENEATH JESUS, AND NO PERSON WAS UNWORTHY

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If you think you are too important to help someone, you are only fooling yourself. You are not that important. Galatians 6:3 NLT

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges ; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross. Philippians 2:3-8 NLT

“Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:26-28 NLT

SERVANT LEADERSHIP IS ROOTED IN LOVE WHICH SEES THE POTENTIAL IN SOMEONE AND CARES SO DEEPLY FOR THEIR WELL-BEING THAT THEY WILL SERVE THEM TO SEE THEM REACH THAT POTENTIAL.

IF WE ARE NOT FUELED BY HEAVEN’S LOVE WE WILL BE FUELED BY THIS WORLD’S OPINIONS AND WE WILL LOSE OUR ETERNAL IMPACT.

If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal 1 Corinthians 13:1 NLT

If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God’s secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn’t love others, I would be nothing. If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn’t love others, I would have gained nothing. 1 Corinthians 13:2-3 NLT

LOVE IS NOT… (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)

LOVE IS NOT JEALOUS, BOASTFUL, OR PROUD

Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us. 1 John 4:11-12 NLT

LOVE IS NOT RUDE, DEMANDING ITS OWN WAY, OR IRRITABLE

Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble. Proverbs 21:23 NLT

A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. Proverbs 15:1 NLT

WHAT IS LOVE? (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)

LOVE IS PATIENT

You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. James 1:19 NLT

If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless. James 1:26 NLT

OUR CHARACTER IS REFLECTED BY OUR WORDS.

LOVE IS KIND.

Goodness is being good Moral excellence; virtue; the best part of anything; Essence; Strength; General character recognized in quality or conduct.

Kindness is goodness in action, sweetness of disposition, gentleness in dealing with others. Kindness is a part of our character…

“Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. Matthew 7:12 NLT

BE KIND AND DO GOOD

LOVE KEEPS NO RECORD OF WRONG

LOVE NEVER GIVES UP, NEVER LOSES FAITH, AND IS ALWAYS HOPEFUL.

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Our Father in heaven Matthew 6:9 NLT

Father to the fatherless, defender of widows— this is God, whose dwelling is holy. Psalms 68:5 NLT

1950 4.7% of Children were born out of Wedlock

Today that number has risen by 1700%

NATIONAL CENTER OF DISEASE CONTROL STATISTICS

85% of children that show behavioral disorders come from fatherless homes (20x the National Average)
90% of all American inmates are men
Over 75% of said inmates grew up without a father
63% of youth suicides are from fatherless homes (5x the National Average)
90% of homeless and runaway children come from fatherless homes (32x the National Average)
71% of all high school dropouts come from fatherless homes (9x the National Average)

Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other. When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. Romans 12:4-5,13 NLT

The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” Genesis 2:18 NIV

Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib, and he brought her to the man. “At last!” the man exclaimed. “This one is bone from my bone, and flesh from my flesh! She will be called ‘woman,’ because she was taken from ‘man. This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one. Genesis 2:22-24 NLT

THE QUALITIES OF A FATHER

Fathers, do not aggravate your children, or they will become discouraged. Colossians 3:21 NLT

1. FATHER’S MUST PROTECT CHILDREN FROM DISCOURAGEMENT

WE LEAD THEM TOWARDS HOPE

“No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money. Matthew 6:24 NLT

Some find their strength in their weapons and wisdom, but my miracle deliverance can never be won by men. Our boast is in the Lord our God, who makes us strong and gives us victory! Psalms 20:7 TPT

WE LEAD THEM TOWARDS JOY OVER HAPPINESS

Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms — to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way. - Viktor Frankl

You have given me greater joy than those who have abundant harvests of grain and new wine. In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe. Psalms 4:7-8 NLT

WE LEAD THEM TOWARDS THEIR GOD-GIVEN CALLING

May he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. All glory to him forever and ever! Amen. Hebrews 13:21 NLT

2. FATHER’S MUST NOT MISUSE THEIR AUTHORITY

Children, always obey your parents, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not aggravate your children, or they will become discouraged. Colossians 3:20-21 NLT

WE CAN EITHER BE A GREAT EXAMPLE OR A HORRIBLE WARNING

WE HAVE TO LEAD BY EXAMPLE WITH A KINGDOM MENTALITY

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“Look, I am sending you the prophet Elijah before the great and dreadful day of the Lord arrives. His preaching will turn the hearts of fathers to their children, and the hearts of children to their fathers. Malachi 4:5

A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children. Proverbs 13:22 NIV

“Look, I am sending you the prophet Elijah before the great and dreadful day of the Lord arrives. His preaching will turn the hearts of fathers to their children, and the hearts of children to their fathers. Malachi 4:5

“His preaching will turn the hearts of fathers to their children, and the hearts of children to their fathers.” Malachi 4:5

Finally the seventh time, his servant told him, “I saw a little cloud about the size of a man’s hand rising from the sea.” Then Elijah shouted, “Hurry to Ahab and tell him, ‘Climb into your chariot and go back home. If you don’t hurry, the rain will stop you!’” And soon the sky was black with clouds. A heavy wind brought a terrific rainstorm, and Ahab left quickly for Jezreel. Then the Lord gave special strength to Elijah. He tucked his cloak into his belt and ran ahead of Ahab’s chariot all the way to the entrance of Jezreel. 1 Kings 18:44-46

1. ARE WE USING OUR GOD-GIVEN ENERGY IN THE WRONG PLACES? ARE WE FIGHTING THE WRONG BATTLES?

'Then the Lord told him, “Go back the same way you came, and travel to the wilderness of Damascus. When you arrive there, anoint Hazael to be king of Aram. Then anoint Jehu grandson of Nimshi to be king of Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from the town of Abel-meholah to replace you as my prophet. Yet I will preserve 7,000 others in Israel who have never bowed down to Baal or kissed him!”' 1 Kings 19:15-16,18 NLT

2. ARE WE CONSTANTLY REMEMBERING WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT AND WHAT IS GOD’S ORIGINAL CALL AND PROMISE?

So Elijah went and found Elisha son of Shaphat plowing a field. There were twelve teams of oxen in the field, and Elisha was plowing with the twelfth team. Elijah went over to him and threw his cloak across his shoulders and then walked away. So Elisha returned to his oxen and slaughtered them. He used the wood from the plow to build a fire to roast their flesh. He passed around the meat to the townspeople, and they all ate. Then he went with Elijah as his assistant. 1 Kings 19:19;21

3. DO YOU HAVE A PLAN B WITH GOD?

Then Elijah folded his cloak together and struck the water with it. The river divided, and the two of them went across on dry ground! When they came to the other side, Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me what I can do for you before I am taken away.” And Elisha replied, “Please let me inherit a double share of your spirit and become your successor.” “You have asked a difficult thing,” Elijah replied. “If you see me when I am taken from you, then you will get your request. But if not, then you won’t.”2 Kings 2:8-10

4. DO WE UNDERSTAND THE EARTHLY PRICE OF AN ETERNAL CALLING?

Elisha saw it and cried out, “My father! My father! I see the chariots and charioteers of Israel!” 2 Kings 2:12

Elisha picked up Elijah’s cloak, which had fallen when he was taken up. Then Elisha returned to the bank of the Jordan River. He struck the water with Elijah’s cloak and cried out, “Where is the Lord, the God of Elijah?” Then the river divided, and Elisha went across. When the group of prophets from Jericho saw from a distance what happened, they exclaimed, “Elijah’s spirit rests upon Elisha!” And they went to meet him and bowed to the ground before him. 2 Kings 2:13-15

When Elisha was in his last illness, King Jehoash of Israel visited him and wept over him. “My father!

Then Elisha died and was buried. 2 Kings 13:20

5. ARE YOU ON THE PATH OF TAKING YOUR ANOINTING TO THE GRAVE WITH YOU?

6. ARE WE GOING TO BE A MULTIGENERATIONAL CHURCH THAT IS FILLED WITH DISCIPLES MULTIPLYING THEMSELVES INTO OTHER DISCIPLES!

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Identity

Parenting With Purpose – Week 4

WHAT IS YOUR TRUE IDENTITY?

“WHAT YOU DO FLOWS FROM WHO YOU ARE” MARK DRISCOLL

“…Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan River. He was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, where he was tempted by the devil for forty days. Jesus ate nothing all that time and became very hungry. Then the devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become a loaf of bread.” But Jesus told him, “NO, the scriptures say, “people do not live by bread alone.” Luke 4:1-4 NLT

“Then the devil took him up and revealed to him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. “I will give you the glory of these kingdoms and authority over them,” the devil said, “because they are mine to give to anyone I please. I will give it all to you if you will worship me.” Jesus replied, “the Scriptures say, “you must worship the Lord your God and serve only him.” Luke 4:5-8 NLT

“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Romans

“Then the devil took him to Jerusalem, to the highest point of the Temple, and said, “If you are the Son of God, jump off! For the scriptures say, “He will order his angels to protect and guard you. And they will hold you up with their hands so you wont even hurt your foot on a stone.” Luke 4:9-11 NLT

“Jesus responded, “the scriptures also say, “you must not test the Lord your God.” When the devil had finished tempting Jesus, he left him until the next opportunity came.” Luke 4:12-13 NLT

KNOW GOD

“By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence.” 2 Peter 1:3 NLT

“You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” Luke 3:22

ALL YOU HAVE TO DO TO SEE GOD MOVE UNHEALTHY THINGS IN YOUR LIFE OUT IS SPEND MORE TIME WITH HIM

KNOW THE TRUTH

“WHAT COMES INTO OUR MINDS WHEN WE THINK ABOUT GOD IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING ABOUT US.” – A.W. TOZER

“But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.”

“But you are God’s chosen treasure – priests who are kings, a spiritual “nation” set apart as God’s devoted ones. He called you out of darkness to experience his marvelous light, and now he claims you as his very own. He did this so that you would broadcast his glorious wonders throughout the world” 1 Peter 2:9 TPT

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Ephesians 2:10

“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”

RELY ON HIM

“My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness. So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 NLT

“What actually took place is this: I tried keeping rules and working my head off to please God, and it didn’t work. So I quit being a “law man” so that I could be God’s man. Christ’s life showed me how, and enabled me to do it. I identified myself completely with him. Indeed, I have been crucified with Christ. My ego is no longer central. It is no longer important that I appear righteous before you or have your good opinion, and I am no longer driven to impress God. Christ lives in me. The life you see me living is not “mine,” but it is lived by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I am not going to go back on that...”

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A tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself. Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God. And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! James 3:5-6,9-10 NLT

For whatever is in your heart determines what you say. Matthew 12: 34 NLT

1. WHAT HAVE OTHERS CALLED YOU?

Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, his chief of staff, to bring to the palace some of the young men of Judah’s royal family and other noble families, who had been brought to Babylon as captives. “Select only strong, healthy, and good-looking young men,” he said. “Make sure they are well versed in every branch of learning, are gifted with knowledge and good judgment, and are suited to serve in the royal palace. Train these young men in the language and literature of Babylon….The chief of staff renamed them with these Babylonian names: Daniel was called Belteshazzar. Hananiah was called Shadrach. Mishael was called Meshach. Azariah was called Abednego. Daniel 1:3-4;7 NLT

DANIEL MEANS “GOD IS MY JUDGE”

BELTESHAZZAR MEANS “LADY, PROTECT THE KING”

HANANIAH MEANS “YAHWEH HAS BEEN GRACIOUS”

SHADRACH MEANS “I AM FEARFUL OF GOD”

MISHAEL MEANS “WHO CAN COMPARE TO MY GOD? NO ONE!”

MESHACH MEANS “I AM DESPISED, CONTEMPTIBLE, & HUMILIATED”

AZARIAH MEANS “YAHWEH HAS HELPED”

ABEDNEGO MEANS “THE SERVANT OF NEBO”

2. WHAT HAVE YOU SPOKEN OVER YOURSELF?

Zechariah said to the angel, “How can I be sure this will happen? I’m an old man now, and my wife is also well along in years.” Then the angel said, “I am Gabriel! I stand in the very presence of God. It was he who sent me to bring you this good news! But now, since you didn’t believe what I said, you will be silent and unable to speak until the child is born. For my words will certainly be fulfilled at the proper time.” Luke 1:18-20 NLT

WHAT YOU CONTINUE TO SPEAK IN YOUR LIFE YOU WILL EVENTUALLY LIVE IN YOUR LIFE.

3. WHAT IS YOUR TRUE IDENTITY?

After a very hard delivery, the midwife finally exclaimed, “Don’t be afraid—you have another son!” Genesis 35:17 NLT

Rachel was about to die, but with her last breath she named the baby Ben-oni Genesis 35:18 NLT

Then the man said, “Let me go, for the dawn is breaking!” But Jacob said, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.” “What is your name?” the man asked. He replied, “Jacob.” “Your name will no longer be Jacob,” the man told him. “From now on you will be called Israel, because you have fought with God and with men and have won.” Genesis 32:26-28 NLT

'“Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches. To everyone who is victorious I will give some of the manna that has been hidden away in heaven. And I will give to each one a white stone, and on the stone will be engraved a new name that no one understands except the one who receives it.' Revelation 2:17 NLT

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Lift Their Lid

Parenting With Purpose – Week 2

LIFT THEIR LIDS

“IS YOUR CEILING GOING TO BE THE FLOOR, THE FOUNDATION, THAT YOUR KIDS ARE GOING TO BUILD THEIR LIVES ON, OR IS YOUR CEILING GOING TO BE A LID THAT HINDERS THEIR GROWTH?”

WE ARE ALL IMPARTING OUR VALUES, BELIEFS, ATTITUDES AND HABITS TO OUR KIDS OR THOSE WHO WE ARE POURING IN TO

“Fathers, don’t stir up anger in your children, but bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” Ephesians

CHILDREN ABSORB WHAT THEY CONSISTENTLY HEAR

WHAT MESSAGES ARE WE ABSORBING EVERY DAY?

“CHOOSE THE RIGHT FILTER: ARE WE FILTERING GOD’S WORD THROUGH THE MESSAGES OF OUR FAVORITE NEWS OUTLET, OR ARE WE FILTERING THE NEWS THROUGH THE TRUTH, GRACE, AND LOVE OF GOD’S WORD.” – PASTOR SCOTT WILSON

“WISE PARENTS CELEBRATE THE DIFFERENCES!”

“After the death of Moses the Lord’s servant, the Lord spoke to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ assistant. He said, “Moses my servant is dead. Therefore, the time has come for you to lead these people, the Israelites, across the Jordan River into the land I am giving them. I promise you what I promised Moses: ‘Wherever you set foot, you will be on land I have given you— from the Negev wilderness in the south to the Lebanon mountains in the north, from the Euphrates River in the east to the Mediterranean Sea in the west, including all the land of the Hittites.’ No one will be able to stand against you as long as you live. For I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will not fail you or abandon you. “Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do.” Joshua

“Joshua son of Nun, the servant of the Lord, died at the age of 110. They buried him in the land he had been allocated, at Timnath-serah in the hill country of Ephraim, north of Mount Gaash. After that generation died, another generation grew up who did not acknowledge the Lord or remember the mighty things he had done for Israel.” Judges

REFLECT & INSPECT

HAS YOUR LID BEEN LIFTED?

WE CAN’T LIFT THE LIDS OF THOSE WE ARE POURING IN TO UNLESS SOMEONE HAS LIFTED OUR LID

“WE POINT THEM TO THE KINDNESS, JUSTICE, AND RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD AS THE ANTIDOTE TO RACISM, GENDER BIAS, A POVERTY MINDSET, AND AGE DISCRIMINATION. AND WE NOTICE WHAT THEY DO WELL SO THEY’LL BELIEVE THEY CAN BE MORE AND DO MORE THAN THEY EVER IMAGINED.”

WHAT VALUES OR LIDS AM I CURRENTLY IMPARTING IN MY CHILDREN OR THOSE WHO I INFLUENCE?

“YOU CANNOT CHANGE WHAT YOU DO NOT ACKNOWLEDGE” – DR. PHIL

“WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU AS A CHILD WAS NOT YOUR FAULT, BUT WHAT YOU DO WITH IT WHEN YOU’RE AN ADULT IS YOUR CHOICE.”

REDEFINE

“THE GOAL IS TO CREATE A CLEAR, COMPELLING VISION OF WHAT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY ARE ALL ABOUT.” – STEPHEN COVEY

WHAT DO YOU WANT FOR YOUR CHILDREN?

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP PRIORITIES?

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURES?

ARE THERE ANY VALUES THAT YOU INHERITED FROM YOUR PARENTS THAT YOU WANT TO CONTINUE…OR STOP?

WHD DO YOUR KIDS LIKE MOST ABOUT BEING PART OF YOUR FAMILY?

COMPLETE THIS STATEMENT: “WE BELIEVE GOD WANTS US TO _________”

“A WRITTEN DECLARATION ISN’T A GUARANTEE OF FAMILY SUCCESS, BUT IT CAN HELP ESTABLISH A FAMILY’S IDENTITY EVEN AS IT REINFORCES WHAT IS IMPORTANT.”

BE CONSISTENT & INTENTIONAL

“IT’S NOT WHAT WE DO ONCE IN A WHILE THAT SHAPES OUR LIVES. IT’S WHAT WE DO CONSISTENTLY.” – TONY ROBBINS

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“What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” A. W. Tozer

NEEDS TO BE MET BY MOTHERS

Safety

Safety comes in the form of a person.

Nurture

The Soviet Union did an experiment many years ago where they took infants and only gave them their basic needs food and sleep, but no human contact or nurturing and most of them died. It is why skin-to-skin is so vital in babies and the miracles of that concept with premature babies is amazing because, Without nurture, we wither.

Basic Trust

We aren’t born trusting; trust is learned. That our interactions form trust and most of our EI comes from our relationship with our Mother

Belonging and Invitation

Feeling wanted is not an intellectual exercise, but a relational one. You can’t say you are wanted you have to experience in a relationship. They want me around!

Someone to Love

The development comes not from being loved but by loving.

Godly attributes are found in Mothering. We were created in his image.

“Never! Can a mother forget her nursing child? Can she feel no love for the child she has borne? But even if that were possible, I would not forget you!” Isaiah 49:15 NLT

TYPES OF MOTHERS

The Phantom Mom

emotionally unavailable. Present physically but not emotionally. You lack that connection which causes detachment Which makes it hard for you to emotionally connect with other people and the problem is you don't just magically start emotionally connecting you have to make conscious decisions on how to start bringing that into your life because it's not a Behavior you learned as a child.

The China Doll Mom

fragile, unable to deal with stress. We tend to learn how to deal with emotions through our mothers how to deal with some of those stressful emotional things so if your mom is very fragile and unable to deal with stress and she was this China Doll it causes you to have this lack of being able to contain your emotions. When you're a kid You don't just have emotions you are emotional and your mother helped you try to contain those emotions and teach you that unless she didn't learn that as a child and so she is very stressed out doesn't know how to contain them then that's to learn Behavior you gather from them.

The Controlling Mom

unable to empower, release. Lack of making your own decisions. You feel like you are not in control some else is. You become timid never take a risk.

The Trophy Mom

Accept you if you perform. You feel like you have to prove you are worthy to be loved. You struggle with imperfections.

The Still-the-Boss Mom

The goal as you age into adulthood is that you actually become friends with your parents you enjoy your parents unfortunately some Dynamics is it doesn't matter if you're 40 years old 50 years old I'm still the boss and you're still the little child in my mind the way I treat you. Which then can cause you to always feel like you're less than with other leaders and other people or you go the opposite and you have to dominate because you're insecure and you keep people down.

NEEDS TO BE MET BY FATHERS

Unconditional, expressed love

Unconditional which means there are not limits or bars to reach AND IT IS EXPRESSED. Many adults say they have never heard their Dad say I love you!

Security and Comfort

When Dad is home I am safe. We are protected.

Praise and Affirmation

Not just saying I love you but I see you and the value that is in you and calling that out!

Provision

Dad is a provider. He takes care of my needs. I feel secure.

Purpose in Life

That he lets them know they can make a difference in this world and they will be great men and women as they grow.

So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” Romans 8:15 NLT

According to the Life Application Bible,

“In Roman culture, the adopted person lost all rights in his old family and gained the rights of a legitimate child in his new family. He became a full heir to his new father’s estate. Likewise, when a person becomes a Christian, he or she gains all the privileges and responsibilities of a child in God’s family.”

TYPES OF FATHERS

Performance-oriented

demand obedience and performance. No rest always striving always proving yourself and your well. Never good enough.

Passive

home but not home, roommate. There but not there. Comes home and zones out and never involved in their life. Lack of emotion, passion, initiative can develop in adults.

Absentee

simply not around. Either left or travels so much that they miss a lot of life. You lack intimacy and fear people will always leave you or not be there.

Authoritarian

prioritize the law over love. Follow my rules. You better obey me! So you always look at rules over relationships as you grow up You fear always failing and the punishment that will follow that.

Abusive

emotionally, physically, or sexually abusive. He is supposed to protect you, and love you, and affirm and As you grow it can cause Shame, guilt, anger, lack of trust.

Now you may be saying Pastor Mike I don't really deal with either one of those I have a father that was good and a mother that was good and they provided cared for they were present make nurtured me love me. that's phenomenal and those are wonderful things and I am so glad that you were experienced as a child was that. I will say though this that the distance between a dysfunctional and abusive parent and a good parent is this (Show with hands) what the distance between good and perfect is this and how good your parents are there are not perfect like your God is and we still need to rise above the good to experience the perfect love and relationship with God. How do we move Beyond good to perfect or how do we move Beyond abusive distant and hurtful relationships with our parents to a perfect relationship with God?

1. RECOGNIZE

How many people when you go out to eat with your kids and they get a kids menu one of the games on there is two pictures that look identical except there are ten or so things in the picture that are different and your objective is to Circle and find what is difference between the two pictures. the same is true with the when we've you got with there are Godly attributes he places in both of our parents however they're not perfect and they've experienced things and so you got to recognize and I asked how is God different than my parents?

this is not dishonoring to your parents and it's not bashing your parents it's what we need for healing and how we move forward for the healthy view of God for ourselves and also transfer that to our children.

what you experienced as a child is not your fault what you do as an adult is your responsibility. Have you ever known something was wrong but you were too busy to deal with it or you procrastinated and forgot to do with it? like a light bulb goes out and what are your kitchens you keep forgetting to go to the store to buy a lightbulb so you just go weeks and weeks with a dim room. or there's up toilet that just runs a little bit and you just live with it even though it makes your water bill go up. or maybe your wife tells you over and over that she needs new windshield wipers and you keep forgetting and then when it rains she's driving in dangerous ways through a storm barely be able to see through her windshield. I mean I would never do any of those things those are not examples of me another imperfect people.

So many times that's us in life. we know there's things that need to be addressed and fixed we just muscle through it we just ignore it we just act like we can push it off but it's causing us to live a life with a dim view and we are not able to see clearly it is costing us in ways sometimes we don't even understand.

There are distinct differences between your Earthly parents and your heavenly father and you've got to recognize it.

'See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are!

1 John 3:1 NLT

The Lord’s loving kindnesses indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23 NASB

Even if my father and mother abandon me, the Lord will hold me close. Psalms 27:10 NLT

Give yourself permission to feel to grieve and investigate those differences. to be honest with yourself.

I had to investigate those incorrect views of God based on the way I was raised in therapy. through therapy I started identifying hurts from my past I started remembering occasions in my life. Through therapy I started realizing that I had to learn to cope with some dysfunctions from my childhood survive through painful moments and as I became an adult I started responding to people in situations out of an instinctive nature that was unhealthy not a conscious decision to be healthy. you got to recognize these things or you can't walk towards health.

2. RELEASE

You're going to have to give your parents a gift that humanly speaking they may not deserve. That gift is forgiveness. it's not letting them off the hook and it's not saying that what they did was right and not wrong. It's saying I'm releasing them to God. I'm not the judge he is, I'm not the corrector he is and I'm not the creator he is.

Story of Monkeys in India and the hollowed-out coconuts.

I do know this… Unforgiveness is more about you than the other person involved… Unforgiveness impacts your life far more than the other person… Unforgiveness is far beyond the offense and if we do not understand that it will destroy us… Resentment points your anger and animosity toward a person or a situation… When resentment controls us it tells ourselves that this person or situation is keeping us from happiness or joy… We make a person or situation our focal point for happiness…

Surely resentment destroys the fool Job 5:2

Resentment destroys us… It controls us… It becomes what we focus on and think about… We tend to get any quiet times we focus on the person and the incident… We have imaginary conversations with that person if we had the opportunity to tell them how we feel… It becomes all consuming.

Bitterness becomes something deeper because it goes beyond the person or the situation…. It becomes your outlook on life… It starts creeping into every area of our life… No longer are we upset at just the one incident or person, but we start seeing it impact other areas of our life and we are more sensitive in other areas of our life…

Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord. Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many. Hebrews 12:14-15

The writer of Hebrews refers to bitterness as a POISONOUS ROOT… That it grows in our hearts and is poison to our life. Roots do 3 things.. ROOTS ABSORB, STORE, AND GROW.

So a root of bitterness is going to absorb every negative feeling that surround resentment and bitterness… Anger, hurt, jealousy, hate, vengeance, retribution, sadness, broken heart, pain…

Then it stores it…. It harbors those feelings… Those feelings start to become a part of you… Now sadness defines, anger defines you… heart ache defines you… You start to realize that joy, happiness, and peace is the rarity not the norm in your life….

It starts to grow… Now what was a bad situation now is monumental… Now it is like a domino effect in your life that and more and more effects you and maybe people offend often that in the past never would… Then many times DEPRESSION starts to creep in and take up residence in your heart and mind….

Then Hebrews says it CORRUPTS MANY… That it starts to effect our relationships… Marriages, with our children, family members, our friends… We start bearing the fruit of bitterness

We see bad in others

We justify criticizing and gossiping

We secretly celebrate other misfortunes

We bring people down/.

3. REJECT

'For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world... Ephesians 6:12 NLT

The devil wants to use the shortcomings of your parents to keep you from walking in an intimate relationship with God to keep you from your god-given identity in him. the reality is true hurt people hurt people and the shortcomings of your parents is a domino effect of what they've experienced in life. there is the truth about something called a generational curse and unfortunately negative things compound and they grow through generation after generation. However, all authority is in Jesus when we recognize and we release we have the authority in the name of Jesus to reject those negatives.

We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5 NLT

4. RECEIVE

Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. James 1:17 NLT

Whatever pain you experienced whatever loss you've experienced do those parental figures in your life you must start replacing the pain with God's truth and filling those voids with God himself. he will never leave you or forsake you, cast your cares upon Him for he cares about you, he made you wonderfully complex oh, you are his workmanship oh, he hold you in the palms of his hands, his eyes search and find you, never can you escape his presence. THE PROMISES GO ON AND ON!

'And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.' Romans 8:38-39 NLT

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Revelation 12:11

That we overcome by the blood of the lamb and the word of our testimony

PROTECTIVE MOTHER

“By faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months after he was born because they saw he was no ordinary child and they were not afraid of the king’s edict” Hebrews 11:23.

Mother’s protect us in many ways:

-Physically: protect us from danger

-Morally: by teaching us right from wrong

-Emotionally: shield us from things they know will hurt us

-Spiritually: teach us to love and serve the Lord

INSTRUCTIVE MOTHER

This letter is from Paul, chosen by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus. I have been sent out to tell others about the life he has promised through faith in Christ Jesus. I am writing to Timothy, my dear son. May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord give you grace, mercy, and peace. Timothy, I thank God for you—the God I serve with a clear conscience, just as my ancestors did. Night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. I long to see you again, for I remember your tears as we parted. And I will be filled with joy when we are together again. I remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother, Eunice. And I know that same faith continues strong in you.

2 Timothy 1:1-5 NLT

The mothering heart teaches their children a few things:

-Teaches them about Jesus

They should hear about Jesus from you first.

-Teaches them the Bible

(Read to them in whatever stage they are in)

-Teach them the importance of attending church

Be the example by making it a priority and actually going.

NURTURING MOTHER

“But the child’s mother said, ‘As surely as the Lord lives and as you live, I will not leave you.’”

2 Kings 4:30

-Listen with compassion

Hear them and let them know you are a safe place

-Offer encouragement

Share guidance and wisdom

-Dig Deeper

Challenge them on their journey, help them push through

-Give them opportunity

Help them to progress in their call, give them resources and connections.

SUPPORTIVE MOTHER

“And she made a vow, saying, ‘O Lord Almighty, if you will . . . remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the Lord for all the days of his life’” 1 Samuel 1:11.

There are three things that we can learn from Hannah.

1. God answers prayer concerning our children

2. To release our children to the Lord to use them as He sees fit.

3. To support our children in doing the Lord’s will.

LOYAL MOTHER

John 19:25

Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother.

-Moms don’t give up!

-Always be their home

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Praying for an Unbeliever & Serving at Church

“So it is with faith: if it is alone and includes no actions, then it is dead. But someone will say, “one person has faith, another has actions.” My answer is, “show me how anyone can have faith without actions. I will show you my faith by my actions.” So then, as the body without the spirit is dead, also faith without actions is dead.” James 2:17-18;26 GNT

CONFESSING SINS REGULARLY: REPENTANCE

READING & STUDYING THE BIBLE

PRAYING FOR AN UNBELIEVER

GOD’S HEART

“This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth.” 1 Timothy 2:3 NLT

GOD’S SACRIFICE

“For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.” Luke 19:10 NLT

GOD’S POWER

“As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world…” Ephesians

“But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.” Ephesians

“But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!” Matthew 5:44 NLT.

PRAY THAT THEY WILL KNOW GOD

“And this is the way to have eternal life – to know you, the only true God….” John 17:3 NLT

PRAY AGAINST HARDENED OR STUBBORN HEARTS

PRAY FOR GOD’S SPIRIT TO FILL THEM

“I’ll give you a new heart, put a new spirit in you. I’ll remove the stone heart from your body and replace it with a heart that’s God-willed, not self-willed. I’ll put my Spirit in you and make it possible for you to do what I tell you and live by my commands.” Ezekiel 36

PRAY AGAINST THE INFLUENCES OF THE WORLD

“Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.”

PRAY FOR OPPORTUNITIES TO MINISTER TO THEM

PRAY AGAINST THE SIN IN THEIR LIFE

THERE IS POWER IN YOUR PRAYERS

“Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.” Matthew

YOU WERE PRAYED FOR

SERVING AT CHURCH

MINISTRY IS THE PATHWAY TO MATURITY

“..He has given each one of us a special gift through the generosity of Christ. Now these gifts are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like truth. Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.” Ephesians 4:7;11-15 NLT

ADMINISTRATION

APOSTLESHIP

COMPASSION

DISCERNMENT

EVANGELISM

EXHORTATION

FAITH

GENEROSITY

HEALING

HELPING

INTERPRETATION

KNOWLEDGE

LEADERSHIP

MIRACLES

PROPHECY

SERVANTHOOD

SHEPHERDING

TEACHING

TOUNGES

WISDOM

“God has given each of you a gift from His great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. Do you have the gift of speaking? Then speak as though God himself were speaking through you. Do you have the gift of helping others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies. Then everything you do will bring glory to God through Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 4:10-11 NLT

YOU ARE BEING PRAYED FOR

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Reading God’s Word

“SO IT IS WITH FAITH: IF IT IS ALONE AND INCLUDES NO ACTIONS, THEN IT IS DEAD. BUT SOMEONE WILL SAY, “ONE PERSON HAS FAITH, ANOTHER HAS ACTIONS.” MY ANSWER IS, “SHOW ME HOW ANYONE CAN HAVE FAITH WITHOUT ACTIONS. I WILL SHOW YOU MY FAITH BY MY ACTIONS.” SO THEN, AS THE BODY WITHOUT THE SPIRIT IS DEAD, ALSO FAITH WITHOUT ACTIONS IS DEAD.” JAMES 2:17-18;26 GNT

CONFESSING SINS REGULARLY: REPENTANCE

READING & STUDYING THE BIBLE

YOU SACRIFICE GROWTH WHEN YOU CHOOSE THE EASY WAY OUT

330,222,422 Americans as of 2020

9% = 29,720,018

Approx. 205,000,000 proclaimed believers of Jesus in America

29,720,018 = 14%

READING THE BIBLE DRAWS US CLOSER TO GOD

“IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE WORD, AND THE WORD WAS WITH GOD, AND THE WORD WAS GOD.” JOHN 1:1-5 NIV

READING THE BIBLE GIVES US DIRECTION

“I AM THE LORD YOUR GOD, WHO TEACHES YOU WHAT IS GOOD FOR YOU AND LEADS YOU ALONG THE PATHS YOU SHOULD FOLLOW.” ISAIAH 48:17 NLT

“I WILL GUIDE YOU ALONG THE BEST PATHWAY FOR YOUR LIFE. I WILL ADVISE YOU AND WATCH OVER YOU.” PSALM 32:8 NLT

“YOUR WORD IS A LAMP TO GUIDE MY FEET AND A LIGHT FOR MY PATH.” PSALM 119:105 NLT

IF WE FOLLOW GOD’S GUIDANCE IT WILL LEAD US TO PEACE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS

READING THE BIBLE BRINGS US HEALING

“YOU WILL KNOW THE TRUTH AND THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE” JOHN 8:32

READING THE BIBLE GIVES US NOURISHMENT

“PEOPLE DO NOT LIVE BY BREAD ALONE, BUT BY EVERY WORD THAT COMES FROM THE MOUTH OF GOD.” MATTHEW 4:4 NLT

READING THE BIBLE REMINDS US OF WHAT GOD THINKS OF US

“I KNEW YOU BEFORE I FORMED YOU IN YOUR MOTHER’S WOMB. BEFORE YOU WERE BORN I SET YOU APART AND APPOINTED YOU AS MY PROPHET TO THE NATIONS.” JEREMIAH 1:5 NLT

GET A BIBLE THAT MAKES SENSE TO YOU

DOWNLOAD THE BIBLE APP

START A PLAN TODAY

USE THE S.O.A.P. METHOD

S – SCRIPTURE

O – OBSERVATION

A – APPLICATION

P – PRAYER

BE INTENTIONAL & PRIORITIZE

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EVERYONE HAS A DREAM, BUT VERY FEW HAVE EXECUTION

'So it is with faith: if it is alone and includes no actions, then it is dead. But someone will say, “One person has faith, another has actions.” My answer is, “Show me how anyone can have faith without actions. I will show you my faith by my actions.” So then, as the body without the spirit is dead, also faith without actions is dead.' James 2:17-18,26 GNT

8 ATTRIBUTES OF A DISCIPLE

1. THEY ENGAGE IN THE BIBLE

2. THEY OBEY GOD AND DENY SELF

3. THEY SERVE GOD AND OTHERS

4. THEY SHARE JESUS WITH OTHERS

5. THEY HAVE A FAITH IN GOD

6. THEY SEEK AND WORSHIP GOD

7. THEY BUILD A RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHERS

8. THEY ARE UNASHAMED ABOUT THEIR FAITH

THE KEY TO GROWTH IS THE POWER OF PROGRESSION

ACTIONS OF A DISCIPLE

CONFESSING SINS REGULARLY: REPENTANCE

'For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. ' Romans 3:23 NLT

ADDRESSING ONLY THE ACTION OF SIN IS LIKE TAKING IBUPROFEN TO HEAL A DISEASE. IT MAY TEMPORARILY RELIEVE THE SYMPTOMS, BUT IT NEVER FIXES THE ISSUES.

And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. But if I do what I don’t want to do, I am not really the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it… Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Romans 7:18-20;24 NLT

Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 7:24-25 NLT

1. REPENTANCE CAUSES A DEEPER PURSUIT OF JESUS

THE DISTANCE BETWEEN YOU AND WHAT YOU LOVE DETERMINES WHETHER YOU HAVE THE CAPACITY TO ALLOW SOMETHING TO SEPARATE YOU FROM WHAT YOU LOVE.

If you love me, keep my commands. John 14:15 NIV

COMPROMISE DOESN'T EXPOSE OUR WEAKNESS IN WILL POWER, BUT OUR WEAKNESS IN OUR RELATIONSHIP

2. REPENTANCE IS THE COMMITMENT TO LEAVE THE PAST IN THE PAST

I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead… Philippians 3:12-13 NLT

3. REPENTANCE DRIVES COMPASSION

We prove ourselves by our purity, our understanding, our patience, our kindness, by the Holy Spirit within us, and by our sincere love. 2 Corinthians 6:6 NLT

'Our High Priest (Jesus) is not one who cannot feel sympathy for our weaknesses. On the contrary, we have a High Priest who was tempted in every way that we are, but did not sin.

Let us have confidence, then, and approach God's throne, where there is grace. There we will receive mercy and find grace to help us just when we need it.' Hebrews 4:15-16 GNT

ALTAR

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And if Christ has not been raised, then your faith is useless and you are still guilty of your sins. In that case, all who have died believing in Christ are lost! 1 Corinthians 15:17-18 NLT

But very early on Sunday morning the women went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. They found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. So they went in, but they didn’t find the body of the Lord Jesus. As they stood there puzzled, two men suddenly appeared to them, clothed in dazzling robes. The women were terrified and bowed with their faces to the ground. Then the men asked, “Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Luke 24:1-6 NLT

THE RESSURECTION IS REVOLUTIONIZING HISTORICAL EVENT

It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and several other women who told the apostles what had happened. Luke 24:10 NLT

Then he (Jesus) asked them, “Do you have anything here to eat?” They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he ate it as they watched. Luke 24:41-43 NLT

THE RESSURECTION SHOWS THAT ALL THE BIBLE POINTS TO JESUS

They stopped short, sadness written across their faces… Luke 24:17 NLT

He was a prophet who did powerful miracles… Luke 24:19 NLT

But our leading priests and other religious leaders handed him over to be condemned to death, and they crucified him. We had hoped he was the Messiah who had come to rescue Israel… Luke 24:20-21 NLT

Then Jesus said to them, “You foolish people! You find it so hard to believe all that the prophets wrote in the Scriptures. Wasn’t it clearly predicted that the Messiah would have to suffer all these things before entering his glory?” Then Jesus took them through the writings of Moses and all the prophets, explaining from all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. Luke 24:25-27 NLT

They said to each other, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as he talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?” Luke 24:32 NLT

And within the hour they were on their way back to Jerusalem Luke 24:33 NLT

THE RESSURECTION GIVES US HOPE FOR THE FUTURE

HOPE THAT THE FUTURE IS THERE

HOPE THAT THE FUTURE IS PERSONAL

And he (Jesus) said, “Yes, it was written long ago that the Messiah would suffer and die and rise from the dead on the third day. It was also written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of his name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: ‘There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent.’ Luke 24:46-47 NLT

THE RESSURECTION SHOWS THAT JESUS IS THE TRUE KING

So they worshiped him and then returned to Jerusalem filled with great joy. Luke 24:52 NLT

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Now there was a believer in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord spoke to him in a vision, calling, “Ananias!” “Yes, Lord!” he replied. The Lord said, “Go over to Straight Street, to the house of Judas. When you get there, ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul. He is praying to me right now. I have shown him a vision of a man named Ananias coming in and laying hands on him so he can see again.” Acts 9:10-12 NLT

Ananias protested, “Master, you can’t be serious. Everybody’s talking about this man and the terrible things he’s been doing, his reign of terror against your people in Jerusalem! And now he’s shown up here with papers from the Chief Priest that give him license to do the same to us.” Acts 9:13-14 MSG

But the Lord said, “Go…” Acts 9:15 NLT

But the Lord said, “Go, for Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel.” Acts 9:15 NLT

You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name. John 15:16 NLT

So Ananias went and found Saul. Acts 9:17 NLT

He laid his hands on him and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you might regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Acts 9:17 NLT

Instantly something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he got up and was baptized. Acts 9:18 NLT

And immediately he (Saul) began preaching about Jesus in the synagogues, saying, “He is indeed the Son of God!” All who heard him were amazed. “Isn’t this the same man who caused such devastation among Jesus’ followers in Jerusalem?” they asked. “And didn’t he come here to arrest them and take them in chains to the leading priests?” Acts 9:20-21 NLT

1. God’s Callings Takes Trust

As he was approaching Damascus on this mission, a light from heaven suddenly shone down around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?” “Who are you, lord?” Saul asked. And the voice replied, “I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting! Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” The men with Saul stood speechless, for they heard the sound of someone’s voice but saw no one! Acts 9:3-7 NLT

It was by faith that Abraham obeyed when God called him to leave home and go to another land that God would give him as his inheritance. He went without knowing where he was going. Hebrews 11:8 NLT

2. God’s Calling Takes Deeper Faith

And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20 NLT

3. God’s Calling Causes Growth

But as he came closer to Jerusalem and saw the city ahead, he began to weep. “How I wish today that you of all people would understand the way to peace. Luke 19:41-42 NLT

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Failure - Peter

Who is Your One? – Week 3

“FOR THE SON OF MAN CAME TO SEEK AND SAVE THOSE WHO ARE LOST” LUKE 19:10 NLT

“JESUS CAME AND TOLD HIS DISCIPLES, ‘I HAVE BEEN GIVEN ALL AUTHORITY IN HEAVEN AND ON EARTH. THEREFORE, GO AND MAKE DISCIPLES OF ALL THE NATIONS, BAPTIZING THEM IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER AND THE SON AND THE HOLY SPIRIT. TEACH THESE NEW DISCIPLES TO OBEY ALL THE COMMANDS I HAVE GIVEN YOU. AND BE SURE OF THIS: I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS, EVEN TO THE END OF THE AGE.” MATTHEW 28:18-20 NLT

FAILURE DOESN’T DISCRIMINATE

TODAY’S GRACE TRIUMPHS OVER YESTERDAY’S FAILURES

“THEN JESUS SAID TO THEM, ALL OF YOU WILL BE MADE TO STUMBLE BECAUSE OF ME THIS NIGHT, FOR IT IS WRITTEN: I WILL STRIKE THE SHEPHERD, AND THE SHEEP WILL BE SCATTERED.” MARK 14:27

“BUT AFTER I HAVE BEEN RAISED, I WILL GO BEFORE YOU TO GALILEE. PETER SAID TO HIM, ‘EVEN IF ALL ARE MADE TO STUMBLE, YET I WILL NOT BE.” MARK 14:28-29

“JESUS SAID TO HIM(PETER), ‘ASSUREDLY, I SAY TO YOU THAT TODAY, EVEN THIS NIGHT,

“BUT HE SPOKE MORE VEHEMENTLY, ‘IF I HAVE TO DIE WITH YOU, I WILL NOT DENY YOU!’ AND THEY ALL SAID LIKEWISE.” MARK 14:31

“THEN SIMON PETER, WHO HAD A SWORD, DREW IT AND STRUCK THE HIGH PRIEST’S SERVANT, CUTTING OFF HIS RIGHT EAR…” JOHN

“AND SIMON PETER FOLLOWED JESUS, AND SO DID ANOTHER DISCIPLE. NOW THAT DISCIPLE WAS KNOWN TO THE HIGH PRIEST, AND WENT WITH JESUS INTO THE COURTYARD OF THE HIGH PRIEST. BUT PETER STOOD AT THE DOOR OUTSIDE. THEN THE OTHER DISCIPLE, WHO WAS KNOWN TO THE HIGH PRIEST, WENT OUT AND SPOKE TO HER WHO KEPT THE DOOR, AND BROUGHT PETER IN. THEN THE SERVANT GIRL WHO KEPT THE DOOR SAID TO PETER, ‘YOU ARE NOT ALSO ONE OF THIS MAN’S DISCIPLES, ARE YOU?” HE SAID, “I AM NOT.” ” JOHN 18:15

“NOW THE SERVANTS AND OFFICERS WHO HAD MADE A FIRE OF COALS STOOD THERE, FOR IT WAS COLD, AND THEY WARMED THEMSELVES. AND PETER STOOD WITH THEM AND WARMED HIMSELF…THEREFORE THEY SAID TO HIM, “YOU ARE NOT ALSO ONE OF HIS DISCIPLES, ARE YOU?” HE DENIED IT AND SAID, “I AM NOT!” JOHN 18:18,25

“ONE OF THE SERVANTS OF THE HIGH PRIEST, A RELATIVE OF HIM WHOSE EAR PETER CUT OFF, SAID, ‘DID I NOT SEE YOU IN THE GARDEN WITH HIM?” JOHN 18:26

“PETER THEN DENIED AGAIN; AND IMMEDIATELY A ROOSTER CROWED.” JOHN 18:27

“THE LORD TURNED AND LOOKED AT PETER. THEN PETER REMEMBERED THE WORD OF THE LORD, HOW HE HAD SAID TO HIM, “BEFORE THE ROOSTER CROWS, YOU WILL DENY ME THREE TIMES.” SO PETER WENT OUT AND WEPT BITTERLY.” LUKE 22:61-62 NIV

“BUT WHEN THE MORNING HAD NOW COME, JESUS STOOD ON THE SHORE; YET THE DISCIPLES DID NOT KNOW THAT IT WAS JESUS. THEN JESUS SAID TO THEM, ‘CHILDREN, HAVE YOU ANY FOOD?” THEY ANSWERED HIM, “NO.” JOHN 21:4-5

“AND HE SAID TO THEM, “CAST THE NET ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE BOAT, AND YOU WILL FIND SOME. SO THEY CAST, AND NOW THEY WERE NOT ABLE TO DRAW IT IN BECAUSE OF THE MULTITUDE OF FISH.” JOHN 21:6

“THEN THE DISCIPLE JESUS LOVED SAID TO PETER, ‘IT’S THE LORD!” WHEN SIMON PETER HEARD THAT IT WAS THE LORD, HE PUT ON HIS TUNIC (FOR HE HAD STRIPPED FOR WORK), JUMPED INTO THE WATER, AND HEADED TO SHORE. THE OTHERS STAYED WITH THE BOAT AND PULLED THE LOADED NET TO THE SHORE, FOR THEY WERE ONLY ABOUT A HUNDRED YARDS FROM SHORE…” JOHN 21:7 NLT

“WHEN THEY GOT THERE, THEY FOUND BREAKFAST WAITING FOR THEM – FISH COOKING OVER A CHARCOAL FIRE…” JOHN 21:9 NLT

HE KNOWS WHO YOU ARE

HE WANTS YOU TO BE HEALED

HE WANTS A COVENANT RELATIONSHIP WITH YOU

“THE SERVANTS AND OFFICERS WHO HAD MADE A FIRE OF COALS STOOD THERE…THEREFORE THEY SAID TO HIM, “YOU ARE NOT ALSO ONE OF HIS DISCIPLES, ARE YOU?” HE DENIED IT AND SAID, “I AM NOT!” JOHN 18:18,25

YOUR PAST FAILURES DO NOT DEFINE YOUR FUTURE

“SIMON(PETER) SON OF JOHN, DO YOU LOVE ME MORE THAN THESE?”

“YES LORD,” PETER REPLIED, “YOU KNOW I LOVE YOU.” THEN FEED MY LAMBS,” JESUS TOLD HIM. JESUS REPEATED THE QUESTION: “SIMON (PETER) SON OF JOHN, DO YOU LOVE ME?” “YES, LORD,” PETER SAID, “YOU KNOW I LOVE YOU. “THEN TAKE CARE OF MY SHEEP,” JESUS SAID. A THRID TIME HE ASKED HIM, “SIMON SON OF JOHN, DO YOU LOVE ME?” PETER WAS HURT THAT JESUS ASKED THE QUESTION A THRID TIME. HE SAID, “LORD YOU KNOW EVERYTHING. YOU KNOW THAT I LOVE YOU.” JESUS SAID, “THEN FEED MY SHEEP.” JOHN 21:15-17 NLT

REVEAL

“SEARCH ME, GOD, AND KNOW MY ANXIOUS THOUGHTS; AND SEE IF THERE IS ANY HURTFUL WAY IN ME…” PSALMS 139:23-24 NASB

REPENT

“FOR EVERYONE HAS SINNED; WE ALL FALL SHORT OF GOD’S GLORIOUS STANDARD. YET GOD, IN HIS GRACE, FREELY MAKES US RIGHT IN HIS SIGHT.” ROMANS 3:23-24

REJOICE

“I HAVE NO GREATER JOY THAN THIS: TO HEAR THAT MY CHILDREN ARE WALKING IN TRUTH.” 3 JOHN 1:4 CSB

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'Rather, he must enjoy having guests in his home… Titus 1:8 NLT

When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know what kind of woman is touching him. She’s a sinner!” Then Jesus answered his thoughts. “Simon,” he said to the Pharisee, “I have something to say to you.” “Go ahead, Teacher,” Simon replied. Then Jesus told him this story: “A man loaned money to two people—500 pieces of silver to one and 50 pieces to the other. But neither of them could repay him, so he kindly forgave them both, canceling their debts. Who do you suppose loved him more after that?” Simon answered, “I suppose the one for whom he canceled the larger debt.” “That’s right,” Jesus said. Luke 7:39-43 NLT

“I tell you, her sins—and they are many—have been forgiven, so she has shown me much love. But a person who is forgiven little shows only little love.” Luke 7:47 NLT

a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to what he taught. But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.” But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.”' Luke 10:38-42 NLT

1. SITTING DOWN AT JESUS’ TABLE MEANS HE KNOWS WHO YOU TRULY ARE

“Zacchaeus!” he said. “Quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today.” Luke 19:5 NLT

Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood before the Lord and said, “I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have cheated people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!” Jesus responded, “Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.” Luke 19:8-10 NLT

2. SITTING DOWN AT JESUS’ TABLE MEANS HE WANTS YOU HEALED

Later, Matthew invited Jesus and his disciples to his home as dinner guests, along with many tax collectors and other disreputable sinners. Matthew 9:10 NLT

But when the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with such scum?” Matthew 9:11 NLT

When Jesus heard this, he said, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do.” Matthew 9:12 NLT

LIFE CHANGE HAPPENS IN THE PRIVATE MOMENTS NOT PUBLIC AND THOSE MOMENTS ONLY HAPPEN THROUGH A RELATIONSHIP

Then he added, “Now go and learn the meaning of this Scripture: ‘I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.’ For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.” Matthew 9:13 NLT

3. SITTING DOWN AT JESUS’ TABLE MEANS HE WANTS A COVENANT RELATIONSHIP WITH YOU

In the same way, he took the cup of wine after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant between God and his people—an agreement confirmed with my blood. Do this in remembrance of me as often as you drink it.” For every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you are announcing the Lord’s death until he comes again. 1 Corinthians 11:24-26 NLT

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For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost. Luke 19:10 NLT

1. AUTHENTIC RELATIONSHIPS ARE PURSUED

So he (Jesus) left Judea and returned to Galilee. He had to go through Samaria on the way. Eventually he came to the Samaritan village of Sychar… John 4:3-5

YOUR GOD SEES YOU

I can never get away from your presence! If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave, you are there. If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me. Psalms 139:7-10 NLT

I don’t just do what is best for me; I do what is best for others so that many may be saved. And you should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ.' 1 Corinthians 10:33-11:1 NLT

2.AUTHENTIC RELATIONSHIPS SEE THE POTENTIAL UNDERNEATH THE PAIN

near the field that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there; and Jesus, tired from the long walk, sat wearily beside the well about noontime. Soon a Samaritan woman came to draw water, and Jesus said to her, “Please give me a drink.”He was alone at the time because his disciples had gone into the village to buy some food. The woman was surprised, for Jews refuse to have anything to do with Samaritans. She said to Jesus, “You are a Jew, and I am a Samaritan woman. Why are you asking me for a drink?” John 4:5-9

Jesus replied, “If you only knew the gift God has for you and who you are speaking to, you would ask me, and I would give you living water.” “But sir, you don’t have a rope or a bucket,” she said, “and this well is very deep. Where would you get this living water? John 4:10-11 NLT

And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God. Ephesians 3:18-19 NLT

And besides, do you think you’re greater than our ancestor Jacob, who gave us this well? How can you offer better water than he and his sons and his animals enjoyed?” Jesus replied, “Anyone who drinks this water will soon become thirsty again. But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.” “Please, sir,” the woman said, “give me this water! Then I’ll never be thirsty again, and I won’t have to come here to get water.”

“Go and get your husband,”Jesus told her. “I don’t have a husband,”the woman replied. Jesus said, “You’re right! You don’t have a husband for you have had five husbands, and you aren’t even married to the man you’re living with now. You certainly spoke the truth!” John 4:10-18 NLT

JESUS CARES MORE ABOUT YOUR HEART THAN HE DOES YOUR COMFORT

…When sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death. James 1:15

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free, and that the time of the Lord’s favor has come… Luke 4:18-19

3. AUTHENTIC RELATIONSHIPS WANT OTHERS TO EXPERIENCE THE FREEDOM THEY HAVE RECEIVED

The woman said, “I know the Messiah is coming””the one who is called Christ. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” Then Jesus told her, “I Am the Messiah” The woman left her water jar beside the well and ran back to the village, telling everyone, “Come and see a man who told me everything I ever did! Could he possibly be the Messiah?” So the people came streaming from the village to see him. John 4:25-26;28-30

Then Jesus explained: “My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work. You know the saying, “Four months between planting and harvest.” But I say, wake up and look around. The fields are already ripe for harvest. The harvesters are paid good wages, and the fruit they harvest is people brought to eternal life. What joy awaits both the planter and the harvester alike! John 34-36 NLT

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The God Who Is Our Shepherd - Psalm 23

“SOME NATIONS BOAST OF THEIR CHARIOTS AND HORSES, BUT WE BOAST IN THE NAME OF THE LORD OUR GOD.” PSALMS 20:7 NLT

“PRAISE THE LORD, MY SOUL, AND FORGET NOT ALL HIS BENEFITS” PSALMS 103:2 NIV

RIGHTEOUS

SANCTIFIER

BANNER OF VICTORY

PEACE

HEALER

PROVIDER

THE GOD WHO IS OUR SHEPHERD

“THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD, I LACK NOTHING. HE MAKES ME LIE DOWN IN GREEN PASTURES, HE LEADS ME BESIDE QUIET WATERS, HE REFRESHES MY SOUL. HE GUIDES ME ALONG THE RIGHT PATHS FOR HIS NAME’S SAKE. EVEN THOUGH I WALK THROUGH THE DARKEST VALLEY, I WILL FEAR NO EVIL, FOR YOU ARE WITH ME; YOUR ROD AND YOUR STAFF, THEY COMFORT ME.” PSALMS 23:1-6 NIV

“THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD…” PSALMS 23:1 NIV

“THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD, I LACK NOTHING.” PSALMS 23:1 NIV

THRIVE IN THIS LIFE

GOD IS YOUR SHEPHERD

A SHEPHERDS MAIN OBJECTIVE IS TO MAKE SURE HIS SHEEP ARE TAKEN CARE OF

“WHEN A LION OR A BEAR CAME AND CARRIED OFF A SHEEP FROM THE FLOCK” 1 SAMUEL 17:34 NIV

“ I WENT AFTER IT, STRUCK IT AND RESCUED THE SHEEP FROM ITS MOUTH.” 1 SAMUEL 17:35 NIV

“WHEN IT TURNED ON ME, I SEIZED IT BY ITS HAIR, STRUCK IT AND KILLED IT” 1 SAMUEL 17:35 NIV

YOU HAVE A SHEPHERD

THE LORD IS OUR RELATIONAL SHEPHERD

“I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD; I KNOW MY OWN SHEEP AND THEY KNOW ME, JUST AS MY FATHER KNOWS ME AND I KNOW THE FATHER. SO I SACRIFICE MY LIFE FOR THE SHEEP.” JOHN 10:14 NLT

“THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD, I LACK NOTHING” PSALM 23:1 NIV

“HE MAKES ME LIE DOWN IN GREEN PASTURES…” PSALM 23:2 NIV

THE LORD IS OUR PROVIDING SHEPHERD

SHEPHERD ALWAYS KNOWS WHATS BEST FOR HIS FLOCK

NO FEAR

NO FRICTION FROM WITHIN THE FLOCK

NO PARASITES

NO HUNGER

“…HE LEADS ME BESIDE QUIET WATERS, HE REFRESHES MY SOUL.” PSALM 23:2 NIV

THE LORD IS OUR GUIDING SHEPHERD

GOD JUST WANTS US TO TAKE A STEP

WHAT IS ONE BABY STEP THAT GOD WANTS ME TO TAKE?

“HE GUIDES ME ALONG THE RIGHT PATHS FOR HIS NAME’S SAKE.”

THE LORD IS OUR GUIDING SHEPHERD

“I KNOW, LORD, THAT OUR LIVES ARE NOT OUR OWN. WE ARE NOT ABLE TO PLAN OUR OWN COURSE.” JEREMIAH 10:23 NLT

“BY YOUR WORDS I CAN SEE WHERE IM GOING; THEY THROW A BEAM OF LIGHT ON MY DARK PATH. IVE COMMITTED MYSELF AND ILL NEVER TURN BACK FROM LIVING BY YOUR RIGHTEOUS ORDER” PSALMS 119:105-106 MSG

“EVEN THOUGH I WALK THROUGH THE DARKEST VALLEY, I WILL FEAR NO EVIL, FOR YOU ARE WITH ME; YOUR ROD AND YOUR STAFF, THEY COMFORT ME.” PSALM 23:4 NIV

THE LORD IS OUR PROTECTING SHEPHERD

YOUR ROD AND YOUR STAFF, THEY COMFORT ME

“ FOR GOD HAS NOT GIVEN US A SPIRIT OF FEAR, BUT OF POWER AND OF LOVE AND OF A SOUND MIND” 2 TIMOTHY 1:7

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'Some nations boast of their chariots and horses, but we boast in the name of the Lord our God.' Psalms 20:7 NLT

'Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits ' Psalms 103:2 NIV

THE GOD WHO HEALS

He said, “If you will listen carefully to the voice of the Lord your God and do what is right in his sight, obeying his commands and keeping all his decrees, then I will not make you suffer any of the diseases I sent on the Egyptians; for I am the Lord who heals you.” Exodus 15:26 NLT

THE GOD WHO PROVIDES

'Then Abraham looked up and saw a ram caught by its horns in a thicket. So he took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering in place of his son. Abraham named the place Yahweh-Yireh (which means “the Lord will provide”). Genesis 22:13-14 NLT

Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see. Hebrews 11:1

FEAR IS CONQUERED BY FAITH AND FAITH IS FUELED BY TRUST

1. GOD CARES ABOUT YOUR SITUATION

'The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.' Psalms 34:17-18 NLT

“What can I do to help you?” Elisha asked. 2 Kings 4:2 NLT

Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it with good things. Psalms 81:10 NLT

But no, my people wouldn’t listen. Israel did not want me around. Psalms 81:11 NLT

2. YOUR MINDSET MATTERS

“Tell me, what do you have in the house?” 2 Kings 4:2 NLT

“Nothing at all…" she replied. 2 Kings 4:2 NLT

“Nothing at all, except a flask of olive oil,” she replied. 2 Kings 4:2 NLT

3. WE DO THE GIVING AND GOD DOES THE MULTIPLYING

4. WHEN WE STOP GIVING GOD STOPS PROVIDING

“Bring me another jar,” she said to one of her sons. “There aren’t any more!” he told her. And then the olive oil stopped flowing. 2 Kings 4:6 NLT

'Then, calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?” Mark 8:34-37 NLT

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Psalms 20:7 NLT

Psalms 103:2 NIV

GOD IS MY BANNER OF VICTORY

Moses built an altar there and named it Yahweh-Nissi (which means “the Lord is my banner”). Exodus 17:15 NLT

Mark 10:27 NLT

GOD IS OUR PEACE

'And Gideon built an altar to the Lord there and named it Yahweh-Shalom (which means “the Lord is peace”). Judges 6:24 NLT

Matthew 21:21-22 NLT

Victory in God comes from believing in God’s promises, and Peace comes when you know that God has your best interest at heart.

John 16:33 NLT

Mark 4:35-37 NLT

Mark 4:38 NLT

Mark 4:38-40 NLT

1. You have to believe the canoe will float.

Romans 4:18-24 NLT

Hebrews 11:17-19 NLT

2. Do you understand what a paddle really does?

Exodus 14:10-12 NLT

Exodus 14:13-16 NLT

3. The Key to canoeing is balance

James 1:6-8 NLT

Philippians 4:7 NLT

Philippians 4:4 NLT

"Feelings are important in many areas but completely unreliable in matters of faith“ Eugene Peterson

Philippians 4:4-6 NLT

Philippians 4:7 NLT

Philippians 4:8-9 NLT

4. Who is in your canoe matters

1 Corinthians 15:33 NLT

Proverbs 27:19 TLB

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

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'Some nations boast of their chariots and horses, but we boast in the name of the Lord our God.' Psalms 20:7 NLT

'Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits ' Psalms 103:2 NIV

'And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”' Matthew 3:17 NIV

'Then you will ask in my name. I’m not saying I will ask the Father on your behalf, for the Father himself loves you dearly because you love me and believe that I came from God.' John 16:26-27 NLT

GOD IS RIGHTEOUS

'And this will be his name: ‘The Lord Is Our Righteousness.’ Jeremiah 23:6 NLT

'Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ and become one with him. I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith. ' Philippians 3:8-9 NLT

1. SPIRITUAL SLAVERY IS A CHOICE

'Don’t you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey? You can be a slave to sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God, which leads to righteous living… Previously, you let yourselves be slaves to impurity and lawlessness, which led ever deeper into sin. Now you must give yourselves to be slaves to righteous living so that you will become holy.' Romans 6:16,19 NLT

'We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin. When he died, he died once to break the power of sin.' Romans 6:6,10 NLT

2. SPIRITUAL SEPERATION IS A CHOICE

'When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the obligation to do right. And what was the result? You are now ashamed of the things you used to do, things that end in eternal doom. ' Romans 6:20-21 NLT

'But now you are free from the power of sin and have become slaves of God. Now you do those things that lead to holiness and result in eternal life. For the wages of sin is death...' Romans 6:22-23 NLT

3. SALVATION IS A CHOICE

'For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.' Romans 6:23 NLT

GOD IS OUR SANCTIFIER

'Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. ' Galatians 5:24-25 NLT

'And Joshua said to the people, “Sanctify yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.” ' Joshua 3:5 NKJV

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“IF I WANTED TO BOAST, I WOULD BE NO FOOL IN DOING SO, BECAUSE I WOULD BE TELLING THE TRUTH. BUT I WON’T DO IT, BECAUSE I DON’T WANT ANYONE TO GIVE ME CREDIT BEYOND WHAT THEY CAN SEE IN MY LIFE OR HEAR IN MY MESSAGE, EVEN THOUGH I HAVE RECEIVED SUCH WONDERFUL REVELATIONS FROM GOD. SO TO KEEP ME FROM BECOMING PROUD, I WAS GIVEN A THORN IN MY FLESH, A MESSENGER FROM SATAN TO TORMENT ME AND KEEP ME FROM BECOMING PROUD. THREE DIFFERENT TIMES I BEGGED THE LORD TO TAKE IT AWAY. EACH TIME HE SAID, ‘MY GRACE IS ALL YOU NEED. MY POWER WORKS BEST IN WEAKNESS.’ SO NOW I AM GLAD TO BOAST ABOUT MY WEAKNESSES, SO THAT THE POWER OF CHRIST CAN WORK THROUGH ME. THAT’S WHY I TAKE PLEASURE IN MY WEAKNESSES, AND IN THE INSULTS, HARDSHIPS, PERSECUTIONS, AND TROUBLES THAT I SUFFER FOR CHRIST. FOR WHEN I AM WEAK, THEN I AM MADE STRONG” 2 CORINTHIANS 12:6-10

I CAN WORK WITH THAT

“…BECAUSE OF MIDIAN, THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL MADE FOR THEMSELVES HIDEOUTS IN THE MOUNTAINS—CAVES AND FORTS. WHEN ISRAEL PLANTED ITS CROPS, MIDIAN AND AMALEK, THE EASTERNERS, WOULD INVADE THEM, CAMP IN THEIR FIELDS, AND DESTROY THEIR CROPS ALL THE WAY DOWN TO GAZA. THEY LEFT NOTHING FOR THEM TO LIVE ON, NEITHER SHEEP NOR OX NOR DONKEY. BRINGING THEIR CATTLE AND TENTS, THEY CAME IN AND TOOK OVER, LIKE AN INVASION OF LOCUSTS. AND THEIR CAMELS—PAST COUNTING! THEY MARCHED IN AND DEVASTATED THE COUNTRY. THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL, REDUCED TO GRINDING POVERTY BY MIDIAN, CRIED OUT TO GOD FOR HELP.”

“ONE DAY THE ANGEL OF GOD CAME AND SAT DOWN UNDER THE OAK IN OPHRAH THAT BELONGED TO JOASH THE ABIEZRITE, WHOSE SON GIDEON WAS THRESHING WHEAT IN THE WINEPRESS, OUT OF SIGHT OF THE MIDIANITES. THE ANGEL OF GOD APPEARED TO HIM AND SAID, “ GOD IS WITH YOU, O MIGHTY WARRIOR!”GIDEON REPLIED, “WITH ME, MY MASTER?...”

DOUBT

“IF GOD IS WITH US, WHY HAS ALL THIS HAPPENED TO US? WHERE ARE ALL THE MIRACLE-WONDERS OUR PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS TOLD US ABOUT, TELLING US, ‘DIDN’T GOD DELIVER US FROM EGYPT?’ THE FACT IS, GOD HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH US—HE HAS TURNED US OVER TO MIDIAN.”” JUDGES

ANGER

“THEN THE LORD TURNED TO HIM AND SAID, ‘GO WITH THE STRENGTH YOU HAVE, AND RESCUE ISRAEL FROM THE MIDIANITES. I AM SENDING YOU!’” – JUDGES 6:14 NLT

AUTHENTICITY IS AN EXPRESSWAY TO THE PRESENCE OF GOD

“THE LORD IS CLOSE TO ALL WHO CALL ON HIM, YES, TO ALL WHO CALL ON HIM IN TRUTH” PSALMS 145:18 NLT

“GIDEON SAID TO HIM, ‘ME, MY MASTER? HOW AND WITH WHAT COULD I EVER SAVE ISRAEL? LOOK AT ME. MY CLAN’S THE WEAKEST IN MANASSEH AND IM THE RUNT OF THE LITTER.” “GOD SAID TO HIM, ‘I’LL BE WITH YOU. BELIEVE ME, YOU’LL DEFEAT MIDIAN AS ONE MAN.” JUDGES 6:16 MSG JUDGES 6:15 MSG

DO NOT BE AFRAID OR DISCOURAGED, FOR THE LORD WILL PERSONALLY GO AHEAD OF YOU. HE WILL BE WITH YOU; HE WILL NEITHER FAIL YOU NOR ABANDON YOU.” DEUTERONOMY

“GOD SAID TO GIDEON, “YOU HAVE TOO LARGE AN ARMY WITH YOU…” JUDGES 7:2 MSG

“…MY POWER WORKS BEST IN WEAKNESS…” 2 CORINTHIANS 12:9

GOD CAN’T BLESS WHO YOU PRETEND TO BE

“THEN HE SAID TO THEM, “YOU LIKE TO APPEAR RIGHTEOUS IN PUBLIC, BUT GOD KNOWS YOUR HEARTS. WHAT THIS WORLD HONORS IS DETESTABLE IN THE SIGHT OF GOD.”

BE HONEST WITH WHERE YOU’RE AT

“BEHOLD, YOU DELIGHT IN TRUTH IN THE INWARD BEING…” PSALM 51:6 ESV

SURRENDER IT TO GOD

“…“GOD OPPOSES THE PROUD BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.” SO HUMBLE YOURSELVES UNDER THE MIGHTY POWER OF GOD, AND AT THE RIGHT TIME HE WILL LIFT YOU UP IN HONOR. GIVE ALL YOUR WORRIES AND CARES TO GOD, FOR HE CARES ABOUT YOU.”

KNOW WHO YOU ARE THROUGH HIM

THE ANGEL OF GOD APPEARED TO HIM AND SAID, “ GOD IS WITH YOU, O MIGHTY WARRIOR!

“WE HAVE BECOME HIS POETRY, A RE-CREATED PEOPLE THAT WILL FULFILL THE DESTINY HE HAS GIVEN EACH OF US, FOR WE ARE JOINED TO JESUS, THE ANOINTED ONE. EVEN BEFORE WE WERE BORN, GOD PLANNED IN ADVANCE OUR DESTINY AND THE GOOD WORKS WE WOULD DO TO FULFILL IT!”

CLAIM YOUR VICTORY

“FOR THE LORD YOUR GOD IS THE ONE WHO GOES WITH YOU TO FIGHT FOR YOU AGAINST YOUR ENEMIES TO GIVE YOU VICTORY.’”

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Studies show 3 out 5 Americans are lonely.

63% of men to be lonely, compared with 58% of women.

Social media use was tied to loneliness as well, with 73% of very heavy social media users considered lonely, as compared with 52% of light users.

4 THINGS THAT DESTROY RELATIONSHIPS

1. Selfishness destroys relationships

James 4:1-2 NLT

Proverbs 28:25 GNB

2. Pride destroys relationships

Proverbs 13:10 NLT

Proverbs 16:18 NLT

Proverbs 16:18 MSG

3. Insecurity destroys relationships

Proverbs 29:25 MSG

4. Resentment destroys relationships

Psalms 73:21-22 NLT

Hebrews 12:15 NLT

3 BENEFITS OF A LIFE-GIVING COMMUNITY

Psalms 133:1-3 NLT

1. THERE IS AN ANOINTING IN OUR LIFE-GIVING RELATIONSHIPS

Psalms 133:2 NLT

2. THERE IS A HOPEFUL ANTICIPATION IN OUR LIFE-GIVING RELATIONSHIPS

Psalms 133:3 NLT

3. THERE IS A GLIMPSE OF HEAVEN IN OUR LIFE-GIVING RELATIONSHIPS

Psalms 133:3 NLT

1 Corinthians 11:24-26 NLT

1 Corinthians 11:28-30 TPT

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ACCORDING TO THE NATIONAL CENTER FOR HEALTH

JULY 2019 8.2% OF ADULTS SHOWED SIGNS OF ANXIETY DISORDER

JULY 2020 36% OF ADULTS SHOWED SIGNS OF ANXIETY DISORDER

2 Timothy 1:7

THE 4 MISTRUTHS OF FEAR

1. FEAR TELLS US WE CAN’T MATCH THE SIZE OF OUR PROBLEMS

1 Samuel 17:4-11

1 Samuel 17:23

1 Samuel 17:26

Ephesians 1:4

Ephesians 2:10

Philippians 4:7

Philippians 4:19 ESV

2. FEAR TELLS US GOD DOESN’T CARE ABOUT US

Mark 6:45-51

Psalms 34:15 NIV

Psalms 33:18

“Peace is a belief that exhales. Because you believe that God’s provision is everywhere - like air.” Ann Voskamp

3. FEAR TELLS US WE CAN’T REALLY CHANGE

Genesis 28:10

Genesis 28:11-15

Genesis 28:16-19

YOU CAN RENAME THE SITUATIONS IN YOUR LIFE BECAUSE YOU HAVE BEEN GIVEN NAMING RIGHTS!

4. FEAR TELLS US WE ARE ALL ALONE

1 Kings 19:13-14

1 Kings 19:15-16,18

Deuteronomy 31:6

Matthew 26:37-38

James 5:16

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'When the Lord brought back his exiles to Jerusalem, it was like a dream! We were filled with laughter, and we sang for joy. And the other nations said, "What amazing things the Lord has done for them." Yes, the Lord has done amazing things for us! What joy! Restore our fortunes, Lord, as streams renew the desert. Those who plant in tears will harvest with shouts of joy. They weep as they go to plant their seed, but they sing as they return with the harvest.' Psalms 126:1-6 NLT

TOO MANY TIMES WE LET THE NEGATIVITY OF OUR PRESENT CONNECT HYPOTHETICAL DOTS IN OUR FUTURE

'Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8 NLT

I am the Lord, and I do not change… Malachi 3:6 NLT

God is not a man, so he does not lie. He is not human, so he does not change his mind. Has he ever spoken and failed to act? Has he ever promised and not carried it through? Numbers 23:19 NLT

'The grass withers and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever."' Isaiah 40:8 NLT

JOY IS CULTIVATED WITH A HEALTHY REMEMBRANCE AND NURTURED BY AN ANTICIPATION OF WHAT GOD WILL DO NEXT!

Restore our fortunes, Lord, as streams renew the desert. Those who plant in tears will harvest with shouts of joy. They weep as they go to plant their seed, but they sing as they return with the harvest.' Psalms 126:4-6 NLT

ALL SUFFERING, ALL PAIN, ALL EMPTINESS, ALL DISAPPOINTMENT IS SEED: SOW IT IN GOD AND HE WILL, FINALLY, BRING A CROP OF JOY FROM IT. -EUGENE PETERSON

1. WHAT LIE DO YOU HAVE TO BELIEVE TO MAKE YOUR NEGATIVE FEELING TRUE?

He (devil) was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies. John 8:44 NLT

We can demolish every deceptive fantasy that opposes God and break through every arrogant attitude that is raised up in defiance of the true knowledge of God. We capture, like prisoners of war, every thought and insist that it bow in obedience to the Anointed One. 2 Corinthians 10:5 TPT

2. DO I TRULY FEAR GOD BY BEING IN AWE OF HIM?

'How joyful are those who fear the Lord - all who follow his ways! You will enjoy the fruit of your labor. How joyful and prosperous you will be!' Psalms 128:1-2 NLT

3. WHAT IS REALLY IMPORTANT?

'If God doesn't build the house, the builders only build shacks. If God doesn't guard the city, the night watchman might as well nap. It's useless to rise early and go to bed late, and work your worried fingers to the bone. Don't you know he enjoys giving rest to those he loves? Don't you see that children are God's best gift? the fruit of the womb his generous legacy? Like a warrior's fistful of arrows are the children of a vigorous youth. Oh, how blessed are you parents, with your quivers full of children! Your enemies don't stand a chance against you; you'll sweep them right off your doorstep. Psalm 127:1-5 MSG

4. ARE YOU CARRYING THE WEIGHT ALONE?

'He was despised and rejected - a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief. We turned our backs on him and looked the other way. He was despised, and we did not care. Yet it was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows that weighed him down. And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God, a punishment for his own sins! But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed.' Isaiah 53:3-5 NLT

'Then Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light."' Matthew 11:28-30 NLT

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We are launching a brand new series today titled emotions of 2020. I know as soon as the Clock Struck midnight on New Year's Eve a collective sigh of relief that 2020 has been closed in a new chapter 2021 has begun. Pastor Mike is going to break down over the next four weeks The emotions we have been feeling in 2020. We kick this first week off with anger.

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PastorMike interviews Preston Ulmer founder of the Doubter's Club

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Pastor Tyler speaks on forgiveness this week.

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Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged. Matthew 7:1-2 NLT

JUDGEMENT IS NOT DISCERNMENT, BUT CONDEMNATION.

But as he came closer to Jerusalem and saw the city ahead, he began to weep. “How I wish today that you of all people would understand the way to peace”… Luke 19:41-42 NLT

'Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.' I Corinthians 11:1 NKJV

“You can't love and judge at the same time. It's impossible to ascribe unsurpassable worth to others when you are using others to ascribe worth to yourself.” -Greg Boyd

'“And why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own? How can you think of saying to your friend, ‘Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,’ when you can’t see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye.' Matthew 7:3-5 NLT

NOTHING LOOKS MORE RIDICULOUS TO THIS WORLD THAN A HYPOCRITE

And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord… Romans 7:18,24-25 NLT

HOW DO YOU MOVE FROM JUDGMENT TO INFLUENCE?

1. YOU MODEL AN INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. Matthew 7:7-8 NLT

'It was Moses’ practice to take the Tent of Meeting and set it up some distance from the camp. Everyone who wanted to make a request of the Lord would go to the Tent of Meeting outside the camp. Whenever Moses went out to the Tent of Meeting, all the people would get up and stand in the entrances of their own tents. They would all watch Moses until he disappeared inside. As he went into the tent, the pillar of cloud would come down and hover at its entrance while the Lord spoke with Moses. When the people saw the cloud standing at the entrance of the tent, they would stand and bow down in front of their own tents. Inside the Tent of Meeting, the Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend… Exodus 33:7-11 NLT

MOSES PRAYED FOR GOD’S PRESENCE

'One day Moses said to the Lord , “You have been telling me, ‘Take these people up to the Promised Land.’” Then Moses said, “If you don’t personally go with us, don’t make us leave this place. ' Exodus 33:12,15 NLT

MOSES PRAYED FOR GOD’S DIRECTION AND PURPOSE

let me know your ways so I may understand you more fully and continue to enjoy your favor. Exodus 33:13 NLT

MOSES PRAYED FOR GOD’S GLORY

And he said, “Please, show me Your glory. Exodus 33:18 NKJV

HOW DO YOU MOVE FROM JUDGMENT TO INFLUENCE?

1. YOU MODEL AN INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

2. YOU BUILD TRUST

You parents—if your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead? Or if they ask for a fish, do you give them a snake? Of course not! So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him. Matthew 7:9-11 NLT

PEOPLE WANT TO KNOW YOU ARE WITH THEM AND FOR THEM

BE CONSISTENT
BE DEPENDABLE
BE OPEN

3. SPEAK TRUTH IN LOVE

'For I wrote to you with many tears out of an extremely troubled and anguished heart —not to cause you pain, but that you should know the abundant love I have for you. ' 2 Corinthians 2:4 CSB

But the people were displeased. “He has gone to be the guest of a notorious sinner,” they grumbled. Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood before the Lord and said, “I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have cheated people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!” Jesus responded, “Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham. Luke 19:7-9 NLT

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Pastor Tyler Long speaks on the topic of money this week

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WHEN ANGER LEADS TO ACTIONS THERE TENDS TO BE NEGATIVE REPERCUSSIONS

'And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.' Ephesians 4:26-27 NLT

You have heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment.’ But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot, you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell. Matthew 5:21-22 NLT

ANGER AND INSULTS ARE AN UGLY SYMPTOM OF A DESIRE TO GET RID OF SOMEONE WHO STANDS IN OUR WAY. - JOHN STOTT

'What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God.' James 4:1-2 NIV

JESUS’ TWO EXAMPLES

1. BROTHERS

2. ENEMIES

NOT BEING CONTROLLED BY ANGER

1. ANGER IS NOT THE PROBLEM, BUT OUR RESPONSE CAN BE.

SOMETIMES ANGER LEADS US TO BE AGGRESSIVE

'Short-tempered people do foolish things… Proverbs 14:17 NLT

'Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back.' Proverbs 29:11 NLT

SOMETIMES ANGER LEADS US TO BE PASSIVE

'When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long.' Psalms 32:3

Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many. Hebrews 12:15 NLT

2. EXAMINE YOUR PRIORITIES

'From then on Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly that it was necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, and that he would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day he would be raised from the dead. But Peter took him aside and began to reprimand him for saying such things. “Heaven forbid, Lord,” he said. “This will never happen to you!” Jesus turned to Peter and said, “Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s.”

Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it.' Matthew 16:21-25 NLT

I DIE TO MYSELF

'My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.' Galatians 2:20 NLT

take up your cross daily, and follow me. Luke 9:23 NLT

I DIE TO MY FLESH

'Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there.' Galatians 5:24 NLT

'We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin. For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin.' Romans 6:6-7 NLT

A MAN ON HIS FACE CAN NEVER FALL DOWN - LARRY STOCKSTILL

3. A UNIFIED CHURCH IS OF THE UTMOST IMPORTANCE

'For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.' Ephesians 6:12 NLT

'As for me, may I never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of that cross, my interest in this world has been crucified, and the world’s interest in me has also died.' Galatians 6:14 NLT

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Makarios: Joy which has its secret within itself, that joy which is serene and untouchable, and self-contained that joy which is completely independent of all the chances and changes of life.

THE FOUR SOCIAL QUALITIES THAT ARE BLESSED

Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. Matthew 5:7 ESV

1. COMPASSIONATE IN SPIRIT: O the bliss of the merciful!

'Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested.' Hebrews 2:17-18 NLT

'For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.' Romans 3:23 NLT

'Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord… Romans 7:24-25 NLT

A LACK OF MERCY AND COMPASSION IS EVIDENCE OF SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS

Later, Matthew invited Jesus and his disciples to his home as dinner guests, along with many tax collectors and other disreputable sinners. But when the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with such scum?” When Jesus heard this, he said, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor - sick people do.” Then he added, “Now go and learn the meaning of this Scripture: “I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.’ For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.” Matthew 9:10-13 NLT

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Matthew 5:8 ESV

2. PURE HEART. PURE VISION: O bliss of the Sincere!

“What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are so careful to clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside you are filthy - full of greed and self-indulgence! You blind Pharisee! First wash the inside of the cup and the dish and then the outside will become clean, too.' Matthew 23:25-26 NLT

‘“Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?”Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.”’ Matthew 22:36-40 NLT

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Matthew 5:9 ESV

3. STRIVING FOR PEACE: O the bliss of those who create harmony!

'Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.' Romans 12:17-18

PUBLIC CRITICISMS NEVER CHANGE ANYONE. HOWEVER, PRIVATE CONVERSATIONS IN LOVE DO.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Matthew 5:9 ESV

'And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering.' Romans 8:17 NLT

...by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.' Colossians 1:20 NIV

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10 ESV

4. UNSWERVING LOYALTY: O the bliss of the sufferer for Christ!

Our bodies are buried in brokenness, but they will be raised in glory. They are buried in weakness, but they will be raised in strength. They are buried as natural human bodies, but they will be raised as spiritual bodies. For just as there are natural bodies, there are also spiritual bodies. 1 Corinthians 15:43-44

“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matthew 5:11-12 NIV

Be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do. James 1:6-8 NLT

THE TRUTH IS THAT YOUR LOYALTY IS ROOTED IN YOUR TRUST LEVEL OF GOD

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The Sermon on the Mount is a Manifesto where Jesus is giving us a glimpse of the kingdom of God, not the kingdom of this world that the people of Israel have been picturing for thousands of years, and giving us an invitation to live in alignment with the kingdom of God.
He kicks the whole Sermon on the Mount of with what is referred to as the Beatitudes where Jesus makes 8 statements about those who are “blessed.”
“’Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.'” – Matthew 5:3-10 ESV

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Pastor Mike speaks on the 5 A's of Mental health this week.

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Yet, as God’s servants, we prove ourselves authentic in every way... 2 Corinthians‬ ‭6:4‬ ‭TPT‬‬

'We have proved ourselves by... showing kindness, by the Spirit of holiness (by the Holy Spirit within us), and by our uncritical love for you.' 2 Corinthians 6:6 TPT

So we decided we're going to park here for a little bit and really talk about what the Holy Spirit produces in our lives. So we are looking at Galatians at a deeper level which of the attributes of the Holy Spirit produces in our lives.

But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control… Galatians 5:22-23

but this is what you got to understand about God he will never force you to be you are called to be. The holy spirit will convict you and the Holy Spirit Will directs you but you've got to choose to walk in the person that God wants you to be. Secondly, you need to understand that these attributes are not ala carte That you can't say you want peace and joy and not want patience or self-control. these attributes build off of each other like we discussed last week and I encourage you the watch last week sermon and it is why I titled these sermons Driven by love because Love is the foundation. Lastly, you need to understand these attributes have an outward impact. Many times we read them with this inward focus on self… OOOO I want joy, I want peace, and I want to be loved, but actually these are what the HS produces in you to give to the world around you!

Self-Control: egkrateia

Mastery; More Properly Dominion Within

means strength within… It is about an inner character…It’s about being a person that reflects the character as much in private as we do in public…

Now the fullness of this is a strength that comes from God, but it is a decision that comes from us. This type of Mastery can only be accomplished by the power of the Lord.

First, let’s understand a little about self-control…

SELF CONTROL IS A BATTLE WITHIN AND THE DISCIPLINE TO MOVE FORWARD

That we have this battle between a divided self inside us… Listen to what Paul says…

You ever felt like that? You ever felt that battle rising within… Paul says what a miserable person I am… You ever thought that about yourself… He goes on to say Who will free me? Then he says Jesus… We will get into this a little later… But what Paul is saying here is that we have to first identify that there is a battle going on in our hearts!

Jesus said this…

“If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me. Luke 9:23

Jesus says that Daily we have to understand this battle and daily we have to make conscious decisions on which self will have control of our sinful desires or spiritual… Now many people hear this and they become overwhelmed because they are like you mean Daily I have this choice and this battle that seems like a lot…

But the question is what in life that has value is not filled with these daily choices… You want to be a good parent sometimes you have to make conscious decisions even if you don’t feel like… Sometimes you are exhausted and you don’t want to feed them, I don't care if they are juggling knives I don't want to deal with it, sometimes you just want to scream GO TO YOUR ROOM I DONT WANT TO SEE YOUR FACE THE REST OF THE NIGHT…. But even if you don’t feel like it you know daily you have to have the discipline choose to do what is right as a parent..

The same thing as being a spouse sometimes you just want to be selfish and have this fend for yourself mentality I am doing my own thing regardless of your feelings or you emotions are on the rise and you just want to go off, but you have to have the discipline to make that choice

Or as a leader in your influence… Sometimes you just want to yell just do what I said I don’t feel like telling you why we do what we do… I don’t want to help you problem-solve… Just get together…You have to have the discipline choose to be an effective leader

And we make mistakes in all these just like we do spiritually, but we have to recognize its a daily battle

WE ARE ALWAYS FIGHTING FOR SOMETHING. WE ARE EITHER FIGHTING FOR A HEALTHY SELF OR AN UNHEALTHY SELF.

Regardless no matter what it's still a fight and we have a choice on where that fight will take us… that choice is fueled by our discipline…

All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it todo what it should. 1 Corinthians 9:25-27

Notice Paul says “I” discipline my body which means he is making a conscious decision to daily examine his life. An athlete understands the disciplines they need to place in their life to go to the next level… They also understand they need discipline in their lives to stay away from things that keep them from going to the next level.

Now the writer of Hebrews tells us we must throw off the sin that is slowing us down and the sin that is tripping us up and how do we do this????

'We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. ' Hebrews 12:2

Fix our eyes on Jesus- We imitate the lifestyle of Jesus he was the perfect model of our faith… When we do that it initiates something in our life we want to strive like Paul says to be perfect reflection of the design God created us to be. We know we aren’t perfect but daily we strive to get rid of the negative things in our life and strive to be who God created us to be! All of this happens because of the death and resurrection of Jesus and that resurrection Spirit that is moving in us…

Remember the HS will point things out but we must choose to embrace it and want to change. So we must understand what disciplines we need to add to our life and what we need to be disciplined to stay away from…

So think clearly and exercise self-control. 1 Peter 1:13

Both the Corinthians said that our bodies our souls are temples for the Holy Spirit… So what we put in and expose ourselves to matters beyond just ourselves, but also matters because it shows our gratitude and respect towards God…

So Paul says the way we readjust this is…

I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Romans 12:1

So we must offer our bodies to God… Let our hearts be pleasing to God… So we are going to talk real quickly the areas we need to be careful on exposing ourselves to unhealthy disciplines and what are the healthy disciplines we need to go to the next level…

WHAT DO WE EXPOSE OUR TONGUES TO?

What fills our speech… Avg person speaks 18,000 words a day and now with social media, many of those words are now reaching people that normally would have never been exposed to our daily speech. What things do we expose our tongues? Are they life-giving or life-taking because that will start to affect you?

The tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself. James 3:5-6

The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences. Proverbs 18:21

You may think your post on social media is no big deal, or the way you talk to that coworker, or how you speak to your wife or children is no big deal. It is just something small I said. But it grows. We have the choice of what are we going to expose our speech with because it will start to expose our future… Either future of life or death…

“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” Proverbs 12:18

“A tongue that brings healing is like a tree of life. But a tongue that tells lies produces a broken spirit.” Proverbs 15:4

Are we going to be those that heal or are we going to be those that destroy… So here is your heart check… Start replaying your conversations… Are you talking about people, are you constantly being negative or are elevating people and speaking life.. Also, see what fills your FB statuses and comments because those are your digital words are they life-giving or taking and if you have to wonder then I would say I wouldn't press send or speak it…. Think before you speak and think before you type and ask does this imitates Jesus because I promise if he becomes your filter it will save you a lot of heartache in life!

WHAT DO WE EXPOSE OUR EYES TO?

The very words of Jesus says,

Your eye is a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is good, your whole body is filled with light. But when your eye is bad, your whole body is filled with darkness. Matthew 6:22-23

Our sinful nature is a lot like the story “give a mouse a cookie” glass of milk, then he will want a straw, then a napkin, then a mirror, etc… Which on a side note is my son Kingston!!!!

but it is especially dangerous with what we watch. The more unhealthy things we see the more desensitized we become… Things tend to not shock us as it once was and when Jesus it says that effects your entire body its because it starts triggering your emotions, filling your thoughts, and sometimes hinders your desires…

You can really see this in culture… Things that we are appalling decades ago are normal now… Things you would never see on TV or in magazines is normal for the world, but is detrimental to your moral character… Violence, hate rhetoric, everything is over-sexualized, language is just filthy on all the sites.

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Romans 12:2

That means despite what culture tells us is right or wrong we must have the discipline to make the healthy choice even if its the road less traveled… Maybe there are certain shows, movies, magazines, websites that we just shouldn't expose our hearts to…

I will lead a life of integrity in my own home. I will refuse to look at anything vile and vulgar. Psalms 101:2-3

WHAT DO WE EXPOSE OUR EARS TO?

1 Corinthians says bad company corrupts good morals…

NEGATIVE INFLUENCES ALWAYS DESTROY POSITIVE RESULTS.

That is why they say show me your friends and I will show you your future… That’s not just a school assembly cliche its a reality… Leadership Studies show that people with success that are high caliber leaders surround themselves with other high caliber leaders…

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up. 1 Thessalonians 5:11

I want to surround myself with people that build me up… I don’t want to be surrounded by negative people, I don’t want to be around a gossip bashing festival, I don’t want to be around people that are not motivated… I want to be around people that encourage and build me up!!!

WHAT DO WE EXPOSE OUR HANDS & FEET TO?

Oh that our lives are summed up with an eternal purpose… That we live for life beyond ourselves… That we expose our hands and feet to do something with meaning in this life…

I’ve said this before

DON’T POUR SWEAT, SPILL BLOOD, AND SHED TEARS OVER SOMETHING THAT DOESN’T CARRY ETERNAL INTEREST

Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Romans 12:11

Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless. 1 Corinthians 15:58

Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ. 1 Corinthians 3:23-24

It is so tempting to live and work for ourselves… It is so tempting to strive for convenience and be comfortable, but it is the moments that when we live beyond ourselves we find meaning and we are stretched and taken to places we could never imagine!

Too many times we are chasing what the world calls success and but those things die when we do, but when we invest in people they carry on…

If you chase money and temporary you will never catch it, but if you chase purpose it will actually push you to greater distances…

So let’s expose our works to purpose…

WHAT DO WE EXPOSE OUR MINDS TO?

We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ 2 Corinthians 10:5 ESV

The mind is a battlefield and once we starting doubting the nature and character of God and the power of God… We start suffering spiritually…

That’s why Isaiah says this…

You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Isaiah 26:3

That we have peace when we trust that God is who says he is and our minds and thoughts are fixed and focused on that!

WE DEVELOP INNER STRENGTH WHEN OUR THOUGHTS ARE FIXATED ON THE THINGS OF GOD

Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.' Philippians 4:8-9

The way I love to look at this scripture is this… The more I read God’s word and the more I meditate on the promises of God… The more I start becoming who I was always created to be… That my inner thoughts, desires, destiny, and dreams start coming to the surface…

Do we understand who God is and what His promises truly say? Are we feeding our minds and souls with the promises of God… Because if God is for me who can be against me… What weapon formed against shall prosper… I will never drown because God is my strength… I am Gods workmanship created with a purpose… I am child of God not a slave to fear… I am a new creation the old is gone…

For you are all children of the light and of the day; we don’t belong to darkness and night. So be on your guard, not asleep like the others. Stay alert and be clearheaded... But let us who live in the light be clearheaded, protected by the armor of faith and love, and wearing as our helmet the confidence of our salvation. 1 Thessalonians 5:5-6;8

As we pray to our God and Father about you, we think of your faithful work, your loving deeds, and the enduring hope you have because of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Thessalonians 1:3

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Yet, as God's servants, we prove ourselves authentic in every way... 2 Corinthians 6:4TPT

'We have proved ourselves by... showing kindness, by the Spirit of holiness (by the Holy Spirit within us), and by our uncritical love for you.' 2 Corinthians 6:6 TPT

So last week we decided we're going to park here for a little bit and really talk about what the Holy Spirit produces in our lives. Remember Paul said we got to prove ourselves authentic and Jesus says that people are defined by their actions like a tree is defined by its fruit. You are what you do oh, you are what you say, you are what you put online. Now, the great thing about Jesus in his grace is that we don't have to stay that way but we do need to identify like the writer of Hebrews says the weight that is slowing us down from being who we are called to created us to be in the sin that's tripping us up.

So we are looking at Galatians at a deeper level which of the attributes of the Holy Spirit produces in our lives. but this is what you got to understand about God he will never force you to be you are called to be. The holy spirit will convict you and the Holy Spirit Will directs you but you've got to choose to walk in the person that God wants you to be. Secondly, you need to understand that these attributes are not ala carte That you can't say you want peace and joy and not want patience or self-control. these attributes build off of each other like we discussed last week and I encourage you the watch last week sermon and it is why I titled these sermons Driven by love because Love is the foundation. Lastly, you need to understand these attributes have an outward impact. Many times we read them with this inward focus on self… OOOO I want joy, I want peace, and I want to be loved, but actually these are what the HS produces in you to give to the world around you!

So last week we set this up the talking about love this is outward expression towards others because we walk in this deep gratitude of the love we have experienced from God.

'But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. This is real love-not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. 1 John 4:8;10

Did you see this? That God didn't love us because we did something nice for him and he felt compelled to act. no, God loved us despite our sin and the mistakes we have made and his love drove him to act despite what he never received from us because he saw the potential he created us with and he was compelled to help us reach it. this is the love he calling disciples to live in. You don't just treat somebody good because they treated you good you treat someone good despite the way they treat you because you see potential in them to be who God created them to be and you are not going to be defined by the fruits of this world you're going to be defined by the fruit of heaven and we don't function the same way.

Now I want to reiterate something we received this love even though we didn't deserve it. even when we were living a lifestyle contrary to the love we've received God still gave us that love…

But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. Romans 5:8

This verse is love with an action attached to them!!! They all have movement… They are not just saying I love you they are acting with Love…

It uses the same Greek word for love which is

Agapao which means

Deep and constant love and interest of a perfect Being toward entirely unworthy objects.

This is the highest form of LOVE… it is found 142 times in scriptures and they respond with action…

Though we don't deserve it a God much greater and grander than us responded with Love that had movement to it and restored us through Jesus…

Now, remember this is the love of God calls us to give to others because this is the love we received. We see their needs and we react to their needs whether we think they deserve it by their actions.

Now, remember again from last week when we remain in that love we will experience the joy that overflows when we follow the commands of God, and what did Jesus say that command was in that passage to love others and lay your life down for someone else. so when we walk in an Agapao love towards people that may not deserve it and we lay our lives down for them that's where we discover joy!

This week we are diving into Kindness & Goodness

Popular English Bibles translate the single Greek word chrestotes into two English words: kindness and goodness.

Goodness is being good Moral excellence; virtue; the best part of anything;

Kindness is goodness in action, the sweetness of disposition, gentleness in dealing with others.

Both of these fruits or words at the root of the biblical term means Active Character…

Kindness and Goodness is not feelings or personalities here… What it is acting on those qualities… It is allowing our actions to speak louder than our words…

Golden Rule…

"Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. Matthew 7:12

This doesn't say to be nice… That when you are wronged to respond with kindness and goodness.. This actually says Take initiative in being kind and good… Look for opportunities to allow your character to have action to it and do good…

This concept is different than other religions or philosophers…

Confucius "What you do not want done to yourself, do not do to others

Buddhism:"Hurt not others with that which pains yourself."

Zoroaster "Whatever is disagreeable to yourself, do not do unto others."

So other concepts of this is not do harm to people just be nice… But Jesus is saying seek opportunities to make a difference in the lives of people around you!

BE KIND AND DO GOOD

For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:10

It's like God has a divine to do list and it has our name on it.

That life is meant to be filled with purpose and we are to walk in that purpose… We are called to leave this world a better place than when we entered because he planned it as he created us his masterpieces to do good in this world…

"A life isn't significant except for its impact on other lives." -Jackie Robinson

BREAK

1. WE MUST POINT PEOPLE TO JESUS

When it all comes down to it it's not about our opinions, our politics, or our preferences it's about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It's about the fact that we are Brothers and Sisters in Christ and are a spiritual family. It's about people walking and restoration that only Jesus can give.

It is also not about how awesome we may think we are as a person. We will never have enough in the tank to heal, restore, and change people… We are kind and we are good because we want people to experience the only one who is truly kind, good, and life-changing which is Jesus Christ…

Taste and see that the lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him! Fear the lord, you his godly people, for those who fear him will have all they need. Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry, but those who trust in the lord will lack no good thing. Psalms 34:8-10

That ONLY God can give all you need a life that is long and prosperous… David understood he must push people towards God…

Matthew 5 Jesus talks about it… He says we are the light of the world and don't hide the fact that you are radically changed by God but share it with the world…

Let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. Matthew 5:16

Don't get it twisted I do what I do to elevate the name of Jesus, but that doesn't mean I don't battle the Monster of Me that wants to elevate the name of Mike Carlton, elevate my opinions, lean into my preferences regardless of whether it is beneficial to the majority. I have to constantly remind myself The why behind my what. I have to always remind myself the reason behind my actions in the good times when people see my good works I have to remind myself it's all about Jesus I'm not the savior, but I also have to remind myself in the hard times when people expect me to be perfect and place impossible standards on me and the weight is heavy I must remind myself Jesus said he will carry my burden. Have to remind myself I am Laying the seeds of the message of Jesus into people's lives and I may not be the person that sees those seeds grow and produce fruit, but down the road, someone else may be watering it and speaking life into them and I have to remind myself I'm playing the Eternal game.

When we elevate people we elevate them to Jesus! We reflect Jesus with our good works… We brag about Jesus. My prayer is that our acts of kindness reflect the greatest kindness this world ever has seen!

2. WE MUST WARN PEOPLE.

Kindness is not just the absence of negativity… And it is not just being nice… Its fighting for peoples well being because you care for them

JUST BEING NICE STAYS ON THE SURFACE, BUT BEING KIND AND GOOD DIVES DEEPER.

We must care for people beyond the surface and deal with matters of the heart…

I heard it said like this "Kindness is not the same thing as being nice. You can be nice and thats kind, but you can be kind and its not always nice."

As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. Proverbs 27:17

Thats not always easy and doesn't always feel nice… This doesn't mean that we are rude, hateful, demeaning, or angry… So if you are approaching these sharpening moments with those emotions thats not the biblical way to handle it…

This means you are willing to have tough conversations with someone. You love someone so deeply that you are willing to discuss unhealthy areas in their lives because you want to see the greatness they are created with start making its way to the surface…

Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. Share each other's burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. If you think you are too important to help someone, you are only fooling yourself. You are not that important. Galatians 6:1-3

This thought to help people back on the right path is common in most translations as Restore in greek "Which means set a bone that has been broken back in place" Painful… Then you would take a broken bone and put a splint on it or today put a cast to protect t so it can heal properly…The same way we as believers surround and protect in a time of healing…

Now let me explain something very clearly this isn't a public warning it's a private conversation in love. and you don't earn the right to have a private conversation with someone if you have it shown publicly you have their best interest at heart. Your Facebook post isn't going to change anybody's life, but your private conversations will. Notice the ministry of Jesus the greatest life change with people that work in unhealthy place has happened in the most intimate settings not from his public sermons he went to Zacchaeus house and had a meal with him in his own intimacy of a friendship, keep it down and spoke in the life of the adulterous woman one-on-one after he defended her publicly, it had an intimate one-on-one conversation with the Samaritan woman, he was insulted by the Pharisees for eating meals with quote-unquote notorious Sinners which was a deeply personal thing in the Jewish culture. and it's in those places he called them to repent and called them to be more but it was because they were friends not just acquaintances or a mass audience without a face.

BREAK

3. WE MUST GO THE EXTRA MILE

If a soldier demands that you carry his gear for a mile, carry it two miles. Matthew 5:41

When Jesus tells the disciples to go an extra mile. Referencing the Roman soldiers carrying the bags. In those days 1 mile was 1000 steps. It was the law that if a Roman soldier saw a Jew walking he could make that Jew carry his bags for a mile Nothing more but a mile… Jesus is saying we respond beyond the norm…

Everybody and anybody can go 1000 steps but let's be people doing 2000 steps. Let's be a church that goes above and beyond because we serve a God that went above and beyond for us… He didn't just do a 1000 steps he walked 10,000 steps… He didn't just keep pardoning and covering our sins as we offered man-made sacrifices but sent his son to die so that our sins would be washed completely clean, our past sins gone, obliterated, and sent a heavenly sacrifice for us…

"For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

Didn't talk about forgiving us… Didn't just speak forgiveness and a pardon… Literally & physically sent his son to die for us!

We go beyond because we serve a God who went beyond…

'Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.' James 1:27

4. WE GLORIFY GOD THROUGH THE CHURCH

If I can be honest with you this has been my biggest takeaway throughout the last several months COVID. as a personal conviction as a pastor, I felt as a whole we got a little too big for our britches. we lost the intimacy of discipleship we lost the intimacy of Pastoring people. We are great at pulling off events, but we lost the beauty of intimacy. I knew to go into this year. He's calling us to be hashtags for the Ozarks and I knew he was calling us to look outward oh, but I think that was the start of something much deeper. he was calling us to get back to the heart of discipleship. for us as a church don't have a personal investment in others and see them grow in bloom and everything they are called and created to be.

If you can't tell especially coming out of the time home isolation what people need more than any is friendships, life-giving relationships, and a community that stirs them to be a part of something bigger than themselves. The majority of adults prior to COVID when surveyed said they were deeply alone and desperately wanted authentic relationships. The #1 way we can be For the Ozarks is by first being a healthy church, that provides a healthy community, that builds healthy relationships, where we can disciple people and encourage each other.

That is why lead people into a community… We are called and we spiritually need to live the gospel together in a community fulfilling the great commission as church body… We tether it all back to church…Because you need a life-giving community to support each other and help in your growth and in living the gospel purpose for every believer.

And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. Hebrews 10:25

Other translations say don't forsake the assembly which means the gathering or I love the MSG it says don't miss worshiping together… We do life Together… We glorify God through that life…

All the believers were united in heart and mind. And they felt that what they owned was not their own, so they shared everything they had. Acts 4:32

We are better together… We need to love and serve each other… We may not be able to change the ENTIRE world but we can change OUR world

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He (Jesus) ascended into Heaven and sits at the right hand of God

What does the Bible say about the ascension?

“When the Lord Jesus had finished talking with them, he was taken up into heaven and sat down in the place of honor at God’s right hand. And the disciples went everywhere and preached, and the Lord worked through them, confirming what they said by many miraculous signs.”

Mark 16:19-20

“While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up to heaven. So they worshiped him and then returned to Jerusalem filled with great joy. And they spent all of their time in the Temple, praising God.”

Luke 24:51-53

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” After saying this, he was taken up into a cloud while they were watching, and they could no longer see him.”

Acts of the Apostles 1:8-9

Christ’s Exaltation

“(God) raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God’s right hand in the heavenly realms. Now he is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else—not only in this world but also in the world to come. God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church. And the church is his body; it is made full and complete by Christ, who fills all things everywhere with himself.”

Ephesians 1:20-23

“Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf.”

Hebrews 7:25

“Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

Philippians 2:9-11

“Christ is also the head of the church, which is his body. He is the beginning, supreme over all who rise from the dead. So he is first in everything. For God in all his fullness was pleased to live in Christ, and through him God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross.”

Colossians 1:18-20

The Giving of the Holy Spirit

“But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don’t, the Advocate won’t come. If I do go away, then I will send him to you.”

John 16:7

“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future. He will bring me glory by telling you whatever he receives from me.”

John 16:13-14

“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth…” GUIDANCE
“He will tell you about the future…” REVELATION
“He will bring me glory by telling you whatever He receives from me…” DIRECT ACCESS

The Eternal Dwelling of God’s People

“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know the way to where I am going.”

John 14:1-4

What does the ascension means to us?

The Vindication of Jesus

“The time promised by God has come at last!” he announced. “The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!”

Mark 1:15

The Reality of Heaven

“In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation.”

1 Peter 5:10

Our Union with Christ

“Since we have been united with him in his death, we will also be raised to life as he was.”

Romans 6:5

“But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!) For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus.”

Ephesians 2:4-6

Take Home:

Our Salvation is Certain

We must Live Boldly

“So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.”

Hebrews 4:16

“Who then will condemn us? No one—for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and he is sitting in the place of honor at God’s right hand, pleading for us.”

Romans 8:34

“...And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.””

Matthew 28:20

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On the Third Day He Rose From the Dead

Apostle’s Creed - Week 6

ON THE THIRD DAY HE (JESUS) ROSE AGAIN FROM THE DEAD

“FOR IF THERE IS NO RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD, THEN CHRIST HAS NOT BEEN RAISED EITHER. AND IF CHRIST HAS NOT BEEN RAISED, THEN ALL OUR PREACHING IS USELESS, AND YOUR FAITH IS USELESS. AND WE APOSTLES WOULD ALL BE LYING ABOUT GOD – FOR WE HAVE SAID THAT GOD RAISED CHRIST FROM THE GRAVE. BUT THAT CAN’T BE TRUE IF THERE IS NO RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD. AND IF THERE IS NO RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD, THEN CHRIST HAS NOT BEEN RAISED. AND IF CHRIST HAS NOT BEEN RAISED, THEN YOUR FAITH IS USELESS AND YOU ARE STILL GUILTY OF YOUR SINS. IN THAT CASE, ALL WHO HAVE DIED BELIEVING IN CHRIST ARE LOST! AND IF OUR HOPE IN CHRIST IS ONLY FOR THIS LIFE, WE ARE MORE TO BE PITIED THAN ANYONE IN THE WORLD.” 1 CORINTHIANS 15:13-19

WITHOUT THE RESURRECTION THERE IS NO CHRISTIANITY

THE PROBLEM
EMPTY GOSPEL

“AND IF CHRIST IS NOT RISEN, THEN OUR PREACHING IS USELESS” – 1 CORINTHIANS 15:14

“NOW I WOULD REMIND YOU, BROTHERS, OF THE GOSPEL I PREACHED TO YOU, WHICH YOU RECEIVED, IN WHICH YOU STAND, AND BY WHICH YOU ARE BEING SAVED” – 1 CORINTHIANS 15:1-2

A DEAD SAVIOR CAN’T SAVE ANYONE

EMPTY FAITH

“…AND YOUR FAITH IS USELESS…” 1 CORINTHIANS 15:14

STILL SINNERS

“AND IF CHRIST HAS NOT BEEN RAISED, THEN YOUR FAITH IS USELESS AND YOU ARE STILL GUILTY OF YOUR SINS” – 1 CORINTHIANS 15:17

NO HOPE

“IF THE DEAD ARE NOT RAISED, LET US EAT AND DRINK, FOR TOMORROW WE DIE” 1 Corinthians 15:32

“BUT IN FACT, CHRIST HAS BEEN RAISED FROM THE DEAD. HE IS THE FIRST OF A GREAT HARVEST OF ALL WHO HAVE DIED.” – 1 CORINTHIANS 15:20

THE PROOF

“IF I WERE AN ENEMY OF CHRISTIANITY, I’D AIM RIGHT AT THE RESURRECTION, BECAUSE THAT’S THE HEART OF CHRISTIANITY” – BILLY GRAHAM

“…HE WAS RASIED FROM THE DEAD ON THE THIRD DAY, JUST AS THE SCRIPTURES SAID. HE WAS SEEN BY PETER AND THEN BY THE TWELVE. AFTER THAT HE WAS SEEN BY MORE THAN 500 OF HIS FOLLOWERS AT ONE TIME, MOST OF WHOM ARE STILL ALIVE, THOUGH SOME HAVE DIED. THEN HE WAS SEEN BY JAMES AND LATER BY ALL OF THE APOSTLES. LAST OF ALL, AS THOUGH I HAD BEEN BORN AT THE WRONG TIME, I ALSO SAW HIM.” – 1 CORINTHIANS 15:4-9

“BUT ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK, AT EARLY DAWN, THEY WENT TO THE TOMB, TAKING THE SPICES THEY HAD PREPARED. AND THEY FOUND THE STONE ROLLED AWAY FROM THE TOMB, BUT WHEN THEY WENT IN THEY DID NOT FIND THE BODY OF THE LORD JESUS. WHILE THEY WERE PERPLEXED ABOUT THIS, BEHOLD, TWO MEN STOOD BY THEM IN DAZZLING APPAREL. AND AS THEY WERE FRIGHTENED AND BOWED THEIR FACES TO THE GROUND, THE MEN SAID TO THEM, “WHY DO YOU SEEK THE LIVING AMONG THE DEAD? HE IS NOT HERE, BUT HAS RISEN. REMEMBER HOW HE TOLD YOU…” LUKE 24:1-6

“WE’RE GOING UP TO JERUSALEM, WHERE THE SON OF MAN WILL BE BETRAYED TO THE LEADING PRIESTS AND THE TEACHERS OF RELIGIOUS LAW. THEY WILL SENTENCE HIM TO DIE. THEN THEY WILL HAND HIM OVER TO THE ROMANS TO BE MOCKED, FLOGGED WITH A WHIP, AND CRUCIFIED. BUT ON THE THIRD DAY HE WILL BE RAISED FROM THE DEAD.” – MATTHEW 20:18-19

“LET ME NOW REMIND YOU, DEAR BROTHERS AND SISTERS, OF THE GOOD NEWS I PREACHED TO YOU BEFORE. YOU WELCOMED IT THEN, AND YOU STILL STAND FIRM IN IT. IT IS THIS GOOD NEWS THAT SAVES YOU IF YOU CONTINUE TO BELIEVE THE MESSAGE I TOLD YOU – UNLESS, OF COURSE, YOU BELIEVED SOMETHING THAT WAS NEVER TRUE IN THE FIRST PLACE. I PASSED ON TO YOU WHAT WAS MOST IMPORTANT AND WHAT HAD ALSO BEEN PASSED ON TO ME. CHRIST DIED FOR OUR SINS, JUST AS THE SCRIPTURES SAID. HE WAS BURIED, AND HE WAS RAISED FROM THE DEAD ON THE THIRD DAY, JUST AS THE SCRIPTURES SAID.” 1 CORINTHIANS 1-4

THE PROMISE

The resurrection promises 4 things:

OUR FAITH HAS MEANING
WE’VE BEEN FORGIVEN
WE CAN BE CERTAIN ABOUT OUR FUTURE
WE CAN WALK IN RESURRECTION POWER

“WHEN JESUS CHRIST WAS CRUCIFIED, HE PAID SIN’S PENALTY; HIS RISING FROM THE GRAVE REVEALED HIS DEATH’S SUFFICIENCY” – ????

THE RESURRECTION IS THE FATHER’S “AMEN” TO THE SON’S “IT IS FINISHED” Our Daily Bread

THE RESURRECTION SECURES THE PROMISE OF OUR SALVATION.

“HE (JESUS) WAS DELIVERED UP FOR OUR SINS, AND ROSE AGAIN FOR OUR JUSTIFICATION” – ROMANS 4:25

“BLESSED BE THE GOD AND FATHER OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST! ACCORDING TO HIS GREAT MERCY, HE HAS CAUSED US TO BE BORN AGAIN TO A LIVING HOPE THOUGH THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST FROM THE DEAD, TO AN INHERITANCE THAT IS IMPERISHABLE, UNDEFILED, AND UNFADING…” 1 PETER 1:3-4

“THE SPIRIT OF GOD, WHO RAISED JESUS FROM THE DEAD, LIVES IN YOU…” ROMANS 8:11

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(JESUS) DESCENDED INTO HELL

"For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ. So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless." 1 Corinthians 15:56-58

BE STRONG AND IMMOVABLE

WORK ENTHUSIASTICALLY FOR THE LORD

"Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it? Or have you forgotten that when we were joined with Christ Jesus in baptism, we joined him in his death? For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives. Since we have been united with him in his death, we will also be raised to life as he was. We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin. For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin. And since we died with Christ, we know we will also live with him. We are sure of this because Christ was raised from the dead, and he will never die again. Death no longer has any power over him. When he died, he died once to break the power of sin. But now that he lives, he lives for the glory of God. So you also should consider yourselves to be dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus. Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires. Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God." Romans 6:1-13

WE ARE ETERNAL BEINGS WHICH MEANS ONLY THE ETERNAL WILL GIVE US FULFILLMENT!

"For His Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children. And since we are His children, we are His heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share His glory, we must also share his suffering. Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory He will reveal to us later." Romans 8:16-18

“GOD USES TEMPORAL STRUGGLES TO FORGE ETERNAL BEAUTY” -Addison Bevere

“Then He said, 'I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven.'” Matthew 18:3

“There was a man named Nicodemus, a Jewish religious leader who was a Pharisee. After dark one evening, he came to speak with Jesus. 'Rabbi,' he said, 'we all know that God has sent you to teach us. Your miraculous signs are evidence that God is with you.' Jesus replied, 'I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God.” “What do you mean?' exclaimed Nicodemus. 'How can an old man go back into his mother’s womb and be born again?' Jesus replied, 'I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit. Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life. So don’t be surprised when I say, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows wherever it wants. Just as you can hear the wind but can’t tell where it comes from or where it is going, so you can’t explain how people are born of the Spirit.' 'How are these things possible?' Nicodemus asked.” John 3:1-9

"Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect." Romans 12:2

BEFORE YOU CAN CHANGE YOU HAVE TO WANT CHANGE

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.” Psalms 139:23-24

GET YOUR PERSPECTIVE ALIGNED WITH GROWTH OVER COMPLAINTS

"Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy." James 1:2

TESTINGS PRODUCE CHARACTER; WHILE COMPLACENCY PRODUCES COMPROMISE
BE ALL IN

"Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God." Romans 6:13

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(JESUS) SUFFERED UNDER PONTIUS PILATE WAS CRUCIFIED, DEAD, AND BURIED

JESUS DID NOT MERELY DIE FOR US; HE ALSO SUFFERED FOR US.

We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us… 1 John 3:16

JESUS THE SUFFERING SERVANT

GOD’S PROMISE OF THE SERVANT
“See, my servant will prosper; he will be highly exalted.” Isaiah 52:13
“For all of God’s promises find their 'yes' of fulfillment in Christ. And as his 'yes' and our 'amen' ascend to God, we bring him glory!” 2 Corinthians 1:20
THE MISSION OF THE SERVANT
“Yet it was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows that weighed him down. And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God, a punishment for his own sins! But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed.” Isaiah 53:4-5
“God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:21 NIV

JESUS CAME FOR MY SAKE, TO TAKE MY SIN, TO MAKE ME RIGHTEOUS ALL THROUGH HIS SUFFERING!

THE INNOCENCE OF THE SERVANT
“He was oppressed and treated harshly, yet he never said a word. He was led like a lamb to the slaughter. And as a sheep is silent before the shearers, he did not open his mouth. He had done no wrong and had never deceived anyone. But he was buried like a criminal; he was put in a rich man’s grave.” Isaiah 53:7,9
"Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.'” Luke 23:34
THE SACRIFICE OF THE SERVANT
"But it was the Lord’s good plan to crush him and cause him grief. Yet when his life is made an offering for sin, he will have many descendants…" Isaiah 53:10
“He humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross.” Philippians 2:8
"With his own blood—not the blood of goats and calves—he entered the Most Holy Place once for all time and secured our redemption forever." Hebrews 9:12
VINDICATION THROUGH THE SERVANTS SUFFERING
“When he sees all that is accomplished by his anguish, he will be satisfied. And because of his experience, my righteous servant will make it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins. I will give him the honors of a victorious soldier, because he exposed himself to death. He was counted among the rebels. He bore the sins of many and interceded for rebels.” Isaiah 53:11-12

DECLARATION: BECAUSE JESUS GAVE ME HIS EVERYTHING I WILL GIVE ALL OF ME!

“Since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering. Romans 8:17-18

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(JESUS) WHO WAS CONCEIVED OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, BORN OF THE VIRGIN MARY

Isaiah 7:14

JESUS’ DIVINE CONCEPTION - BORN WITHOUT SIN

2 Corinthians 5:21

JESUS’ DIVINE NATURE - TRULY GOD & TRULY MAN

Hebrews 2:14, 17

Hebrews 4:15

Hebrews 4:16

JESUS’ DIVINE WORKS - GOD’S REDEMPTION

Romans 5:6-9

Luke 1:26-38

YOU MUST ANSWER THE QUESTION:WHAT DOES GOD SAY ABOUT ME? THEN YOU MUST TRUST THAT ANSWER AND SURRENDER TO HIS WILL!

2 Peter 1:3-7

OUR FAITH - I TRUST THAT GOD HAS MY BEST INTEREST AT HEART

Isaiah 26:3

Isaiah 41:10

MORAL EXCELLENCE - I KNOW & FOCUS ON MY IDENTITY IN JESUS

Philippians 4:8

1 Peter 2:9

KNOWLEDGE - WE HUNGER FOR THE TRUTH FROM THE SCRIPTURES

John 17:17

Colossians 1:9-10

SELF-CONTROL - I’M NOT EXPOSING MYSELF TO LIFE-TAKING ENVIRONMENTS

Romans 12:1

PATIENT ENDURANCE - I RUN TO WIN A HEAVENLY PRIZE

2 Corinthians 4:17-18

GODLINESS - I WILL HAVE AFFECTION FOR MY FAITH FAMILY & LOVE THE WORLD

Isaiah 1:11-12, 15-19 NLT

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“You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it.” Matthew 7:13-14

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me.” Matthew 16:24

“The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you.” John 15:19

“At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him. Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, “Are you also going to leave?” Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life. We believe, and we know you are the Holy One of God. ” John 6:66-69

1. JESUS THE CHRIST

“When Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, saying, “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?” So they said, “Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon...”Matthew 16:13-17 NKJV

“I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth!” Revelation 3:15-16

“Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation...for through him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth... and he holds all creation together. Christ is also the head of the church, which is his body… For God in all his fullness was pleased to live in Christ, and through him God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross.” Colossians 1:15-20 NLT

• JESUS THE CHRIST PERFECTLY REVEALS GOD

• JESUS THE CHRIST IS SUPREME.

“Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:9-11

• JESUS THE CHRIST LEADS THE CHURCH AND REDEEMS THE BODY.

“Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” John 14:6

2. JESUS GOD'S ONLY SON

“For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.” John 3:17

“Because God’s children are human beings—made of flesh and blood—the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested.” Hebrews 2:14, 17-18

“So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. This High Priest of oursunderstands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most. Hebrews 4:14-16

3. JESUS OUR LORD

TAKE HOME

• I WILL SURRENDER MY LIFE TO THE LORD OF MY LIFE

My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. John 10:10

• I UNDERSTAND THAT MY PERSONAL FAITH CONFESSION IS A COMMITMENT TO THE COMMUNITY OF FAITH.

• I WILL LIVE THE MISSION OF MY LORD

This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him. For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God! 2 Corinthians 5:17-20

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I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose. 1 Corinthians 1:10

I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth.

GOD, MAKER OF HEAVEN AND EARTH

By faith we understand that the entire universe was formed at God’s command, that what we now see did not come from anything that can be seen. Hebrews 11:3

For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused ...They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen. Romans 1; 18-25

Then God said, “Let us make human beings in our image, to be like us….. So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:26-27

The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences. Proverbs 18:21

The tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself. James 3:5-6

What you say flows from what is in your heart. Luke 6:45

ACTION STEP: DAILY I WILL EVALUATE THE FRUIT OF MY WORDS AND REALIGN MY HEART TO MY CREATED STATE

GOD, THE FATHER ALMIGHTY

•IDENTITY - YOU ARE MY SON

•AFFECTION - WHOM I LOVE

•AFFIRMATION - WITH YOU I AM WELL PLEASED

The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:28-31

ACTION STEP: I DECLARE THAT I AM A CHILD OF GOD, I AM PRECIOUS, I HAVE A PURPOSE, AND I REST IN THOSE TRUTHS!

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DECIDE THE TYPE OF PERSON YOU WANT TO BE.

PROVE IT TO YOURSELF WITH SMALL WINS

Samson led Israel for twenty years in the days of the Philistines. Judges 15:20 NIV

So for 20 years, Samson is the leader of Israel, he's the hero of the people of Israel, and for the most part the people of Israel live in peace and for the most part during the twenty years, they're prospering. So he goes from the hero to being beaten by the Philistines, a prisoner of the Philistines, eyes gouged out, and he is who they bring out to Mock and ridicule at all their parties. He went from a hero to a laughing stock and it feels like almost instantly when you hear me paraphrase the story, but if you look deeper that's not what happened.

RARELY DO WE GET TO THE WRONG PLACE IN LIFE BY ONE BAD CHOICE. WE GET THERE ONE STEP AT A TIME, ONE DAY AT A TIME, AND ONE BAD HABIT AT A TIME.

WE DON’T BELIEVE OUR BAD HABITS OR DISOBEDIENCE WILL COST US.

Some time later, he fell in love with a woman in the Valley of Sorek whose name was Delilah. Judges 16:4 NIV

The rulers of the Philistines went to her and said, “See if you can lure him into showing you the secret of his great strength and how we can overpower him so we may tie him up and subdue him. Each one of us will give you eleven hundred shekels of silver.” So Delilah said to Samson, “Tell me the secret of your great strength and how you can be tied up and subdued.” Judges 16:5-6 NIV

HOW DO YOU BREAK BAD HABITS?

YOU MUST ACKNOWLEDGE THEM

DEFINE THE TYPE OF PERSON YOU WANT TO BE AND WHAT HABITS ARE HINDERING THAT

But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so run from all these evil things. 1 Timothy 6:11

So get rid of every filthy habit and all wicked conduct. Submit to God and accept the word that he plants in your hearts, which is able to save you. James 1:21 GNB

WE HAVE TO GET TO THE POINT WHERE YOU LOVE FREEDOM OVER THE CONVENIENCE OF YOUR TEMPTATION

THE DISCIPLINES WE HOLD IN OUR PRESENT LEADS TO A HARVEST IN OUR FUTURE

Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.

Ephesians 5:11 NIV

That is why the Bible says FLEE FROM SIN…MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO COMPROMISE

Take hold of my instructions; don’t let them go. Guard them, for they are the key to life. Don’t do as the wicked do, and don’t follow the path of evildoers. Don’t even think about it; don’t go that way. Turn away and keep moving. Proverbs 4:13-15

4 MAJOR TRIGGERS:

PLACE

TIME

MOOD

Tremble and in your anger do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the Lord. Psalms 4:4-5 NIV

PEOPLE

Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble. Proverbs 13:20

Do not be fooled. “Bad companions ruin good character.” 1 Corinthians 16:33 NIV

ACTION STEP: SURROUND YOURSELF WITH PEOPLE GOING THE DIRECTION YOU WANT TO GO

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Definition

A habit is a routine or behavior that is performed regularly-and, in many cases, automatically.

So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Galatians 6:9

SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE DO CONSISTENTLY OTHER PEOPLE DO OCCASIONALLY.

Now Daniel so distinguished himself among the administrators and the satraps... Daniel 6:3 NIV

...by his exceptional qualities that the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom. Daniel 6:3 NIV

WE NATURALLY DRIFT TOWARDS COMPLACENCY, BUT WE STRATEGICALLY PLAN FOR GROWTH.

At this, the administrators and the satraps tried to find grounds for charges against Daniel in his conduct of government affairs, but they were unable to do so. They could find no corruption in him, because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent. Finally these men said, “We will never find any basis for charges against this man Daniel unless it has something to do with the law of his God.” Daniel 6:4-5 NIV

Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before. Daniel 6:10 NIV

GOD CAN DO MONUMENTAL MIRACLES THROUGH ONE SMALL HABIT OF OBEDIENCE!

Jesus told them. “I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it would move. Nothing would be impossible.” Matthew 17:20

YOUR HABITS ARE HOW YOU EMBODY YOUR IDENTITY AND YOUR IDENTITY IS LITERALLY YOUR REPEATED BEINGNESS.

Toward the end of Paul’s life, he is writing to Timothy who is a leader that Paul has been mentoring. Paul understood that Timothy had a lot of challenges he was facing based on leading the church, facing false teachers, learning how to identify and develop elders in the church, how to have a dynamic prayer life, conduct church services, take care of widows and the elderly… The list goes on and on with the duties of Pastor. Yet Paul in his wisdom ends his letter to Timothy with this...

But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so run from all these evil things. Pursue righteousness and a godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness; Timothy, guard what God has entrusted to you. 1 Timothy 6:11;20

For lasting success and change we have to build identity-based habits. This is what you have to get in your mind. A keystone habit is formed by who you want to be. For me, it is what type of husband, father, Pastor, and the leader I want to be. Focus on who you wish to become!

TRUE BEHAVIOR CHANGE IS IDENTITY CHANGE!

Research shows that once a person believes in a particular aspect of their identity, they are more likely to act in alignment with that belief.

ACTION STEPS

DECIDE THE TYPE OF PERSON YOU WANT TO BE.

You have to decide who you want to be. this is an individual decision this also works for your company for your family for your team. What are your principles what are your values what do you want to stand for who do you wish to become?

WHO IS THE TYPE OF PERSON THAT COULD GET THE OUTCOME I WANT?

Who is the type of disciple that has a vibrant faith? Who is the type of person you can lose 100 lb? who is the type of person that earns that type of salary? Who is the type of spouse that has a healthy marriage like that? Who's the type of person that can start that business? Who is the type of parent that has a great relationship with their kids?

PROVE IT TO YOURSELF WITH SMALL WINS

Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin… Zechariah 4:10

Once you identify the person you want to be you can begin by taking small steps to reinforce that identity. I love the example James gives in his book when he talks about a friend who lost a hundred pounds and she did it by asking herself a series of questions. the questions all rooted in this what would a healthy person do? All-day long those questions would be her guide. would a healthy person walk or take a cab? would a healthy person order a burrito or salad? she figured if she acted like a healthy person long enough, eventually, she would become that person. And she was right!

YOUR HABITS SHAPE YOUR IDENTITY AND YOUR IDENTITY SHAPES YOUR HABITS.

Once you identify who you want to be you start asking yourself in small ways what actions does a person carry and then you start walking and what Paul is instructing Timothy you are a man of God and a man of God runs from evil and focuses on godliness, faith, love, perseverance!

I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. Philippians 1:6

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But when you give to someone in need, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. Matthew 6:3-4

That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.” Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying, “Glory to God in highest heaven and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.” Luke 2:8-14

“I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” John 8:12

Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. Psalm 51:9 NIV

I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. John 16:33

For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. John 3:16-17

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Turn the Page

“YOU CAN’T START THE NEXT CHAPTER IF YOU DON’T TURN THE PAGE”

AND I AM CERTAIN THAT GOD, WHO BEGAN THE GOOD WORK WITHIN YOU, WILL CONTINUE HIS WORK UNTIL IT IS FINALLY FINISHED ON THE DAY WHEN CHRIST JESUS RETURNS. PHILIPPIANS 1:6 NLT

This confirms that he’s going to continue to use us, so we have to continue to move forward…to turn the page.

“FOR I AM ABOUT TO DO SOMETHING NEW. SEE, I HAVE ALREADY BEGUN! DO YOU NOT SEE IT? I WILL MAKE A PATHWAY THROUGH THE WILDERNESS. I WILL CREATE RIVERS IN THE DRY WASTELAND” - ISAIAH 43:19

AFTER THE DEATH OF MOSES, THE LORD’S SERVANT, THE LORD SPOKE TO JOSHUA SON OF NUN, MOSES’ ASSISTANT. HE SAID, ‘MOSES MY SERVANT IS DEAD. THEREFORE, THE TIME HAS COME FOR YOU TO LEAD THESE PEOPLE, THE ISRAELITES, ACROSS THE JORDAN RIVER INTO THE LAND I AM GIVING THEM. JOSHUA 1:1-2

“I PROMISE YOU WHAT I PROMISED TO MOSES: ‘WHEREVER YOU SET FOOT, YOU WILL BE ON LAND I HAVE GIVEN YOU…NO ONE WILL BE ABLE TO STAND AGAINST YOU AS LONG AS YOU LIVE. FOR I WILL BE WITH YOU AS I WAS WITH MOSES. I WILL NOT FAIL YOU OR ABANDON YOU.” JOSHUA 1:3

MANY TIMES, THE NEXT BIG THING GOD WANTS TO DO IN YOUR LIFE IS RIGHT OUTSIDE OF YOUR CURRENT COMFORT ZONE.

I want to outline 5 steps to help you turn the page….to take a confident step towards the next big thing God has for you! Are you all ready to learn how to turn a page in your Life?

LET GO OF THE BAD HISTORY

“FORGET THE FORMER THINGS; DO NOT DWELL ON THE PAST. SEE, I AM DOING A NEW THING! NOW IT SPRINGS UP; DO YOU NOT PERCEIVE IT…?” ISAIAH 43:18-19

Psalm 145 says this:

THE LORD IS GRACIOUS AND COMPASSIONATE, SLOW TO ANGER AND RICH IN LOVE. PSALM 145:8

FOR I WILL FORGIVE THEIR WRONGDOING, AND I WILL NEVER AGAIN REMEMBER THEIR SINS. HEBREWS 8:12

God is saying I FORGIVE YOU for what you’ve done wrong! And he will NEVER AGAIN remember your sins AND God is not a man that he shall lie so you can take that promise to the Grave!

LET GO OF BAD HABITS

“IS NOT THIS THE KIND OF FASTING I HAVE CHOSEN: TO LOOSE THE CHAINS OF INJUSTICE AND UNTIE THE CORDS OF THE YOKE, TO SET THE OPPRESSED FREE AND BREAK EVERY YOKE?” – ISAIAH 58:6 NIV

LET GO OF PAST HURTS

Some of you in here are wounded and it hurts and again it’s defining your life. What they did or what they said– maybe its time for you to move on from it. Listen, That quote from earlier – let me alter it –

“YOU CAN’T START THE NEXT CHAPTER OF YOUR LIFE IF YOU KEEP RE-READING THE LAST ONE.”

You cant step into the next big thing God has for you if you are still making decisions taking into account an old past hurt.

DON’T LET ANYTHING FROM YOUR PAST ROB YOU FROM YOUR FUTURE.

…WATCH OUT THAT NO POISONOUS ROOT OF BITTERNESS GROWS UP TO TROUBLE YOU, CORRUPTING MANY. HEBREWS 12:15 NLT

Let go of past hurts and let God move!

LET GO OF DOUBT

Judges 6 gives such a powerful example of what happens when you let go of doubt and choose to believe the promises of God.

The Israelites were handed over to the Midianites because they did some bad things. The Midianites were so cruel to the Israelites that they literally made hiding places in the mountains and caves. One day – an Israelite named Gideon was threshing wheat in the bottom of a winepress, so that he could stay hidden when an angle of the Lord appeared. Let’s take a look:

“THE ANGEL OF THE LORD APPEARED TO HIM (GIDEON) AND SAID, ‘MIGHTY HERO, THE LORD IS WITH YOU!’ ‘SIR,’ GIDEON REPLIED, ‘IF THE LORD IS WITH US, WHY HAS ALL OF THIS HAPPENED TO US? AND WHERE ARE ALL OF THE MIRACLES OUR ANCESTORS TOLD US ABOUT?” JUDGES 6:12-13

Have you ever asked that question? If God is with me – then why is this happening!? That’s the doubt I’m talking about – but listen to what happens:

THEN THE LORD TURNED TO HIM AND SAID, “GO WITH THE STRENGTH YOU HAVE, AND RESCUE ISRAEL FROM THE MIDIANITES, I AM SENDING YOU!” “BUT LORD, ‘GIDEON REPLIED, “ HOW CAN I RECUE ISRAEL? MY CLAN IS THE WEAKEST IN THE WHOLE TRIBE OF MANASSEH, AND I AM THE LEAST IN MY ENTIRE FAMILY!” “THE LORD SAID TO HIM, “I WILL BE WITH YOU AND YOU WILL DESTROY MIDIANITES AS IF YOU WERE FIGHTING AGAINST ONE MAN” JUDGES 6:14-16

Gideon ended up overcoming his doubts and he ended up defeating the Midianites and bringing peace to Israel for the next 40 years – someone that had no confidence in what God wanted to use him for does something so big!!! Heres what I know – Gideon went from Hiding to hero because he was able to throw his doubts upon the Lord and let God do a huge work through him!

TURN THE PAGE

YOU DON’T HAVE TO UNDERSTAND COMPLETELY TO OBEY IMMEDIATELY

Whatever God is calling you to next, I want to challenge you…listen to the call and act. Take the step and see what God is going to do through your obedience! Heres what I know IT’S A TRUST THING!

WITHOUT FULL TRUST THERE’S NO SURRENDER, AND WITH NO SURRENDER THERE’S NO FREEDOM.

BUT WHEN YOU PRAY, YOU MUST BELIEVE AND NOT DOUBT AT ALL. WHOEVER DOUBTS IS LIKE A WAVE IN THE SEA THAT IS DRIVEN AND BLOWN ABOUT BY THE WIND. JAMES 1:6 GNT

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About 5,000 men were fed that day, in addition to all the women and children! Matthew 14:21

Jesus replied, “Tell them to sit down in groups of about fifty each.” So the people all sat down. Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces, he kept giving the bread and fish to the disciples so they could distribute it to the people. They all ate as much as they wanted, and afterward, the disciples picked up twelve baskets of leftovers! Luke 9:14-17

When the day began to wear away. Luke 9:12 NKJV

But Jesus said, “You feed them.” Luke 9:13

Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces. Luke 9:16

he kept giving the bread and fish to the disciples so they could distribute it to the people. Luke 9:16

IT HAS TO BE BLESSED BEFORE IT CAN MULTIPLY.
IT HAS TO BE GIVEN AWAY TO MULTIPLY.

Blessed are those who act justly, who always do what is right. Psalms 106:3 NIV

I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you… Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:1-2

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THE ENEMY OF GENEROSITY

This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it. John 12:6 NKJV

Then Jesus said, “I chose the twelve of you, but one is a devil.” He was speaking of Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, one of the Twelve, who would later betray him. John 6:70-71

SUCCESS IS CONFRONTING OUR WEAKNESSES AND OVERCOMING THEM!

Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. 2 Corinthians 12:9

THE EXTRAVAGANCE OF GENEROSITY

And now, because of my devotion to the Temple of my God, I am giving all of my own private treasures of gold and silver to help in the construction 1 Chronicles 29:3

Solomon loved the Lord and followed all the decrees of his father, David, so the king went there and sacrificed 1,000 burnt offerings. 1 Kings 3:3-4

While Jesus was in the Temple, he watched the rich people dropping their gifts in the collection box. Then a poor widow came by and dropped in two small coins. “I tell you the truth,” Jesus said, “this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has.” Luke 21:1-4

EXTRAVAGANCE IS NOT THE AMOUNT, BUT THE ATTITUDE BEHIND IT!

She has done what she could and has anointed my body for burial ahead of time. Mark 14:8

They exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord. 2 Corinthians 8:5 NIV

THE MOST EXTRAVAGANT THING YOU CAN GIVE GOD IS YOUR HEART.

THE REWARD OF GENEROSITY

I tell you the truth, wherever the Good News is preached throughout the world, this woman’s deed will be remembered and discussed. Mark 14:9

GENEROSITY IS A REFLECTION OF GRATITUDE

Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him. Hebrews 11:6

I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. Genesis 12:2 NIV

The Lord appeared to Abram and said, “To your offspring I will give this land.” So he built an altar there to the Lord, who had appeared to him. Genesis 12:7

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And I say to you, make friends for yourselves by unrighteous mammon, that when you fail, they may receive you into an everlasting home. Luke 16:9 NKJV

No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. Luke 16:13 NKJV

WHAT IS MAMMON?

Then they said to one another, “Come, let us make bricks and bake them thoroughly.” They had brick for stone, and they had asphalt for mortar. And they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, and a tower whose top is in the heavens; let us make a name for ourselves… Genesis 11:3-4 NKJV

No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. Matthew 6:24 NKJV

MAMMON PROMISES US THINGS ONLY GOD CAN PROVIDE.

IS MONEY EVIL?

MONEY IS NOT EVIL, IT IS NEUTRAL.

For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows. 1 Timothy 6:10

And I say to you, make friends for yourselves by unrighteous mammon, that when you fail, they may receive you into an everlasting home. Luke 16:9 NKJV

ONLY GOD CAN TURN UNRIGHTEOUS MAMMON INTO SOULS.

WHAT SHOULD I DO WITH MY MONEY?

If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. Luke 16:10

And if you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven? Luke 16:11

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Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, “Consecrate

to Me all the firstborn, whatever opens the womb among the children of Israel, both of man and beast;

it is Mine.” Exodus 13:1-2 NKJV

every firstborn that comes from an animal which you have; the males shall be the Lord’s. But every firstborn of a donkey you shall redeem with a lamb; and if you will not redeem it, then you shall break its neck. And all the firstborn of man among your sons you shall redeem.

Exodus 13:12-13 NKJV

THE FIRSTBORN MUST BE SACRIFICED

OR REDEEMED

For I was born a sinner—yes, from the moment

my mother conceived me. Psalms 51:5

JESUS IS GOD’S TITHE

But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. Romans5:8

be completely destroyed, and you will bring trouble on the camp of Israel. Everything made from silver, gold, bronze, or iron is

sacred to the Lord and must be brought into his treasury.”

Joshua 6:17-19

FIRSTFRUITS MUST BE OFFERED

Honor the Lord with your possessions, And with the firstfruits

of all your increase Proverbs 3:9 NKJV

The first of the firstfruits of your land you shall bring into the house of the Lord your God. Exodus 23:19 NKJV

But Israel violated the instructions about the things set

apart for the Lord. A man named Achan had stolen

some of these dedicated things, so the Lord was very angry with the Israelites. Joshua 7:1-2

IT TAKES FAITH TO TITHE AND IT TAKES FAITH TO BELIEVE THAT 90% BLESSED IS FAR BETTER THAN 100% CURSED.

Andin the process of time it came to pass that Cain brought an

offering of the fruit of the ground to the Lord. Genesis 4:3 NKJV

Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat. And the Lord respected Abel and his offering, but He did not respect Cain and his offering. Genesis 4:4-5 NKJV

THE TITHE MUST BE FIRST

One-tenth of the produce of the land, whether grain from the fields or fruit from the trees belongs to the Lord and must be set apart to him as holy.

Leviticus 27:30

For if the firstfruit is holy, the lump is also holy; and if

the root is holy, so are the branches. Romans 11:16 NKJV.

firstborn males throughout the land of Egypt, both people and animals. That is why I now sacrifice all the firstborn males to the Lord… Exodus 13:14-15

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Life is good for the one who is generous and charitable, conducting affairs with honesty and truth. Psalms 112:5 TPT

Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6

“Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. “But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ Malachi 3:8 NIV

“In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. Malachi 3:8-9 NIV

3 UNDERSTANDINGS ABOUT TITHING

TITHING IS A TEST

TITHING IS BIBLICAL

this memorial pillar I have set up will become a place for worshiping God, and I will present to God a tenth of everything he gives me. Genesis 28:22

One-tenth of the produce of the land, whether grain from the fields or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord and must be set apart to him as holy. Leviticus 27:30

Look down from Your holy habitation, from heaven, and bless Your people Israel and the land which You have given us… Deuteronomy 26:15 NKJV

TITHING IS A BLESSING

Moreover he commanded the people who dwelt in Jerusalem to contribute support for the priests and the Levites, that they might devote themselves to the Law of the Lord. 2 Chronicles 31:4 NKJV

2 Chronicles 31:5-7 NKJV

And Azariah the chief priest, from the house of Zadok, answered him and said, “Since the people began to bring the offerings into the house of the Lord, we have had enough to eat and have plenty left, for the Lord has blessed His people; and what is left is this great abundance. 2 Chronicles 31:8-10 NKJV

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Blessed are those who act justly, who always do what is right. Psalms 106:3 NIV

You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ Acts 20:35

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Matthew 7:1-2 NIV

“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Luke 6:37-38 NIV

Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. Matthew 6:21

HOW TO DEVELOP A HEART OF GENEROSITY:

But if there are any poor Israelites in your towns when you arrive in the land the Lord your God is giving you, do not be hard-hearted or tightfisted toward them. Instead, be generous and lend them whatever they need. Deuteronomy 15:7-8

DEAL WITH A SELFISH HEART

Do not be mean-spirited and refuse someone a loan because the year for canceling debts is close at hand. If you refuse to make the loan and the needy person cries out to the Lord, you will be considered guilty of sin. Deuteronomy 15:9

WHY DID GOD INVENT GIVING?

GIVING OVER ANY OTHER ACTIVITY WORKS SELFISHNESS AND GREED OUT OF OUR HEARTS.

People may be pure in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their motives. Proverbs 16:2

When you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure. James 4:3

DEAL WITH A GRIEVING HEART.

Give generously to the poor, not grudgingly, for the Lord your God will bless you in everything you do. Deuteronomy 15:10

HOW DO YOU COMBAT GRIEF?

YOU HAVE THE PROPER PERSPECTIVE REGARDING “YOUR” MONEY.

DEVELOP A GENEROUS HEART.

Give him a generous farewell gift from your flock, your threshing floor, and your winepress. Share with him some of the bounty with which the Lord your God has blessed you. Deuteronomy 15:14

HOW DO YOU WALK IN GENEROSITY?

BY RENEWING OUR MINDS.

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Romans 12:2

DEVELOP A GRATEFUL HEART

Remember that you were once slaves in the land of Egypt and the Lord your God redeemed you! That is why I am giving you this command. Deuteronomy 15:15

live each day with holy awe and reverence throughout your time on earth. For you know that your lives were ransomed once and for all from the empty and futile way of life handed down from generation to generation. It was not a ransom payment of silver and gold, which eventually perishes, but the precious blood of Christ—who like a spotless, unblemished lamb was sacrificed for us. 1 Peter 1:17-19 TPT

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our theme verses for this series…

10A FINAL WORD: BE STRONG IN THE LORD AND IN HIS MIGHTY POWER. 11PUT ON ALL OF GOD’S ARMOR SO THAT YOU WILL BE ABLE TO STAND FIRM AGAINST ALL STRATEGIES OF THE DEVIL. 12FOR WE ARE NOT FIGHTING AGAINST FLESH-AND-BLOOD ENEMIES, BUT AGAINST EVIL RULERS AND AUTHORITIES OF THE UNSEEN WORLD, AGAINST MIGHTY POWERS IN THIS DARK WORLD, AND AGAINST EVIL SPIRITS IN THE HEAVENLY PLACES. 13THEREFORE, PUT ON EVERY PIECE OF GOD’S ARMOR SO YOU WILL BE ABLE TO RESIST THE ENEMY IN THE TIME OF EVIL. THEN AFTER THE BATTLE YOU WILL STILL BE STANDING FIRM. 14STAND YOUR GROUND, PUTTING ON THE BELT OF TRUTH AND THE BODY ARMOR OF GOD’S RIGHTEOUSNESS. 15FOR SHOES, PUT ON THE PEACE THAT COMES FROM THE GOOD NEWS SO THAT YOU WILL BE FULLY PREPARED. 16IN ADDITION TO ALL OF THESE, HOLD UP THE SHIELD OF FAITH TO STOP THE FIERY ARROWS OF THE DEVIL. 17PUT ON SALVATION AS YOUR HELMET, AND TAKE THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT, WHICH IS THE WORD OF GOD. 18PRAY IN THE SPIRIT AT ALL TIMES AND ON EVERY OCCASION. STAY ALERT AND BE PERSISTENT IN YOUR PRAYERS FOR ALL BELIEVERS EVERYWHERE. 19AND PRAY FOR ME, TOO. ASK GOD TO GIVE ME THE RIGHT WORDS SO I CAN BOLDLY EXPLAIN GOD’S MYSTERIOUS PLAN THAT THE GOOD NEWS IS FOR JEWS AND GENTILES ALIKE. 20I AM IN CHAINS NOW, STILL PREACHING THIS MESSAGE AS

GOD’S AMBASSADOR. SO PRAY THAT I WILL KEEP ON SPEAKING BOLDLY FOR HIM, AS I SHOULD.

Ephesians 6

10A FINAL WORD: BE STRONG IN THE LORD AND IN HIS MIGHTY POWER. 11PUT ON ALL OF GOD’S ARMOR SO THAT YOU WILL BE ABLE TO STAND FIRM AGAINST ALL STRATEGIES OF THE DEVIL…. 13THEREFORE, PUT ON EVERY PIECE OF GOD’S ARMOR SO YOU WILL BE ABLE TO RESIST THE ENEMY IN THE TIME OF EVIL. THEN AFTER THE BATTLE YOU WILL STILL BE STANDING FIRM. 14STAND YOUR GROUND, PUTTING ON THE BELT OF TRUTH AND THE BODY ARMOR OF GOD’S RIGHTEOUSNESS. 15FOR SHOES, PUT ON THE PEACE THAT COMES FROM THE GOOD NEWS SO THAT YOU WILL BE FULLY PREPARED.E

EPHESIANS 6:10 –11,13-15 NLT

PEACE IS NOT THE ABSENCE OF PROBLEMS; IT’S THE ADDITION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT’S POWER WITHIN THE PROBLEMS

15FOR SHOES, PUT ON THE PEACE THAT COMES FROM THE GOOD NEWS SO THAT YOU WILL BE FULLY PREPARED

The peace comes from the good news…what is the good news? It’s the promises of God.

Paul is telling us that we have to have a firm stance in our faith and spirituality if we want to have peace in our battles…let me say it this way… if you’re taking notes write this down:

THE SPIRITUAL FOUNDATION YOU HAVE GOING INTO THE BATTLE DETERMINES YOUR PEACE THROUGHOUT THE FIGHT.

DO NOT FEAR, FOR I AM WITH YOU; DO NOT BE DISCOURAGED, FOR I AM YOUR GOD. I WILL STRENGTHEN YOU AND HELP YOU; I WILL UPHOLD YOU WITH MY VICTORIOUS RIGHT HAND

WHO GOD IS

Colossians 1:15-20

15 CHRIST IS THE VISIBLE IMAGE OF THE INVISIBLE GOD. HE EXISTED BEFORE ANYTHING WAS CREATED AND IS SUPREME OVER ALL CREATION,[E]6 FOR THROUGH HIM GOD CREATED EVERYTHING IN THE HEAVENLY REALMS AND ON EARTH. HE MADE THE THINGS WE CAN SEE AND THE THINGS WE CAN’T SEE—SUCH AS THRONES, KINGDOMS, RULERS, AND AUTHORITIES IN THE UNSEEN WORLD. EVERYTHING WAS CREATED THROUGH HIM AND FOR HIM. 17 HE EXISTED BEFORE ANYTHING ELSE, AND HE HOLDS ALL CREATION TOGETHER.18 CHRIST IS ALSO THE HEAD OF THE CHURCH, WHICH IS HIS BODY. HE IS THE BEGINNING, SUPREME OVER ALL WHO RISE FROM THE DEAD.[F] SO HE IS FIRST IN EVERYTHING.19 FOR GOD IN ALL HIS FULLNESS WAS PLEASED TO LIVE IN CHRIST,0 AND THROUGH HIM GOD RECONCILED EVERYTHING TO HIMSELF. HE MADE PEACE WITH EVERYTHING IN HEAVEN AND ON EARTH BY MEANS OF CHRIST’S BLOOD ON THE CROSS.

Deuteronomy 20:4

“FOR THE LORD YOUR GOD IS THE ONE WHO GOES WITH YOU TO FIGHT FOR YOU AGAINST YOUR ENEMIES TO GIVE YOU VICTORY”

This same sovereign God that we just talked about goes WITH us to FIGHT FOR US against our enemies to give us a victory.

Can yall get excited about that today?

No matter what battle you’re in Deuteronomy says he GOES WITH YOU TO FIGHT FOR YOU! To give you victory….

WHO GOD THINKS WE ARE

Ephesians 2:10

“FOR WE ARE GOD’S MASTERPIECE. HE HAS CREATED US ANEW IN CHRIST JESUS, SO WE CAN DO THE GOOD THINGS HE PLANNED FOR US LONG AGO.”

“WE HAVE BECOME HIS POETRY, A RE-CREATED PEOPLE THAT WILL FULFILL THE DESTINY HE HAS GIVEN EACH OF US, FOR WE ARE JOINED TO JESUS, THE ANOINTED ONE. EVEN BEFORE WE WERE BORN, GOD PLANNED IN ADVANCE OUR DESTINY AND THE GOOD WORKS WE WOULD DO TO FULFILL IT”

IF YOU DON’T KNOW THE PURPOSE OF SOMETHING YOU WILL ABUSE IT

Let me tell you this:

LIFE WITHOUT PURPOSE IS TIME WITHOUT MEANING

IF YOU’RE STILL BREATHING GOD’S NOT DONE

PHILIPPIANS 1:6 “AND I AM CERTAIN THAT GOD, WHO BEGAN THE GOOD WORK WITHIN YOU WILL CONTINUE HIS WORK UNTIL IT IS FINALLY FINISHED ON THE DAY WHEN CRHIST JESUS RETURNS”

2 PETER 1:3 “BY HIS DIVINE POWER, GOD HAS GIVEN US EVERYTHING WE NEED FOR LIVING A GODLY LIFE. WE HAVE RECEIVED ALL OF THIS BY COMING TO KNOW HIM, THE ONE WHO CALLED US TO HIMSELF BY MEANS OF HIS MARVELOUS GLORY AND EXCELLENCE.”

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3 AREAS SATAN MOST INTENSELY ATTACKS:

· YOUR MIND

· YOUR EMOTIONS

· YOUR WILL

The Lord is my shepherd I have all that I need. Psalms 23:1

So then, surrender to God. Stand up to the devil and resist him and he will turn and run away from you. Move your heart closer and closer to God, and he will come even closer to you. But make sure you cleanse your life, you sinners, and keep your heart pure and stop doubting. James 4:7-8 TPT

Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Proverbs 4:23

WHAT GETS YOUR ATTENTION GETS YOUR HEART, AND THAT DETERMINES THE COURSE OF YOUR LIFE.

MISPLACED ATTENTION WILL LEAD TO A FALSE SENSE OF HAPPINESS.

HOW DO WE ALIGN OUR HEARTS?

PASSIONATELY PURSUE JESUS.

THE DISTANCE BETWEEN YOU & WHAT YOU LOVE DETERMINES WHETHER YOU HAVE THE CAPACITY TO ALLOW SOMETHING TO SEPARATE YOU FROM WHAT YOU LOVE.

If you love me, keep my commands. John 14:15 NIV

In fact, this is love for God: to keep his commands. And his commands are not burdensome…Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. 1 John 5:3;12 NIV

TEMPTATION OR COMPROMISE DOESN'T EXPOSE OUR WEAKNESSES IN WILL POWER, BUT THE WEAKNESSES IN OUR RELATIONSHIP.

INTIMACY WITH GOD IS WHAT PRODUCES INNOCENCE IN OUR LIVES.

For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18

OBEDIENCE LEADS TO A THRIVING RELATIONSHIP, NOT COMPLIANCE.

Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. Matthew 5:17 NIV

Then he said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. Luke 9:23-24

..and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us. And don’t let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one. Matthew 6:12-13

1 degree of separation Slide

MAKE THE COMMITMENT TO LEAVE THE PAST IN THE PAST.

But Jesus told him, “Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.” Luke 9:62

INTIMACY IS A RESULT OF CONSISTENCY.

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3 AREAS SATAN MOST INTENSELY ATTACKS:

•

YOUR MIND

•

YOUR EMOTIONS

•

YOUR WILL

You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength. Mark 12:30

Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:13-17

“For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ” 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 ESV

DEMOLISHING THE STRONGHOLD OF THE MIND:

IDENTIFY THE STRONGHOLD

“Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants.” 2 Timothy 2:26 NLT

“When he (the devil) lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” John 8:44 ESV

____ MATERIAL/FINANCIAL STRONGHOLD

____ ADDICTIVE/HABITUAL STRONGHOLD

____ PERSONAL/PHYSICAL STRONGHOLD

____ RELATIONAL STRONGHOLD

____ SPIRITUAL STRONGHOLD

IDENTIFY WHO YOU WANT TO BE.

“The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants...These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions... When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these... But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” Galatians 5:17-22

THE MORE YOU PRAY AND READ THE BIBLE, THE MORE GOD’S CHARACTER RUBS OFF ON YOU!

“A wise man attacks the city of the mighty and pulls down the stronghold in which they trust.” Proverbs 21:22 NIV

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WE LIVE IN A PHYSICAL WORLD, AND A SPIRITUAL WORLD.

“The problem is most people overestimate or underestimate spiritual warfare. Funny how the devil likes when we over believe or under believe just don't bible believe” C.S. Lewis

4 TRUTHS ABOUT THIS SPIRITUAL BATTLE:

THERE IS A REAL ENEMY.

Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. Ephesians 6:11

THIS REAL ENEMY WANTS TO DESTROY YOU.

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith. 1 Peter 5:8-9 NIV

Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. Ephesians 5:11 NIV

WE ARE ALL IN THE SAME BATTLE.

For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:12

THE DEVIL’S GOAL IS TO DIVIDE US.

Any kingdom divided by civil war is doomed. A family splintered by feuding will fall apart. Luke 11:17

I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose. 1 Corinthians 1:10

Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples. John 13:35

OUR STRENGTH IS IN THE LORD.

Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. Ephesians 6:10-11

So one night the king of Aram sent a great army with many chariots and horses to surround the city. When the servant of the man of God got up early the next morning and went outside, there were troops, horses, and chariots everywhere. “Oh, sir, what will we do now?” the young man cried to Elisha. 2 Kings 6:14-15

“Don’t be afraid!” Elisha told him. “For there are more on our side than on theirs!” 2 Kings 6:16

Then Elisha prayed, “O Lord, open his eyes and let him see!” The Lord opened the young man’s eyes, and when he looked up, he saw that the hillside around Elisha was filled with horses and chariots of fire. 2 Kings 6:17

THE ENEMY IS SUBJECT TO OUR GOD.

The Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world. 1 John 4:4

✓ THE HIGHEST AUTHORITY IS THE NAME OF JESUS.

When the seventy-two disciples returned, they joyfully reported to him, “Lord, even the demons obey us when we use your name!” “Yes,” he told them, “I saw Satan fall from heaven like lightning! Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy… Luke 10:17-19

At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth. Philippians 2:10

THE AUTHORITY OF THE WORD
THE AUTHORITY OF THE BLOOD AND THE CROSS

And they have defeated him (devil) by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony. Revelation 12:11

For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5

DAILY FILL YOUR MIND WITH GOD’S PROMISES, AND DAILY PROCLAIM GOD’S PROMISES.

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CAN I SLEEP IN HEAVEN?

And the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb.” And he added, “These are true words that come from God.” Revelation 19:9

Still they stood there in disbelief, filled with joy and wonder. Then he asked them, “Do you have anything here to eat?” They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he ate it as they watched. Luke 24:41-43

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE TO SHARE YOUR FAITH AT A JOB THAT DISCOURAGES FAITH AND DOESN’T ALLOW YOU TO DISCUSS GOD?

‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ Matthew 22:39

Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone. Colossians 4:5-6

WHY DOES GOD LET THERE BE SO MUCH BAD IN THIS WORLD?

“Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered—how fleeting my life is.” Psalms 39:4

Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later. Romans 8:18

… by his wounds we are healed. Isaiah 53:5 NIV

And they have defeated him (devil) by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony. Revelation 12:11

God himself will be with them. He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever. Revelation 21:4-5

IN EXODUS, WHEN GOD TURNED THE NILE TO BLOOD, WHAT BLOOD TYPE WAS IT?
CAN YOU SERVE GOD AND BE IN AN UNMARRIED SEXUAL RELATIONSHIP?

Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it? Romans 6:1-2

We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin. For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin….Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires. Romans 6:6-7;12

ARE ANIMALS IN HEAVEN?
IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER AND YOU ARE DEALING WITH SOMETHING SUCH AS DEPRESSION AND IT PUSHES YOU TO SUICIDE, DO YOU GO TO HEAVEN? BECAUSE NUMEROUS PEOPLE ALWAYS SAY I WILL SEE THEM HEAVEN. WHERE DOES THAT STAND IN GOD’S EYES?

Suicide is a permanent irreversible attempt to solve a temporary problem in which most people don’t want to die they just want their pain to end!

HOW DO YOU FULLY “GIVE IT TO GOD” WHEN ANXIOUS, FEARFUL, OR DOUBTFUL?

For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. Proverbs 23:7 NKJV

Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Philippians 4:8

IF GOD FORGIVES AND FORGETS MY SINS, WILL I STILL FACE JUDGEMENT ON THOSE SINS?

And I will forgive their wickedness, and I will never again remember their sins. Hebrews 8:12

This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! 2 Corinthians 5:17

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Pastor Mike speaks on spiritual ruts

Bloom Church Podcast: Recent Episodes

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