THE BIBLE BREAKDOWN

Wise/Godly Woman

Wise/Godly Man

The Wise

The foolish

Ten Commandments:

The new covenant:

OLD COVENANT VS NEW COVENANT:

HEBREWS

Promises:

Miracles:

Noah’s ark
God through Moses parting the Red Sea
God makes humans from dust
God makes Eve from Adam
Jericho’s walls falling
David and Goliath
S,M,A thrown into the furnace
Daniel in the lions den
Jesus heals lepers
Jesus fills 2 boats full of fish
Jesus feeds the 2k and 5k
Jesus rising from the dead
Jesus heals the paralyzed man
God provides a lamb to save Isaac from dying
Jesus walks on the water

Biblical holidays/events:

Rules and Regulations:

Things we are called to/should do:

Be bold

Sharing the gospel: 1 Thessalonians 2:2

An example

1 Thess. 1:7-8

Please God not people

1 thess. 2:4

Shouldn’t do:

Unbelievers/Pagans:

Our identity in Christ:

Who I am called to be:

His chosen people:

1 Thessalonians 1:4

What Jesus calls me:

Ephesians 5:22-33

Daughter/Son

Beloved

Things that will happen in the future/end times:

The end times:

1 Thess. 4:15-18 - but it does not say we get caught up at the SAME time as the dead but says that we will be caught up. Now what is the time difference in between those events. Rapture debunked?
”One day the Pharisees asked Jesus, “When will the Kingdom of God come?” Jesus replied, “The Kingdom of God can’t be detected by visible signs. You won’t be able to say, ‘Here it is!’ or ‘It’s over there!’ For the Kingdom of God is already among you.” Then he said to his disciples, “The time is coming when you will long to see the day when the Son of Man returns, but you won’t see it. People will tell you, ‘Look, there is the Son of Man,’ or ‘Here he is,’ but don’t go out and follow them. For as the lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one end to the other, so it will be on the day when the Son of Man comes. But first the Son of Man must suffer terribly and be rejected by this generation. “When the Son of Man returns, it will be like it was in Noah’s day. In those days, the people enjoyed banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat and the flood came and destroyed them all. “And the world will be as it was in the days of Lot. People went about their daily business—eating and drinking, buying and selling, farming and building— until the morning Lot left Sodom. Then fire and burning sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all. Yes, it will be ‘business as usual’ right up to the day when the Son of Man is revealed. On that day a person out on the deck of a roof must not go down into the house to pack. A person out in the field must not return home. Remember what happened to Lot’s wife! If you cling to your life, you will lose it, and if you let your life go, you will save it. That night two people will be asleep in one bed; one will be taken, the other left. Two women will be grinding flour together at the mill; one will be taken, the other left.” “Where will this happen, Lord?” the disciples asked. Jesus replied, “Just as the gathering of vultures shows there is a carcass nearby, so these signs indicate that the end is near.”“ Luke 17:20-35, 37 NLT
”And this is the will of God, that I should not lose even one of all those he has given me, but that I should raise them up at the last day. For it is my Father’s will that all who see his Son and believe in him should have eternal life. I will raise them up at the last day.”“ John 6:39-40 NLT
”For no one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them to me, and at the last day I will raise them up. As it is written in the Scriptures, ‘They will all be taught by God.’ Everyone who listens to the Father and learns from him comes to me.“ John 6:44-45 NLT
”Some of his disciples began talking about the majestic stonework of the Temple and the memorial decorations on the walls. But Jesus said, “The time is coming when all these things will be completely demolished. Not one stone will be left on top of another!” “Teacher,” they asked, “when will all this happen? What sign will show us that these things are about to take place?” He replied, “Don’t let anyone mislead you, for many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and saying, ‘The time has come!’ But don’t believe them. And when you hear of wars and insurrections, don’t panic. Yes, these things must take place first, but the end won’t follow immediately.” Then he added, “Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, and there will be famines and plagues in many lands, and there will be terrifying things and great miraculous signs from heaven. “But before all this occurs, there will be a time of great persecution. You will be dragged into synagogues and prisons, and you will stand trial before kings and governors because you are my followers. But this will be your opportunity to tell them about me. So don’t worry in advance about how to answer the charges against you, for I will give you the right words and such wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to reply or refute you! Even those closest to you—your parents, brothers, relatives, and friends—will betray you. They will even kill some of you. And everyone will hate you because you are my followers. By standing firm, you will win your souls. “And when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then you will know that the time of its destruction has arrived. Then those in Judea must flee to the hills. Those in Jerusalem must get out, and those out in the country should not return to the city. For those will be days of God’s vengeance, and the prophetic words of the Scriptures will be fulfilled. How terrible it will be for pregnant women and for nursing mothers in those days. For there will be disaster in the land and great anger against this people. They will be killed by the sword or sent away as captives to all the nations of the world. And Jerusalem will be trampled down by the Gentiles until the period of the Gentiles comes to an end. “And there will be strange signs in the sun, moon, and stars. And here on earth the nations will be in turmoil, perplexed by the roaring seas and strange tides. People will be terrified at what they see coming upon the earth, for the powers in the heavens will be shaken. Then everyone will see the Son of Man coming on a cloud with power and great glory. So when all these things begin to happen, stand and look up, for your salvation is near!” Then he gave them this illustration: “Notice the fig tree, or any other tree. When the leaves come out, you know without being told that summer is near. In the same way, when you see all these things taking place, you can know that the Kingdom of God is near. I tell you the truth, this generation will not pass from the scene until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never disappear. “Watch out! Don’t let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness, and by the worries of this life. Don’t let that day catch you unaware, like a trap. For that day will come upon everyone living on the earth. Keep alert at all times. And pray that you might be strong enough to escape these coming horrors and stand before the Son of Man.”“ Luke 21:5-17, 19-36 NLT
”So when the apostles were with Jesus, they kept asking him, “Lord, has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom?” He replied, “The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know. 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 1:6-8 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. In those days I will pour out my Spirit even on my servants—men and women alike— and they will prophesy. And I will cause wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below— blood and fire and clouds of smoke. The sun will become dark, and the moon will turn blood red before that great and glorious day of the Lord arrives. But everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’“ Acts of the Apostles 2:16-21 NLT
”For he must remain in heaven until the time for the final restoration of all things, as God promised long ago through his holy prophets. Moses said, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from among your own people. Listen carefully to everything he tells you.’ Then Moses said, ‘Anyone who will not listen to that Prophet will be completely cut off from God’s people.’“ Acts of the Apostles 3:21-23 NLT

The spiritual realm:

2 Corinthians 4:16-18

Lies vs the Truth:

Armor of God:

1 thess. 5:8 Ephesians 6:10-20

About God (Who God/Jesus/Holy Spirit is):

God’s names:

Abba / FATHER Adonai / LORD MASTER Almighty Alpha and Omega / THE BEGINNING AND END Attiyq Youm / THE ANCIENT OF DAYS Branch of the Lord Christos / THE ANOINTED ONE Comforter Creator Dios El El Chay / LIVING GOD El Chuwl / THE GOD WHO GAVE YOU BIRTH El Deah / THE GOD OF KNOWLEDGE El Elyon / THE GOD MOST HIGH El Gibhor / THE MIGHTY GOD Elohim / THE CREATOR El Olam /THE EVERLASTING GOD El Roi / THE GOD WHO SEES El Shaddai / GOD ALMIGHTY Eternal Everlasting Father Everlasting God Faithful Father First and Last God Almighty God of Revival God with us Gracious Hagios pneuma High and Lofty One Holy One of Israel Holy Spirit I am Iesous Immanuel / GOD WITH US Jehovah Jehovah (Yahweh) / THE SELF-EXISTENT ONE Jehovah-Bore / THE LORD CREATOR Jehovah Jireh Jehovah-Jireh / THE LORD OUR PROVIDER Jehovah-M'Kaddesh / THE LORD WHO SANCTIFIES Jehovah Mekoddishkem Jehovah-Nissi / THE LORD OUR BANNER Jehovah-Rapha / THE LORD OUR HEALER Jehovah-Rohi / THE LORD OUR SHEPHERD Jehovah-Sabbaoth / THE LORD OF HOSTS Jehovah-Shalom / THE LORD IS PEACE Jehovah-Shammah / THE LORD IS THERE Jehovah-Tsidkenu /THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS Jehovah-Tsuri / THE LORD OUR ROCK Jesus / THE LORD SAVES Jireh King Light of Israel Living God Logos / THE WORD Lord Lord Master Lord of Hosts, Lord Almighty Lord of Lords Lord Who provides Ma'on / OUR DWELLING PLACE Maker Merciful Messiah / THE ANOINTED ONE Mighty God Mighty One Most High Our Dwelling Place Potter Prince of Peace Rapha Redeemer Righteous One Rock Root of Jesse Savior Shalom Son Sovereign Lord Spirit The Ancient Of Days The Anointed One The Beginning And End The Creator The Everlasting God The God Most High The God Of Knowledge The God Who Gave You Birth The God Who Sees The Lord Creator The Lord Is Peace The Lord Is There The Lord Of Hosts The Lord Our Banner The Lord Our Healer The Lord Our Provider The Lord Our Righteousness The Lord Our Rock The Lord Our Shepherd The Lord Saves The Lord Who Sanctifies The Mighty God The Self-Existent One The Word Upright One Wonderful Counselor Yahweh Yeshua YHWH Yireh

God’s love:

God’s glory:

God’s power:

God’s sovereignty:

God’s justice:

God’s holiness:

God’s goodness:

What God does:

Examines motives of your heart: 1 thess. 2:4

How to overcome Spiritual Warfare: Jesus temptation in the Wilderness. Psalm 91 PERIOD What God calls me: Calls me faithful (1 Thessalonians 5:24) The Will of God: What Jesus says about topics: Fasting: ““And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.” Matthew 6:16-18 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.6.16-18.NLT ““Shout with the voice of a trumpet blast. Shout aloud! Don’t be timid. Tell my people Israel of their sins! Yet they act so pious! They come to the Temple every day and seem delighted to learn all about me. They act like a righteous nation that would never abandon the laws of its God. They ask me to take action on their behalf, pretending they want to be near me. ‘We have fasted before you!’ they say. ‘Why aren’t you impressed? We have been very hard on ourselves, and you don’t even notice it!’ “I will tell you why!” I respond. “It’s because you are fasting to please yourselves. Even while you fast, you keep oppressing your workers. What good is fasting when you keep on fighting and quarreling? This kind of fasting will never get you anywhere with me. You humble yourselves by going through the motions of penance, bowing your heads like reeds bending in the wind. You dress in burlap and cover yourselves with ashes. Is this what you call fasting? Do you really think this will please the Lord? “No, this is the kind of fasting I want: Free those who are wrongly imprisoned; lighten the burden of those who work for you. Let the oppressed go free, and remove the chains that bind people. Share your food with the hungry, and give shelter to the homeless. Give clothes to those who need them, and do not hide from relatives who need your help. “Then your salvation will come like the dawn, and your wounds will quickly heal. Your godliness will lead you forward, and the glory of the Lord will protect you from behind. Then when you call, the Lord will answer. ‘Yes, I am here,’ he will quickly reply. “Remove the heavy yoke of oppression. Stop pointing your finger and spreading vicious rumors! Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon. The Lord will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring. Some of you will rebuild the deserted ruins of your cities. Then you will be known as a rebuilder of walls and a restorer of homes.” Isaiah 58:1-12 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.58.6-12.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. Who knows? Perhaps he will give you a reprieve, sending you a blessing instead of this curse. Perhaps you will be able to offer grain and wine to the Lord your God as before. 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. Let them pray, “Spare your people, Lord! Don’t let your special possession become an object of mockery. Don’t let them become a joke for unbelieving foreigners who say, ‘Has the God of Israel left them?’”” Blessing from fasting “Then the Lord will pity his people and jealously guard the honor of his land. The Lord will reply, “Look! I am sending you grain and new wine and olive oil, enough to satisfy your needs. You will no longer be an object of mockery among the surrounding nations. I will drive away these armies from the north. I will send them into the parched wastelands. Those in the front will be driven into the Dead Sea, and those at the rear into the Mediterranean. The stench of their rotting bodies will rise over the land.” Surely the Lord has done great things! Don’t be afraid, O land. Be glad now and rejoice, for the Lord has done great things. Don’t be afraid, you animals of the field, for the wilderness pastures will soon be green. The trees will again be filled with fruit; fig trees and grapevines will be loaded down once more. Rejoice, you people of Jerusalem! Rejoice in the Lord your God! For the rain he sends demonstrates his faithfulness. Once more the autumn rains will come, as well as the rains of spring.” Joel 2:12-23NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jol.2.12-23.NLT “Afterward, when Jesus was alone in the house with his disciples, they asked him, “Why couldn’t we cast out that evil spirit?” Jesus replied, “This kind can be cast out only by prayer.”” Mark 9:28-29 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mrk.9.29.NLT “And there by the Ahava Canal, I gave orders for all of us to fast and humble ourselves before our God. We prayed that he would give us a safe journey and protect us, our children, and our goods as we traveled. For I was ashamed to ask the king for soldiers and horsemen to accompany us and protect us from enemies along the way. After all, we had told the king, “Our God’s hand of protection is on all who worship him, but his fierce anger rages against those who abandon him.” So we fasted and earnestly prayed that our God would take care of us, and he heard our prayer.” Ezra 8:21-23 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/ezr.8.21-23.NLT ““Go and gather together all the Jews of Susa and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. My maids and I will do the same. And then, though it is against the law, I will go in to see the king. If I must die, I must die.”” Esther 4:16 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/est.4.16.NLT “Then one night the Lord appeared to Solomon and said, “I have heard your prayer and have chosen this Temple as the place for making sacrifices. 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. My eyes will be open and my ears attentive to every prayer made in this place. For I have chosen this Temple and set it apart to be holy—a place where my name will be honored forever. I will always watch over it, for it is dear to my heart. “As for you, if you faithfully follow me as David your father did, obeying all my commands, decrees, and regulations, then I will establish the throne of your dynasty. For I made this covenant with your father, David, when I said, ‘One of your descendants will always rule over Israel.’” 2 Chronicles 7:12-18 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/2ch.7.14.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. For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.” 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. Meanwhile, the disciples were urging Jesus, “Rabbi, eat something.” But Jesus replied, “I have a kind of food you know nothing about.”” ““Did someone bring him food while we were gone?” the disciples asked each other. 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! You know the saying, ‘One plants and another harvests.’ And it’s true. I sent you to harvest where you didn’t plant; others had already done the work, and now you will get to gather the harvest.”” John 4:23-26, 28-38 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.4.38.NLT “Jesus replied, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” John 6:35 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.6.35.NLT “Once when John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting, some people came to Jesus and asked, “Why don’t your disciples fast like John’s disciples and the Pharisees do?” Jesus replied, “Do wedding guests fast while celebrating with the groom? Of course not. They can’t fast while the groom is with them. But someday the groom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast. “Besides, who would patch old clothing with new cloth? For the new patch would shrink and rip away from the old cloth, leaving an even bigger tear than before. “And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. For the wine would burst the wineskins, and the wine and the skins would both be lost. New wine calls for new wineskins.”” Mark 2:18-22 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mrk.2.18-22.NLT “So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. 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. But when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the law of Moses. When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God. 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! 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. Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another.” Galatians 5:16-19, 21-26 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/gal.5.16-26.NLT The Words in red: JESUS BAPTISM: When Jesus was being baptized John was like “I need to be baptized by you, and are you coming to me?” and Jesus said: “Permit to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Matthew 3:13-15 Discussion: What does it mean when Jesus said that baptism is a key part in fulfilling all righteousness? (Note) 3:15 - Jesus’s baptism served several purposes: 1.) Jesus joined with the believing remnant of Israel who had been baptized by John; 2.) He confirmed the ministry of John; and 3.) And he fulfilled the Father’s will. JESUS TEMPTED IN THE WILDERNESS: (Matthew 4:1-11, Mark 1:12-13, Luke 4:1-13) “Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.” (Note) 4:1 Satan did not lead Jesus to temptation; the Holy Spirit did. This temptation took place immediately after Jesus’s baptism. Spiritual victories are often followed by testing. (Compare to Elijah in 1 Kings 19) JESUS WAS HANGRY: Devil: “If you are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread.” Jesus: “It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” (Cross Ref) Deuteronomy 8:3 - So He humbled you, allowed you to hunger, and fed you with manna which you did not know nor did your fathers know, that He might make you know that man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord. (Note) 4:3,4 It is written: Jesus’ response to all three temptations was to quote the Word of God, showing his followers the power of Scripture in battling the Evil One. There was nothing morally wrong with turning stones to bread; Satan was tempting Jesus to do a miracle outside of the Father’s will. Bread alone does not sustain life; ultimately God is the One who sustains life. Thus it is our relationship to trust God and remain of his will. Then Devil took him up into the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple: Devil: “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down. For it is written: ‘He shall give his angels charge over you’, and, ‘In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you shall dash your foot against a stone.’” (Cross Ref) Psalm 91:11-12 - For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways. <12> In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone. Jesus: “It is written again, ‘You shall not tempt the Lord your God.’” (Cross Ref) Deuteronomy 6:16 - "You shall not tempt the Lord your God as you tempted Him in Massah. Again, the Devil took him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. Devil: “All these things I will give you if you fall down and worship me.” Jesus: “Away with you Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’” (Cross Ref) Deuteronomy 6:13 - You shall fear the Lord your God and serve Him, and shall take oaths in His name. Then the devil left Him, and behold, angels came and ministered to Him. ADDITIONAL DISCUSSION: 4:7 - Deuteronomy 6:16 - "You shall not tempt the Lord your God as you tempted Him in Massah. Emphasizes that one should not test God. The Lord asked the Israelites to put him to the test in only one area: tithing. By giving to him they could test whether he would fulfill his promises to bless them. (Cross Ref) <10> 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! 4:10 - Christ rebuked the devil for asking for worship, a temptation to do exactly the opposite of what every Israelite was called to do (Deut. 6:13-15). Specifically in reference to Jesus, Satan was offering a crown without the cross. Jesus’ experience serves as a pattern in spiritual warfare today: Jesus resisted Satan (Eph: 6:11-14, James 4:7, 1 Peter 5:9), then he defeated Satan with consistent, meaningful use of the Scriptures (Eph 6:17). (Cross Ref) Deuteronomy 6:13-15 - <13> You shall fear the Lord your God and serve Him, and shall take oaths in His name. <14> You shall not go after other gods, the gods of the peoples who are all around you <15> (for the Lord your God is a jealous God among you), lest the anger of the Lord your God be aroused against you and destroy you from the face of the earth. Remember Jesus tells us to not take oaths at all! (Verse 13) Matthew 5:33-37 - <33> "Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform your oaths to the Lord.' <34> But I say to you, do not swear at all: neither by heaven, for it is God's throne; <35> nor by the earth, for it is His footstool; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. <36> Nor shall you swear by your head, because you cannot make one hair white or black. <37> But let your ‘Yes' be ‘Yes,' and your ‘No,' ‘No.' For whatever is more than these is from the evil one. Ephesians 6:11-14 - <11> Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. <12> For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. <13> Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. <14> Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, James 4:7 - <7> Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. 1 Peter 5:9 - <9> Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. Ephesians 6:17 - <17> And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; THE BEATITUDES (Matthew 5:1-12, Luke 6:20-26) And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when he was seated his disciples came to him, Then he opened up His mouth and taught then saying: “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 filled. Blessed are the merciful, For they shall obtain 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. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for my sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets before you. (Matthew 5:1-12) BELIEVERS ARE SALT AND LIGHT (Matthew 5:13-16, Mark 9:50, Luke 14:34-35) “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Note) Matthew 5:16 - Let your light so shine: The believer does not have inherent light; rather we have reflective light. As we behold the glory of the Lord, we reflect it. Therefore, we need to make sure that nothing comes between us and the Lord’s light! (2 Corinthians 3:18, Philippians 2:14-16) (Cross Ref) 2 Corinthians 3:18 NLT - <18> 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. Philippians 2:14-16 NLT- <14> Do everything without complaining and arguing, <15> so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people. <16> Hold firmly to the word of life; then, on the day of Christ's return, I will be proud that I did not run the race in vain and that my work was not useless. Jesus’ geneology: DAD’S SIDE: ”This is a record of the ancestors of Jesus the Messiah, a descendant of David (Day-vihd) and of Abraham (Ay-bruh-ham):” Abraham: Genesis 11-25 Story: married Sarah and couldn’t have children. Nephew Lot went with him in the wilderness. In the book of Genesis, the story of Abraham unfolds as a testament to faith and obedience. God called Abraham to leave his homeland and journey to a new land, promising to bless him and make him into a great nation. Despite their old age, Abraham and Sarah bore a son, Isaac, fulfilling God's promise. The pinnacle of Abraham's faith came when God tested him by asking for Isaac as a sacrifice. Through unwavering obedience, Abraham demonstrated his faith, and God provided a ram for the sacrifice, reaffirming his covenant with Abraham. This story showcases unwavering trust and the faithfulness of God in fulfilling his promises. Story: https://www.biblestudy.org/maps/life-of-abraham-timeline.html When did God first call Abraham (Abram)? When did he and Sarah leave for the land of Canaan? What was the deception the couple promulgated during their journeys? Why did Abraham and his entire household fight in the Bible's first war? How old was the patriarch when Isaac was born? When was he severely tested by having to sacrifice his own son? How many children did he ultimately produce? 1960 B.C. Abraham (Abram) is Born Abram (his birth name before being renamed Abraham) is the third son born to a man named Terah living in Ur of the Chaldees. At the time of his birth his older brother Haran is 60 years old (Genesis 11:26) with second brother Nahor at an unknown younger age. Terah is 130 years old at the time of Abraham's birth. The family into which he is born was known to worship pagan deities (Joshua 24:2). Modern archeology dates the city of Ur, located in ancient Mesopotamia near the Euphrates River, to around 3,800 B.C. It was resettled, after the great flood took place in 2313, by Noah's son Shem and his descendants. 1890 B.C. Leaving Ur of the Caldees Terah, at the age of 200, decides to move his entire family out of Ur after the death of Haran (Genesis 11:28). Those leaving include Abraham, now 70, his wife Sarah (Sarai), Abraham's brother Nahor and his wife, as well as Lot (Haran's son) and his wife (Genesis 11:29 - 31). The family migrates northwest to a city named Haran located in a region of ancient Syria named Padanaram. 1885 Called by God Terah, at the ripe old age of 205, dies in the city of Haran (Genesis 11:32). God then calls Abraham, now age 75, and commands he leave the city for the land of Canaan. And the Lord said to Abram, "Get out of your country, and from your kindred, and from your father’s house into a land that I will show you. " (Genesis 12:1, HBFV). Abraham, Sarah, Lot, as well as their slaves, leave Haran for the Promised Land. Nahor and his family, however, although they stay in the city (Genesis 12:4 - 5), will play a major role in the lives of the patriarch's descendants. Abraham's future son Isaac will end up marrying Rebekah, the daughter of Nahor's son Bethuel (22:20 - 23, 24:15). Bethuel's son Laban (28:5) will employ Isaac's son Jacob for many years and provide him two of his own daughters, Rachel and Leah, as wives. 1885 - 1880 Famine and Fleeing Abraham's travel to Canaan takes him first to Shechem (Genesis 12:5 - 7). After arriving in the city, God appears to him and promises his descendants the land of Canaan. The travelers continue their journey south, staying for an unknown time near Bethel before continuing their journey (verses 8 - 9). A severe famine, the first one mentioned in the Biblical record, then strikes Canaan. This grievous event forces the weary sojourners to Egypt in search of relief. Abraham, ever since leaving Haran, has feared his wife's beauty would get him killed. He therefore arranged for her to deceive those they met by stating he was her brother. When God told me to leave my father’s house and wander in many different places, I told Sarah, "You must do a special favor for me. Everywhere we go tell people I am your brother " (Genesis 20:13, NCV). Sarah, when the group enters Egypt, continues the practice of lying about her relationship with the patriarch. The ruse works for a short time until Pharaoh discovers the deception and casts the travelers out of the country (Genesis 12:11 - 20)! The group, after being tossed out of Egypt, heads north to Bethel and settles in the area. Abraham's herdsmen, however, soon begin to have arguments with Lot's herdsmen over grazing rights. The disagreements end when Lot moves his family and livestock near the city of Sodom (Genesis 13:1 - 13). Abraham, after separating from Lot, moves his family to near Hebron (verse 18). c. 1880 - 1875 The First War King Chedorlaomer of Elam, in the Bible's first series of wars, leads a coalition of three other monarchs in a campaign that seeks to conquer and pillage. Battling while they travel south down the King's Highway, they end up at the southern end of the Dead Sea where they fight the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 14). Chedorlaomer's forces soundly defeat the Sodom-led army, taking Lot and his family as prisoners. Abraham gathers up his 318 male servants, along with several allies, and pursues Chedorlaomer as he travels north. He soon catches up with him at Dan and defeats him, saving the life of Lot. Upon his return he is greeted by Melchizedek, a physical manifestation of Jesus Christ, to whom he gives a tithe (Genesis 14:13 - 24). 1875 Promise of a Son God promises Abraham (Abram), at age 85, that he will produce a son in his old age. The Eternal also makes a covenant with him and reveals his descendants will be afflicted for many years before being released with great wealth (Genesis 15). 1874 A Man-Made Solution Abraham agrees to Sarah's proposal of him having a child through her Egyptian servant Hagar (Genesis 16:1 - 4). Hagar, however, after becoming pregnant, begins to disparage and despise Sarah. This earns her a harsh response from her mistress that forces her to flee while still pregnant. The Lord steps in and, through an angel, commands her to go back (verses 4 - 14). Hagar gives birth, when the patriarch is 86 years old (Genesis 16:16), to a son named Ishmael. 1861 Name Changes, Sodom Destroyed At the age of 99 Abram is contacted by the Lord (Genesis 17). The Eternal makes a unilateral covenant with him, promising to bless him exceedingly through a child he will produce with Sarai. His named is changed to Abraham while Sarai's is changed to Sarah to reflect the blessings they will receive. Abraham, as a sign of the covenant, circumcises himself, Ishmael (now 13) and his entire household (Genesis 17:7 - 14). God, a short time later, decides to visit Abraham in the form of a physical manifestation of Jesus Christ accompanied by two angels (Genesis 18). The Lord reiterates his promise of a son and reveals he has come to investigate Sodom and Gomorrah’s alleged sins. Abraham then negotiates with the Eternal not to destroy Sodom if only ten righteous are found (verses 20 - 32). Ten righteous are not found in Sodom, however, and it along with several other sinful cities of the plain is cauterized from the earth through heavenly fire. Although Lot and his family are saved from this destruction, his wife is turned to salt for disobeying the Eternal’s instructions (Genesis 19). Abraham journeys to Gerar and, once again, has Sarah lie about their relationship. The patriarch, although once again caught in a deception, is saved by God's intervention and allowed to live in the area. 1860 Birth of Isaac Abraham's wife Sarah gives birth to Isaac when he is 100 years old (Genesis 21:5). 1858 - 57 Isaac Weaned, Hagar Cast Out Isaac is weaned when he is between 2 and 3 years old (Bible Knowledge Commentary). Sarah, when Abraham has a great feast celebrating this event, notices that Ishmael (around 16 - 17 years old) is mocking Isaac (Genesis 21:8 - 9). Sarah, angered by what she sees, tells the patriarch to permanently cast out Hagar and her son. This action, approved by God, leads to the mother and son being sent into the wilderness of Beersheba. The pair is then miraculously saved from dehydration and death by the angel of God (verses 10 - 19). Abraham makes a covenant with Abimelech, the leader of the Philistines, then lives for a time in Beersheba (Genesis 21:22 - 34). 1845 A Severe Test God tests Abraham, now 115 years old, by commanding he sacrifice his fifteen-year-old son Isaac. After the patriarch passes this severe test, the Lord affirms that he will surely bless him. And in your seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice (Genesis 22:18, HBFV). c. 1823 Sarah Dies Sarah, at age 127, dies in Hebron. Abraham buries his wife of more than 67 years in a cave upon land purchased from its Hittite owner (Genesis 23). In the future, this burial location will be considered one of the holiest sites of Judaism and Islam. 1820 A Wife for Isaac Abraham, now 140, sends his most trusted servant to find a wife for his forty-year-old son Isaac. The servant, told to search for a wife among relatives living in Nahor (Haran), is led by God to Rebekah whom he brings back to Canaan. Isaac and Rebekah marry soon after they meet (Genesis 24). 1820 - 1785 B.C. Remarriage and Death Abraham, at an unknown time after Sarah's death, decides to marry again. He takes as his wife Keturah, who produces sons named Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak, and Shuah (Genesis 25). The patriach, during his life, ultimately produces eight sons through three women. Abraham, the father of the faithful, lives to see Isaac turn 75 and grandson Jacob grow to the age of 15. He is buried by Isaac and Ishmael, upon his death at age 175, next to his beloved wife Sarah “Abraham was the father of Isaac (eye-zik).” Isaac: Genesis 17-35 nsnnsns Story: https://amazingbibletimeline.com/blog/isaac/#:~:text=Isaac%20of%20the%20Old%20Testament,Sarah%20in%20their%20old%20age. Isaac in Hebrew Yitzchak, means, “he will laugh.” Isaac can also mean “he laughs,” or “laughter-loving.” Isaac of the Old Testament lived from 1896 BC to 1716 B.C., based on what we know from Bible chronology. He was the promised and long-awaited son born to Abraham and Sarah in their old age. Sarah had aged past her child bearing years at the time of he was conceived. She chose the name Isaac because she had laughed at the messengers of God telling her that she would give birth to a son, although she denied this. [This article continues after a message from the authors] In spite of her age, Sarah not only delivered a robust boy, as the Lord had promised, but she was also able to nurse Isaac, a joyous time for her, certainly. Eventually, despite her joy, Sarah believed Ishmael was threatening the life of Isaac, and he and his mother, Hagar, were sent into the desert to an expected death. Although the Lord did not allow this – so that Isaac became the undisputed heir to his father, Abraham. Many years later, according to established Bible chronology, the Lord spoke to Abraham, calling upon him to sacrifice Isaac on Mount Moriah. Isaac went willingly, even carrying the wood for the fire, not realizing he was to be the offering unto the Lord. It would seem, however, that when the time came for his death, Isaac, being a strong young man. And Abraham, being elderly, that Isaac could have protested his impending death, and yet choose not to. Abraham bound his son with a rope, placed him on the altar they had built together, and raised the knife to slash Isaac’s throat. Just then, an angel intervened, instructing Abraham to sacrifice a ram instead – one that the Lord had provided Himself, that was caught in a thicket nearby. When it was time for Isaac to choose a wife, his father Abraham decided, per custom, that his son would marry a cousin. This tradition kept land and wealth in the control of the tribe’s ruling family. Abraham sent a messenger to his brother Laban in Mesopotamia, who had a grand-daughter named Rebecca. The messenger devised a plan to learn if Rebecca was truly to be Isaac’s wife. When Rebecca met the messenger, she offered water not only to the man but his thirsty camels as well, fulfilling what the messenger had set up in his mind as a test of sorts. The messenger then formally introduced himself and told her family of his mission. Bible chronology tells us that Rebecca agreed to the marriage, and she and Isaac were happily married. They were certainly in love, although Scripture tells us Rebecca appeared for some time to be barren. But then Isaac cried out to the Lord, and she became pregnant. It was a difficult nine months, after which she bore twin sons, Esau, and Jacob. Isaac preferred the first born twin, Esau. He was a man’s man and an excellent hunter. Rebecca, however, favored Jacob, the quiet one, the one who seemed to stay on her side more. Esau, being the first born son, would, as his birthright, inherit a greater portion of his father’s wealth than Jacob. One day Esau came in tired and ravenous from a day in the fields. Jacob was cooking a lentil stew, and Esau insisted he be served some immediately. He was certain he was starving. Jacob, however, withheld the food, and required of Esau something in exchange – his very birthright as an older brother. Esau saw no use for a birthright to a man dying of starvation. Jacob continued to withhold the food. “Swear to me as of this day,” said Jacob, and foolish Esau swore an oath trading away his birthright to his younger brother for a bowl of stew. Isaac blessing his son Eventually, Isaac’s time on the earth was drawing to a close, and the issue of his rightful successor resurfaced. Custom required that the father give a blessing to his heir, to confirm his position as leader of the tribe. When Isaac was old and blind, Rebecca coached Jacob on how to trick his father into mistaking him for Esau. She dressed Jacob in Esau’s favorite clothing and covered his arms and neck with the skins of a young goat. Which she prepared for Jacob to feed his father, in preparation for receiving the blessing, that was due Esau. Disguised as he was, he deceived Isaac and received the firstborn’s blessing. Esau was completely infuriated when he learned of this, and was going to murder his younger twin. Rebecca, however, learned of this and was able to get safely Jacob out of the camp, and away to her relatives in Mesopotamia. Now according to Bible chronology, the days of Isaac were one hundred and eighty years, and when he died his sons, Esau and Jacob buried him, finally have been reconciled to each other “Isaac was the father of Jacob (Jay-cub).” Jacob: Story: https://amazingbibletimeline.com/blog/jacob/ Jacob is found on the Bible Timeline from 1836 BC to 1689 BC. He was the second of the twin sons born to Rebekah and Issac. The name Jacob is believed to mean one that follows on another’s heels. Another well-accepted meaning of his name is a deceiver. Jacob showed himself to be shrewd in his dealings with his impatient and passionate twin brother Esau as he took advantage of Esau’s extreme hunger to persuade him to trade his birthright for a bowl of stew. Also, Jacob and his mother Rebekah, co-conspired to acquire the blessing of the birthright from Jacob’s aged father, Issac. [This article continues after a message from the authors] Esau sells his birthright to Jacob The Birthright This all important and strongly coveted birthright consisted of several benefits. They were: The leadership in worship and the head of the family. A double portion of the family inheritance. Right to the covenant blessings that God promised Abraham in which all nations would be blessed Jacob’s Own Deception After successfully acquiring the blessing of the birthright from his father, he began to fear the wrath of his brother. Because of the encouragement of his mother and the recommendation of his father, Jacob fled to the land of Haran. There he was to find a wife. Jacob did fall in love with Rachel, his cousin, and negotiated to serve seven years of labor to acquire her hand in marriage. However, Jacob’s uncle Laban deceived Jacob and gave him his older sister Leah instead of Rachel according to their custom. Bargaining for another seven years of labor for Rachel, Jacob did eventually earn Rachel as his wife. Jacob proceeded to build his family. He had six sons and a daughter from his wife Leah, two sons from Leah’s maidservant, two sons from his wife Rachel’s maidservant, and two sons from his wife, Rachel. The Return Home After another six years, without announcement Jacob left to return to his father’s house. On his return journey, Jacob was visited by three angels. Many believe this was a sort of welcoming party back to the Promised Land. When he became aware of the approaching band of people led by his brother he sent a peace offering and greetings on to his brother Esau. He also sent his family on ahead of him so he could spend the night in communion with the Lord. During his time with the Lord, Jacob was visited by another angel of the Lord. This unusual visit was spent in a wrestling match between the angel and Jacob. As the angel could not overcome Jacob, he touched his hip and caused it to be wrenched from then on. Jacob refused to release the angel until he blessed him. From then on the Lord changed Jacob’s name to Israel, which means struggles with God. When Jacob resumed his journey home and met up with his brother Esau, the brothers met as friends and continued that relationship through the remainder of their lives. Rachel died during the birth of her last son Benjamin. Shortly after, Jacob suffered severe grief again when he was convinced that his favorite son Joseph had died. During a severe famine, Jacob’s sons went to Egypt to acquire much-needed food. The events that ensued led Jacob to Egypt to be reunited with his long-lost son Joseph. He had his entire family together settled in Egypt for about seventeen years at the end of his life. His dying request was that he be buried where his fathers had been buried in the Promised Land. “Jacob was the father of Judah (Joo-duh) and his brothers.” Judah: Story: https://amazingbibletimeline.com/blog/judah-son-of-jacob/ In the Book of Genesis, Judah was considered the founder and leader of the Tribe of Judah of the Israelites and can be found on the Bible Timeline around 1704 BC. He was Jacob and Leah’s fourth son, whose name means “praise” or “thanksgiving”. As mentioned in Genesis 29:35, upon giving birth to Judah, Leah sang praises to the Lord for having been blessed with a son. In the Scriptures, Judah had several brothers including Reuben, Levi, Simeon, Zebulun and Issachar. In the Bible, narrations on Judah’s birth was followed by stories about how he and his brothers were jealous of Joseph, who was the favorite son of their father. When they had the chance they took Joseph and threw him into a pit and debated about what should be done with him. In Genesis 37:26-28, it was Judah who saw an Ishmaelite caravan passing them at that moment. The said caravan was bound for Egypt, and Judah suggested that instead of killing Joseph, he should be sold as a slave to this group of people. He believed it was better to gain profit from selling Joseph, which the other brothers took as a wise suggestion. [This article continues after a message from the authors] Judah and Tamar Eventually, Judah was wed to a Canaanite, who was the daughter of Shua. He soon had three children named Er, Onan, and Shelah. When Er died after marrying Tamar, Onan took her in based on what was the custom that prevailed during that time. However, Onan died, and before his death, he refused to have any children with Tamar. Based on the custom, Tamar had a choice to marry Shelah, yet Judah was against it. However, Tamar decided to trick Judah by disguising herself as a prostitute. The two had intercourse, and this resulted in Tamar’s pregnancy. Upon discovering that he was tricked, Judah attempted to have Tamar killed, but what stopped him from doing so was the revelation that he was the father of the unborn child. Joseph and Judah Joseph and his family reunite. After Joseph had been sold as a slave, he experienced great fortunes in the land of Egypt. In fact, he soon was awarded a high position, and he became successful about 20 years after his brothers’ betrayal. When the brothers came to Egypt, they did not recognize at first that it was Joseph whom they were speaking with. An incident happened during their visit, and Simeon was told to remain as a hostage. And would only be released as soon as Benjamin another of Jacob’s sons was brought to the palace upon the brothers’ next visit. Judah spoke to Jacob and assured his father that Benjamin would be kept safe during their return to Egypt. However, another incident occurred, and Joseph ordered for Benjamin to stay in Egypt as his slave. Judah, who was responsible for Benjamin, decided to plead by taking the place of their youngest brother instead, until Joseph finally revealed his real identity upon discovering that his brothers have changed for the better Judah’s brothers: Story: ******** “Judah was the father of Perez (Pee-rez) and Zerah (Zay-ruh) (whose mother was Tamar (tuh-marr)).” Perez: Story: https://www.gotquestions.org/Perez-in-the-Bible.html Perez was one of the sons of Judah through an illicit affair with his daughter-in-law, Tamar. Perez’s twin brother was Zerah. In the biblical genealogies, Perez is listed as an ancestor of King David and of Jesus Christ. The name Perez in Hebrew means “breach” or “he who bursts forth,” and it refers to how he was born. Judah, one of Jacob’s twelve sons, was leader of the Israelite tribe bearing his name. His sons were Er, Onan, and Shelah. Judah arranged for the marriage of his oldest son, Er, with a Canaanite woman named Tamar. But Er, who was “wicked in the sight of the Lord,” died before producing an offspring, leaving Tamar a childless widow (Genesis 38:7). Er’s next oldest unmarried brother, Onan, was required to enter into a levirate marriage with Tamar, with a goal of producing an heir for his deceased brother. But Onan refused to have a child with Tamar, knowing the offspring would be heir to his brother’s estate and not his own. So, the Lord punished Onan with death (Genesis 38:8–10). Judah’s third son, Shelah, was not yet old enough to marry, so Judah told Tamar to return to her father’s house and wait for Shelah to grow up. When Shelah came of age, Judah failed to keep his promise, and Tamar took matters into her own hands. She devised a plan to entice Judah into having sex with her and thus produce an heir. She covered her face and disguised herself as a prostitute. The plan worked. Tamar became pregnant with twin boys as a result of her encounter with Judah. When the time came to give birth, Zerah’s hand emerged from the womb first, so the midwife tagged the child’s wrist with a red thread to identify him as the firstborn. But then Zerah pulled his hand back, and suddenly Perez burst forth from Tamar’s womb, earning his name and the rights of the firstborn (Genesis 38:27–30). Both Tamar and Judah sinned in their immoral union, but God worked through their sinfulness to bring about the birth of Jesus Christ through their bloodline (Ruth 4:18–22; Matthew 1:3; Luke 3:33). The Messiah is called Lion of the Tribe of Judah (Revelation 5:5), having descended from Judah through Perez. Perez fathered two sons, Hezron and Hamul, and became the ancestral leader of the Perezite clan (Genesis 46:12; Numbers 26:20). The family was well respected, as evidenced by this blessing pronounced upon Boaz when he committed to redeem Ruth: “Then the elders and all the people standing in the gate replied, ‘We are witnesses! May the LORD make this woman who is coming into your home like Rachel and Leah, from whom all the nation of Israel descended! May you prosper in Ephrathah and be famous in Bethlehem. And may the LORD give you descendants by this young woman who will be like those of our ancestor Perez, the son of Tamar and Judah’” (Ruth 4:11–12, NLT). It was through Perez’s son Hezron that King David and, eventually, Jesus Christ descended. When the Israelites returned from captivity in Babylon, 468 Perezites were chosen to live in Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 9:4; Nehemiah 11:4, 6). The Bible says they were “all outstanding men.” Zerah: Tamar: “Perez was the father of Hezron (Hezz-ronn).” Hezron: “Hezron was the father of Ram (rahm).” Ram: “Ram was the father of Amminadab (uh-min-uh-dab).” Amminadab: “Amminadab was the father of Nahshon (nash-on).” Nahshon: “Nahshon was the father of Salmon (soll-man).” Salmon: “Salmon was the father of Boaz (bow-azz) (whose mother was Rahab (ray-hab)).” Boaz: Rahab: “Boaz was the father of Obed (oh-bed) (whose mother was Ruth (roo-th)).” Obed: Ruth: “Obed was the father of Jesse (jess-ee).” Jesse: “Jesse was the father of King David.” King David: “David was the father of Solomon (saul-oh-muhn) (whose mother was Bathsheba (bath-shee-buh), the widow of Uriah (your-rye-uh)).” Solomon: Bathsheba: Uriah: “Solomon was the father of Rehoboam (ree-huh-bow-um).” Rehoboam: “Rehoboam was the father of Abijah (uh-bye-schuh).” Abijah: “Abijah was the father of Asa (ayy-suh).” Asa: “Asa was the father of Jehoshaphat (Jeh-ho-sh-eh-fat).” Jehoshaphat: “Jehoshaphat was the father of Jehoram (jeh-ho-rumm).” Jehoram: “Jehoram was the father of Uzziah (you-sigh-uh).” Uzziah: “Uzziah was the father of Jotham (joh-tham).” Jotham: “Jotham was the father of Ahaz (ay-hass).” Ahaz: “Ahaz was the father of Hezekiah (hez-eh-kye-uh).” Hezekiah: “Hezekiah was the father of Manasseh (muh-nass-uh).” Manasseh: “Manasseh was the father of Amon (amm-mon).” Amon: “Amon was the father of Josiah (joh-sigh-uh).” Josiah: “Josiah was the father of Jehoiachin (jeh-hoy-uh-chin) and his brothers (born at the time of the exile to Babylon).” Jehoiachin: Jehoichin’s brothers: “After the Babylonian exile: Jehoiachin was the father of Shealtiel (sheel-teel).” Shealtiel: “Shealtiel was the father of Zerubbabel (zeh-roo-buh-bell).” Zerubbabel: “Zerubbabel was the father of Abiud (uh-bye-yood).” Abiud: “Abiud was the father of Eliakim (ee-lie-uh–kim).” Eliakim: “Eliakim was the father of Azor (ayy-zohrr).” Azor: “Azor was the father of Zadok (zah-dock).” Zadok: “Zadok was the father of Akim (ay-kim).” Akim: “Akim was the father of Eliud (ell-eye-ood).” Aliud: “Eliud was the father of Eleazar (Ell-ee-ay-zarr).” Eleazar: “Eleazar was the father of Matthan (matt-an).” Matthan: “Matthan was the father of Jacob (Jay-cub).” Jacob: “Jacob was the father of Joseph (Joh-seph), the husband of Mary (mare-ree).” Joseph: Mary: “Mary gave birth to Jesus, who is called the Messiah. All those listed above include fourteen generations from Abraham to David, fourteen from David to the Babylonian exile, and fourteen from the Babylonian exile to the Messiah.” Matthew 1:1-17 NLT MOM’S SIDE: “Jesus was about thirty years old when he began his public ministry. Jesus was known as the son of Joseph.” Joseph: “Joseph was the son of Heli.” Heli: “Heli was the son of Matthat.” Matthat: “Matthat was the son of Levi.” Levi: “Levi was the son of Melki.” Melki: “Melki was the son of Jannai.” Jannai: “Jannai was the son of Joseph.” Joseph: “Joseph was the son of Mattathias.” Mattathias: “Mattathias was the son of Amos.” Amos: “Amos was the son of Nahum.” “Nahum was the son of Esli.” “Esli was the son of Naggai.” “Naggai was the son of Maath.” “Maath was the son of Mattathias.” “Mattathias was the son of Semein.” “Semein was the son of Josech.” “Josech was the son of Joda.” “Joda was the son of Joanan.” “Joanan was the son of Rhesa.” “Rhesa was the son of Zerubbabel.” “Zerubbabel was the son of Shealtiel.” “Shealtiel was the son of Neri.” “Neri was the son of Melki.” “Melki was the son of Addi.” “Addi was the son of Cosam.” “Cosam was the son of Elmadam.” “Elmadam was the son of Er.” “Er was the son of Joshua.” “Joshua was the son of Eliezer.” “Eliezer was the son of Jorim.” “Jorim was the son of Matthat.” “Matthat was the son of Levi.” “Levi was the son of Simeon.” “Simeon was the son of Judah.” “Judah was the son of Joseph.” “Joseph was the son of Jonam.” “Jonam was the son of Eliakim.” “Eliakim was the son of Melea.” “Melea was the son of Menna.” “Menna was the son of Mattatha.” “Mattatha was the son of Nathan.” “Nathan was the son of David.” “David was the son of Jesse.” “Jesse was the son of Obed.” “Obed was the son of Boaz.” “Boaz was the son of Salmon.” “Salmon was the son of Nahshon.” “Nahshon was the son of Amminadab.” “Amminadab was the son of Admin.” “Admin was the son of Arni.” “Arni was the son of Hezron.” “Hezron was the son of Perez.” “Perez was the son of Judah.” “Judah was the son of Jacob.” “Jacob was the son of Isaac.” “Isaac was the son of Abraham.” “Abraham was the son of Terah.” “Terah was the son of Nahor.” “Nahor was the son of Serug.” “Serug was the son of Reu.” “Reu was the son of Peleg.” “Peleg was the son of Eber.” “Eber was the son of Shelah.” “Shelah was the son of Cainan.” “Cainan was the son of Arphaxad.” “Arphaxad was the son of Shem.” “Shem was the son of Noah.” “Noah was the son of Lamech.” “Lamech was the son of Methuselah.” “Methuselah was the son of Enoch.” “Enoch was the son of Jared.” “Jared was the son of Mahalalel.” “Mahalalel was the son of Kenan.” “Kenan was the son of Enosh.” “Enosh was the son of Seth.” “Seth was the son of Adam.” “Adam was the son of God.” Luke 3:23-38 NLT Key points in the Bible: Repent: The Greek verb translated repent indicates a change of attitude and outlook which well may result in sorrow for sins. But the basic idea is a reversal of thinking which changes one life. Better to be in the Lord’s presence than to have everything without him: Moses would prefer to stay in the wilderness with the Presence of the Lord than to have everything in the Promised Land without him. This tells us that without God none of the rewards are worth it. Exodus: 33:12-17 - <12> One day Moses said to the Lord, "You have been telling me, ‘Take these people up to the Promised Land.' But you haven't told me whom you will send with me. You have told me, ‘I know you by name, and I look favorably on you.' <13> If it is true that you look favorably on me, let me know your ways so I may understand you more fully and continue to enjoy your favor. And remember that this nation is your very own people. " <14> The Lord replied, "I will personally go with you, Moses, and I will give you rest—everything will be fine for you. " <15> Then Moses said, "If you don't personally go with us, don't make us leave this place. <16> How will anyone know that you look favorably on me—on me and on your people—if you don't go with us? For your presence among us sets your people and me apart from all other people on the earth. " <17> The Lord replied to Moses, "I will indeed do what you have asked, for I look favorably on you, and I know you by name. " Takeaways: Fun facts/about translated words: Tempted (Gk. peirazō) - The word means “to try” or “to make proof of”, and when ascribed to God in His dealings with people, it means no more than this (See Gen 3:21). But for the most part in Scripture, the word is used in a negative sense, and means to entice, solicit, or provoke to sin. Persevere (Gk. Proskartereō, proskarterēsis) - The NT makes it clear that faith alone can save. But it makes it equally clear that perseverance in doing good works is the greatest indication that an individual’s faith is genuine (James 2:14-26). Indeed, perseverance springs from a faithful trust that God has been steadfast towards his people. Through persevering in God’s work, Christians prove their deep appreciation for God’s saving grace (1 Corinthians 15:57-58). As a result of perseverance, the Christian can expect not only to enhance the strength of the church, but also to build up strength of character (Rom. 5:3-4). In short, Christians can expect to become closer to God. They learn that they can persevere primarily because God is intimately related to them (Rom. 8:25-27) and especially because they have the assurance of a final reward in heaven (1 John 5:13). Sin (Gk. Hamartia) - The word literally means “to miss the mark,” to err. Challenges to grow: -Write the lies the enemy has told you in one column and write the words spoken against that in the Bible in the other -write a list of all the things the Lord has done for you in your life that you tend to forget. Post it on your wall -write Bible verses around your room and every time you go near that area, read it. -write a list of all the things you want in your significant other and then write at the top “things I need to do for myself”, pray about the items for a significant other and ask for guidance to grow in those areas -every time you catch yourself fantasizing, rebuke it and change what you think about to God -convince yourself to believe what God says is true (because it is) -when you find yourself thinking about your problems, remember what God has done for you and focus on His goodness -when you don’t feel like doing something based on God is the time you need to do it most. If it is so hard for you to pray, do it and do it right then bc the harder it is for you to do it, the more you need it to fight that enemy attack. The enemy knows you have a calling and that is exactly what you need New testament key points: Acts: Acts 1- After Jesus ascended into the heavens and the Disciples went to Jerusalem they were in the Upper Room praying, waiting for the baptism of the Holy Spirit: Acts 1:14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. (Note) 1:14 With one accord: This phrase, which is found 11 times in the book of Acts, is made of two words that mean “same” and “mind”. The phrase speaks of people sharing the same mind or thinking like-mindedly. It does not refer to people who all think and feel the same way about everything, but to people who set aside personal feelings and commit themselves to one task— in this case witnessing to others about the Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 15:5-6). Jesus said the world would know that he was sent from the heavenly Father when people saw the love between believers (John 17:21). (Cross Ref) Romans 15:5-6 - <5> Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus, <6> that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. John 17:21 NLT - <21> I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me. Acts 2:1-4 When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. [2] And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. <3>Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. [4] And when they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. (Note) 2:3 There appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire; After the great crowd-gathering sound of v. 2 came the visual manifestation of God. Fire often indicated the presence of God. God initially appeared to Moses in a burning bush that was not consumed (see Ex. 3). God guided the children of Israel with a pillar of fire by night (see Ex. 13:21-22), and He descended before them in fire on Mt. Sinai (see Ex. 19:18). God sent fire to consume Elijah’s offering on Mt. Carmel (see 1 Kings 18:38-39), and he used a vision of fire to warn Ezekial of his coming judgment (see Ezek. 1:26-27). (Cross Ref) Exodus 3:1-2: <1> Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian. And he led the flock to the back of the desert, and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. <2> And the Angel of the Lord appeared to him in a flame of fire from the midst of a bush. So he looked, and behold, the bush was burning with fire, but the bush was not consumed. Exodus 13:21-22: <21> And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so as to go by day and night. <22> He did not take away the pillar of cloud by day or the pillar of fire by night from before the people. Exodus 19:18: <18> Now Mount Sinai was completely in smoke, because the Lord descended upon it in fire. Its smoke ascended like the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mountain quaked greatly. 1 Kings 18:38-39: <38> Then the fire of the Lord fell and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood and the stones and the dust, and it licked up the water that was in the trench. <39> Now when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces; and they said, "The Lord, He is God! The Lord, He is God! " Ezekiel 1:26-27: <26> And above the firmament over their heads was the likeness of a throne, in appearance like a sapphire stone; on the likeness of the throne was a likeness with the appearance of a man high above it. <27> Also from the appearance of His waist and upward I saw, as it were, the color of amber with the appearance of fire all around within it; and from the appearance of His waist and downward I saw, as it were, the appearance of fire with brightness all around. (Note) 2:4 “Tongues” The word translated tongues here is the normal Greek word for known languages. Speaking in “tongues” or diverse languages underscored the universal outreach of the church. These witnesses were speaking foreign dialects to the people who had gathered for Pentecost from other nations. Spirit gave them utterance: Note that the text does not say that the Spirit spoke through the Apostles, but the Spirit gave them the ability to speak in languages that they had not previously known. Gifts of the apostles?? Gifts ceased?? Peter’s Sermon Acts 2:14-21 When the Holy Spirit finally came upon the disciples and started speaking tongues, some people that were there marveled saying “We hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God”, but “others mocking said ‘They are full of new wine.’” “But Peter, standing up with the eleven, raised his voice and said to them, “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and heed my words. For these are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day. But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: ‘And it shall come to pass in the Last days says God, That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophecy, Your young men shall see visions, Your old men shall dream dreams. And on my menservants and on my maidservants. I will pour out my Spirit in those days; And they shall prophesy. I will show wonders in heaven above And signs in the earth beneath; Blood and fire and vapor of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, And the moon into blood, Before the coming of the great and awesome day of the Lord. And it shall come to pass That whoever calls on the name of the Lord Shall be saved;” (Note) 2:16-21 Peter began his sermon by quoting Joel 2:28-32 from the Greek translation of the OT. In that passage, God had promised that there would be a time when all those who followed Him would receive His Spirit, and not just prophets, kings, and priests. Peter pointed out that time had to come to pass. God would speak to and through all those who would come to Him, whether in visions, dreams, or prophecy. This was the beginning of the last days. God’s fnal act of salvation began with the pouring out of his Spirit. This final act of deliverance will continue to the end of this age. Acts 2:22-24 Then Peter goes on to call out everyone around by saying: “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which God did through him in your midst, as yourselves also know-- Him, being delivered by the determined purpose and the foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death; whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that He should be held by it. (Note) 2:23 Being delivered by the determined purpose: Jesus Christ was God’s provision for the judgment of sin; yet it was our sinfulness that made His death necessary. In other words, it was both the sinfulness of humanity and God’s plan to save humanity that put Jesus to death on the Cross (Isaiah 53:10). God exercises sovereign control over all events -- even the death of His Son. Yet at the same time, people are still responsible for their own sinful actions. (Cross Ref) Isaiah 53:9-10: <9> And they made His grave with the wicked— But with the rich at His death, Because He had done no violence, Nor was any deceit in His mouth. <10> Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise Him; He has put Him to grief. When You make His soul an offering for sin, He shall see His seed, He shall prolong His days, And the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in His hand. Acts 2:25-34 For David says concerning him: “I foresaw the Lord always before my face, For He is at my right hand, that I may not be shaken. Therefore my heart rejoiced, and my tongue was glad; Moreover my flesh also will rest in hope. For You will not leave my soul in Hades, Nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption. You have made known to me the ways of life; You will make me full of joy in Your presence;” Using this Scripture Peter states: “Men and brethren, let me speak freely to you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. Therefore, being a prophet, and knowing that God, had sworn with an oath to him that of the fruit of his body, according to the flesh, he would raise up the Christ to sit on his throne, he, foreseeing this, spoke concerning the resurrection of the Christ that his soul was not left in Hades, nor did his flesh see corruption. This Jesus God has raised up, of which we are all witnesses. Therefore, being exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He poured out this which you now see and hear. For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he says himself: “The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at my right hand, Till I make your enemies your footstool.” “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.” (Note) 2:29 Let me speak freely: Peter knew that no one could dispute the point he was about to make from Ps. 16:8-11, in which the Messiah is described as not decaying. Because David had been buried and not come back to life, the psalm had to have been speaking about someone else, David’s heir. Peter pointed out that his heir is Jesus, who was put to death and resurrected. Not only had Jesus been raised from the dead, He is now at the right hand of God. As further proof of this Peter quoted David again. According to Psalms 110:2, the Messiah would sit at the right hand of God. David did not ascend into the heavens but the apostles were witnesses to Jesus descending to the heavens. Concluding Jesus is both Lord and Christ. Acts 2:37-39 “Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, ‘Men and brethren, what shall we do?’ Then Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall recite the gift of the Holy Spirt. <39> For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.’” (Note) 2:38 Repent: Repentance for the Judeans involved rejecting their former attitudes and opinions concerning who Jesus was. Be baptized: When a person recognizes who Jesus Christ really is, the result is the desire to do what he commands. The first actual Jesus requires of a new believer is baptism (Matt. 28:19-20), the outward expression of inward faith. Key note: The idea of an unbaptized Christian is foreign to the NT. (Cross Ref) Matthew 28:19-20: <19> Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, <20> teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. " Amen. For the remission of sins: Is Peter saying that we must be baptized to receive forgiveness of our sins? Scripture clearly teaches us that we are justified by faith alone, not by works (See Rom. 4:1-8, Eph. 2:8-9). The critical word in this phrase is the word “for”, which may also be translated “with a view to”. A comparison of Peter’s message in 10:34-43 makes it clear that “remission of sins” comes to “whoever believes”. Believers are baptized in view of God’s work of forgiveness, not in order to receive that forgiveness. God’s forgiveness in Christ gives baptism its significance. Baptism is a public declaration that a person's sins have been forgiven because of the finished work of Christ on the cross. (Cross Ref) Romans 4:1-8: <1> What then shall we say that Abraham our father has found according to the flesh? <2> For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. <3> For what does the Scripture say? "Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. " <4> Now to him who works, the wages are not counted as grace but as debt. <5> But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness, <6> just as David also describes the blessedness of the man to whom God imputes righteousness apart from works: <7> "Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven, And whose sins are covered; <8> Blessed is the man to whom the Lord shall not impute sin. " Ephesians 2:8-9: <8> For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, <9> not of works, lest anyone should boast. The gift of the Holy Spirit: Was the promise of Jesus in John 14:16-17. The Holy Spirit puts us in communion with the Father and the Son. This indwelling of the Spirit is a beautiful promise of the New Covenant (Jer. 31-33-34), an indication not only that our sins are forgiven, But also that the Lord has placed his law within us. A Vital Church Grows Acts 2:40-47 “And with many others words he testified and exhorted them saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation.” Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. <42> And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. <43> Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. <44> Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, <45> and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. <46> So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, <47> praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.” (Note) 2:40-43 Three thousand souls: The response to Peter's sermon was tremendous. Such impressive growth in the number of believers created additional needs and responsibilities. The apostles had the duty of training this large group and bringing them into fellowship with the other believers. This was a four-step process: (1) The new believers were to be trained in the apostle’s doctrine. Uniformity of belief concerning the person of Jesus Christ— based on the eyewitnesses testimony of His followers—was essential. (2) The new believers were to be trained in the fellowship of the church. The Greek word translated fellowship means sharing in the lives of other believers. (3) The new believers were to be trained in the breaking of bread, probably a reference to the Lord’s Supper (1 Cor. 11:23-24). Some believe this is a broader reference to the “love feast”, a meal of fellowship in the early church. (4) The new believers were to be trained in the discipline of prayer. Corporate prayers were viewed as an essential part of the spiritual growth of the church. (Note) 2:44-45 The disposal and distribution of possessions in the early church was directed among all, as anyone had need. When a physical or spiritual need became known in the church, action was taken to address it (1 John 3:17). The NT believers demonstrated their love for one another by giving self-sacrificially. How God has been good to us: -Gives us second and third chances -forgives us -saved us from sin and death -gives us peace and mercy -literally died for us Bible Excerpts Mia’s Pink Bible: The Spiritual Growth Bible (NLT) Verse at the front: Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. All glory to Him, both now and forever! Amen. ~2 Peter 3:18~ Introduction to the Spiritual Growth Bible: Growth is integral to human existence. From the very moment of conception, we start to grow; and once born, that growth continues: physically, emotionally, intellectually, psychologically, socially. We never stop growing. And spiritual life is no different. From the moment we are "born again " (John 3:3), a growth process begins which, like with natural life, should never stop— and if it does, we are in trouble. That is why Peter implored his fellow believers, even though he acknowledged they already knew so much, to continue to "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ " (2 Pet 3:18). Of course, Christians go through different stages of development. When we first become a follower of Jesus, we are "like babies who need milk "; but as we grow, we become more mature and need "solid food " (Heb 5:12). But none of us ever reaches the point where the need to keep growing stops. Why? Because the goal is to become like Jesus (Rom 8:29). And while this will only be completely fulfilled at his return, we all need to "press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me " (Phil 3:12) in other words, to keep growing. Thankfully, we are not left alone in this growth journey. God has given us both his Holy Spirit within us and his church around us to help us. And one of the main tools that both the Spirit and the church use is the Bible —no book with "mere human ideas ", but rather "the very word of God " (1 Thess 2:13). This book 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 Tim 3:16-17). It is "alive and powerful " and can expose “our innermost thoughts and desires " (Heb 4:12) so we can bring them to Jesus and let him change us. This is why reading, meditating upon, studying, memorizing, and applying God's Word, with the help of God's Spirit and the challenge and encouragement of God's people, is so crucial to Christian growth. And so, this edition of the Bible has been created with the specific goal of helping you maintain that essential spiritual growth. Bible Features The Spiritual Growth Bible uses the New Living Translation (NLT) because of its clarity and readability, which makes God's Word really accessible to Christians of all ages and walks of lite. New Christians will find it easy to understand, while established Christians will find it brings fresh angles on familiar verses or passages. The Spiritual Growth Bible is for believers at every phase of their spiritual lives, from the early stages of initial nurture to the later stages of spiritual maturity. At the beginning of every biblical book there is an introduction, giving the reader a brief overview of the book's content and highlighting key themes related to spiritual growth found in that book. These highlighted themes reflect over 800 articles incorporated into The Spiritual Growth Bible, which include full-page articles as well as hundreds of shorter articles alongside the biblical text. Written to appeal to Christians from a wide spectrum of churches and denominations, these articles come from both published material, for which permission has been obtained, as well as specially-commissioned articles, all written by men and women with decades of experience: pastors, theologians, authors, evangelists, counselors, missionaries, and others in Christian service. The result is hundreds of articles touching upon key aspects of spiritual growth, important theological truths that help us grow in our knowledge of Christ, and practical ways we can apply these truths to our lives. • All readers will learn personal lessons from many character profiles that highlight key experiences in the lives of biblical saints and sinners, learning from their strengths and weaknesses, their successes and failures. • Students of the Bible will find numerous cross-references at the end of articles an invaluable resource for their studies. • Church workers will benefit from insights provided by others in fruitful Christian ministry. • Ministers, teachers, and church leaders will find this Bible particularly useful in preparing talks and lessons. How to Read The Spiritual Growth Bible First and foremost, of course, pray! Ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten your mind and expand your heart as you read God's Word, for without this, there will be no growth. If you intend to study a whole biblical book, go to that book's introduction to gain a bird's-eye view of its content. If you are just reading an individual passage of the Bible, read the biblical text first, and then read the accompanying article or articles that help explain the spiritual truths found there. If you are looking for a particular spiritual growth topic, consult the index at the back of the Bible, then prayerfully read the biblical passages and articles on that topic. Above all, always seek to put what you have read into practice. Spiritual growth happens when we "don't just listen to God's word " but rather "do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves " (Jas 1:22). The Adventure of Growing to Become like Jesus The psalmist discovered that God's "perfect... trustworthy... right... clear... pure... true " Word could revive the soul, make wise the simple, bring joy to the heart, and give insight for living (Ps 19:7-8). Our prayer is that The Spiritual Growth Bible will help to open up this life-giving Word to enrich the spiritual lives of God's people, equipping them with resources to keep growing spiritually and to become more like Jesus. May "the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives " (Col 3:16)! Martin Manser - Managing Editor Mike Beaumont - Associate Editor A note to readers The Holy Bible, New Ling Translation, was the first published in 1996. It quickly became one of the most popular Bible translations in the English-speaking world. While the NLT's influence was rapidly growing, the Bible Translation Committee determined that an additional investment in scholarly review and text refinement could make it even better. So shorty after its initial publication, the committee began an eight-year process with the purpose of increasing the level of the NLT's precision without sacrificing its easy-to-understand quality. This second-generation text was completed in 2004, with minor changes subsequently introduced in 2007, 2013, and 2015. The goal of any Bible translation is to convey the meaning and content of the ancient Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts as accurately as possible to contemporary readers. The challenge for our translators was to create a text that would communicate as clearly and powerfully to today's readers as the original texts did to readers and listeners in the ancient biblical world. The resulting translation is easy to read and understand, while also accurately communicating the meaning and content of the original biblical texts. The NLT is a general-purpose text especially good for study, devotional reading, and reading aloud in worship services. We believe that the New Living Translation—which combines the latest biblical scholarship with a clear, dynamic writing style-will communicate God's word powerfully to all who read it. We publish it with the prayer that God will use it to speak his timeless truth to the church and the world in a fresh, new way. The Publishers GENESIS The book of beginnings The word "Genesis " means "beginnings " or "origins, " and that's what this book delivers. Attributed to Moses, it tells us about the origins of everything- the world, humanity, and God's people. It unfolds foundational truths that drive the whole biblical narrative: God, creation, sin, death, evil, and redemption. The Earliest History of the World (chapters 1 to 11) The opening verse introduces us to God and his creation. While the main story of chapter 1 is creation, God is also in focus, mentioned over thirty times. He is seen as creative, powerful, orderly, and purposeful—and we may even get hints of the Trinity (Gen 1:26). It is because he is Creator, with all creation belonging to him, that we also find God as judge (chap. 3; 6; 18-19) and God as provider (chap. 22). These three key ideas of God as creator, judge, and provider form the foundation of any spiritual growth we want to pursue. Created in the image of God (1:26-27), humans are the pinnacle of creation. This means that every person has an inner sense of God's existence, with potential for relationship with him, and it is also why Christians believe in the sanctity of life (9:6). Marriage-the union of one man and one woman in a lifelong relationship-is a key part of God's plan for humanity (1:27; 2:18-24). God placed Adam in the Garden of Eden to care for it (2:15). Work is therefore good, for God himself is a worker (John 5:17), and so to work is to be God-like. A proper understanding of work is fundamental to growing in the Christian life. When Adam and Eve disobeyed God's only command (Gen 2:16-17), their eyes were opened —not to what Satan had falsely promised them, but to the reality of what they had done (3:1-7). From this point on, sin entered the world, affecting every person and every aspect of human civilization. The following chapters (4-11) show how quickly sin spread, affecting every aspect of human life. The first thing we see is that Cain murdered his brother, Abel, out of anger and came under God's curse (4:1-16). Abel was the first righteous person to be killed for his obedience to God (Gen 4:4, 8; Heb 11:4). The persecution of the righteous will be a common theme throughout Scripture. Human history continued to develop and decline, until God felt he had no alternative but to destroy the human race through a flood, except for Noah and his family. Noah's faithfulness and fellowship with God (Gen 6:9) preserved both his own family and the whole human race (chap. 6-9). After the flood, the human race grew and spread out (chap. 10), but sin reared its head again, expressed in the pride of the building the tower of Babel (11:1-9), which brought about God's judgment. These early chapters are dominated by sin and its effects, and God noted that everything humans "think or imagine is bent toward evil from childhood " (8:21; see 6:5), Yet these chapters also show us that God will not give up on us. From the beginning he had a plan, expressed in his promise that Eve's offspring would one day crush the serpent (3:15). —an early glimpse of the Good News of redemption in Jesus. The History of Abraham and His Descendants (chapters 12 to 50) The second, longer part of Genesis shows how God's plan to rescue humans from sin's grip starts to unfold. It begins with four key figures from one family: Abraham (father of the Jewish people), Isaac (son of the covenant), Jacob (father of the nation of Israel), and Joseph (instrumental in rescuing God's people from slavery). Each had his own spiritual journey and lessons to learn along the way. Yet none of them were perfect. Although Abraham was the "father of faith " (see Rom 4:11-16; Gen 15:6), he made several mistakes as he navigated the world and his relationship with God. His son Isaac followed some of his father's errant ways (chap. 26), and his grandson Jacob was thoroughly conniving and deceptive (chap. 27-30). It was only through meeting God in his struggles (32:22-32) that Jacob's character was dramatically transformed. Through all of this, God was both gracious and faithful, as he slowly built up his chosen people. Genesis ends with a powerful story of faithfulness, seen in Joseph's story. Despite mistreatment from his brothers (37:23-28), deception by Potiphar's wife (39:16-20), and two years of unjust imprisonment (39:19—41:1), Joseph maintained his integrity and his faith in God. Through his story we find the important truths of fleeing from sin, trusting God, and gaining victory over evil, as God uses the negative circumstances of life for good (50:20). Genesis ends on a high note: Joseph and his brothers were reconciled and the entire family moved to Egypt to escape Canaan's famine. There was hope for the future! IN THE BEGINNING Gen 1:1 "In the beginning God created. " What majestic words the Bible begins with! God created all things out of nothing by his creative, powerful command (Ps 33:6; Heb 11:3). The creation isn't a random chance accident, but the Bible teaches us that in his goodness, God created all things through Christ (John 1:3) and by the Spirit (Gen 1:2; Job 26:13). Human beings are the high point of his creation (Gen 1:27-28; Ps 8:3-9). In his faithfulness, God watches over his creation and continues to sustain the created order (Ps 121:1- 8; Isa 42:5; Heb 1:3). One day, God will reveal a new creation, with no sin and suffering (Rev 21). How are we to respond? • Look beyond the creation to the God who made it and worship and praise him for his creation. Stop and consider the grandeur of mountains to the beauty of a tiny flower (Ps 19:1-6; Rom 1:18-25). • Look after God's creation by being humble, responsible stewards of it (Gen 1:28; 2:15; Ps 8:6-9), taking care of his world. Second Corinthians 4:6 provides a great commentary: "God, who said, 'Let there be light in the darkness,' has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. " Praise him! Wonder at God's Creation Ps 8:1-9 Understanding Creation's Purpose Ps 19 New Heavens and a New Earth Rev 21:1-5 巨 1:1-3 › The Vastness of God Ps 139:7-12 THE IMAGE OF GOD Gen 1:26 Human beings, as male and female, were originally created in God's image or likeness (Gen 1:26-27; 5:1-2). However, this does not imply a physical likeness. Being made in God's image involves our partnership with God taking care of creation (1:26; Ps 8:3-8). It also means that we are rational and moral beings who possess souls. We are to imitate his love and justice (Matt 5:48; Deut 10: 17-19), treating each person with respect as they are made in God's image. When the first human beings disobeyed God at the fall, the image of God was marred though not totally destroyed (Rom 3:23). When we become Christians, we are new creations (2 Cor 5:17), and gradually we are to become more like Christ: the divine image is to be restored in us through Christ by the Holy Spirit (2 Cor 3:18). God's image is renewed in all who are united with Christ by faith (Rom 8:29). The Bible holds out the promise of complete restoration in the future (1 Cor 15:49; 1 Jn 3:2). The Christian life is therefore a process of gradual transformation (2 Cor 3:18). The closer we come to Christ, the more like him we will become. Respecting the Sanctity of Life Gen 9:6; Becoming Holy Like Jesus Rom 6 巨 2:1-3 • The Importance of Rest Ps 127 2:15 › Working for God Titus 3 ADAM & EVE Their disobedience spread through the human race until Christ, "the last Adam, " came to undo its effects. Genesis 1 climaxed with the crown of God's creation: the human race, made from G dust, yet filled with life (Gen 2:7) and created in God's image (1:26-27): Now in chapter 2, the author zooms in to focus on Adam and Eve and their relationship with God and one another. Although the whole world was "very good " (1:31), God created a special place for Adam to be with him, the Garden of Eden, a place of exceptional beauty (2:8-15). Three things characterized this place. First, it was a place of intimacy with God, for God is described as "walking " there (3:8). Second, it was a place of work, for while God had created everything, Adam was called to "tend and watch over it " (2:15)-a reminder that work is not a curse but God's good gift and an opportunity to learn how to be in his image. Third, it was a place of obedience, for while God placed two unique trees in Eden, Adam was commanded to not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (vv. 16-17)—a test of his obedience that he tragically failed. While his action may seem minor to us, it was willful rebellion against his Creator. He knew what was forbidden, but he still willfully did it because he believed the lie that if he did it, he could "be like God " (3:5). That disobedience became like a spiritual genetic disease that spread through the whole human race, until Christ— "the last Adam " (1 Cor 15:45)-came to undo its effects (Rom 5:12-21). But what about Eve? After all, it was she who first ate the fruit. Yes, but she was not created when God gave Adam his command (Gen 2:16-17); she was only created afterward (vv. 18-23). Had Adam failed to communicate it to her, or had he simply not stopped her, for note that he was "with her " (3:6)? Either way, this is why the sin is always seen as Adam's sin, not Eve's. Some lessons to learn: • God wants to "walk " with us (3:8). • Disobedience has consequences, no matter how much we rationalize it (3:11-13). • Sin always makes us try to hide from God (Gen 3:7-10). • Judgment is real: sin led to expulsion from the garden and God's presence (3:23-44). • God's grace is amazing: despite everything, he promised to send someone who would one day destroy the serpent (3:15). SATAN AS TEMPTER Gen 3:4-5 Temptation—the incitement to do wrong—is as old as humanity itself. Satan, a rebellious angel (Isa 14:12-15; Ezek 28:11-19), sowed doubt in Eve's mind by questioning the reasonableness of God's command and twisting what he had said (Gen 3:1). With doubt at work, he then overtly contradicted God's warning (3:4), challenging its motivation (3:5). Having failed to resist these temptations, Eve became convinced of their truth, drawing Adam into her disobedience (3:6). But temptation never fills the void that it promises to fill (3:7). Eve's entertaining of Satan's doubts and questions led to defeat. But if we resist him, he will flee (Jas 4:7)-just as Jesus demonstrated in the wilderness by overcoming Satan's temptations with God's Word (Matt 4:1-11). Satan's goal remains "to steal and kill and destroy " (John 10:10), and his deceptive and destructive character is reflected in his very name: Satan (shatan in Hebrew), which means Accuser (Job 1:6), translated into Greek as diabolos, the devil (1 Pet 5:8). Other names include: evil one (John 17:15), prince of demons (Does Evil Exist? Job 2 Crushing Satan Rom 16:20 The Christian's Spiritual Warfare Eph 6 巨 2:18-25 + God's Gift of Marriage Col 3 3:12 • Playing the Blame Game Num 20:2-5 GOD'S JUDGMENT OF SIN Gen 3:8-24 At the very moment of their disobedience, Adam and Eve's eyes were opened (Gen 3:7)-not to what Satan had promised, but to what God had warned of: that eating fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil would lead to death (2:17. This was not yet physical death, though that would come, but spiritual death, as relationships with God, one another, and the world around them became fractured. And this sin would now spread into the whole of humanity (Rom 5:12; 1 Cor 15:22). All would experience that "the wages of sin is death " (Rom 6:23). Each participant in this sad story experienced judgment. The serpent was cursed and warned of a coming total overthrow (3:14- 15); both Eve (3:16) and Adam (3:17-19) were told they would henceforth experience pain in the world; even creation became subject to death and decay (Rom 8:19-22). But the worst judgment was that they were banished from the garden and God's intimate presence (3:22-24), for the holy God cannot live with sin. Only when God sent a second Adam, his own Son, could the penalty for sin be reversed, as he took God's judgment on it upon himself (Rom 5:12-21). The Certainty of God's Judgment Jer 52 Sin and the Holy God Hab 1:13 Humanity and Sin Rom 3:9-12 Jesus Rescues Believers from Sin and Death Rom 7:24-25 4:3-4 • Giving God Our Best Hag 2 4:5-8 Managing Your Anger Prov 29:22 Mia’s Dark Pink Bible: The Holy Bible (NIV) Verse at the front: YOUR WORD IS A LAMP FOR MY FEET, A LIGHT ON MY PATH. PSALM 119:105 Preface The goal of the New International Version (NIV) is to enable English-speaking people from around the world to read and hear God's eternal Word in their own language. Our work as translators is motivated by our conviction that the Bible is God's Word in written form. We believe that the Bible contains the divine answer to the deepest needs of humanity, sheds unique light on our path in a dark world and sets forth the way to our eternal well-being. Out of these deep convictions, we have sought to recreate as far as possible the experience of the original audience - blending transparency to the original text with accessibility for the millions of English speakers around the world. We have prioritized accuracy, clarity and literary quality with the goal of creating a translation suitable for public and private read-ing, evangelism, teaching, preaching, memorizing and liturgical use. We have also sought to preserve a measure of continuity with the long tradition of translating the Scriptures into English. The complete NIV Bible was first published in 1978. It was a completely new translation made by over a hundred scholars working directly from the best available Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek texts. The translators came from the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, giving the translation an international scope. They were from many denominations and churches — including Anglican, Assemblies of God, Baptist, Brethren, Christian Reformed, Church of Christ, Evangelical Covenant, Evangelical Free, Lutheran, Mennonite, Methodist, Nazarene, Presbyterian, Wesleyan and others. This breadth of denominational and theological perspective helped to safeguard the translation from sectarian bias. For these reasons, and by the grace of God, the NIV has gained a wide readership in all parts of the English-speaking world. The work of translating the Bible is never finished. As good as they are, English translations must be regularly updated so that they will continue to communicate accurately the meaning of God's Word. Updates are needed in order to reflect the latest developments in our understanding of the biblical world and its languages and to keep pace with changes in English usage. Recognizing, then, that the NIV would retain its ability to communicate God's Word accurately only if it were regularly updated, the original translators established The Committee on Bible Translation (CBT). The committee is a self-perpetuating group of biblical scholars charged with keeping abreast of advances in biblical scholarship and changes in English and issuing periodic updates to the NIV. CBT is an independent, self-governing body and has sole responsibility for the NIV text. The committee mirrors the original group of translators in its diverse international and denominational makeup and in its unifying commitment to the Bible as God's inspired Word. In obedience to its mandate, the committee has issued periodic updates to the NIV. An initial revision was released in 1984. A more thorough revision process was completed in 2005, resulting in the separately published Today's New International Version. The updated NIV you now have in your hands builds on both the original NIV and the TNIV and represents the latest effort of the committee to articulate God's unchanging Word in the way the original authors might have said it had they been speaking in English to the global English-speaking audience today. The first concern of the translators has continued to be the accuracy of the translation and its faithfulness to the intended meaning of the biblical writers. This has moved the translators to go beyond a formal word-for-word rendering of the original texts. Because thought patterns and syntax differ from language to language, accurate communication of the meaning of the biblical authors demands constant regard for varied contextual uses of words and idioms and for frequent modifications in sentence structures. As an aid to the reader, sectional headings have been inserted. They are not to be regarded as part of the biblical text and are not intended for oral reading. It is the committee's hope that these headings may prove more helpful to the reader than the traditional chapter divisions, which were introduced long after the Bible was written. For the Old Testament the standard Hebrew text, the Masoretic Text as published in the latest edition of Biblia Hebraica, has been used throughout. The Masoretic Text tradition contains marginal notations that offer variant readings. These have sometimes been followed instead of the text itself. Because such instances involve variants within the Masoretic tradition, they have not been indicated in the textual notes. In a few cases, words in the basic consonantal text have been divided differently than in the Masoretic Text. Such cases are usually indicated in the textual footnotes. The Dead Sea Scrolls contain biblical texts that represent an earlier stage of the transmission of the Hebrew text. They have been consulted, as have been the Samaritan Pentateuch and the ancient scribal traditions concerning deliberate textual changes. The translators also consulted the more important early versions - the Greek Septuagint, Aquila, Symmachus and Theodotion, the Latin Vulgate, the Syriac Peshitta, the Aramaic Targums and, for the Psalms, the Juxta Hebraica of Jerome. Readings from these versions, the Dead Sea Scrolls and the scribal traditions were occasionally followed where the Masoretic Text seemed doubtful and where accepted principles of textual criticism showed that one or more of these textual witnesses appeared to provide the correct reading. In rare cases, the committee has emended the Hebrew text where it appears to have become corrupted at an even earlier stage of its transmis-sion. These departures from the Masoretic Text are also indicated in the textual footnotes. Sometimes the vowel indicators (which are later additions to the basic consonantal text) found in the Masoretic Text did not, in the judgment of the committee, represent the correct vowels for the original text. Ac-cordingly, some words have been read with a different set of vowels. These instances are usually not indicated in the footnotes. The Greek text used in translating the New Testament is an eclectic one, based on the latest editions of the Nestle-Aland/United Bible Societies' Greek New Testament. The committee has made its choices among the variant readings in accordance with widely accepted principles of New Testament textual criticism. Footnotes call attention to places where uncertainty remains. The New Testament authors, writing in Greek, often quote the Old Testament from its ancient Greek version, the Septuagint. This is one reason why some of the Old Testament quotations in the NIV New Testament are not identical to the corresponding passages in the NIV Old Testament. Such quotations in the New Testament are indicated with the footnote "(see Septuagint). " Other footnotes in this version are of several kinds, most of which need no explanation. Those giving alternative translations begin with "Or " and generally introduce the alternative with the last word preceding it in the text, except when it is a single-word alternative. When poetry is quoted in a footnote, a slash mark indicates a line division. It should be noted that references to diseases, minerals, flora and fauna, architectural details, clothing, jewelry, musical instruments and other articles cannot always be identified with preci-sion. Also, linear measurements and measures of capacity can only be approximated (see the Table of Weights and Measures). Although Selah, used mainly in the Psalms, is probably a musical term, its meaning is uncertain. Since it may interrupt reading and distract the reader, this word has not been kept in the English text, but every occurrence has been signaled by a footnote. One of the main reasons the task of Bible translation is never finished is the change in our own language, English. Although a basic core of the language remains relatively stable, many diverse and complex linguistic factors continue to bring about subtle shifts in the meanings and/or connotations of even old, well-established words and phrases. One of the shifts that creates particular challenges to writers and translators alike is the manner in which gender is presented. The original NIV (1978) was published in a time when "a man " would naturally be understood, in many contexts, to be referring to a person, whether male of female. But most English speakers today tend to hear a distinctly male connotation in this word. In recognition of this change in English, this edition of the NIV, along with almost all other recent English translations, substitutes other expressions when the original text intends to refer generically to men and women equally. Thus, for instance, the NIV (1984) rendering of 1 Corinthians 8:3, "But the man who loves God is known by God " becomes in this edition "But whoever loves God is known by God. " On the other hand, "man " and "mankind, " as ways of denoting the human race, are still widely used. This edition of the NIV therefore continues to use these words, along with other expressions, in this way. A related shift in English creates a greater challenge for modern translations: the move away from using the third-person masculine singular pronouns — "he/him/his " — to refer to men and women equally. This usage does persist at a low level in some forms of English, and this revision therefore occasionally uses these pronouns in a generic sense. But the tendency, recognized in day-to-day usage and confirmed by extensive research, is away from the generic use of "he, " "him " and "his. " In recognition of this shift in language and in an effort to translate into the "common " English that people are actually using, this revision of the NIV generally uses other constructions when the biblical text is plainly addressed to men and women equally. The reader will frequently encounter a "they, " "them " or "their " to express a generic singular idea. Thus, for instance, Mark 8:36 reads: "What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? " This generic use of the "indefinite " or "singular " "they/ them/their has a venerable place in English idiom and has quickly become established as standard English, spoken and written, all over the world. Where an individual emphasis is deemed to be present, "anyone " or "everyone " or some other equivalent is generally used as the antecedent of such pronouns. Sometimes the chapter and/or verse numbering in English translations of the Old Testament differs from that found in published Hebrew texts. This is particularly the case in the Psalms, where the traditional titles are often included in the Hebrew verse numbering. Such differences are indicated in the footnotes at the bottom of the page. In the New Testament, verse numbers that marked off portions of the traditional English text not supported by the best Greek manuscripts now appear in brackets, with a footnote indicating the text that has been omitted (see, for example, Matthew 17:21)). Mark 16:9-20 and John 7:53-8:11, although long accorded virtually equal status with the rest of the Gospels in which they stand, have a very questionable — and confused - standing in the textual history of the New Testament, as noted in the bracketed annotations with which they are set off. A different typeface has been chosen for these passages to indicate even more clearly their uncertain status. Basic formatting of the text, such as lining the poetry, paragraphing (both prose and poetry), setting up of (administrative-like) lists, indenting letters and lengthy prayers within narratives and the insertion of sectional headings, has been the work of the committee. However, the choice between single-column and double-column formats has been left to the publishers. Also the issuing of "red-letter " editions is a publisher's choice - one the committee does not endorse. The committee has again been reminded that every human effort is flawed - including this revision of the NIV. We trust, however, that many will find in it an improved representation of the Word of God, through which they hear his call to faith in our Lord Jesus Christ and to service in his kingdom. We offer this version of the Bible to him in whose name and for whose glory it has been made. The Committee on Bible Translation September 2010 Mia’s Red Bible: HelpFinder Bible (NLT) (God’s Word at your point of need) WELCOME Have you asked yourself "Who am I really? " or "Why am I here? " The Bible answers these questions. It's a story of our true identity and purpose. We can see in the world around us something went amiss in this story. People didn't trust God, and the relationship turned from unbelief to sin. That sin then became separation between people and God and resulted in death. Throughout the story, we see many people trying to earn back God's love, but failing every time (Romans 3:23). God even worked through a whole nation of people (Israel) to restore that relationship, but they failed too (Hebrews 1:1-2). So God sent his son, Jesus, to do what we could never do on our own: restore our relationship with God. Jesus lived a perfect life and died a criminal's death to redeem us (buy us back) from the fall we have experienced in sin (| John 1:7). It is not by accident you opened this Bible today. God is writing your story right now and calling you to Himself. Admitting you need God's help is part of the story all must follow (Romans 10:9-10). Will you believe today that Jesus died to make you right with God (John 3:16-17; / 2 Corinthians 5:21)? Commit your life to God by calling out to Him in prayer saying, "I believe in Jesus' redemption for MY LIFE! " The story doesn't end with Jesus' death. Jesus conquered death and sin and came back to life in a miraculous way. It is a promise that one day He will bring back to life all who trust and believe in Him (I Corinthians 15:21): The story ends the way it began, with a promise that people and God will live forever together in harmony. We all long for a place where we can be free of our sin, shame, and guilt. A place where love is the supreme norm! I invite you into this story and into this perfect relationship with Jesus as you journey through this Bible. Blessings! Read This First Welcome to the HelpFinder Bible! Think back to yesterday. Can you recall the range of emotions you experienced? Did you feel angry, happy, discouraged, tired? Were you frustrated? lonely? excited? worried? scared? embarrassed? bitter? Did you feel inadequate? Were you grieving? Did someone hurt your feel-ings? Were you criticized or ignored? Did you end the day with regrets? Did you long to rekindle a relationship with a friend or spouse? Did you long to feel the presence of God? Were you wondering how to pray more effectively? These questions point to just a few of the many life-needs that are identified in the HelpFinder Bible. Now you have a place to look up those needs and instantly see where you can find help from the Bible for each one. When you are wrestling with a need, issue, or emotion, simply look it up in the HelpFinder Index at the front of the Bible. Under each topic you will find questions that help you focus on the kind of help you are looking for, many Scripture passages that show how the Bible offers help and encouragement, and application comments that will help you apply the Bible to your specific situation. Our lives are filled with real human needs and issues. These needs, issues, and the emotions that come with them are what make up everyday life. No one is exempt from them! On some days, one need will leap to the front page of our lives to challenge us. On another day, another will surface- or perhaps several! The exciting news is that God's Word holds answers and guidance for all the needs you are facing. Before you were ever born, God knew about you and the particular needs you would have. And because he created you, he fully understands each of those needs. That's one of the reasons God's Word offers help and hope for you. Turn to the HelpFinder Index now and begin an exciting journey through the Bible that will offer answers to your deepest needs and questions. Use the HelpFinder Bible as a resource guide, a devotional Bible, or a topical tool kit, directing you to places where God's Word can touch you, heal you, and guide you. A lifetime of learning and adventure awaits as you search this Bible and discover how wonderfully our loving God meets your daily needs. Features of the HelpFinder Bible HELPFINDER INDEX This is the most important feature in this Bible. Found here at the front immediately after this user's guide, the HelpFinder Index makes it easy to discover what the Bible says about well over a hundred life-needs topics. Each topic is listed alphabetically and dealt with thoroughly, offering a biblical summary, several questions that help put your needs into words, and a list of Bible passages to explore. The index also tells you which Bible passages have expanded notes in the Bible text and shows you a series of Bible promises related to each topic. In all, the HelpFinder Index thoroughly covers more than one hundred life-needs topics, gives links for many other related topics, and puts thousands of connected Bible verses and application notes at your fingertips. IN-TEXT FEATURES Application Notes Hundreds of notes are placed at appropriate places in the Bible text and offer application, insights, inspiration, and encouragement. Each note focuses on one of the topics covered in the HelpFinder Index, and quite a few topics are dealt with in several notes. The page numbers for these in-text notes are listed in the HelpFinder Index (at the front of the Bible) and in the Quick Topic Finder (at the back of the Bible) Book Introductions Complete Bible book introductions include the following helpful features: • An overview of the book, emphasizing its core message and key themes • An outline of the book that lists the main topics and where they can be found • A list of key verses in the book Promises from God Knowing God's promises to us can deepen our faith, and the HelpFinder Bible highlights nearly two hundred of them. As you are reading, these promises draw your attention to important faith-building truths from God's Word. These and additional Bible promise texts are identified under each topic in the HelpFinder Index and the Quick Topic Finder. OTHER HELPS AT THE BACK OF THE BIBLE Quick Topic Finder This smaller index at the back of the Bible offers a bird's-eye view of all the topics covered in the Helpfinder Index and gives the page numbers in the HelpFinder Index where each topic is handled in much greater depth. The Quick Topic Finder also gives page numbers for the in-text application notes and offers additional Bible promise texts. Great Bible Passages to Study and Memorize This list points to some of the Bible's greatest passages and reflects on the importance of studying and memorizing longer Scripture texts to ensure that we keep the passages we read in their larger context. Great Bible Stories for Discovering God's Truth This list gives easy access to the great stories of the Bible and offers reflection on how God uses stories to reveal his truth and help us to connect it to our lives. HelpFinder Index WHEN GOD INSPIRED THE BIBLE, he was thinking of you and your needs. And because God made you, he knows you and what you need to make your life all it should be. He put the answers to meet your needs in the Bible. But wouldn't you like an easy way to find God's answers? You have found it here, in this HelpFinder index. This is a place to find Bible help for daily needs, arranged alphabetically by topics. Each topic includes (1) a summary, (2) several questions that help put your need into words, (3) a list of Bible verses to look up that will speak directly to your particular issue, and (4) often a short comment to help apply those verses to your life. In addition, some of the Bible verses are paired with a corresponding application note on the page indicated. We hope that this HelpFinder index gives you a lifetime of joy as you search God's Word and see how wonderfully he wants to meet your daily needs. Abilities See also Habits; Planning; Strengths & Weaknesses Deep within the human spirit is a desire, and a capability, to do wonderful things. Because we were made in the image of God, we inherited from him the desire to create, to accom-plish, to make things happen. But why would God give us these desires unless he also gave us the way to fulfill them? Abilities are God's gifts to enable us to carry out whatever he created us to do. As we use and sharpen these abilities, we find great joy in living out our God-given purposes. How we use or misuse these abilities ultimately determines our quality of life-quality defined, not as comfort or the accumulation of things, but as char-acter, joy, and lasting satisfaction. Our goal is first to discover our abilities, then exercise them, and finally channel them toward good rather than evil. God has given all of us certain abilities. Life is more fulfilling when we exercise them for his Kingdom glory and purposes. What if I don't feel like I have many abilities? • EPHESIANS 4:11-13 | Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church... to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church... until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God's Son that we will be mature in the Lord. God has empowered each of us with special abilities; no one is left empty-handed. But how we use these abilities is up to us. Will God ever ask me to do something outside of my abilities? • EXODUS 4:10-125| But Moses pleaded. "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. " (See note on page 55.) ens a'bod ball ol vaw vese to God will help us in important areas where we lack ability. If God is asking you to do some-thing, he will give you the ability or extra resources to get the job done. • EPHESIANS 3:18 | And may you... understand, as all God's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. The number of abilities you have is not related to the degree of love God has for you. God loves all believers wholly and unconditionally, so much so that he sent his own Son, Jesus, to die in our place so that we could live forever with him. How should I use my abilities? • 1 TIMOTHY 4:7-8 Train yourself to be godly, "Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better. " Properly exercising our abilities will help us grow spiritually. • MATTHEW 25:21 | "Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. " You can exercise your God-given abilities and become highly skilled at using them. But they will be truly impactful only if you use them to serve God and others. Can God use my abilities even if they aren't "spiritual "? • 1 KINGS 7:14, 40 | Huram was extremely skillful and talented in any work in bronze... So at last Huram completed everything King Solomon had assigned him to make for the Temple of the LORD. (See note on page 307) Talents and abilities, though personal, become spiritual in purpose when used to honor God. It's easy for me to be jealous when others seem to have more abilities than me. How do I deal with that? • 2 CORINTHIANS 12:9-10 | 1 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. We really don't know why God hands out talents and abilities the way he does. But the Bible makes it clear that what God has given to each of us, if used faithfully, will accomplish great things. God often takes joy in using people the world thinks are lacking in ability or talent to accomplish his plans. I am very good at what I do. Is it wrong to feel that way? • 2 CORINTHIANS 3:5| It is not that we think we are qualified to do anything on our own. Our qualification comes from God. Rejoice in your God-given abilities, but let that rejoicing be poured out as a thank offering to the God who gave them. Without God, our abilities are dreams without power, cups without water, engines without fuel. I want to be a great musician. Why didn't God give me the ability to do that? • ROMANS 12:6 | God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. (See note on a page 1023.) Our talents and abilities are gifts from God. It is better to be thankful for the gifts we have and to maximize them rather than to dream of gifts we do not have and to feel that God shortchanged us. What if I never get to use my abilities? • HEBREWS 11:26 | [Moses] thought it was better to suffer for the sake of Christ than to own the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to his great reward. What is keeping you from using your abilities? Is it your own lack of discipline or circumstances beyond your control? If you are truly prevented by circumstances beyond your control, then take comfort in the fact that God still loves you, and the suffering that is keeping you from reaching your potential will bring you a great reward in heaven. PROMISE FROM GOD • MATTHEW 25:29 | "To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. " Abortion What if you had never been born? How would the world be different? What would never have happened? If you are a parent, your children would never have been born.?. nor would their future children and grandchildren. Pregnancies may occur naturally or accidentally or deliberately, Interrupting a pregnancy deliberately is called abortion, and it ranges from destruction of the fertilized egg to the dismemberment and forced ejection of a nearly full-term baby. A great controversy rages today concerning abortion, focusing on whether the unborn baby is truly a person and not just a developing physical body. Does human life begin at conception, at birth, or at some point between the two? Who would argue that at birth the baby isn't fully a human being? But is the unborn child fully a human being? And are there any justifiable reasons for abortión? Most Christians would argue against abortion as a means of birth control. Some would argue that abortion is acceptable if it will save the life of the mother, in the case of rape or incest, or if the unborn child is thought to be brain damaged or deformed. Ultimately the core issue centers on the sacredness and value of human life because not a single person would sW deny that an unborn baby, if left to grow and develop in the womb, would eventually & o be born as a human being. Never in history has a human fetus been born as anything other than a human baby. So the real question is not whether the fetus is human or not, but what value we should place on human life, because a fetus is indeed destined to become a human life. Does the Bible say anything about human qualities in the unborn child? • PSALM 51:5 | I was born a sinner-yes, from the moment my mother conceived me. (See note on page 507) Abortion continued Sinfulness -perhaps the most unmistakable human quality-is present not only at birth but even as far back as conception. Is God actively involved in our development before birth? • PSALM 139:13-16 | 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... You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. (See note on page 553.) God is present continuously during the nine months of pregnancy-forming, watching, creating, and even scheduling each day of the unborn baby's life. Does God have any personal relationship with the unborn child? • JEREMIAH 1:5 | "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. " (See note on page 665.) God knew each of us before we developed in our mothers' wombs. He establishes a purpose for us before we are even born. Why is abortion such an important matter for all people to consider? • GENESIS 9:6 | God made human beings in his own image. (See note on page 11.) If the unborn child, at any stage of pregnancy, is a person, then terminating that pregnancy is ending the life of that child. God sees all human beings, regardless of age, as special creations with eternal value. God also makes it clear that killing another human being i.e., intentionally ending that person's life) is one of the greatest sins against him. Can God forgive me if I've had an abortion? • PSALM 51:3, 10, 12| I recognize my rebellion; it haunts me day and night.... Create in me a clean heart, O God... Restore to me the joy of your salvation. Just as King David experienced the joy of total forgiveness after committing adultery and murder, so we can know God's forgiveness-for any sin-if we confess our sin to him. • ISAIAH 1:18 | "Come now.. " says the LORD. "Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, I will make them as white as wool. " • PSALM 103:3 | He forgives all my sins. • 1 JOHN 1:9 | If we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. • EPHESIANS 3:18 | May you have the power to understand... how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. No sin is beyond God's forgiveness. No matter what you may have done in the past, let God restore you to wholeness. Absence See also Grief; Loneliness; Regrets We all experience absence in some way. Our friends or family members may leave us for a period of time, or maybe they were always absent from our lives. Sometimes our own absence causes us to miss important opportunities. And in difficult situations we can feel as though God is absent or has moved away from us. Whatever the cause, it is important to know that God is never absent. He sent his Holy Spirit to be present with us always. Why do I sometimes feel that God is absent? • PSALM 10:1 0 LoRD, why do you stand so far away? Why do you hide when I am in trouble? • PSALM 13:1 | 0 LORD, how long will you forget me? Forever? How long will you look the • MATTHEW 28:20 | "And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age. The greater your troubles, the farther away God can seem. In your darkest hour, you may feel that God has left you. In times like this, when it seems like God is absent, don't trust your feelings; trust God's promise that he will never leave you. • ISAIAH 59:1-2 | Listen! The LoRD's arm is not too weak to save you, nor is his ear too deaf to hear you call, It's your sins that have cut you off from God. Sin is a wall that separates you from God. Sometimes it is our own persistent, willful sin that causes us to feel cut off from the Lord and to miss the joy of fellowship with him. Is God making you aware of sin in your life? If you persist in that sin, you may indeed feel that God is absent. Tear down the wall of sin by humble confession, and you will find God on the other side. Then through prayer and time with him, you will begin to sense his presence again, and you will see evidence of his work in your life. • JAMES 4:7-8 | So humble yourselves before God... Come close to God, and God will come close to you. If you want to have restored fellowship with God, you need to have a humble attitude, confess your sins, and draw near to God. Humility puts you in sync with God. Why is it important for us not to be absent in our relationships (from our families, from our jobs, from the church, etc.)? • ECCLESIASTES 4:9-10 | 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. Your presence provides physical and emotional support to others. Two or more can form a team and accomplish much more together than separately. When you need "a lift " emotionally, an inanimate object may not do much; sometimes it takes a smile, a kind word, a hug, or a touch from someone who cares. • JOB 42:11 | 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. • GENESIS 45:15 | Then Joseph kissed each of his brothers and wept over them, and after or that they began talking freely with him. • 2 CORINTHIANS 7:6 | But God, who encourages those who are discouraged, encouraged us by the arrival of Titus. Your presence provides emotional support to others. When you need "a lift " emotionally, an inanimate object doesn't do much. It takes a smile, a kind word, a hug, a touch from someone who cares. • PSALM 34:3 | Come, let us tell of the LoRD's greatness; let us exalt his name together. • ACTS 1:14 | They all met together and were constantly united in prayer. Your presence provides spiritual support to others. God's people should meet together in God's presence for worship, prayer, and to encourage each other. • GENESIS 37:18-29 | When Joseph's brothers saw him coming, they recognized him in the distance [and] made plans to kill him. ... But when Reuben heard of their scheme, he came to Joseph's rescue... Reuben was secretly planning to rescue Joseph... Some time later, Reuben returned to get Joseph out of the cistern. When he discovered that Joseph was missing, he tore his clothes in grief. When you are absent, you miss crucial opportunities to help others. Much good can be done by just being there. • MATTHEW 25:10 | "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, " ol boD HiW When you are absent, you miss important opportunities that can change your life. • HEBREWS 10:25 | And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another. Neglecting church may cause you to neglect God and his people. Absence continued wol! How can I compensate for those times when my physical presence is not possible? • 1 CORINTHIANS 5:3-4 | Even though I am not with you in person, I am with you in the Spirit...I will be present with you in spirit, and so will the power of our Lord Jesus. When you are not physically present, you can still exercise your commitment to your relationship. Two caring people can provide emotional and spiritual support for each • 2 JOHN 1:12 | I hope to visit you soon and talk with you face to face. Then our joy will be complete. • 1 THESSALONIANS 2:17 | Dear brothers and sisters, after we were separated from you for a little while (though our hearts never left you), we tried very hard to come back because of our intense longing to see you again. • 2 TIMOTHY 1:4 | 1 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. When you are away from your family— or your dearest friends — keep in touch with them as much as possible, praying for them along the way and looking forward to your reunion. esi There are many ways to connect with others from a distance.eaaol VOIV PROMISES FROM GOD ECCLESIASTES 4:9-10'| 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 mis in real trouble. • MATTHEW 28;20 | "And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age. " Absolutes See Convictions; Truth Abuse See also Addiction; Anger; Bitterness; Healing; Pain; Self-Esteem; Suffering How wide is the circle of your influence and power? How many people, talents, possessions, or opportunities are in that circle? What we do with what we have is a reflection of who we are and how much we deserve to be entrusted with more. We can be good stewards of what is within our control, or we can abuse what has been entrusted to us. In its simplest form, abuse is poor stewardship of what has been entrusted to us. But it can be far more dangerous and damaging. Abuse may be violent or it may be as quiet as neglect or abandonment. Abuse can be aggressive, but it may also be regressive- a steady depreciation of human worth, like dripping water wearing down a rock. Abuse may inflict pain or rob personhood; it may leave scars on the skin or lacerations on the heart. Its result may be superficial, the response to a careless comment, or it may be a lifetime wound resulting from a neglected or mismanaged trust. Abuse requires an abuser and a person who has been abused. But God grants healing - both physical and spiritual -through forgiveness and a new way to live. The abuser can change, becoming truly transformed by God's Spirit. The person who has been abused, through Christ, can forgive the abuser and find true healing. This allows the cycle of abuse, which can become multigenerational, to halt. Will God forgive a person who is guilty of abuse? • ACTS 2:21 | "But everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved. " • LUKE 23:34 | "Father, forgive them, for they don't know what they are doing. " God forgives all sins, not selected ones. His mercy is to anyone, regardless of that person's past. • 2 CHRONICLES 33:6, 13 | Manasseh also sacrificed his own sons in the fire in the valley request. of the Ben-Hinnom... when he prayed, the LorD listened to him and was moved by his Manasseh was the most wicked king in Judah's history, abusive to the point that he burned his own sons on an altar. But later in life he sought God's forgiveness, and God did forgive him, transforming him into a man who did great things for his nation, ar Is physical discipline of my child considered abuse? • PROVERBS 29:15, 17 | To discipline a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced a by an undisciplined child. Discipline your children, and they will give you peace of mind. (See note on page 584) el • PROVERBS 13:24 1 Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. Those who love their children care enough to discipline them. ensb s- The Bible clearly advocates discipline of children, even physical discipline. But it must o be measured and done with restraint and in love, in a manner that in never borders on violence. abuse or physical harm. "Discipline " that comes from anger can often lead to abuse and →W.16V9］ sriw ol of veea ati enoitaeup What is the best way to prevent abuse? ob er bris gritotaw ai bod tua ritsa eu qierl of ema 6H.9100 2vsWls 515 • ROMANS 13:10 | Love does no wrong to others. (See note on page 1024) fon et ob bluorle ow Love restrains us from abusing a loved one —physically or in any other way. This is not a roller-coaster love based on feelings, but a rock-solid commitment to protect and nurture regardless of the way you feel at a particular moment. Violence or abuse against a loved one is a clear signal that our love for that person is not genuine. d sor zgob ore How do I begin to heal the wounds of abuse? • MATTHEW 15:30 | And [Jesus] healed them all. (See note on page 877. Only Jesus can truly heal broken lives. • PROVERBS 11:14 | Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers. • PROVERBS 20:18 | Plans succeed through good counsel. 8:8 WEHTTAM Seek help from godly counselors. " bod ot • MATTHEW 5:44 | "Love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! "° DOE BIS, UOY Forgiveness means praying for those who hate and hurt you. This raleases you from the destructive emotions of anger, bitterness, and revenge. • EPHESIANS 4:31 | Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words. An unforgiving attitude not only ruins your relationships, but it also poisons your soul. The person most hurt by unforgiveness is you. • ROMANS 12:19 | 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. Punishing evildoers is God's job, not yours, and God can be trusted to administer justice. Therefore you can remove yourself from the endless cycle of revenge and retaliation by forgiving. • PHILIPPIANS 4:8 | 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. As we fill our minds with thoughts about God, there is less room, and less time, to dwell oed ardigod sn bro i si) intw 2worel on the past. PROMISES FROM GOD 30030ร อ1ธ นอ • PSALM 9:12 | He does not ignore the cries of those who suffer. TI:8 YHTOMIT I• • PSALM 23:4 | Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me, voias wo rol boss 9w page A18 Accountability See also Boundaries; Commitment; Convictions; No Discipline; Honesty & Integrity; Priorities; Self-Control Accountability is giving an account of yourself to someone — where you've been, what you've been doing, who you've been with, how you will perform a certain task, or what your motives are. The one who is holding you accountable has the freedom, puntable the right, to ask for a report. But don't most of us resent it when we are fully accountable? We may feel that it restricts us and forces us to expose dark corners of our lives we'd ai prefer to keep hidden. Although genuine accountability may be uncomfortable, it's necessary, for it keeps us honest, moral, and on the right path. It urges us to do what we should do, even if we prefer not to. If we answer to no one, aren't we free to go where our desires lead rather than where God leads— a dangerous game? Bosses may or may not do a good job of holding their employees accountable. Parents may or may not always do such a good job of holding their children accountable. How well do you hold yourself accountable to someone else? When we think no one is watching or no one will ask us tough questions, it's easy to do whatever we want. We are more prone to take the wrong path. But God is watching and he does hold us accountable. Fortunately, his motives are always pure, He wants to help us do what is good and what is best for us, It what we should do is not what we want to do, it is time to discover what God wants us to do. What kinds of things am I accountable for? • JOHN 3:18-19 | "There is no judgment against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believing in God's one and only Son. And the judgment is based on this fact: God's light came into the world, but people loved the darkness more than the light, for their actions were evil. " • JOHN 3:36 | "And anyone who believes in God's Son has eternal life. Anyone who o doesn't obey the Son will never experience eternal life but remains under God's angry judgment. " • MATTHEW 3:8 | "Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins and turned to God. " You are accountable for your own disobedience to God • 2 KINGS 12:15 | No accounting of this money was required from the construction super-visors, because they were honest and trustworthy men. • 2 KINGS 22:7 | "But don't require the construction supervisors to keep account of the money they receive, for they are honest and trustworthy men. " You are accountable for your own character. • PROVERBS 5:13 | Oh, why didn't I listen to my teachers? Why didn't I pay attention to my instructors? You are accountable for your own spiritual growth. • MATTHEW 12:36 | "And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak. " You are accountable for the words you speak. • LUKE 12:43-47 | If the master returns and finds that the servant has done a good job, there will be a reward... But what if the servant thinks, 'My master won't be back for a while,' and he begins beating the other servants, partying, and getting drunk?.... A servant who knows what the master wants, but isn't prepared and doesn't carry out those instructions, will be severely punished. You are accountable for the work you are given to do. • 1 TIMOTHY 6:17 | 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. • LUKE 16:11 | "And if you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven? " • PSALM 90:12 | Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom. • EPHESIANS 5:15-16 | So be careful how you live. Don't live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. You are accountable for your resources; how you spend your money, time, energy, and talents. How do I become more accountable? • PSALM 119:9, 66| How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word... Now teach me good judgment and knowledge. (See note on page 542) 18 PSALM 1:1 Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked. • PROVERBS 27:6 | Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy. To become more accountable, commit yourself to follow God's commands as outlined in his Word, the Bible. And choose wise friends who you can freely and safely give an account of yourself to. What happens when there is no accountability? • JUDGES 17:6 The people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes. • 1 SAMUEL 13:11-12 Saul replied, "I saw... you didn't arrive when you said you would. ...Ifelt compelled to offer the burnt offering myself. " (See note on page 255.) Left unaccountable, we will almost always lean toward sin. The consequences of those sins will hurt not only us but many others, including God How can I choose people to hold me more accountable? • 1 KINGS 12:8-11 | But Rehoboam rejected the advice of the older men and instead asked the opinion of the young men who had grown up with him... The young men replied, "[Tell them] ... My father laid heavy burdens on you, but I'm going to make them even heavier!' " • EXODUS 18:21-22 | "But select from all the people some capable, honest men who fear God and hate bribes... They will help you carry the load, making the task easier for you. " Friends are not always the best advisers, especially if their counsel is not consistent with God's Word, or if they tell you only what you want to hear. How can I effectively hold someone else accountable? saur • TITUS 1:7-8 | He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered... He must live wisely and be just. He must live a devout and disciplined life. If you are going to minister to others by holding them accountable, you must be wise, honest, godly, and trustworthy. Is it really important for others to hold us accountable? • PROVERBS 12:15 | Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others. mos Good advisers keep us from actions that can hurt us. What if I don't want anyone to know certain things about me? • JEREMIAH 23:24 | "Can anyone hide from me in a secret place? Am I not everywhere in all the heavens and earth? " says the LORD. (See note on page 688. What you withhold now is likely to be exposed at a later time. So why not seek advice now? Besides, God knows all the secrets in our hearts. If you're going to take accountability seriously, you cannot hide anything from the one who you are accountable to. Does God really hold us accountable for all our actions? • ECCLESIASTES 11:9 | Young people, it's wonderful to be young! Enjoy every minute of it. Do everything you want to do; take it all in. But remember that you must give an account to God for everything you do. Enjoy life, but stay within God's guidelines. God will hold us accountable for everything we do. Who wants to explain ungodliness to a holy God on the Day of Judgment? Addiction See also Desires; Guilt; Lust; Temptation Who in his right mind would volunteer to become a slave, chained to a life of bondage? Yet that's just what addiction is: self-imposed slavery, selling oneself into bondage to habit or a substance. While we typically think of addiction as a problem related to drugs or alcohol, there are other addictions that can also be destructive. We may become addicted to work, addicted to gambling, or addicted to pornography. We all have our addictions, whether they are "minor " bad habits or dangerous dependencies, One thing we are all dangerously addicted to is sin. When it comes to rejecting God's way of living and doing what seems best to us —well, we are hooked. So how do we break the chains of our sin addiction? Ironically, it is by submitting to the control of God and his Holy Spirit. We are still controlled, but his control is always for our benefit and health, not our destruction. God's transforming power is the only thing that can ultimately heal us from all addictions. Can addiction involve more than substance abuse? • 2 PETER 2:19 | These false teachers) promise freedom, but they themselves are slaves of, sin and corruption. For you are a slave to whatever controls you. (See note on page 1136) The key to addiction is control. What controls you? Whenever we have a master, we are slaves. Addiction is relinquishing ourselves to the control of something orA? t someone else. as 9e(ir grinsito imud ont rs7o o) hsliscrroo lsi • ROMANS 3:23 | For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. • COLOSSIANS 1:22 | You are holy and blameless as you stand before him without a single fault. เมดวps ลาom em b ПВО WOH • 1 CORINTHIANS 6:11 | But you were cleansed; you were made holy; you were made right 1l with God. 0131 Sin is the most deeply ingrained addiction of every human being. You can't go to a clinic to overcome sin once and for all. But you can go to a person -Jesus Christ, the Son of God-to help you resist the sin in your life and to completely forgive what's left. When he forgives you, he looks at you as though you have never sinned, and when your life on earth is over, he will give you eternal life where you will be forever free from sin. 180П of Jnsw boy isn™ • ROMANS 8:5, 7 | Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things. 9d. For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God's laws, and it never will. reuran be addicted to your own sintu nature, which can dominate your thoughts and • MATTHEW 19:21-22 | Jesus told him, "If you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me. " But when the young man heard this, he went away sad, for he had many possessions. Possessions can be addictive., підлер woR • ROMANS 1:26-27 | That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires. Even the women turned against the natural way to have sex and instead indulged in sex with each other. And the men, instead of having normal sexual relations with women, burned with lust for each other. iop ‹ Sexual perversions can be addictive, nit mori prinliyns ebirl tongso • PROVERBS 21:17 | Those who love pleasure become poor; those who love wine and luxury will never be rich. Pleasure, a luxurious lifestyle, and wealth can be addictive. • PSALM 39:6 | All our busy rushing ends in nothing. • MARK 6:31 I Then Jesus said, "Let's go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile. " Work can be addictive. Make sure you find time to rest and refresh your body and spirit. page A21 Does the Bible say anything about drugs? • 1 CORINTHIANS 6:12-13 | 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... (Our bodies) were made for the Lord, and the Lord cares about our bodies. • 1 CORINTHIANS 6:19-20 | 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, ut • 1 CORINTHIANS 10:31 | So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. The Bible doesn't specifically mention the kind of drug addiction common among many leul people today, but it does address putting things into your body that are harmful and that impair your ability to function. Taking drugs to get a high produces an artificial happiness or escape that is a cheap substitute for the true joy of being filled by the Holy Spirit. When' the Holy Spirit controls your life, your joy is authentic and contagious. Can I be devoted to God and other things too? Is that addiction? " prilgobs al • MATTHEW 6:24 | "No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other. " Devotion and addiction are different, but devotion can lead to addiction. You can be devoted to family and friends and to helping other people. You can be devoted to a worthy cause. This shows you care. But devotion becomes addiction when it so absorbs you that God is no longer your first priority and distracts you from spending time with him. You must evaluate who or what is most important to you. A clue to determining this is to see where you spend most of your time. On 1 nso uoy si ni acnini s What is the best way to be free from my addictions and bad habits? aug • ROMANS 6:16 | 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, m'! which leads to righteous living. Senilisw aboixne to aritnom seor Submission is a choice. We daily stand at the crossroads, choosing sinful ways or God's way. Choose wisely. • ROMANS 12:2 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. moT arimioว • 1 JOHN 4:4 | You belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory.... because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world. isW • 1 JOHN 5:4-5 | Every child of God defeats this evil world, and we achieve this victory through our faith. And who can win this battle against the world? Only those who believe NOM that Jesus is the Son of God. Freedom from addiction comes as you change your focus and the way you think. 1924 You do this by trusting Christ to transform you and empower you to resist temptation.* While it is healthy and important to seek the help of others, with God's help, you have the ultimate power to overcome addiction. It's hard to focus on Christ when your eyes are fixed on this world. It's hard to focus on worldliness when your eyes are fixed on. pnivol ei ab nso uoy eart teed ari Christ. ODEM UOY 16 o Ils aevol bod If we shouldn't let anything control us, why do we submit to the siahg, erot Holy Spirit's control? • GALATIANS 5:22-23 | But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, H peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (See note on ,b00 10 merblirb page 1063.) * ROMANS 8:6 | Letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the vol 9:1.01 Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. God's control is the only kind of control that produces completely positive results. Addiction continued PROMISE FROM GOD • JOHN 8:36 | So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free. Adoption See also Family Adoption is a beautiful expression of God's love for mankind. Adoption gives children a new life that they could not achieve on their own, In the same way, Jesus provided the way for us to have eternal life in heaven, a new life we could never achieve on our own. Just as parents lovingly teach and nurture an adopted child, God teaches and nurtures his children through the Holy Spirit. Just as adoptive parents welcome a boy or girl to become their own child, God welcomes us all to be adopted into his own family and to enjoy his blessings in this life and eternity. This hope in our spiritual adoption can sustain those of us who are experiencing the frustrations and joys of earthly adoption. Is adopting a child right for me and my family? How can I know for sure? • MATTHEW 18:5 | "And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me. " ° PSALM 138:8 | The LoRD will work out his plans for my life-for your faithful love, O LORD, endures forever. • JEREMIAH 1:5 | I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb. Before you were born I set you apart. There are some things in life you can't know for sure, but the Bible is clear on this: God puts a high priority on loving children. If you adopt a child and weicome him or her into your heart and life, you are demonstrating the kind of love Christ showed for you. I'm wading through all the paperwork to adopt a child. How can I deal with these months of anxious waiting? • PSALM 37:4-5 | Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you your heart's desires. Commit everything you do to the LorD. Trust him, and he will help you. • ISAIAH 60:1, 4-5 | "Arise, Jerusalem! Let your light shine for all to see. For the glory of the LoRD rises to shine on you..... Look and see, for everyone is coming home! Your sons are coming from distant lands; your little daughters will be carried home. Your eyes will shine, and your heart will thrill with joy. " Waiting is never any fun, especially when the heart is involved. That's why it's important to imagine the end result: a child who your heart will "thrill with joy " over How can I explain my decision to adopt? • PSALM 127:3 | Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him. • MATTHEW 18:5 | "And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me. " 992 of JnsH вел ₴ If you choose to adopt, some people may not understand that decision. And this is especially true if the child is of different ethnicity than the adoptive parents. In such situations, the best thing you can do is lovingly explain that you made your decision carefully, that God loves all children equally, and that you believe God brought this child to your family for a particular purpose. วมทอง atnie How has God adopted me? • JOHN 1:12 | But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. • GALATIANS 4:4-5 | But when the right time came, God sent his Son..... to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children. When you accept Jesus Christ as your Savior, God adopts you into his family. Why would God want to adopt me? • 1 JOHN 3:1 | See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are! • 1 THESSALONIANS 1:4 | We know, dear brothers and sisters, that God loves you and has chosen you to be his own people. God chose you to be his adopted child because he loves you. • EPHESIANS 1:5 | God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure. Adopting you as his child has always been part of God's plan since the beginning of time. • 1 PETER 2:9 | 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. bat God has adopted you to radiate his goodness to others! salb visi What are some of my privileges as God's adopted child? TISNSI antA • 2 CORINTHIANS 6:18 "And I will be your Father, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the LorD Almighty. " • EPHESIANS 2:18 Now all of us can come to the Father through the same Holy Spirit because of what Christ has done for us. You have a relationship with God the Father, • EPHESIANS 2:19 So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are oe citizens along with all of God's holy people. You are members of God's family. yii norW • HEBREWS 2:11 | So now Jesus and the ones he makes holy have the same Father. That is a why Jesus is not ashamed to call them his brothers and sisters. 9201010. HelpFinder You belong to God's family. • EPHESIANS 1:6-8 | So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son... He has showered his kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding. You are a beneficiary of God's kindness. 8 EPHESIANS 3:6 | And this is God's plan: Both Gentiles and Jews who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God's children. nilqoab r • MATTHEW 7:11 | "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. " 3號A You are a recipient of God's blessings and good gifts.* 2301 • 1 THESSALONIANS 2:12 | We pleaded with you, encouraged you, and urged you to live your lives in a way that God would consider worthy. For he called you to share in his Kingdom and glory. • ROMANS 8:17 | 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. You have the privilege to share in Christ's glory and suffering. • JOHN 14:2-3 | "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. " * 1 PETER 1:4 | And we have a priceless inheritance- an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. The privilege of being a child of God does not stop on earth but continues through eternity. You will always have a relationship with God. Even your inheritance is eternal, for you will live in his heavenly home with him forever! Adoption continued PROMISE FROM GOD • EPHESIANS 1:4-5 | Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure. Adversity See also Conflict; Enemies; Grief; Pain; Persecution; Racism & Prejudice; Spiritual Warfare; Stress; Suffering; Temptation; Worry ov onic Troubles come with a multitude of names accidents, afflictions, bereavement, calami-ties, difficulties, disappointments, disasters, failures, hard times, hurts, miseries, mis-fortunes, reversals, ruin, sufferings, tragedies, trials, tribulations, troubles, or woes. They can come unexpectedly or after repeated warnings. Adversities may be temporarily discomforting or permanently disabling, even life-threatening or life-taking. Some adversities merely take more effort to work through, while others permanently wound. Adversity literally means "something acting against you. " Nowhere is this concept more clearly. ri presented than in the Bible, which makes it clear that God himself sometimes sends adversity either as a punishment for sin or simply as a way to test and strengthen our character. Other times Satan sends adversity to tempt us to sin. And God allows it. And sometimes we bring adversity on ourselves by acting foolishly or sinfully. And finally, there is the adversity that comes out of nowhere through no fault of our own. The one thing you can count on about adversity is that it will come. We all will have troubles, so it is not a matter of will we or won't we —the issue is what we will do with adversity when it comes. Does God actually send adversity into my life? Don't troubles just happen? • DEUTERONOMY 28:20 | "The LoRD himself will send on you curses, confusion, and frustration... for doing evil and abandoning me. " • JEREMIAH 21:14 | "I myself will punish you for your sinfulness, says the LORD. " (See note on page 686.) • HOSEA 4:9 | "So now I will punish both priests and people for their wicked deeds. " Troubles do often "just happen " because we live in a sinful world, and God usually allows the cycle of sin to play itself out (for now). But just as a loving parent brings adversity into the life of a child through discipline, God may also bring adversity into our lives to correct us when we do wrong. This is for our benefit, not harm. God may also bring difficulties into our lives to strengthen and prepare us for life ahead. vin ST YHOY NOTON NI • LAMENTATIONS 3:33 | He does not enjoy hurting people or causing them sorrow. (See note on page 725.) сган • ROMANS 5:8 | But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. (101g bro 1 God does not enjoy sending adversity into your life. His love for us is pure and intense; he does not want to see us suffer! But our suffering would be worse if he did not sometimes correct us. Is there any way I can avoid trouble and adversity? • JAMES 1:2-3 | 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. N31 • 2 CORINTHIANS 4:8 | We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. (See note on page 1049.) up and strengthens your faith. 9d ic Avoiding adversity may not be best for you. Though it may bruise you, adversity builds you up and strengthens your faith. page A25 • EXODUS 5:6-8 | Pharaoh sent this order to the Egyptian slave drivers... "Do not supply any more straw for making bricks. Make the people get it themselves! That's why they are crying out, "Let us go and offer sacrifices to our God. " (See note on ... They are lazy. page 56.) • 1 PETER 2:21 | God called you to do good, even if it means sufferin, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example. Being faithful to God may actually bring adversity. Satan is our enemy, and he will try to stop us from following God. There are also people who oppose what is good and right. Adversity may be a sign that you are being faithfül to God, 00 s • PROVERBS 13:21 | Trouble chases sinners, while blessings reward the righteous. 100 DNE • GALATIANS 6:8 | 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. Avoiding sin helps you avoid a great deal of adversity. nu to What causes adversity in my life? 9w Ob • ECCLESIASTES 2:22-23 So what do people get in this life for their hard work and onW anxiety? Their days of labor are filled with pain and grief •Trouble is an inevitable by-product of fallen human life. 81:3180% • EZEKIEL 22:14 | "How strong and courageous will you be in my day of reckoning? "S To PROVERBS 12:13|The wicked are trapped by their own words, but the godly escape " such trouble. Trouble is often the result of our own poor decisions and sin. • JONAH 1:3-4 | But Jonah got up and went in the opposite direction to get away from the LorD.He found a ship leaving for Tarshish. But the Lord hurled a powerful wind over the sea. (See note on page 815.) at:E 34A1220J00 We can expect to find ourselves in deep trouble if we insist on running away from God. • PSALM 62:3-4 | So many enemies against one man— all of them trying to kill me. •e? They delight in telling lies about me. sif 29m00 ni To 350 1 81:81 WHOL Trouble is sometimes undeserved or caused by others. oy d swo airi so dosqe 30i921 oa ali au evse boa Are there other benefits to adversity? 00 ge yoH eri au cvse • 2 CHRONICLES 33:12 | But while in deep distress, Manasseh sought the LoRD his God and SOM 2N091092 20 Коси і ва віснизо sincerely humbled himself. Adversity can humble us and lead us to God. v girizwolist szol ni below er bad emis • 1 PETER 4:12-13 | Don't be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through. ??! for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering. on Adversity helps us understand Christ better because he suffered for us. This deepens our sri ebnehi bra vilms? aeonetamustlo tuo bria au relationship with him. 1SU Is God listening when I cry out because of my afflictions or troubles? Does he a gr)'rov3~ at: 1 2UT really hear and does he care? s ozorfw sa • JONAH 2:2 | "I cried out to the LoRD in my great trouble, and he answered me. I called to you from the land of the dead, and LORD, you heard me! " (See note on page 816) bam. God's hotline is always open, Your call will never be rejected. God is never too busy with, anything— even managing the world — to listen. He has both a listening ear and a caring heart. PROMISES FROM GOD • PSALM 46:1 | God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. サ wot e）6 odh • PSALM 9:12 | He does not ignore the cries of those who suffer: Adversity continued • MATTHEW 11:28 | "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. " • 1 PETER 5:7 | Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. Advice See also Decisions; Will of God; Wisdom What should I do? This is a commonly asked question. In an age of conflicting claims and confusing directions, many search for wise counsel. Maybe that's why counselors are in such great demand and advice columnists are in every newspaper. There is a critical difference, however, between wise counsel and misleading advice that leads to destruction. Of all wisdom, God's wisdom is the best, for his is given with a perspective of ultimate truth and eternity. Who among us would not like to talk with someone who knows everything that will happen tomorrow and every tomorrow to come? We would do well to seek advice more often from the sources of divine wisdom: God and his Word. Where do I look for good advice? • 1 SAMUEL 8:6 | Samuel was displeased with their request and went to the LORD for guidance. • JOB 12:13 | "But true wisdom and power are found in God; counsel and understanding 21) are his. " • PSALM 32:8 | The LoRD says, "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. " • JAMES 1:5 | If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. • PSALM 119:105 | Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. • COLOSSIANS 3:16 | Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Seek advice from God through prayer and reading his Word, the Bible. • JOHN 16:13 | "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. " God gave us his Son as our Counselor; both Jesus' life and words counsel us. God also gave us the Holy Spirit, who is called "the Counselor. " He will stay with you at all times to give you wisdom and guide you in any circumstance. • GENESIS 6:9 | Noah was a righteous man, the only blameless person living on earth at the time, and he walked in close fellowship with God. $ 1 KINGS 12:8-9 | But Rehoboam rejected the advice of the older men and instead asked the opinion of the young men who had grown up with him and were now his advisers. "What is your advice? " he asked them. Family and friends have the potential to be excellent sources of advice as they often know us and our circumstances. However, be wary that kinship and association are not the basic /criteria for good advice nor are they a guarantee for godly advice. • TITUS 1:15 | Everything is pure to those whose hearts are pure. 0: Seek advice from those who are faithful, godly, honest, and trustworthy. They can bet counted on to give you counsel that comes from God's Word. sri 7o bai sel mont wey Why do I need advice from others? Why can't I just rely on my own wisdom? • PROVERBS 12:15 | Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others. (See note on page 568.) Wisdom is the recognition of our own inadequacies. Foolishness is thinking we have none. It is wise to recognize our limitations rather than to discover them at the wrong time. • PROVERBS 25:11 | Timely advice is lovely, like golden apples in a silver basket. There are few things as valuable as wise and timely advice. Jon 290 page A27 How do I evaluate the advice of others? • 2 CHRONICLES 2210 Members of Ahab's family) became iAhaziahs) adviser ... and they led him to ruin. • MATTHEW 7.16 "You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act. " • 2 JOHN 1:9-10 1 Anyone ho sanders away from this teaching has no relationship with... Father and the Son. God. But anyone who remains in the teaching of Christ has a relationship with both the It is important to seek advice from those who love God and have a good knowledge of the Bible. When evaluating their advice, check it against the truth of God's Word. I C contradicts the Bible, avoid it at all costs. How do I give good advice to others? 103035 • 1 SAMUEL 3:19 | AS Samuel grew up, the LoRD was with him, and everything Samuel said proved to be reliable. (See note on page 248.) People listened to Samuel because Samuel had something important to say. But Samuel had something important to say because he had a good adviser — the Lord God himself. • PHILIPPIANS 4:8 | 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. in giving advice to others, have pure motives, point to God's Word, and don't use advice as an excuse to lecture. Pray about what you want to say, and have the other person's best interests in mind. Words are like medicine; they should be measured with care, for an overdose may do more harm than good. 1o • PSALM 1:1 | Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. 09o1 9r1 16 1o Following evil advice leads to sorrow and disaster, robbing us of joy and satisfaction. Godly advice leads to good results, enriching our joy. 110∞0 916 igns lense PROMISES FROM GOD • PSALM 32:8 "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. will advise you and watch over you. " • PROVERBS 18:4 | Wise words are like deep waters; wisdom flows from the wise like a atalezi negnA bubbling brook. 8: 58 MIA29 • Affirmation See Encouragement ROSET ZaMAL " HOS JaUMAZ I• Funy arile 2i HelpFinder Afraid See Fear 3520 Anger See also Betrayal; Bitterness; Happiness; Jealousy; Racism & Prejudice; กรว mot Jaegroite ofi Self-Control Anger is a fire that burns and consumes - smoldering, flaming, at times white hot. Anger is passion. Of all emotions, it may well be the most passionate, for it has the power to fuel hatred and smother love. Anger itself is not necessarily bad; it is not necessarily wrong, God himself gets angry. What we need to consider is the object of our anger, the " motive for our anger, and the outcome of our anger. Anger that is self-righteous, protects our pride, is self-centered, or demands its own way is dangerous. If allowed to continue unchecked, it will consume us. This kind of anger seeks harm and revenge; it seeks to destroy. Thus it can lead to bitterness and hatred, emotions that can cause violent behavior and obliterate compassion and forgiveness. God's anger, however, is directed against sin and unrighteousness, He blazes hot against evil. His anger, like ours, becomes a consuming fre, but its focus is to eradicate the sin so that the sinner can be restored. Our anger often consumes others and even Anger continued Seterito to esivos erl etculeva i ob wo ourselves; God's anger burns against evil and becomes a cleansing fire. The fires of s our anger may aggravate our sinfulness and self-righteousness. His anger burns away sinfulness and allows the "gold " to emerge and make us fit for the Master's use. T1 Or-e:r WHOL Why do we usually get angry? • NUMBERS 22:29 | "You have made me look like a fool! " Balaam shouted. (See note on page 144.) We get angry when our pride is hurt. • GENESIS 4:4-5 | The LORD accepted Abel and his gift, but he did not accept Cain and his gift. This made Cain very angry. We get angry when someone else is preferred or acknowledged over us. • 2 CHRONICLES 26:18-19 "Get out of the sanctuary, for you have sinned.... " Uzziah, who was holding an incense burner, became furious. (See note on page 404.) • ESTHER 32-5, J But Mordecai refused to bow down or show (Haman) respect, ... (Haman) was filled with rage. We get angry when we don't get our way. • 1 SAMUEL 18:8 | This made Saul very angry. "What's this? " he said. "They credit David with ten thousands and me with only thousands. Next they'll be making him their king! " We get angry when we become jealous of what others have or have done. aaobrevo • 2 CHRONICLES 16:7-10 | "Because you have put your trust in the king of Aram instead of in the LorD your God, you missed your chance to destroy the army of the king of Aram. " ...Asa became so angry with Hanani for saying this that he threw him into prison. (See note on page 396.) We get angry when we are confronted about our sinful actions and are exposed What are the effects of anger? • GENESIS 27:41-43 | Esau hated Jacob because their father had given Jacob the blessing. And Esau began to scheme:.. "I will kill my brother, Jacob. " But Rebekah heard about Esau's plans. So she sent for Jacob and told him, "... Flee. " Anger isolates us from others. • PSALM 37:8 | Stop being angry!... Do not lose your temper-it only leads to harm. • JAMES 1:20 | Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. Anger produces ungodly actions and evil motives in us. • 1 SAMUEL 20:30-31 | Saul boiled with rage at Jonathan.... "As long as that son of Jesse is alive, you'll never be king. Now go and get him so I can kill him! " Anger blinds us to what is really good and right. Saul's jealous anger blinded him to the fact that God had already chosen David to be the next king because of his godly character. Anger in its strongest form can lead to murder. 011 • PROVERBS 15:1 | A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. Anger leads to conflict and arguments.on When I am angry, what should I avoid? one bewsr lens ajoe teamin boa • EPHESIANS 6:4 | Do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Avoid discipline in the heat of anger.ev two ati abnemeb, 10 beretneo • JAMES 3:5 | The tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. Avoid speaking your mind when you are angry. You are likely to say something you will regret. • 1 SAMUEL 19:9-10 | As David played his harp, Saul hurled his spear at David. Avoid acting on impulse in the heat of anger. You are likely to do something you will regret. When is it okay to be angry? • JOHN 2:15-16 | [lesus) drove out the sheep and cattle, scattered the money changers " into a marketplace! " coins.. and... told them, "Get these things out of here. Stop turning my Father's house • NUMBERS 25:11 | "Phinehas ... has turned my anger away from the Israelites by being as zealous among them as I was. " Anger at sin is not only appropriate but also necessary. It is a sign that our priorities are in same passion that God does. line with God's, that we understand the destructive force of sin, and will confront it with the We all get angry at times, so what should we do about it? • EPHESIANS 4:26-27 | And "don't sin by letting anger control you. " Don't let the sun go C down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil. (See note on page 1068. e Anger is like a skunk in the house. Don't feed it to encourage it to stay. And carefully try to get rid of it as soon as possible. • MATTHEW 5:21-23 | "You have heard that our ancestors were told, "You must not murder? .. But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment!... Go and be reconciled to that person. " Confront those you are angry with in order to restore your relationship. id I binode • 1 CORINTHIANS 13:5 [Love is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. Love is the mightiest weapon in overcoming anger. • PROVERBS 11:29 Those who bring trouble on their families inherit the wind. (See note on page 568.) slon • EPHESIANS 6:4 | Do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. oH To knowingly provoke your family to anger weakens the binding force-love— that bonds your family together. The control you seek actually enslaves you. 02. 916 350% What causes God to get angry? • ROMANS 1:18 | But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. $ 2123439 • DEUTERONOMY 4:25 : "Do not corrupt yourselves by making idols of any kind. This is evil in the sight of the LORD your God and will arouse his anger. " (See note on page 163) If 20) God cannot wink at or tolerate sin, for sin is a violation of his righteousness and his demands for holy living. • JUDGES 2:12-14 | They abandoned the LORD... This made the LorD burn with anger คลss a7U= against Israel. God's anger at our sin may result in discipline. The discipline is not designed to destroy, but to correct, redirect, and restore our relationship with him. 104 io badnol How can I stop God's anger against me? • 2 CHRONICLES 12:12 | Because Rehoboam humbled himself, the LORD's anger was turned away. (See note on Humility on page 393.) °' Humility before God quenches his anger. • PSALM 30:5 | For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime! exA Recognize God's discipline, stop your sinful actions, and enjoy a restored relationship isw sonia dool with him. • COLOSSIANS 3:12-15 | Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. .. Forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love..... And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. Confess your sins, commit to following God with all your heart, and clothe yourself with the character traits of God. page A30 Anger continued PROMISE FROM GOD • PSALM 103:8 | The LORD is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. Anxiety See also Grief; Hope; Pain; Stress; Worry Pressures in our lives can build and pull us in different directions. These pressures pull against our sense of well-being, and anxiety begins to overwhelm us. Trying to do too much work with too little time or too few resources can stretch us beyond our capacity.W Trying to cope with the financial demands of life without adequate income can make us begin to feel desperate. Difficulties in marital relationships, in parent-child relationships, or in work relationships can lead to deep anxiety and a sense of hopelessness. What is the answer? We need a perspective that comes from God. And we also need the help of wise counselors and friends who God can use to bring us his presence, wisdom, and hope. Should I be surprised by the anxiety I am experiencing in my life? isi • JOHN 16:33 | "Thave 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. " Jesus warned us to expect stress and trouble in this life. This world is filled with trials and sorrows that generate deep seated anxiety. The key to dealing with anxiety is to not. be surprised when it comes, but to learn how to respond when it comes. While there are many healthy and positive ways to handle anxiety, never neglect the spiritual help the Holy Spirit promises to provide if you ask. What are some causes of anxiety? • GENESIS 3:6, 23 | So she took some of the fruit and ate it. Then she gave some to her husband... and he ate it, too... So the LorD God banished them from the Garden ND 2551 21 of Eden. • GENESIS 44:18 | Then Judah stepped forward and said, "Please, my lord, let your servant I say just one word to you. Please, do not be angry with me, even though you are as powerful as Pharaoh himself. " (See note on Stress on page 44.) BOY GROA • 2 SAMUEL 11:4; 12:13-14 | Then David sent messengers to get her; and when she came to the palace, he slept with her.... Nathan replied, "... the LoRD has forgiven you, and you won't die for this sin. Nevertheless …. your child will die. " • LUKE 22:56-62 | Finally she said, "This man was one of Jesus' followers! " But Peter denied it. "Woman, " he said, "I don't even know him! "??. At that moment the Lord turned and looked at Peter... And Peter left the courtyard, weeping bitterly. Anxiety can have roots in things we have done in the past. When we sin, we can bring o anxiety along with sin's painful consequences into our lives. • EXODUS 16:2-3 | The whole community of Israel complained about Moses and Aaron. "If only the LorD had killed us back in Egypt, " they moaned. (See note on Stress on page 67.) Anxiety can build when we fail to trust God for help. • MATTHEW 1:18-19 | Mary, was engaged to be married to Joseph. But before the marriage took place, while she was still a virgin, she became pregnant through the power of the Holy Spirit, Joseph, to whom she was engaged, was a righteous man and did not want to disgrace her publicly, so he decided to break the engagement quietly. Change often produces anxiety in our lives. • JAMES 1:2-4 | 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. wounds from the past that were not your fault. Adversity and the normal problems of life cause anxiety. Sometimes anxiety is the result of • PROVERBS 21:17 | Those who love pleasure become poor; those who love wine and luxury will never be rich. Laziness and poor planning can lead to anxiety. 9913189 4 • COLOSSIANS 3:13 | Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Making mistakes can lead to anxiety in our lives and in the lives of our friends. • 1 SAMUEL 25:17-20 | "You need to know this and figure out what to do, for there is going to be trouble for our master and his whole family. He's so ill-tempered that no one can even talk to him! " Abigail wast 100 clusters of raisins, and 200 a no time. She quickly gathered 200 loaves of bread ... servants, fig cakes. She packed them on donkeys and said to her "Go on ahead. I will follow you shortly. " But she didn't tell her husband Nabal what she was doing. As she was riding her donkey into a mountain ravine, she saw David and his men coming toward her. Working against the clock, especially on an ongoing basis, can cause deep anxiety. What are some of the dangers of anxiety? • NUMBERS 11:10-14 | Moses heard all the families standing in the doorways of their tents whining, and the LORD became extremely angry. Moses was also very aggravated. And Moses said to the LORD, "Why are you treating me, your servant, so harshly? Have mercy on me! What did I do to deserve the burden of all these people?.. I can't carry all these people by myself! The load is far too heavy! " • 2 CORINTHIANS 1:8 | We think you ought to know, dear brothers and sisters, about the trouble we went through in the province of Asia. We were crushed and overwhelmed beyond our ability to endure, and we thought we would never live through it. on I ab vriW The intense demands of life have the potential to overwhelm you. The expectations, the criticism, and the scope of needs and responsibilities can threaten to crush even the strongest person. • LUKE 10:40-41 | 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! " • MATTHEW 13:22 | "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. " 200D nerw priqol 9807 1 560 MOH Anxiety can cause you to focus on the trivial and miss the important. As pressure squeezes your perspective inward, you lose the big picture. Preoccupation with the issues of the moment can sometimes blind you to what's really important. 00 P. o| bo What can I do when I'm overwhelmed by anxiety? • 2 CORINTHIANS 4:9 | We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed. Keep going! Knowing that God is by your side during times of anxiety can help you to keep from giving up. • PSALM 55:22 | Give your burdens to the LORD, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall. (See note on Stress on page 508) • ISAIAH 41:10 | "Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. " • PSALM 62:2 | He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will never be shaken. • JOHN 14:1 / "Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. " i Anxiety continued s et • HEBREWS 2:18 | Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested. • PHILIPPIANS 2:4 | Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. The first step in dealing with your anxiety is to bring it to the Lord. Only he brings true • peace of heart and mind. God's availability and promises provide effective stress reducers. • 2 SAMUEL 22:7 | But in my distress I cried out to the LORD.... He heard me from his sanctuary; my cry reached his ears. • PSALM 86:7 | I will call to you whenever I'm in trouble, and you will answer me. Be persistent in prayer. • MARK 6:31 | Then Jesus said, "Let's go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile. " He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn't even have time to eat. Take time to slow down and take a break from pressure-packed situations. • 1 CORINTHIANS 6:19-20 " 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 235 bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. Take care of your body. Adequate rest, regular exercise, and proper nutrition are essential to dealing effectively with stress and anxiety. • GALATIANS 6:9 | 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. Don't let stress and anxiety defeat you. When you are tired of doing good, it may be because you are just too tired. Why do I need help from others? Why can't I just rely on my own strength?: • PROVERBS 12:15 | Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others. (See note on Advice on page 568.) Wisdom is the recognition of our own inadequacies. Foolishness is thinking we can handle all our problems on our own. It is wise to be aware of our tendency to become overcome by anxiety and to be prepared to deal with it. This involves building supportive relationships that can bring us help when we become overwhelmed. OW 951 • PROVERBS 25:11 | Timely advice is lovely, like golden apples in a silver basket. a' There are few things as valuable as wise and timely counsel. Sometimes the presence and help of a friend or counselor is just what we need to get through a time of deep anxiety. How can I keep hoping when God doesn't seem to act? • PSALM 71:5 | 0 Lord, you alone are my hope. Who but God controls the future? Who but God has a home for us that is eternal? Who but God forgives our sins? Who but God can give us a life that lasts forever? No wonder he is our hope! Novo my "l neriw ob i riso is 9 HEBREWS 11:1 Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see. NODI We have faith in God to do what he has promised, and we can be absolutely sure that he will. Unlike idle hopes, our hopes are built on the solid foundation of his trustworthiness. PROMISES FROM GOD • JEREMIAH 29:11 | "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. " NDY • JOHN 16:33 | "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. " • 1 PETER 5:7 | Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.:* NOT o help page A33 Appreciation See Thankulness Arguments See Conflict Arrogance See Pride Assumptions See Judging Others Atheism See also Faith; Salvation Ned Atheism is the belief system that says there is no God. Atheists spend much time and energy trying to prove God doesn't exist. What we decide about the existence of God is literally a choice between life and death. And it is not enough to decide that he exists; we must then decide how we will respond to his clear message in the Bible. What is atheism? • PSALM 14:1 | Only fools say in their hearts, "There is no God.» • ROMANS 1:20 | 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, it • EPHESIANS 2:12 In those days you were living apart from Christ..... You lived in this world without God and without hope. Atheism says "There is no God. " But all of creation speaks against that. IMAR3U What are the characteristics of atheism? bri goy • JEREMIAH 5:4 "They don't know the ways of the LORD. They don't understand ivE God's laws. " h Living in ignorance of God. Intellectual atheism is a mind without the knowledge of God. Practicing atheism is a life without a relationship with God. • JUDE 1:4 | I say this because some ungodly people have wormed their way into your • churches, saying that God's marvelous grace allows us to live immoral lives. The no? condemnation of such people was recorded long ago, for they have denied our only s Master and Lord, Jesus Christ. OS-e KOITAJEVER • 91D 300 • 1 JOHN 4:3 | But if someone claims to be a prophet and does not acknowledge the truth about Jesus, that person is not from God. col 0g 10 shom Denying Jesus Christ. Those who deny Jesus now will be denied access to heaven by Jesus at the time of judgment. per phin, bu dt botssro gniqineroW • JOHN 18:37 | Jesus responded, "... I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true. " boD al jeriW • ROMANS 1:18 | But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. • JEREMIAH 14:14 | Then the LORD said, "These prophets are telling lies in my name. I did not send them or tell them to speak. I did not give them any messages. They speak e:€ AST39 S foolishness made up in their own lying hearts. " Denying God's truth. There is a sharp line between what is true and what is not. To deny truth is, by default, to be living a lie, to be living by principles that have no purpose, no st onlasD e09 clear direction, no foundation that lasts, and no future. • EXODUS 5:2 / "Is that so? " retorted Pharaoh. "And who is the LORD? Why should I listen to him and let Israel go? I don't know the LORD. " • 2 KINGS 18:32-35 / "Don't listen to Hezekiah when he tries to mislead you by saying, "The LorD will rescue us! " Have the gods of any other nations ever saved their people Atheism continued noitsiostagA from the king of Assyria? .... So what makes you think that the LORD can rescue Jerusalem from me? " Defying God and his message. Picking a fight with the creator of the universe is not a wise thing to do. • ISAIAH 5:19 | They even mock God and say, "Hurry up and do something! We want to see what you can do. " • 2 PETER 3:3-4 | 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? " Denying God's ability to intervene in human events. To deny that God takes an active interest in this world is the same as saying that God doesn't care about you or that God is not powerful enough to help you. • LEVITICUS 19:12 | Do not bring shame on the name of your God by using it to swear falsely. I am the LORD. • EZEKIEL 43:8 | "They put their idol altars right next to mine... They defiled my holy name by such detestable sin, so I consumed them in my anger. " Showing contempt for God's name. Those who profane the name of God are cutting off 2MAMDI their only lifeline to eternity. • ROMANS 1:28 | Since they thought it foolish to acknowledge God, he abandoned them to their foolish thinking and let them do things that should never be done. • ISAIAH 26:10 | Your kindness to the wicked does not make them do good.. zuthe wicked keep doing wrong and take no notice of the LoRD's majesty. • JEREMIAH 5:5 | "I will go and speak to their leaders. Surely they know the ways of the LorD and understand God's laws. " But the leaders, too, as one man, had thrown off God's yoke and broken his chains. Living godless, immoral lives. Atheists are so sure there is no God, but have they stopped to consider what life might look like after the grave without a God? This usually leads to a life of immorality and living for the moment because there is no hope for a future. STUOn • ROMANS 1:25 | They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and 3a served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal. praise! o bair • REVELATION 9:20 | But the people who did not die in these plagues still refused to repent of their evil deeds and turn to God. They continued to worship demons and idols made of gold, silver, bronze, stone, and wood-idols that can neither see nor hear nor walk! Worshiping created things. But which created thing is greater than the creator who made it and thus deserves our worship? What is God's desire for the atheist? • ISAIAH 55:7 | Let them turn to the LORD that he may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously. • LUKE 19:10 | "For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost. " • 2 PETER 3:9 | 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. God's desire for everyone is repentance, salvation, and a personal relationship with him. God still loves those who do not love him. There is no greater love than that. PROMISE FROM GOD • LUKE 19:10 | "For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost. " page A35 Authenticity See Pretending Betrayal See also Forgiveness Betrayal is one of the soudes oraliast human relationships. It can be bold and direct (reason against youring from them or a of adultery or it can be quiet and subtle (fattering friends to get something her way, be ora lite white lie to make you look better and someone else look worse), Either wal, betrayal involves the breaking of trust and confidence in a relationship. On a deeper lesus lie tten betray God. Every day we break the trust of the one who created us and gives us it and purpose. Fortunately, by God's grace, through when we enter into a relationship with him. Jesus' death on the arelations in with him and be confident that he will never etray us How do I betray God? • JEREMIAH 3:20 | "But you have been unfaithful to me, you people of Israel! You have been like a faithless wife who leaves her husband. I, the LORD, have spoken. " The opposite of betrayal is loyalty. Anyone who has become a Christian has pledged loyalty to God. You are disloyal to God when you allow something else to become more even acknowledging God or asking for his help first. important than him, or when you look to something or someone else to help you without • ROMANS 7:21-23 | I have discovered this principle of life-that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. I love God's law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me.let Sin is betraying God. Your sinful human nature causes you to betray God even when you don't want to. Your heart betrays you before it betrays God. To deceive God, you must deceive yourself into believing that it is okay to deceive him. • NEHEMIAH 9:26 | "But despite all this, they were disobedient and rebelled against you. " Your disobedience to God is a betrayal of him. You disobey when you do something God's Word tells you not to do, or when you don't do something God's Word tells you to do. • NUMBERS 5:6 | "Give the following instructions to the people of Israel: If any of the people-men or women-betray the LorD by doing wrong to another person, they are guilty. " ar Doing wrong to another person is also betraying God, because you are breaking your pledge of loyalty and obedience to him to do what is right and loving toward his people. How can I avoid betraying God? NAI 2eedutbgl • ROMANS 3:23-24 | 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. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. • 1 JOHN 1:9 | 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. You can't completely avoid betraying God. Every person has sinned and will continue to sin against God. But if you realize you are a sinner at heart, and if you confess your sins to God, he will forgive you. He will look at you and treat you as though you have never vol betrayed him. What should I do when I am betrayed? • MATTHEW 10:21 | "A brother will betray his brother to death, a father will betray his own child, and children will rebel against their parents and cause them to be killed. " * MATTHEW 26:45 | "But look-the time has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. " It is important to recognize that betrayal is an inevitable part of the human experience. Even Jesus was betrayed. This doesn't make being betrayed easy, but it helps you realize that it doesn't mean something is wrong with you. Betrayal continued oe VioiinontuA • PSALM 55:20-22 | As for my companion, he betrayed his friends; he broke his promises. His words are as smooth as butter, but in his heart is war... Give your burdens to the LORD, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall. Being betrayed is like suddenly hitting a sheet of ice while driving Our basis tothrosis ea or gone, and we go into a dangerous skid. But when we turn to the Lord, it is like throwing sand on the road, restoring us to safety. l mort pnirliemoe tep of abni M HEBREWS 4:15 | This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses. 3- There is comfort in the fact that because Jesus was betrayed, he personally understands your pain. He who has the power to help you has experienced your hurt himself. ori • LUKE 22:33-34 | Peter said, "Lord, I am ready to go to prison with you, and even to die " with you. " But Jesus said, "Peter, let me tell you something. Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me. " ustied i ob wol • EPHESIANS 4:31-32 | 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. Continue to love and forgive those who betray you, as Jesus did (John 21:15-19). Love the tibetrayer, not the act of betrayal. • JEREMIAH 12:6 | "Even your brothers, members of your own family, have turned against al you. They plot and raise complaints against you. Do not trust them, no matter how Ts/ pleasantly they speak. " • MATTHEW 10:16 | "Be as shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves. ". When you realize you cannot trust a particular person, act wisely and take steps to keep from getting hurt again. If you know someone is going to betray you, prepare yourself. Don't fall for that person's flattery. Think through how you will respond to the gossip that will spread about you. But you can do this without retaliation-with kind words and a forgiving heart. You can avoid revenge and grant forgiveness while still exercising prudent self-protection. ° GENESIS 50:19-20 | But Joseph replied, "Don't be afraid of me.... 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. " 1 21003u12511 경 oliot ort 9vid " 8:₴ 3836MI Recognize God's hand in your life. Even when someone betrays you, God can pick up the pieces and make something good from your painful experience. • 2 TIMOTHY 2:13 | If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is. When others are unfaithful to you, you can take great comfort in God's unwavering faithfulness. Anchor your faith and ultimate trust in the Lord. • MATTHEW 6:12-14 P "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. If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. " sit sno i Forgiveness is the only road to freedom. Nothing that anyone has done against you compares with what you have done against God. Refusing to forgive another meansno you don't realize just how much God has forgiven you. A forgiven person forgives. voY How can I avoid betraying others? , b00 at • MATTHEW 24:10 | "And many will turn away from me and betray and hate each other. " • 2 TIMOTHY 3:4 | They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. Obey God and love each other. If you think you are better than others, and if you live to satisfy your own desires first, you will betray your friends and loved ones. • PROVERBS 11:13 | A gossip goes around telling secrets, but those who are trustworthy can. keep a confidence. • 1 PETER 3:10 | For the Scriptures say, "If you want to enjoy life and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies. " page 437 • PROVERBS 25:1 Telsing ties about others is as harmful as hitting them with an ax, wounding them with a sword, or shooting them with a sharp arrow. Avoid gossiping and goss sir lie about others because you are always betraying someone that might not be true. someone else when you do. Gossip is a form of lying because it spreads rumors about • PSALM 55:20 | As for my companion, he betrayed his friends; he broke his promises. Keep your promises. • PROVERBS 19:22 Loyalty makes a person attractive. 19-05: • PROVERBS 3:3 Never let loyalty and kindness leave youl... Wite them deep within your heart. Practice loyalty and kindness to others: Love, loyalty, and kindness require practice like anything else. They don't just come naturally. The more you practice, the better you will become, and the more you will enjoy watching others benefit from your loving actions. • MATTHEW 7:12 | "Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. " Practice the Golden Rule. You don't want to be betrayed, so don't betray others. • PROVERBS 17:17 | A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of wol о УМОНОАЗТизО • PROVERBS 20:6 | Many will say they are loyal friends, but who can find one who is truly reliable? iYMOMORST！ Be true, faithful friends. True friendship says, "No matter what happens around us or " between us, there is no fear, doubt, or hurt that can make me turn my back on you? " This makes a relationship secure and solid, and the chances of betrayal become slim. • MALACHI 2:14-16 | But you have been unfaithful to her, though she remained your faithful partner, the wife of your marriage vows. Didn't the LoRD make you one with your wife?.. So guard your heart; remain loyal to the wife of your youth. "For I hate divorce! " says the LORD, the God of Israelst ot ayse bod noisitem bne gribears 91101 al 9idid enl Guard your heart from doing wrong, keep your vows, and rêmain faithful to your spouse. Unfaithfulness and disloyalty in marriage is betrayal. Ww seisoinummes PROMISES FROM GOD eidid ent bset sirogmi oa hi ai yoy • ROMANS 3:3 | True, some of them were unfaithful; but just because they were unfaithful, does that mean God will be unfaithful? • ISAIAH 54:10 | "For the mountains may move and the hills disappear, but even then my faithful love for you will remain. My covenant of blessing will never be broken, " says the LORD. od au allet eldif erit gnibsef Bible See also Convictions; Faith; Truth; Will of God How remarkable that the creator of the universe would actually want to communicate with us! We are creatures of a material, physical world to which we relate through our five senses. God is a spiritual being. We in our physical state cannot see him, hear, him, or touch him, so how can he communicate with us? Through the Bible, the Word of God. Over several centuries, God inspired a select number of people to write down what he felt we needed to know about him and how he expects us to live. These writings have been collected into this book, called the Holy Bible-holy because it contains the sacred words of almighty God. In a miraculous way, the Bible speaks to each of us. Its truths apply across generations, across cultures, across all life experiences. OTE MIAZY An extensive help manual comes with any complicated device we purchase. Most of us read just enough to allow us to get up and running, to perform the basic tasks for which we have acquired it. But if we want to thoroughly understand the device-alit is capable of - we must read the entire manual. Most of us will never do this, and so we miss out on all it has to offer. When it comes to reading the Bible, most of us read just page A38 Bible continued enough to get by. We miss much that God's Word has to offer. Read the Bible daily so you can thoroughly understand all God wants you to know and do. Can I truly trust the Bible as God's Word? • 2 TIMOTHY 3:16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is tre and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. • 2 PETER 1:20-21 | No prophecy in Scripture ever came from the prophet's own 099 understanding, or from human initiative. No, those prophets were moved by the Holy Spirit, and they spoke from God. • PSALM 18:30 | God's way is perfect. All the LoRD's promises prove true. (See note on page 488.)e The Bible has stood the test of time more than any other document in human history. It has been faithfully preserved because it is God's very words to us and he will not let them disappear from the face of the earth or let its truths be altered by human hands in any way. How often should we read the Bible? • DEUTERONOMY 6:6 | "And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. " 8:05 28B3V0R • DEUTERONOMY 17:19 | "He must always keep that copy with him and read it daily as long as he lives. That way he will learn to fear the LorD his God by obeying all the terms of these instructions and decrees. " on ai 918 • JOSHUA 1:8 | "Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so I you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in ..all you do. " • PSALM 119:97 | Oh, how I love your instructions! I think about them all day long. The Bible is for regular reading and meditation. God says to read it "continually. " Continually doesn't mean reading the Bible just when we get around to it. If possible, we should read God's Word every day because that is one of the primary ways he - communicates with us. Why is it so important to read the Bible? • JEREMIAH 15:16 | "When I discovered your words, I devoured them. They are my joy and my heart's delight. " (See note on page 681.) Life itself is sustained by God's Word. •JOHN 8:32 | "And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. " (See note on page 963. • JOHN 12:50 | "And I know his commands lead to eternal life. " (See note on page 968.) Reading the Bible tells us how to be set free from slavery to sin so we can enjoy eternal life. • ACTS 17:11 | And the people of Berea... listened eagerly to Paul's message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth. Reading the Bible helps us recognize true and false teaching. • DEUTERONOMY 17:20 | "This regular reading will prevent him from becoming proud and acting as if he is above his fellow citizens.' Reading the Bible helps us keep a right attitude toward God and others. • PSALM 19:11 | They are a warning to your servant, a great reward for those who obey them. Reading the Bible warns us about things that will harm us. m • PSALM 119:9 | How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word. Reading the Bible can keep us pure. • PSALM 119:105 | Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Reading the Bible guides us in daily living. • PSALM 119:24 | Your laws please me; they give me wise advice. page 439 • PROVERBS 2:2-6 Tune olors to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding... Search for them as you wonan silver... For the LoRD grants wisdomerstandingon • PROVERBS 6:22 | When you walk, their counsel will lead you. When you sleep, they wil protect you. When you wake up, they will advise you. Reading the Bible provides wisdom for all of life, d • PSALM 119:43. Do not snatch your word of truth from me, for your regulations are my only hope. • PSALM 119:50 | Your promise revives me; it comforts me in all my troubles. Reading the Bible gives us hope for the future. cmob ye 39 19110 • PSALM 119:52 | I meditate on your age-old regulations; O LoRD, they comfort me. Reading the Bible gives us comfort. • JOB 23:12 | I have not departed from his commands, but have treasured his words more than daily food. • PSALM 19:10 | They are more desirable than gold..... They are sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb. • PSALM 119:54 | Your decrees have been the theme of my songs wherever I have lived. Reading the Bible is a delightful experience. Why is it important to read the Bible to others? 3183430 • DEUTERONOMY 32:46 | "Take to heart all the words of warming I have given you today. Pass them on as a command to your children so they will obey every word of these instructions. " • ISAIAH 8:16 | Preserve the teaching of God; entrust his instructions to those who follow me. (See note on page 611.) God wants us to pass his Word on to others, teaching them as we have been taught,. Because the Word is life changing to us, so we pass it on to others that it might change their lives also. PROMISES FROM GOD • PSALM 119:89 | Your eternal word, O LORD, stands firm in heaven. • LUKE 11:28 | "Blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice. " • 2 TIMOTHY 3:16 | 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. • HEBREWS 8:10 | "I will put my laws in their minds, and I will write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. " 1 s2มลว 1 neo wol Bitterness See also Anger; Frustration; Jealousy Bitterness is anger that has settled in for the long term. It is an anger that has birthed resentment, the feeling that we have been treated harshly, unfairly, or carelessly. Left to eat its way deep into our minds, emotions, and even our souls, bitterness can turn us into hostile, hardened people. The poison of bitterness, left unchecked, can destroy us. Perhaps the most dangerous thing about bitterness is that it becomes a roadblock tovoH forgiveness, which puts our relationship with God and others on hold. MAHT I09 g Part envy, part spite, bitterness is a slow-burning resentment that consumes the soul. The experience of pain due to real or perceived injustices is common to all of us, but resentment is clinging to and feeding those hurts until they dominate our lives. The Bible indicates that the cure for resentment is the confession of bitterness and a willingness, with God's help, to forgive the offender. How do I become bitter? 800 srt bogrua of bogisri ar * GENESIS 27:41 | From that time on, Esau hated Jacob because their father had given " Jacob the blessing. And Esau began to scheme. Bitterness continued page A40 1013M】 8-2-5 28月3V01191 • ESTHER 5:9 | Haman was a happy man as he left the banquet! But when he saw Mordecai sitting at the palace gate, not standing up or trembling nervously before him, Haman became furious. (See note on page 447.) By letting anger and hatred control you.- • EPHESIANS 4:31-32 Get rid of all bitteress, rage, anger....Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. By demanding your way and refusing to forgive and forget. We would do well to remember that God has forgiven us despite our continual sinful tendencies. 167 | 0a.er • HEBREWS 12:15 | 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. J SOviE опіовон By forgetting God's grace, which is showered upon you each day. • 2 SAMUEL 19:6-7 | "You have made it clear today that your commanders and troops mean nothing to you. It seems that if Absalom had lived and all of us had died, you would be pleased. Now go out there and congratulate your troops, for I swear by the LORD that if you don't go out, not a single one of them will remain here tonight. " (See note on page 290.) By allowing prolonged grief to turn to despair so that you see life as meaningless, which robs you of the joy your spirit longs for. • GENESIS 31:1 | But Jacob soon learned that Laban's sons were gnumbling about him. vr "Jacob has robbed our father of everything! " they said. "He has gained all his wealth at our father's expense. " By letting resentment cause you to look at someone's success with suspicious motives You begin to think that the only reason that person became successful was by taking some opportunity away from you. • ACTS 6:1 | But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. The Greek-speaking believers complained about the Hebrew-speaking believers, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily distribution of food. By welcoming discontent into your heart, which causes you to think you aren't getting what you deserve. When the focus shifts to you and what you aren't getting, bit erness sets in quickly. • NUMBERS 12:1-2 | Miriam and Aaron criticized Moses because he had married a Cushite woman. They said, "Has the LorD spoken only through Moses? Hasn't he spoken through us, too? " By cultivating a critical spirit. If you are often finding wrong in others, then you are in danger of bitterness controlling your life. vert ban How can I cause bitterness in others? com19itie • AMOS 5:7 / You twist justice, making it a bitter pill for the oppressed. You treat the righteous like dirt. (See note on page 807) god гвол19лі •When we are unjust or unfair in our dealings with others, particularly those who are poor and oppressed. How do I get over bitterness? • 2 CORINTHIANS 2:7 | Now, however, it is time to forgive and comfort him. Otherwise he may be overcome by discouragement. There are times when simple forgiveness can relieve a lifetime of bitterness. Recovery from acute bitterness may be as complex as the reasons for the bitterness, but it may also be as simple as the three spoken words "I forgive you. " • PHILIPPIANS 1:12 | 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. ob woll Paul could have become bitter for being thrown into prison for sharing his faith. Instead, he was happy because he knew that God takes even the worst situations and, if we allow him, he brings good out of them. Paul couldn't wait to see what good God would bring out of his prison time. While in prison, Paul wrote many of the New Testament letters which your difficult situations. have brought millions to faith in Jesus. God is waiting for you to let him do the same in What causes feelings of bitterness and resentment, and how can we more effectively deal with them? • GENESIS 4:5 | This made Cain very angry, and he looked dejected. Cain resented Abel because Abel's sacrifice was accepted while his was not. • LUKE 15:28 | "The older brother was angry and wouldn't go in. " (See note on page 939.) Resentment can be an embittering form of self-righteousness. • TITUS 3:5 | He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the | УМОМОЛЗТИЛа Holy Spinit. When resentment is confessed as sin, we receive the grace and kindness of the Holy Spirit. PROMISES FROM GOD amiceoid 19 • ISAIAH 26:3 I You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! • TITUS 1:15 1 Everything is pure to those whose hearts are pure. Blessings Blessings involve both giving and receiving. Blessing others was a vital part of life in bible cal times. To bless people meant many things - to praise them, to pray for them, and to commit them to God's care. It also meant to dedicate and challenge them to live forever loyal to God. It was a call for abundance and prosperity for another. And it was also a way of officially passing on the family inheritance to the oldest son. Wishes for a rich and abundant life were inherent in a blessing, although not always abundance in a material sense. God was recognized as the ultimate source of the blessing, and the person blessed would walk with the Lord and receive his benefits. To receive God's blessing meant not only to enjoy innumerable tangible gifts (life, joy, peace, abundance, children, home, reputation, - health, freedom, work, food, etc.) but in a much deeper way to be welcomed into a special relationship with him, a relationship to be affirmed and practiced. Part of this, in turn, means being a blessing to others, a way of saying we have been a great help to others. How can I experience God's blessings? • DEUTERONOMY 1:35-36 | "Not one of you from this wicked generation will live to see the good land I swore to give your ancestors, except Caleb... He will see this land because he has followed the LORD. " In Scripture we find a simple but profound principle: Obedience to God brings blessings and disobedience to God brings misfortune. We must be careful not to think of these blessings only in terms of material possessions. God's greatest blessings are far more valuable than money or things. They come in the form of joy, family, relationships, peace of heart, spiritual gifts, and the confidence of eternal life, 9201 22918 What kinds of blessings does God send my way? • DEUTERONOMY 28:2 | "You will experience all these blessings if you obey the LoRD your God. " anno 010100. • PSALM 139:17-18 | How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be asold teriW numbered! I can't even count them. o) moled o God's blessings are too many to count or even mention. His blessings come to us every day, in every conceivable form. • ACTS 5:41 1 The apostles left the high council rejoicing that God had counted them nA worthy to suffer disgrace for the name of Jesus. page A42 Blessings continued • JAMES 1:12 | God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Blessings may come in strange forms. Sometimes the greatest blessings come from suffering or persecution because we have proven ourselves faithful to God. How can I respond to my blessings? • PSALM 92:1-2 | It is good to give thanks to the LORD... to proclaim your unfailing love in the morning, your faithfulness in the evening. God has given us far more than we will ever realize. Thank him for this before you become ungrateful and lose out on all he has yet to offer. • DEUTERONOMY 6:11-12 | "When you have eaten your fill in this land, be careful not to forget the LorD, who rescued you from slavery in the land of Egypt. " Blessings can make us forget God. We must be careful that we don't become so comfortable that we forget the God who gave us all we have. How can I be a blessing to others? • GALATIANS 5:22-23 | But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. If you share this fruit with other people, you will be a great blessing to them. • NUMBERS 6:24-26 | "May the LORD bless you and protect you. May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you. May the LORD show you his favor and give you his peace. " When you speak a blessing on another person, it has tremendous impact. How do I limit God's blessings? • NUMBERS 20:12 | "Because you did not trust me enough to demonstrate my holiness to the people of Israel, you will not lead them into the land I am giving them! " • 2 SAMUEL 12:8-9 | "I would have given you much, much more. Why, then, have you despised the word of the Lord and done this horrible deed? " bi We limit God's blessings when we willfully sin and therefore hinder our relationship with God. tr • 2 KINGS 13:19 | "You should have struck the ground five or six times! " he exclaimed... "Now you will be victorious only three times. " (See note on page 340.) • JAMES 1:14-15 | 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. We limit God's blessings when we give in to temptation. What kind of people does God want to bless? • JEREMIAH 17:7 | "But blessed are those who trust in the LoRD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. " (See note on page 683.) Blessings from God come to those who trust and obey him. Blessings are not merely words spoken by God, but are part of the special relationship offered by him to us. • ROMANS 12:14 | Bless those who persecute you. Don't curse them; pray that God will bless them. Jesus brought a new idea -blessing and forgiveness for enemies. This is unique to Christianity. The natural response is to seek revenge against enemies. Prayer for our enemies is a severe test of our devotion to Christ. What blessings come to those who belong to God? • DEUTERONOMY 28:10 | "Then all the nations of the world will see that you are a people claimed by the LorD, and they will stand in awe. " (See note on page 183.) Anyone can belong to the world, for we are easily given to worldly things. But it is awesome to belong to the Lord God, creator of the universe, because that means he accepts us. • ISAIAH 26:19 | But those who die in the LoRD will live; their bodies will rise again! Those who sleep in the earth will rise up and sing for joy! $6 Belonging to God is an eternal relationship, not merely for this world, but for the world to the transitional one. come. This permits us to live again after we die. The grave is not the last chapter, merely • JOHN 15:12-15 | "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. ara Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me. " Those who belong to God know how to better love others because they have experienced the perfect love of God. What responsibilities come with God's blessings? • DEUTERONOMY 16:17 | "All must give as they are able, according to the blessings given to them by the LoRD your God. " (See note on page 175.) As God prospers us, we are to share that prosperity in our giving. Receiving and giving go hand in hand. PROMISES FROM GOD • PSALM 84:11 | For the LoRD God is our sun and our shield. He gives us grace and glory. The Lord will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right. • GALATIANS 6:9 | 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. • REVELATION 21:7 | "All who are victorious will inherit all these blessings, and I will be their God, and they will be my children. " Boasting See Pride Boldness See Courage Boundaries See also Accountability; Habits; Self-Control; Temptation In track and field, if runners step out of their lanes during a race, they are disqualified. In soccer, if a player kicks the ball out of bounds, the other team gets the ball. In volleyball, if a player hits a ball out of bounds the other team gets a point. When it comes to sports, we know that boundaries are good and necessary in order to keep the game fair, orderly and under control. They also keep people from getting hurt. And finally, they keep the game moving forward toward a specific goal. With no boundaries, the game just doesn't make sense. This same principle is true in everyday life. God gives us boundaries so that life makes sense. When we stay within those boundaries we have purpose and direction, and we get hurt less. When we go out of bounds we are penalized, not because God wants to punish us, but because those are the consequences for going out of bounds. The world works by the rules God set in place at creation. We can't change them, and in fact if we could, life wouldn't be as fulfilling-just like a good game. Instead of seeing boundaries as negative limitations on our freedoms, try to see them as useful for keeping life moving toward the ultimate victory God has promised all who play the game well and live within his boundaries. 29 10 Why do I need boundaries? • PSALM 119:35 | Make me walk along the path of your commands, for that is where my I esil sill happiness is found. • PSALM 119:133 | Guide my steps by your word, so I will not be overcome by evil. If you've ever walked on a path in the woods, you know how important it is for the path to be clearly marked. If it's not, you can stray off the path and become hopelessly.ng Boundaries continued bod tioกง I BE:8S HAIAZI lost — a frightening and potentially dangerous situation. God's commands and laws act o as boundaries to clearly mark life's path before you: They protect you from danger and fear. • PSALM 23:4 | Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. God's boundaries are set for your safety and comfort. They keep you from harm. HoL • GENESIS 3:4-7 | "You won't die! " the serpent replied to the woman. "God knows that your 09. 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 took some of the fruit and ate it. Then she gave some to her husband... and he ate it, too. At that moment their eyes were opened, and they suddenly felt shame. 9l0 eu rIW Temptation causes you to think that stepping out of bounds might be better than obeying God. But just as Adam and Eve found out too late, giving in to temptation never gives you more freedom. It just messes up your life and cuts off the blessings from God that make oe your life worth living. • ECCLESIASTES 3:1 | For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. God provides the boundaries of seasons and time. These provide certain parameters of predictability for your life, giving you confidence that you can trust in his reliability. 31A29 What are God's boundaries for me? 2013 11101 • DEUTERONOMY 10:12 | "And now, Israel, what does the LoRD your God require of you? He requires only that you fear the Lord your God, and live in a way that pleases him, and love him and serve him with all your heart and soul. " These verses sum up God's general boundaries for us. Keep within these lines, and God promises you will have purpose and direction, blessing and joy. Your motive is not the fence around you but the love for God within you. • MICAH 6:8 | No, 0 people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. When you do what is right (as defined by God's Word), you play fair and develop a reputation for integrity. When you love mercy, you never take advantage of others. And when you walk humbly with God, you realize you can't take credit for your successes and that you need to rely on God and others to help you finish strong. These boundaries don't restrict you, but in fact heip you live an abundant and fulfilling life. • JEREMIAH 5:22 | "Have you no respect for me? Why don't you tremble in my presence? I, the LoRD, define the ocean's sandy shoreline as an everlasting boundary that the waters al cannot cross. " fi menW tniog s alee mset verito erlt abnuod l o tuo liscs etiri meysia sti God provides physical boundaries for our protection and our enjoyment. Fish do not swim in a desert, nor do eagles fly beneath the seas. So also he provides moral and spiritual boundaries. When we live inside of these boundaries, as humans created in God's image, fer we function most effectively because we are living the way God originally intended. The cm no more you understand why God created you and what he made you to do, the more life will make sense and the more effective you will be in making an eternal impact. un isp ew bns What are the consequences of failing to observe God's boundaries? C JUDE 1:6-7And I remind you of the angels who did not stay within the limits of authority God gave them but left the place where they belonged. God has kept them securely chained on in prisons of darkness, waiting for the great day of judgment. And don't forget Sodom and of God's judgment. Gomorrah... Those cities were destroyed by fire and serve as a warning of the eternal fire • LUKE 16:13 | "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. " Life has just two sides. If you are not for God, you are against him. When you are against him you are on the side of evil, even though you may not realize it. If God puts a boundary around you, he wants to keep you from a harmful consequence: injury, emotional pain, and even eternal punishment. • GENESIS 3:16-17, 23 | Then he said to the woman, "I will sharpen the pain of your pregnancy, and in pain you will give birth. And you will desire to control your husband, but he will rule over you. " And to the man he said, "Since you listened to your wife and ate from the tree whose fruit I commanded you not to eat, the ground is cursed because of you. All your life you will struggle to scratch a living from it.. " So the LoRD God banished them from the Garden of Eden. • ISAIAH 38:16 | Lord, your discipline is good, for it leads to life and health. • HEBREWS 12:10-11 | But God's discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness. No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening-it's painful! But afterward e there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way. Failing to stay within God's boundaries brings pain every time. It makes life harder than it borneeds to be. Remembering past struggles from stepping outside God's boundaries can help keep you from repeating your mistakes. How can I set boundaries for myself? an end ni bel /ВС • ROMANS 12:2 | 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. °» The key is to learn how God can change the way you think. Study his Word to find out how he thinks, and pattern your own thinking after his. Then you will find it easier to live within tithe boundaries he has set for you. *s 1 21910WDO • 1 CORINTHIANS 7:35 | I am saying this for your benefit, not to place restrictions on you. meI want you to do whatever will help you serve the Lord best, with as few distractions as possible. Serving the Lord is a lifetime priority. Rather than restricting you, setting boundaries will eliminate the distractions that can keep you from accomplishing magnificent things for God. • 1 CORINTHIANS 10:29, 32-33 | (It might not be a matter of conscience for you, but it is for the other person.) ... I, too, try to please everyone in everything I do. I don't just do what is best for me; I do what is best for others so that many may be saved. God's Word clearly states certain rules you must live by, like the Ten Commandments. But God also asks you to refrain from doing things that aren't clearly wrong but might offend another person's conscience. поство мотізом ,30 • PROVERBS 21:16 | The person who strays from common sense will end up in the company of the dead. ni min pnivie? Common sense is necessary in establishing personal boundaries. You can so easily get into trouble when you make a decision based on impulse or emotion. When common sense screams for you to say no, then don't do it! e yeud ed ot em joaaxe boo aeod • ECCLESIASTES 7:13 | Accept the way God does things, for who can straighten what he has sS:rr WAHTTAN made crooked? TOSS STO ONE NO God's boundaries are rules of the universe that will prevail. As the Creator, he set them up in the way creation would best function. Accepting God's boundaries will bring a happier life because you can be assured that his limitations protect and guide you toward what is best for you. โรมomามต 9T stobilns erit al teriW Brokenhearted See Encouragement; Grief. ROT ANT | 18-85:0A HAIRAI* Building Up Others See Encouragement; Judging Others voy norW bob terit noitstoaxe fmeiio orli ai broi er! 39liuolltib bas show c'etil nguoilt siev Burnout See also Anxiety; Stress; Work men! Burnout is the overwhelming exhaustion and inability to push on brought about by stress. We all experience times of burnout when we feel tapped out emotionally, mentally, physi-cally, and spiritually, In our fast-paced world of twenty-four-hour service it isn't surprising page A46 Burnout continued that we quickly become exhausted. Because burnout is so draining and paralyzing, we need to take care of our bodies and minds by eating right, exercising, and getting plenty of sleep and rest. However, one of the best ways to reduce burnout is by taking time out to be close to God. When we draw close to him, we can tap into his power, strength, peace, protection, and love. Doing this can help us stay strong and persevere through even the worst times of burnout. How do I know if I am experiencing burnout? • 2 SAMUEL 21;15 | And when David and his men were in the thick of battle, David became weak and exhausted. • PSALM 38:8 | I am exhausted and completely crushed. My groans come from an anguished heart. If you become weak and exhausted in the middle of a seemingly endless stretch of work, you may be experiencing burnout. • 1 KINGS 19:14 | "I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me, too. " • ECCLESIASTES 2:22 | So what do people get in this life for all their hard work and anxiety? If you despair because it seems your work will never be done, or it seems you are in a rut and can't get out, you may be experiencing burnout. • PSALM 69:1-2 | The floodwaters are up to my neck. Deeper and deeper I sink into the mire; 4 1 I can't find a foothold. You may be experiencing burnout if your life feels overwhelming and everyday tasks seem impossible. • JEREMIAH 45:3 L "I am overwhelmed with trouble! Haven't I had enough pain already? And now the LoRD has added more! I am worn out from sighing and can find no rest. " When you become burned out, you may feel bitter toward God. Why are leaders in danger of burning out? • 2 CORINTHIANS 4:7 | We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves. Leaders are human. They get tired, frustrated, discouraged, and confused. They also fail and sin just like everyone else. Yet, by God's grace, our humanity does not disqualify us from serving him in all that we do. In fact, our limitations become the means for God to reveal his power and mercy. Does God expect me to be busy all the time? • PSALM 23:2 He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. • MATTHEW 11:28-29 | Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy bur-dens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you.. And you will find rest for your souls. " Activity itself is not a virtue; it can actually be a detriment to your spiritual life. There are times when the Lord invites you to rest and be refreshed in his care. JOY 107 What is the antidote for burnout? • ISAIAH 40:28-31 | The LoRD... never grows weak or weary... He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless... 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. When you are weary, a key to renewal and refreshment is "waiting on the Lord. " Waiting on the Lord is the patient expectation that God will give you his power and strength to persevere through life's work and difficulties. He promises to help you soar like an eagle and run like a marathoner when you draw your strength from him. • EXODUS 18:21-23 | "Select from all the people some capable, honest men... They will help you carry the load, making the task easier for you. If you follow this advice... then you will be able to endure the pressures. " 93 the weak. h. The vit d not fav Waiting an n to perse gle and ha The hi then Burnout often comes when we take too much responsibility on ourselves, Delegate some of your workload. Delegation can ease your burden, multiply your effectiveness, and allow other people to grow. • EXODUS 23:12 | "You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but on the seventh day you must stop working... It…. allows….. you to be refreshed. " When people are tired, their productivity decreases dramatically. Rest refreshes and energizes us to be more productive. Regular, consistent, weekly rest is an important part of avoiding and recovering from burnout. • 2 SAMUEL 17:28-29 | They brought sleeping mats. wheat and barley, flour and roasted grain, beans, lentils, honey, butter, sheep, goats, and cheese for David and those who were with him. For they said, march through the wilderness. " "You must all be very hungry and tired and thirsty after your long ва е • DANIEL 1:12-15 | "Please test us for ten days on a diet of vegetables and water. " Daniel said. "At the end of the ten days, see how we look compared to the other young men who s are eating the king's food... " At the end of the ten days, Daniel and his three friends looked healthier and better nourished than the young men who had been eating the food assigned by the king. 03 bof eszu Take good care of your body by exercising, resting, and eating well. Poor diet and health habits invite burnout. • PSALM 23:1-3 | The LoRD is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. • ISAIAH 30:15 "Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. " • MATTHEW 11:28-29 | Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest... And you will find rest for your souls. Burnout comes when we lose our connection to the Lord. Connecting with God taps into his strength. Maybe you find it difficult to rest. You mistakenly believe that productivity requires constant activity. But sometimes you need to slow down in order to speed up. Stop awhile to let your body and mind and spirit recover and reset your purpose, so you can be more energized and productive when you are ready to get back to the work 30 PIONE at hand. •ZECHARIAH 4:6 ] "It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. " 3 Recognizing your limits is essential to overcoming burnout. Maybe you are trying to do too much and become discouraged when nothing seems to go right. But sometimes circumstances may force you to take on more stress than is healthy. In such situations, God can give you the strength to persevere, and nothing can stop you if you are acting within his will for you. ot etsideleo sW Does Jesus understand my burnout? • HEBREWS 4:15-16 | 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. Jesus was human like us, experiencing the full range of emotions and struggles. Instead of condemnation he gives mercy; instead of criticism he offers comfort and encouragement. PROMISE FROM GOD • ISAIAH 40:28-31 | The LORD... never grows weak or weary.... He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.... 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. page A48 Call of God See Purpose; Will of God มอกามสิ Celebration See also Happiness; Success; Worship When we think of celebration we usually think of enjoying ourselves, of having a great time with others. We celebrate anniversaries, birthdays, victories, promotions, awards, and special milestones. But we also celebrate occasions such as the Lord's Supper, the anniversary of a loved one's death, and other solemn events. What makes celebration unique is that we take time out from the ordinary to honor and to obselve something that is extraordinary, notable, or special - something important to us. Whether we are leaping in joy before the Lord, as King David did (2 Samuel 6:14), or reverently listening to God's Word at the Lord's Supper (Luke 22:17-19), we pause to remember, to honor, to worship, and to praise. And the end result of all celebration should be joy, the joy that comes from a full and grateful heart. God gives us the ultimate reason to celebrate because he has rescued us from the consequences of sin and has shown us the wonders of eternity. Those who love him truly have the most to celebrate! What causes God to celebrate? • LUKE 15:10 ] "In the same way, there is joy in the presence of God's angels when even one sinner repents. " : 1CORINTHIANS 15:57 ) Bucthank Codl He sives us victory over sin and, death throush our Lord Jesus Christ. • MATTHEW 25:23 | The master said, "Well done, my good and faithful servant. You A? have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now [ will give you many more responsibilities. Let's celebrate together! " God celebrates the salvation of the lost, the defeat of sin and evil, and the daily joys and successes of his people. • ZEPHANIAH 3:17 T "For the LORD your God He will rejoice over you with joyful songs. " .., will take delight in you with gladness... God rejoices and celebrates when his people faithfully follow him and obey his commands. What kinds of things should I celebrate and why? • DEUTERONOMY 16:10-15 | "Then celebrate the Festival of Harvest to honor the LORD your God. ... This festival will be a happy time of celebrating with your sons and daughters.. 00) For it is he who blesses you with bountiful harvests and gives you success in all your work. " We celebrate to thank God for all he has done for us, to recall his acts of goodness, and to enjoy each other's company. • EXODUS 12:17 | "Celebrate this Festival of Unleavened Bread, for it will remind you that I brought your forces out of the land of Egypt on this very day. This festival will be a permanent law for you; celebrate this day from generation to generation. " (See note on page 63) We celebrate to mark important milestones in our lives; we also celebrate to teach our children the ultimate reason for our celebration. • PSALM 98:4-6| Shout to the LorD, all the earth; break out in praise and sing for joy!... Make a joyful symphony before the LORD, the King! Visn9t liw 9w 919111.000 • PSALM 150:5 Praise him with a clash of cymbals; praise him with loud clanging cymbals. We celebrate to praise and worship God because he loves us, because of the blessings he has given us on earth, and because of the eternal blessings he has waiting for us in heaven. • NEHEMIAH 8:10 | "Go and celebrate with a feast... and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day... Don't be sad, for the joy of the LoRD is your strength! " (See note on page 434) 11'1 de bro o! Joy and fun, as God intended, are important parts of celebration because they lift our spirits and help us see the beauty and meaning in life. DI JON END • LEVITICUS 23:25 | You must do no ordinary work on that day. Instead, you are to …nO er and routine, s Celebration allows us to rest and focus on what is good. It takes our minds off the ordinary cool open What kind of celebration is inappropriate? • EXODUS 32:25 Moses saw that Aaron had let the people get completely out of control, ro much to the amusement of their enemies. ro te) • NUMBERS 25:2 So the Israelites feasted with them and worshiped the gods of Moab... W • 1 PETER 4:3 | You have had enough in the past of the evil things that godless people enjoy-their immorality... drunkenness and wild parties. Celebration is wrong when it is self-centered or indulgent, involves sinful acts, or has conditions that can tempt you into sin.. 160 U Are there times when God alone should be the focus of our celebration? " H • DEUTERONOMY 2:7 | "The LORD your God has blessed you in everything you have done. He has watched your every step. lacked nothing. " (See note on page 161.) The LorD your God has been with you, and you have Through life's journey and its regular milestones, God has been there to supply all we' need. Celebration should be a time for fun and eating, of course, but it should also be "ja time for thanksgiving to God for his blessings to us. Celebrate occasions, celebrate 2 persons, but most of all, celebrate God. • LEVITICUS 23:4 g "In addition to the Sabbath, these are the LorD's appointed festivals, the official days for holy assembly that are to be celebrated at their proper times each year. " (See note on page 113. eldessiberanu Our celebrations should also include time to thank and praise God for his goodness, love, and grace to us. Is celebration ever a solemn occurrence? ya beenare sus ansia bisi vlanenerv • 1 KINGS 8:62-63 | Then the king and all Israel with him offered sacrifices to the LORD.... So the king and all the people of Israel dedicated the Temple of the LORD. s ena t word Dedicating someone or something to God's use is a celebration, but one marked with a special seriousness of commitment. These times of celebration can be just as meaningful as the joyous times of celebration. so fluesy e$ 5๙าos epกรศว What kind of celebrations go on in heaven? 1er:8 2T3A • LUKE 15:10 | "In the same way, there is joy in the presence of God's angels when even one sinner repents. " onstreger teenor riw aniged spnsno • REVELATION 5:11 l Then I looked again, and I heard the voices of thousands and millions stpsns sun of angels around the throne. Heaven is filled with celebrations too wonderful for the human mind to imagine. Angels worship God in mighty celebrations and rejoice when one sinner repents. Someday we will be able to join in these great heavenly events. oners of niged lliw eria PROMISE FROM GOD • PSALM 5:11 | But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them sing joyful praises eV forever. Spread your protection over them, that all who love your name may be filled 2 boog noll tort bsse ariT " 0SIA NRAM brow with joy. 1910 1x32 riss to sessions sober be Change See also Decisions; Forgiveness; Habits, Mercy & Grace; Miracles; Planning; Purpose Change is one of the great constants of life. Whether because of the slow and gradual erosion of time, or swift and cataclysmic moments of trauma, change happens to everyone. People change; relationships change; jobs change; technology changes; indeed life itself Change continued 2S:ES BUSIT can be described as a process of continual change. Some changes are positive: a new friend, a new house, a financial windfall; others are negative: a tragic loss, a job layoff, the upheaval of natural disaster. Either way, change produces stress. The Bible teaches two great truths about change. The first is that despite the changing world around us, God is changeless and dependable. The second is that God calls for an inner change of heart, called repentance, which produces an outer change of lifestyle, called obedience. With all the change in my life, how can i keep it all together? • PSALM 59:10 | In his unfailing love, my God will stand with me. • HEBREWS 1:12 | "But you are always the same. " You can trust the character of God to be unchanging and reliable. • HEBREWS 13:8 | Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. You can place your faith in Jesus Christ, whose love and grace are eternal. • MARK 13:31 | "Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never disappear.' You can build your life on God's Word because its truth is changeless, • GENESIS 37:28; 41:41 | So when the Ishmaelites, who were Midianite traders, came by, Joseph's brothers pulled him out of the cistern and sold him to them for twenty pieces of silver... Pharaoh said to Joseph, "I hereby put you in charge of the entire land of Egypt. " (See note on page 40.) ROMANS 8:28 / 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. God can work his will even through traumatic, unpredictable, and unfair change. • MATTHEW 1:20-24 | An angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream... When Joseph woke up, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded. When neatly laid plans are changed by circumstances, you can still find peace in obeying the call of God. I know there are things in my life I should change, but how? • ACTS 9:4-5 | 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. " Change comes as the result of a personal encounter with Jesus Christ. • ACTS 3:19 | "Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped I away. " (See note on page 983.) Change begins with honest repentance. 20LUKE 19:8 | 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! " When we recognize who Jesus truly is, our hearts begin to change, and then our behavior will begin to change as well. • JOHN 8:10-11 | "Didn't even one of them condemn you? " "No, Lord, " she said. And Jesus said, "Neither do I. Go and sin no more. " We do not change in order to receive God's approval, we change as a response to God's love. 96 val • MARK 4:20 | "The seed that fell on good soil represents those who hear and accept God's word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted! " The truth of God's Word produces change only when it is allowed to penetrate deep into our hearts. Does God ever change? • LAMENTATIONS 5:19 | But LORD, you remain the same forever! Your throne continues from generation to generation. page A57 • MALACHI 3:6 | "I am the LORD, and I do not change. " • JAMES 1:17 | Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our shadow. Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting Not only does God live forever, but his character remains unchanged forever. He is the God of eternal consistency. • 1 PETER 1:4 | And we have a priceless inheritance- an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. Since God and his Word never change, his promises never change either! This gives you assurance that eternal life in heaven is a reality and will be as wonderful as the Bible says. PROMISES FROM GOD • NUMBERS 23:19 | "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? " • 2 CORINTHIANS 5:17 Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! Character See also Commitment; Conscience; Faithfulness; Honesty & Integrity; Love; Maturity; Motives; Reputation; Wisdom If two people were describing you, what would each say? How would they describe the real you? What would they say about your character —the sum total of all that distinguishes you as a person from everyone else? Your reputation- what other people are saying about you-is often a good indicator of your character. Your character reflects who you desire to become. Ultimately your reputation is the mark of your character stamped on society. Those striving for good character, or better yet for godly character, are working toward moral excellence. And Jesus is the ultimate example of moral excel-lence. We work hard all our lives to become excellent in many areas, especially in the 1A areas of our work and hobbies. Doesn't it make sense to also work hard at becoming morally excellent, to be known as someone who has mastered the art of living in areas that really matter, like integrity, kindness, love, and faithfulness? Ultimately we want our character to be formed into the image of Christ. Why does character matter? • EZEKIEL 18:5-9 | "Suppose a certain man is righteous and does what is just and right... He does not commit adultery... He is a merciful creditor... He does not rob the poor but instead gives food to the hungry and provides clothes for the needy. ... He is honest and fair when judging others, and faithfully obeys my decrees 00 and regulations. Anyone who does these things is just and will surely live, says the 8: Sovereign LORD. " People often argue that their personal lives do not really matter so long as they perform well in their public work. God, however, does not make a distinction between your public and private lives. Justice, righteousness, integrity, mercy, honesty, fairness, and faithfulness are essential traits of a godly person's character because they reflect who a person really is. Such traits also demonstrate an understanding of what is truly important in life-loving, honoring, and respecting God and others, • 1 CORINTHIANS 4:5 | So don't make judgments about anyone ahead of time— before the Lord returns. For he will bring our darkest secrets to light and will reveal our private motives. Then God will give to each one whatever praise is due. bna 8-5:8 24A Sometimes you will be tempted to believe you are exempt from the standards to which all others are subjected. Leaders who feel this way often abuse their privileges as leader. But you must remember that whatever is hidden will one day be revealed, sited we ani Character continued bro, ano] erit mo 1° 3:8 1HDAJA • 1 THESSALONIANS 2:4-12 | Our purpose is to please God, not people.....As for human praise, we have never sought it from you or anyone else..... We were devout and honest and faultless toward all of you believers... And urged you to live your lives in a way that God would consider worthy. Character gives credibility. Your personal character will either verify or nullify your life's is work. Paul models how a life lived to please God honors others, too. • 2 CORINTHIANS 8:21 | We are careful to be honorable before the Lord, but we also want u everyone else to see that we are honorable. (See note on page 1053.) Your character influences how others respond to Christianity. If you say you are a Christian, will they want to be like you? How do we recognize good character? • PROVERBS 20:11 | Even children are known by the way they act, whether their conduct is pure, and whether it is right. (See note on page 575.) • RUTH 3:11 | "I will do what is necessary, for everyone in town knows you are a virtuous woran. "2196 You show good character when you reflect the image of God, the source of good character. This kind of character is obvious to those observing you. What are the attributes of godly character? immos oeie • GALATIANS 5:22-23 | But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control, go The fruit of the Spirit-love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control- are some of the essential traits of godly character. • PROVERBS 11:3 | Honesty guides good people; dishonesty destroys treacherous people. • AMOS 5:24 | "I want to see a mighty flood of justice, an endless river of righteous living. " Justice, righteousness, mercy, honesty, and fairness are essential traits of godly character. Are there things I can do to grow my character? of • DEUTERONOMY 8:2 "Remember how the LORD your God led you through the wilderness s for these forty years, humbling you and testing you to prove your character, and to find out "whether or not you would obey his commands. ". You are not born with godly character; it is developed through experience and testing and a commitment to knowing God and his Word. retostero • 1 SAMUEL 15:22-23 | But Samuel replied, ".. Obedience is better than sacrifice s50 because you have rejected the command of the LORD, he has rejected you as king. Everyone develops character by facing daily challenges and choosing wisely. • 2 CORINTHIANS 4:8 We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. • PHILIPPIANS 1:9 | I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding: nozsq nisr • 1 PETER 4:19 | Keep on doing what is right, and trust your lives to the God who created you, for he will never fail you. Developing character is like developing any other skill. You must practice. Keep on doing what is good and right, and constantly practice character traits like kindness, generosity, compas-sion, and honesty. What you value most is usually what you will work hardest to attain. What are some of the important building blocks of character? • ROMANS 5:4-5 | Endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. The testing of patience strengthens character. What we welcome least in our lives may be testing our patience the most, and that in turn may be developing strength of character in us. • NUMBERS 30:2 | "A man who makes a vow to the LORD or makes a pledge under oath must never break it. " (See note on page 153) e98e 9t c Keeping a promise is the basic foundation for trust in any relationship. • 2 SAMUEL 3:35-37 | But David had made a vow... So everyone in Judah and all Israel understood that David was not responsible for Abner's murder. Consistently keeping your promises will cause people to trust that what you say is true. • 2 SAMUEL 24:24 | "No, I insist on buying it, for I will not present burnt offerings to the Lord my God that have cost me nothing. " Developing strong character involves sacrifice. Why should we be concerned about developing character? Don't we have only a few years on earth, and shouldn't we enjoy them as much as possible? • MATTHEW 5:8 "God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God. " 3x0 J Our error is often one of perspective: We believe that temporary thrills, pleasures that cater to our flesh, will make us happy. God's Word reveals the source of true, lasting happiness, and our character plays a key role in helping us discover that. 1 261280 How can I be a good example to others? cerl s to • TITUS 2:7 And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. • HEBREWS 6:12| Then you will not become spiritually dull and indifferent. Instead, you will follow the example of those who are going to inherit God's promises because of their faith and endurance. (See note on page 1112.) Strive to be the kind of example people will want to follow. A good role model does good for others. • JEREMIAH 1:10 | "Today I appoint you to stand up against nations and kingdoms. " ! A good role model not only does what is right but speaks out against wrong. • HEBREWS 5:12 | You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. A good role model teaches others about God's ways. • 1 TIMOTHY 4:12 | Don't let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an orD example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. Age need not be a anniert being a god role model & lo enon • MATTHEW 5:13 | "You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? " A good role model influences others for good rather than being easily influenced by evil. riT • HOSEA 6:3 | Let us press on to know him. erit beraldsize bo iesはfu8 Being a good role model doesn't mean you are perfect, but that you are striving for maturity. • MATTHEW 20:28 | "For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others. " ea Being a good role model doesn't make you a celebrity; it makes you a servant. w stigasa • EXODUS 23:24 | "You must not worship the gods of these nations... or imitate their evil • srt to aelqionng • evil neo arewel practices. " Every person on earth is a role model of something to someone. We all follow examples, *s and we all set an example for others. Our personal presence not only influences others in matters of daily living, but also for good or evil, Christ or Satan. What kind of example have •3 frowra orld to ezoquc aris ei terW you been exhibiting lately to others? 59) • 1 CORINTHIANS 11:1 | And you should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ. TA/S 2TOA Remember to follow the ultimate role model. In other people, we find assorted characteristics we would like to follow. In Jesus Christ, we find all of the characteristics we would like to follow. When you have a question about what to do, ask what Jesus would have done. • EZEKIEL 5:14-15. | You will become an object of mockery... You will be a warning to all the nations around you. (See note on page 732.) 3./ A life characterized by sin becomes an example of what not to be likeneutni bas boop Character continued What does the Bible mean when it says my life is to produce "good fruit "? • PSALM 1:3 | They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. • ISAIAH 5:4 | What more could I have done for my vineyard? The Bible often uses metaphors of trees and vines to paint a picture of how people should be useful and productive. As God's follower you are to live a life that bears the healthy fruit of righteousness, justice, kindness, love, and truth - all important and productive means of growing God's Kingdom on earth. These good deeds served to others will leave a wonderful taste in their mouths for God and his way of living. • MATTHEW 13:23 | "The seed that fell on good soil represents those who truly hear and understand God's word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted! " (See note on page 874.) • LUKE 6:44-45 | "A tree is identified by its fruit.!. A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart. " Just as an apple can look good on the outside but be full of worms, so the fruit God o desires in you is not the external appearance of goodness but the internal authenticity of a heart that truly wants to love and serve him. Having false pretenses or pretending to be spiritual shows a rotten core which cannot be productive. A good heart is the key to br producing good deeds. Joy hostent ins "PROMISES FROM GOD • JAMES 1:4 | When your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. • 1 TIMOTHY 4:12, 16 | Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity... Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you. Choices See Decisions Church See also Mercy & Grace; Presence Of God; Serving; Unity & Teamwork; Worship The church is often under criticism because it is made up of imperfect human beings. But that's just the point. God established the church as a place of community where both believers in Jesus and nonbelievers are welcomed, where God's truth is taught, and where everyone can find support, encouragement, and unconditional love. Even though Satan tries to attack the church, Jesus promises us that the church will not be overcome. Despite what we hear on the news, the church is still God's house: a place of community, worship, and support for believers, a place to learn about who God is and how his followers can live out the principles of the Christian faith. God will always use the church as his divine instrument to proclaim his message of salvation and to overcome evil What is the purpose of the church? Do I really need the church? • ACTS 2:47 | And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved. 191 The church is a gathering place for those who are saved by faith in Christ. •• 1 CORINTHIANS 3:16-17 | Don't you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in you? … For God's temple is holy, and you are that The church is not the physical building, but the believers who gather inside it. Together, with other Christians, you learn how, with the help of the Holy Spirit, to truly change for good and influence others because of your changed life. page A55 • REVELATION 19:7-8 "Let us be glad and rejoice, and let us give honor to him. For the time has come for the wedding feast of the Lamb, and his bride has prepared herself. She has been given the finest of pure white linen to wear. " The church is Christ's bride— a picture of the intimate fellowship that God's people will enjoy with him. • EPHESIANS 1:22-23 | 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. God does so much of his work in the world through the church. It is where the people of God are equipped with the resurrection power of Jesus Christ to be his representatives to the world! When you come together with this vision, you can have confidence that God will be at work and you can, with his help, do more than you could ever on imagine. • HEBREWS 10:25 | 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. 213A • ACTS 12:5 | But while Peter was in prison, the church prayed very earestly for him. A community of believers not only provides an organized means of preaching and teaching God's Word, but also provides a chance to regularly get together with other believers to strengthen, encourage and build each other up, pray for each other, hold each other accountable, and meet each other's needs. God promises to join you whenever you meet together. 213Aa • 1 CORINTHIANS 12:12-13 | 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. S:S VHTOMIT S All believers together form God's family, but only by meeting together can you bond and form true community. The church is a place where Christians learn to work together in unity, and where the differences between people are reconciled by the Holy Spirit. When you meet together, you can build each other up and help each other. Why should I be involved in church? • PSALM 84:4 | What joy for those who can live in your house, always singing your 15 praises. ati xot yE1g L ถ่ว อกน • ACTS 2:42-47 | All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, and to fellowship... A deep sense of awe came over them all... And all the believers met together in one place... They worshiped together... met in homes... and shared their meals with great joy and generosity— all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. Even though God lives in the heart of every believer, he also lives in the community of the church. When the church is gathered together, it meets God in a special way. Just like actually being at a concert or sports event is so much more exciting than watching it on television, participating with other believers in worshiping God is so much more meaningful than worshiping alone. 2191 • ROMANS 12:4-5 | 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. God has given every believer special gifts- some are great organizers and administrators, while others are gifted musicians, teachers, and dishwashers! When everyone in the congregation uses their gifts to serve, the church becomes a powerful force for good, a strong witness for Jesus, and a mighty army to combat Satan's attacks against God's people in your community. The church needs you, for the body of Christ is not complete unless you are there! • EPHESIANS 4:16 | 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 3, томрлюз 100 growing and full of love. Church continued • 1 THESSALONIANS 5:11 | So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. Good friends are a wonderful gift, but fellowship at church among other believers is unique because the living God is in your midst. The church brings people together who have a common perspective on life. Christian fellowship provides a place of honest sharing about oh the things that really matter, encouragement to stay strong in the face of temptation and persecution, and unique wisdom to deal with problems. What kinds of things should the church do? • MATTHEW 28:18-20 | 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. " • ACTS 13:2-3 | One day.. the Holy Spirit said, "Appoint Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them. " So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way. Some of the primary jobs of the church are to bring the Good News of salvation to those who haven't heard it and help them become believers, baptize them, and teach them: • ACTS 2:42-44 | All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals... And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. Key functions of the church include teaching, fellowship, worship, and prayer. • 2 TIMOTHY 4:2 | Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching. There is a special and unique role for the church to teach and preach -the public proclamation of God's Word. • 1 TIMOTHY 5:3 | Take care of any widow who has no one else to care for her. • JAMES 5:14 | Are any of you sick? You should call for the elders of the church to come and pray over you, anointing you with oil in the name of the Lord. The church should pray for its members who are facing adversity and take special care of widows, orphans, and those in need. 192 How can we have hope for the church? • MATTHEW 16:18 J "Upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. " The church will not be overcome; Jesus promises that he will build his church. The Lord is using the church as his divine instrument to overcome evil with good. What if I don't like the church I'm attending or the people in it? • ROMANS 12:9, 16 | Don't just pretend to love others. Really love them... Hold tightly to what is good.. Live in harmony with each other. Don't be too proud to enjoy the a company of ordinary people, And dont think you know it alll id tit It's easy to like people who are likable. But you model God's love when you serve those who are annoying. You'll never find a perfect church; you'll never find a perfect group -even among Christians! So don't go looking for that. Instead, make sure you are attending a church that is teaching right doctrine and has a place for you to serve. Then take joy in reaching out to and loving those God has placed in your circle PROMISE FROM GOD • MATTHEW 16:18 | "Upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. " Comfort See also Compassion; Friendship; Serving INGO Suppose you get into bis trouble and need help. More than likely you will seek legal help, someone to come alongside you and plead your case — an advocate. That kind of person. would be a great comfort to you. We hope beyond hope that our advocate is also a person of compassion, and while he or she is there to plead our case, that person will also bring a personal comfort and compassion to us. Friends and family can be comforters. Comfort is relief from burdens, encouragement for a new day, exhortation to rise above the burdens that afflict us, and hope that the pain and suffering will ultimately end. Just being there with us is perhaps the greatest source of comfort, Whether at the funeral! home, when we're wrestling with a problem alone, or when others stand against us. " Oppressors stand above us, adversaries stand against us, but comforters stand beside us. But God is our ultimate comforter, through the constant presence of the Holy Spirit. Let him be with you in all of life's ups and downs. When I'm in trouble, where should I go first for comfort? to totmos i nes voH • PSALM 119:52 | I meditate on your age-old regulations; O LORD, they comfort me. "ot • 2 THESSALONIANS 2:16-17 | May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who .. gave us eternal comfort and a wonderful hope, comfort you and strengthen you in every good thing you do and say. (See note on page 1089.) Since God is our ultimate comfort, his Word is our greatest resource for comfort. God's Word is as close as your fingertips, and God himself is as close as your whispered prayer. When does God comfort me? 92091 • PSALM 23:4 | Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. • MATTHEW 5:4 | "God blesses those who mour, for they will be comforted. " 2170/1103 When you grieve. 3MAIHTMIRO3S PSALM 147:3 He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds. F165ram When you are discouraged. Ide gd • EXODUS 14:13 | But Moses told the people, "Don't be afraid. Just stand still and watch the LorD rescue you today. " 00 ₴80 oD eyew erit edmernef • PSALM 145:14 | The LorD helps the fallen and lifts those bent beneath their loads. W When you are overwhelmed. • JOHN 16:33 | "Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, s because I have overcome the world. " • 1 PETER 5:7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. When you are persecuted. Mig iseng A snitons eno of pribnele • ISAIAH 41:10 | "Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for Lam your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. " Т: 1 МОМЗДНЯ • PSALM 138:3 | As soon as I pray, you answer me; you encourage me by giving me strength. anpitos baix rifi amerite holmop nso uoy When you face conflict. • GENESIS 26:24 | "Do not be afraid, for I am with you and will bless you. " o oot top i nso MARK 6:50 | But Jesus spoke to them at once, "Don't be afraid, " he said. "Take courage! I am here! " (See note on page 902, 121 vo berte br aretrigub ows bad stiw When you are afraid. moo neewied soneratib a • PSALM 41:3 | The LoRD nurses them when they are sick and restores them to health. When we are sick. • ACTS 23:11 | That night the Lord appeared to Paul and said, "Be encouraged, Paul. Just as you have been a witness to me here in Jerusalem, you must preach the Good News in • id unw onectora Rome as well. " 9.99 Comfort continued • ROMANS 8:28 | 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. When you wonder about your plans for the future. Will God really take time to involve himself in my little problems? • ISAIAH 40:11 | He will feed his flock like a shepherd. He will carry the lambs in his arms. He will gently lead the mother sheep with their young. God has a shepherd's heart. We are his lambs, weak and discouraged, carried in his arms. • NAHUM 1:7 | The LORD is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those n who trust in him. (See note on page 828.) A God who is good wants to comfort his loved ones. How can I comfort others? • JOB 2:11, I. 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. (See note on page 453.) You can be with them in their time of need. Just being there speaks volumes about how much you care. • JOB 21:2 | "Listen closely to what I am saying. That's one consolation you can give me. " You can be a good listener. It is usually more important for you to listen than to talk. • RUTH 2:13 | "I hope I continue to please you, sir, " she replied. "You have comforted me by speaking so kindly to me, even though I am not one of your workers. " • 1 CORINTHIANS 14:3 | But one who prophesies strengthens others, encourages them, and comforts them. You can speak kind and encouraging words. • 2 CORINTHIANS 1:3-4 | All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. 12 Remember the ways God has comforted you, and model that same comfort to others. When you have experienced God's assuring love, his guiding wisdom, and his sustaining power, you are able to comfort others with understanding. The comforted become the comforters. • 2 CORINTHIANS 1:7 | We are confident that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in the comfort God gives us. (See note on page 1047.) A great privilege of believers is to share the vulnerability of offering comfort and understanding to one another. If you see vulnerability as a negative thing, you will always have trouble sharing with others. If you see it as a way to deeper and healthier relationships, you will learn to develop it. • PHILEMON 1:7 | Your love has given me much joy and comfort, my brother, for your kindness has often refreshed the hearts of God's people. You can comfort others with kind actions. Can I get too comfortable? DID MON Y • GENESIS 19:16 | When Lot still hesitated, the angels seized his hand and the hands of his wife and two daughters and rushed them to safety outside the city. (See note on page 18.) There is a difference between comfort and being comfortable. When we get too comfort-able, we can lose our zeal for God and become useless to him. What can I take comfort in? • JOHN 3:16 | "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. " page A59 • JOHN 6:37 | "Those the Father has given me will come to me, and I will never reject them. " Our greatest comfort is in knowing that we can be saved from sin and live eternally with God in heaven, where all sin and fear and trouble have disappeared. PROMISES FROM GOD • PSALM 34:18 | The LoRD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. ₫ 95 • 2 CORINTHIANS 1:5 The more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. Commitment See also Accountability: Discipline; Faithfulness 000 ch The achievement of any goal or purpose requires commitment — whether for good or for evil. The Bible speaks of commitment in both negative and positive ways: "committing " a sin (Deuteronomy 22:22) and "commit everything you do to the Lord " (Psalm 37:5). Each alternative involves making a decision, turning oneself over to something or some-one, a focused and sometimes costly perseverance, and then reaping the negative consequences or positive rewards of our commitment. Understanding commitment and learning to commit our hearts, minds, and bodies is central to a life of faith. In fact, faith devoid of commitment is dead. Why is commitment so important? A:a WHOL o PSALM 25:10| The Lord leads with unfailing love and faithfulness all who keep his sither; covenant and obey his demands. When you are committed to following God, he will lead you to his will for your life, ove the satisfying and fulfilling goal for which he has created you.' • PSALM 31:23 | For the LORD protects those who are loyal to him. B:ET WHOL When you are committed to God, he is committed to watching out for you and caring. for you. • RUTH 1:14 | And again they wept together, and Orpah kissed her mother-in-law good-bye. But Ruth clung tightly to Naomi. Commitment is the true mark of friendship. • 1 CORINTHIANS 13:7 | Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. 1S 31831133・ Commitment is the evidence of love for one another. What are the characteristics of a committed person? C2 30 9408 302) 1309b • PROVERBS 11:3 | Honesty guides good people. 2W31838 A loyal person is trustworthy, and therefore honest. • 1 CHRONICLES 11:18 | So the Three broke through the Philistine lines, drew some water from the well by the gate in Bethlehem, and brought it back to David. ons evol of A loyal person will make great personal sacrifices for friends. • PROVERBS 17:17 | A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of WOK AY의 이 need. A loyal person doesn't abandon a relationship when things get tough. ช่นี่ก่า0ว อสพ What does it mean to be committed to God? • MATTHEW 4:19-20 | Jesus called out to them, "Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people! " And they left their nets at once and followed him. (See note on page 863.) Commitment to follow God requires a decision of the mind followed by an act of the will, • PSALM 37:5 | Commit everything you do to the LORD. (See note on page 498.) • PROVERBS 3:6 | Seek [God's] will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Commitment continued Commitment to the Lord manifests itself in obedient trust. • LUKE 14:27-28 | "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. " (See note on page 938.) Commitment to God is costly because to follow him is to leave lesser, but very attractive, things behind. • DANIEL 3:17-18 | "If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is zi able to save us.... But even if he doesn't, we want to make it clear to you, Your Majesty, that we will never serve your gods. " Commitment is being willing to accept the sometimes painful consequences of obedience to God. When you are committed to God, there will always be those committed to opposing you and all you stand for. This is the essence of spiritual warfare, and in any battle 1o there will be some wounds. • ROMANS 12:1 | Give your bodies to God. r Commitment is more than intellectual agreement; it involves a sacrificial giving of the orwhole self. evilepe What are my most important commitments? o & MATTHEW 22:37-38-| **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. " • JOHN 6:66-69 | 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. " To love and honor God in all you do. • JOHN 13:34-35 | "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. " ®› To love all people at all times. • JOHN 15:5, 16 | "Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit... I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name. " 29 To serve the Lord by continuing Christ's work in the world. • GENESIS 2:24 | This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one. • SONG OF SONGS 8:6 | Place me like a seal over your heart. it?. For love is as strong as death. (See note on page 602.) • HEBREWS 13:4 | Give honor to marriage, and remain faithful to one another in marriage. "God will surely judge people who are immoral and those who commit adultery. To love and be devoted to your spouse. • PROVERBS 22:6 | Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it. 01 лод зі телоти To love your children and give them spiritual training and explain the gospel of Jesus to Why is commitment so hard? • NEHEMIAH 5:16 | I also devoted myself to working on the wall. (See note on page 431) Commitment is never easy; it requires courageous perseverance. What can I do if I have broken a commitment? • 1 JOHN 1:9 | If we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and - to cleanse us from all wickedness. If we break a commitment we have made to another, we have broken a trust. The only How strong is God's commitment to me? thing to do is to admit the wrong, and ask the other person— and God - to forgive us. woR • ISAIAH 46:4 | "I will be your God throughout your lifetime- until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you. " If you have put your trust in God, he has promised his total commitment to lead you and guide you for your lifetime. • TITUS 2:14 | He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing good deeds. oN snif 62 NUL God's commitment to a relationship with you is so strong that he allowed his only Son to die for your sins so that you wouldn't have to experience the ultimate punishment for sin and so that you would be able to spend eternity with him. og ano! X-I:T EWARESH, What is involved in being committed to God? ni won bad гойдоту 9і) ленотз • EXODUS 24:3 | All the people answered with one voice, has commanded. " "We will do everything the LORD • JOHN 17:4 | "I brought glory to you here on earth by completing the work you gave me to do. " Being committed to God means a resolve to try your best to obey all of God's Word in all e areas of your life. As a human being with a sinful nature, you will never be able to achieve this goal in this life (then you'd be perfect), but that should not stop you from trying. a • MATTHEW 6:24 | "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. " leshlo ssli A decision to make God first in your life. • 1 CHRONICLES 29:5 | "Now then, who will follow my example and give offerings to the LORD today? " voill su ai wsi 2'bo0 10л) • PROVERBS 3:9 Honor the LoRD with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce. ign wor voy alert of isbat A practice of giving financially to help support God's work. ood liw si ti • AMOS 5:24 | "I want to see a mighty flood of justice, an endless river of righteous living. " A lifestyle of doing good, not harm, to others and seeking justice for the oppressed. • ROMANS 6:13 | 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. A surrender of everything you are and have to him and his service, IT | A-rer MIA29 . no 191 D Mpsue vosT ni bro dires PROMISES FROM GOD • ISAIAH 40:31 | Those who trust in the LorD will find new strength. • HEBREWS 3:14 Twe are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ. ynomied bus mritvrit beissio orw e9 1ebnurt to 1sor erit enevser yare Communication See also Conflict; Friendship is euten tud arisinuom The opportunity to communicate with one another has never been easier - from smartphones to the Internet, from e-mail to video conferencing, we are always working to DA improve our ability to communicate. Why? Because communication is not just important, but essential. We like to keep in touch because it is vital to the quality and success of any relationship, whether it is marriage, friendship, family, or business. The same principle applies to our relationship with God. To know him we must communicate with him, and we must learn to listen as he communicates with us. Only then will we experience a breakthrough in our spiritual lives. The more time we spend communicating with him, the closer and more successful our relationship with him will be. When was the last time you felt in touch with God? How much time do you spend communicating with him? page A62 Communication continued How does God communicate with me? • 2 TIMOTHY 3:16-17 | All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is oH 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. God communicates with you through his Word, the Bible. Read it daily to keep in touch with him. • JOHN 1:14 | So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father's one and only Son. • HEBREWS 1:1-2 | Long ago God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets. And now in these final days, he has spoken to us through his Son. God communicates with you through his Son, Jesus Christ. Talk with him often in your day. • JOHN 14:26 | "But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative that is, the Holy Spirit-he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you. " • ROMANS 8:16 | For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God's children. God communicates with you through his Holy Spirit. Pay special attention to the way he speaks to your heart and spirit. • JOHN 8:9 | 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. • ROMANS 2:14-15 | Even Gentiles, who do not have God's written law, show that they know his law when they instinctively obey it, even without having heard it. They demonstrate that God's law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right. 2093VORA God communicates with you through your conscience, which is your God-given internal radar to help you know right from wrong. Always listen to your conscience. If you neglect it, it will become dull, and eventually you will no longer hear it. • ROMANS 1:19-20 | They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. 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. • PSALM 19:1-4 | The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his crafts-manship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. They speak without a sound or word... Yet their message has gone throughout the earth, and their words to all the world. God has made a home in the heavens for A21 the sun. God communicates with you through his creation. All nature sings about a majestic God who created rhythm and harmony in the seasons. Nature shouts the power of God in the starry heavens, the roar of thunder, earthquakes, hurricanes, and the glorious snowcapped mountains. But nature also whispers about God's mindboggling attention to detail in the wings of a butterfly, the endless variety of plants, and the complexity of DNA. Look for God's fingerprints in his handiwork and you will not be able to miss him. • ACTS 14:16-17 | "In the past he permitted all the nations to go their own ways, but he never left them without evidence of himself and his goodness. For instance, he sends you rain and good crops and gives you food and joyful hearts. " • MARK 16:6 | But the angel said, "Don't be alarmed. You are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, his body. " who was crucified. He isn't here! He is risen from the dead! Look, this is where they laid • ACTS 2:22 | "People of Israel, listen! God publicly endorsed Jesus the Nazarene by doing powerful miracles, wonders, and signs through him, as you well know. " page A62 Communication continued How does God communicate with me? • 2 TIMOTHY 3:16-17 | All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is oH 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. God communicates with you through his Word, the Bible. Read it daily to keep in touch with him. • JOHN 1:14 | So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father's one and only Son. • HEBREWS 1:1-2 | Long ago God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets. And now in these final days, he has spoken to us through his Son. God communicates with you through his Son, Jesus Christ. Talk with him often in your day. • JOHN 14:26 | "But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative that is, the Holy Spirit-he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you. " • ROMANS 8:16 | For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God's children. God communicates with you through his Holy Spirit. Pay special attention to the way he speaks to your heart and spirit. • JOHN 8:9 | 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. • ROMANS 2:14-15 | Even Gentiles, who do not have God's written law, show that they know his law when they instinctively obey it, even without having heard it. They demonstrate that God's law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right. 2093VORA God communicates with you through your conscience, which is your God-given internal radar to help you know right from wrong. Always listen to your conscience. If you neglect it, it will become dull, and eventually you will no longer hear it. • ROMANS 1:19-20 | They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. 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. • PSALM 19:1-4 | The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his crafts-manship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. They speak without a sound or word... Yet their message has gone throughout the earth, and their words to all the world. God has made a home in the heavens for A21 the sun. God communicates with you through his creation. All nature sings about a majestic God who created rhythm and harmony in the seasons. Nature shouts the power of God in the starry heavens, the roar of thunder, earthquakes, hurricanes, and the glorious snowcapped mountains. But nature also whispers about God's mindboggling attention to detail in the wings of a butterfly, the endless variety of plants, and the complexity of DNA. Look for God's fingerprints in his handiwork and you will not be able to miss him. • ACTS 14:16-17 | "In the past he permitted all the nations to go their own ways, but he never left them without evidence of himself and his goodness. For instance, he sends you rain and good crops and gives you food and joyful hearts. " • MARK 16:6 | But the angel said, "Don't be alarmed. You are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, his body. " who was crucified. He isn't here! He is risen from the dead! Look, this is where they laid • ACTS 2:22 | "People of Israel, listen! God publicly endorsed Jesus the Nazarene by doing powerful miracles, wonders, and signs through him, as you well know. " Communication continued • JEREMIAH 15:16 | "When I discovered your words, I devoured them. They are my joy and my heart's delight, for I bear your name, O LORD God of Heaven's Armies. " Just as a piano is tuned against a standard tuning fork, so you become in tune with God only when you compare yourself against the standards for living found in the Bible. As God communicates to you through the Bible, you will begin to "hear, " or discern just what he wants from you. As your "spiritual hearing " is enhanced, you will become a good listener and will be able to hear clearly when God calls you to a certain task. Would God say you are a good listener? • 1 CORINTHIANS 2:16 | "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, When you become a Christian, the Holy Spirit helps you understand the mind of Christ. He gives you guidance, wisdom, and discernment that is not available to those who don't love Why should I listen to God? • DEUTERONOMY 6:3 | "Listen closely... and be careful to obey. Then all will go well with you. " • DEUTERONOMY 28:13 | "If you listen to these commands of the LoRD your God that I am giving you today, and if you carefully obey them, the LorD will make you the head and not the tail, and you will always be on top and never at the bottom. " ev Listening opens the pipeline to God's blessings, for only when we listen do we know how Ile to receive them. no PROVERBS 1:23| Come and listen to my counsel. I'll share my heart with you and make you wise. Listening to God makes us wise. • PROVERBS 8:32 | "Listen to me, for all who follow my ways are joyful. " 9v Listening to God brings lasting happiness. • ISAIAH 46:3 | "Listen to me..... I have cared for you since you were born. " Listening to God allows him to care for us as he would like. • HOSEA 14:9 | Let those who are wise understand these things. Let those with discernment listen carefully. The paths of the LorD are true and right, and righteous people live by walking in them. (See note on page 796.) We listen to God because he is the source of all wisdom and knowledge. How do I listen to God? • PSALM 4:3 | You can be sure of this.... The LoRD will answer when I call to him. • PSALM 5:3 | Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly. Through prayer. • PSALM 46:10 | Be still, and know that I am God! Being quiet helps us hear God's voice. • 1 KINGS 19:12 | And after the earthquake there was a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire there was the sound of a gentle whisper. (See note on page 321.) 05 God is big, so we expect him to speak with the voice of thunder or lightning or earthquake or fire. But God often expresses his powerful love in gentle whispers. Listen for God's 6 whispers as well as his shouts. What does God want in my communication with him? • PSALM 145:18-19 | The LORD is close to all who call on him, yes, to all who call on him in truth. He grants the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cries for help and rescues them. • HEBREWS 11:6 | 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. God wants you to be sincere when you talk to him. To be sincere means to be honest about your motives, and to talk to him because you want to, not because you are supposed to. 29月2¥0月4 • EPHESIANS 3:12 | Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come boldly and confidently into God's presence. • HEBREWS 10:22'| Let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully 9 trusting him. God wants you to approach him with confidence. • COLOSSIANS 4:2 | Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. God wants you to make your communication with him a priority. Devote yourself to regular, consistent prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. stall • 1 THESSALONIANS 5:17 | Never stop praying. everito foeges TS.eS BOL pninelai! God wants your communication with him to be often and persistent. Never give up when God seems slow to answer. 12 onw sort CHIS ASAVORS • PSALM 63:1-8 | 0 God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you. .. I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer. You satisfy me more than the richest feast... I lie awake thinking of you, meditating on you through the night.... I cling to you. God, the more you on tate your reverence and worship for him. The more you know God, the more you long for him. • JOB 13:23 | "Tell me, what have I done wrong? Show me my rebellion and my sin. " l • PSALM 26:2 Put me on trial, LoRD, and cross-examine me. Test my motives and 1099 my heart. • PSALM 32:5 | Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt. I said to myself, "I will confess my rebellion to the LORD. " And you forgave me! All my guilt neito el is gone. God wants you to ask him where sin has a stronghold in your life. Then he wants you to be honest and vulnerable about it and confess it so he can remove it. Confession will restore your communication with God when sin has restrained your relationship with him. 39 199 0T10| • PSALM 143:19 Teach me to do your will, for you are my God, mo 20 mor svol Toy • LUKE 22:42 | "Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine. " nivol rento e ritiw bion ne neao ge God wants to communicate his will for you, so you must be open to what he wants you to do. His plan for you will always lead to a more fulfilling life ord 1090l T:6 2MAITAJAQ。 • COLOSSIANS 1:9 So we have not stopped praying for you since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you complete knowledge of his will and to give you spiritual wisdom 0 2hDru9D and understanding TO • 1 TIMOTHY 2:1 | I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; s intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them, ent of neteil bris of noitnette yea God wants your communication with him to include others and their needs. You aren't the only one who needs God's help! nied,es woy worle of belovni jee nia isivoiheq s to • 1 TIMOTHY 4:4 F Since everything God created is good, we should not reject any of it but receive it with thanks. w 4:08 HAIAZI ° PHILIPPIANS 4:6| Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. God wants you to communicate to him with an attitude of gratitude. What are the last 1:&S ATJA three wonderful things God did for you? Have you thanked him?: 0 stoled bevil 800 199 verone N2 Why is listening so important? 30l • PROVERBS 1:9 | What you learn from them will crown you with grace and be a chain of 0:4 8441820100 honor around your neck. Listening helps us grow and mature. page A66 Communication continued • PROVERBS 5:13 | Oh, why didn't I listen to my teachers? Why didn't I pay attention to my instructors? Listening helps keep us accountable. • PROVERBS 2:1, 9 | My child, listen to what I say... Then … you will find the right way to go. Listening is essential to good decision making. • PROVERBS 8:6 | "Listen to me! For I have important things to tell you. " Listening keeps us from being closed-minded. • EXODUS 18:24 | Moses listened to his father-in-law's advice and followed his suggestions. • JOB 29:21 | "Everyone listened to my advice. " Listening shows that we respect others. It honors the words of others. There is something affirming about feeling that you've been listened to. • PROVERBS 21:13 | Those who shut their ears to the cries of the poor will be ignored in their own time of need. Listening is more than hearing; it's connecting with others. It helps us know where they are coming from. How do I really listen? • GENESIS 44:15 | "What have you done? " Joseph demanded. Listening involves asking questions. Joseph wanted to listen to how his brothers answered this question, because their answer would reveal whether their hearts had changed. • PROVERBS 15:32 | If you listen to correction, you grow in understanding. Listening involves an openness to advice. • PROVERBS 15:28 | The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking. Listening often involves talking less. How can I best communicate with others? • 2 CORINTHIANS 6:11-13 | Oh, dear Corinthian friends! We have spoken honestly with you, and our hearts are open to you. There is no lack of love on our part, but you have withheld your love from us. I am asking you to respond as if you were my own children. Open your hearts to us! Be open and candid with each other, lovingly confronting issues that cause conflict. Develop a humble heart that is open to honest feedback and change. • GALATIANS 6:1 | 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. • 1 THESSALONIANS 2:7 | As apostles of Christ we certainly had a right to make some demands of you, but instead we were like children among you. Or we were like a mother feeding and caring for her own children. Pay attention to and listen to the needs and struggles of those around you. When you know there is a problem, especially when you know a fellow believer is caught in the habit of a particular sin, get involved to show you care, being kind and gentle but firm in the process. Then you will see the lines of communication open dramatically. • ISAIAH 50:4 | The Sovereign LORD has given me his words of wisdom, so that I know how to comfort the weary. Morning by morning he wakens me and opens my understanding to his will. In any communication, you need the Lord's wisdom and understanding. Seek it first. • ACTS 23:1 | Gazing intently at the high council, Paul began: "Brothers, I have always lived before God with a clear conscience! " the eye. Strive to have a clear conscience so that you will be credible and able to look others in • COLOSSIANS 4:6 | Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone. page A67 • EPHESIANS 4:29 | 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. Your words should be gracious, effective, good, helpful, and encouraging to others. Foul, abusive, and angry words are never helpful. • PROVERBS 13:17 | An unreliable messenger stumbles into trouble, but a reliable messenger brings healing. Be a reliable source of communication, trusted to be honest and truthful. • 2 CORINTHIANS 1:13-14| Our letters have been straightforward, and there is nothing written between the lines and nothing you can't understand. I hope someday you will fully understand us, even if you don't understand us now. Then on the day when the Lord Jesus returns, you will be proud of us in the same way we are proud yriw of you. Be straightforward and clear so you can help people grow to maturity. Don't use complicated words to strut your knowledge, and avoid using "Christianese " (code words only other believers might know when talking with new believers. • 2 CORINTHIANS 6:4, 8 | In everything we do, we show that we are true ministers of God.... We serve God whether people honor us or despise us, whether they slander us or praise us. We are honest. odi THE 9T Remember that the way you live communicates much about God and what it means to be a Christian. What you do may speak much more eloquently than what you say. What kinds of words should I speak? • DEUTERONOMY 6:6-7 | "And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. " Talk about God's Word regularly. • GENESIS 50:21 | So he reassured them by speaking kindly to them. Speak kind words to others. 8ROIS • JOB 16:5 | But if it were me, I would encourage you. I would try to take away your grief. • EPHESIANS 4:29 | Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Use words that build others up. • PROVERBS 15:4 | Gentle words are a tree of life. 0-110| • PROVERBS 25:15 | Patience can persuade a prince. Speak to others with patience and gentleness— particularly in times of conflict. • 1 PETER 3:9 | Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will grant you his blessing. Use your words to bless others, even when others' words injure you. • ZECHARIAH 8:16 | "Tell the truth to each other. Render verdicts in your courts that are just and that lead to peace. " Speak truthfully, in a way that promotes justice and peace. What are the consequences of poor communication? • PROVERBS 18:21 | The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences. (See note on page 574.) • JAMES 3:8-10 | But no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison. 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! (See note on page 1123.) Communication continued (sYnol | eS:A 24A129H93 • 2 TIMOTHY 2:14 Remind everyone about these things, and command them in God's presence to stop fighting over words. Such arguments are useless, and they can ruin those трла олв sv who hear them. • PROVERBS 26:6 | Trusting a fool to convey a message is like cutting off one's feet or drinking poison! Poor communication almost always leads to conflict, quarreling, gossip, rumors, and hurt feelings. Learning to tame your tongue and choose your words carefully is strategic to good communication. Why would someone want to listen to me? • 1 SAMUEL 3:19 | As Samuel grew up, the LoRD was with him, and everything Samuel said proved to be reliable. • 1 KINGS 10:24 | People from every nation came to consult him and to hear the wisdom (word tri God had given him. • ACTS 16:25 | Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening. (See note on page 997.) Most people are attracted to godly wisdom. While our ungodly neighbors may not identify ad it as God's wisdom, they will want it because it makes so much sense. terit 19 What are some things I shouldn't listen to? • GENESIS 3:6 | Its fruit looked delicious.. So she took some of the fruit and ate it. • MATTHEW 6:13 | "And don't let us yield to temptation. " Temptation. • LEVITICUS 19:16 | "Do not spread slanderous gossip among your people. Gossip. • 2 PETER 2:1 | But there were also false prophets in Israel, just as there will be false teachers among you. • MAN 13:21 "Then if anyone tells you, "Look, here is the Messiah, or "There he is, don't False teaching. •'EPHESIANS 5:4 | Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes— these are not for you. • PROVERBS 12:18 | Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring Insults and off-color stories. • PROVERBS 13:5 | The godly hate lies. Lies. • PROVERBS 29:5| To flatter friends is to lay a trap for their feet. Flattery. PROMISES FROM GOD • PROVERBS 10:20 | The words of the godly are like sterling silver. • EPHESIANS 4:29 | Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. 30091 Compassion See also Comfort; Forgiveness; Mercy & Grace; Serving When we think of someone's having compassion, we think of a person "with a heart. " Someone without compassion is someone to be feared - ruthless, unmerciful, callous, no heart, Compassion is both an emotion (to be moved deeply in your gut to want to help someone) and an action (you don't just want to help someone but are compelled to 8 do so -being moved to the point of action). Jesus felt great compassion for the crowds of people following him and were desperately searching for meaning and longing and healing. And his compassion compelled him to teach, feed, and heal them. Compassion is a tearing of the heart, a true caring, something deeply seated in our emotions as we respond to another in need. In many ways, compassion is a litmus test of our commitment and desire to love others as Christ loves us. To be Christike is also to share in his compassionate feelings toward the heedy, particularly the needy who cannot help them-selves. If we are not moved to action by the incredible heeds and hurts around us, we are developing hearts of stone that will soon become too hard to respond to others. How does God show his compassion to me? seencun） 3002 191 ｜ 8reY MJAaN ・ PSALM 103:8 | The LORD is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. • PSALM 103:13 | The LORD is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him. God shows his compassion to you by giving you blessings you don't deserve, and by not were intended to be. giving you what you really deserve. Instead he forgives you and restores you to what you UG.P How can I show compassion to others? WSHTTAMI • LUKE 10:33 | "Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him. " bosteri 83493 9 See people in need as God sees them —as people made in his image as people he deeply loves. mers aler ot a • LUKE 10:34 | "Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him. " SS:8t 3H3W 이 Don't just feel moved by someone in need, but move toward them to help in any way you can. Do something tangible to serve them. • 2 CORINTHIANS 8:9 | You know the generous grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty he could make you rich. In his love and compassion for you, Jesus gave up his most high position to come to earth and die for your sins. Your goal, as a believer in Jesus, is to develop that same depth of love and compassion for others, where you would be willing even to give up your life for their sake. • JOB 5:27 "We have studied life and found all this to be true. Listen to my counsel, and apply it to yourself. " (See note on page 455) tier-bn Joy bns Be very careful giving advice to hurting people; first they need compassion, Job's friends were not very compassionate to him when he lost everything, thus their advice was not, ni helpful. nep eeble tiod tedt oa nois What can I learn about God's compassion that can help me be more an see compassionate? Ew a'bol 10 on 0 LAMENTATIONS 3:22-23 | The faithful love of the LorD never ends!... Great is his qu evie faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. Idsiggsos • MARK 1:41 | Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out and touched him. "I am willing, " he said. "Be healed! " (See note on page 896.). • PSALM 72:13-14 | He feels pity for the weak and the needy, and he will rescue them. He will redeem them from oppression and violence, for their lives are precious to him. A compassion like God's is persistent and consistent. • EXODUS 34:6 | The LoRD passed in front of Moses, calling out, "Yahweh! The LORD! The God of compassion and mercy! I am slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and enriemoe qu evig faithfulness. " elsaven as boa to liv A compassion like God's is slow to get angry. Compassion continued • LUKE 6:35-36 | "He is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked. You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate. " (See note on page 927.) A compassion like God's is based on the loving heart of the giver, not the loving heart of the recipient. • PSALM 51:1 | Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins. A compassión like God's gives mercy when it isn't deserved. • PSALM 79:8 | Let your compassion quickly meet our needs, for we are on the brink of despair. • LUKE 7:13-15 | When the Lord saw her, his heart overflowed with compassion. ... Then he walked over to the coffin and touched it.... "Young man, " he said, "I tell you, get up. " Then the dead boy sat up and began to talk! (See note on page 927.) A compassion like God's takes action in meeting people's needs. • ISAIAH 54:7 | "For a brief moment I abandoned you, but with great compassion I will take u you back. " A compassion like God's pursues others to love and serve, even if they have rejected or abandoned you. • MATTHEW 14:14 | Jesus saw the huge crowd as he stepped from the boat, and he had compassion on them and healed their sick. • EPHESIANS 4:32 | Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, a just as God through Christ has forgiven you. A compassion like God's forgives others and wants to help them. Why does God have such compassion for his people? • NEHEMIAH 13:22 | 0 my God! Have compassion on me according to your great and uo unfailing love. (See note on page 440.) God's compassion flows from the depths of a heart of goodness. NiPROMISE EROM GOD • PSALM 72:12 P [God] will rescue the poor when they cry to him; he will help the oppressed, who have no one to defend them. Compromise See also Communication; Conflict; Unity & Teamwork I want my way and you want your way, and neither of us will give a little to get much. How can we move forward? This is a familiar story, whether in business, in marriage, in parent-child relationships, or in any relationship. Compromise is the art of negotiation so that both sides can win. There is a time to compromise-by giving a little, each side gains much. Progress is made. But there is a time not to compromise. When the forces of evil want their way, we cannot give in, even a little. To compromise God's truth or God's ways or God's Word even a little is to negotiate away that which is holy. To give up an ounce of holiness to gain a pound of worldliness is not a bargain. The test of acceptable compromise is simple: Do both sides ultimately win through compromise? Unacceptable compromise is giving up too much to get too little. When is compromise appropriate and how do we effectively compromise? • EZRA 10:3-4 "We will follow the advice given by you and by the others who respect the commands of our God. Let it be done according to the Law of God. Get up, for it is your duty to tell us how to proceed in setting things straight. We are behind you, so be strong and take action. " Within the will of God and the commands he has given in Scripture, it is healthy to mutualy will of God as revealed in Scripture. give up something for the common good. But it is never appropriate to compromise the page A71 • ROMANS 14:15 | And if another believer is distressed by what you eat, you are not acting in love if you eat it. Don't let your eating ruin someone for whom Christ died. • ROMANS 15:1 | We who are strong must be considerate of those who are sensitive about things like this. We must not just please ourselves. To maintain unity in the body of Christ, a Christian must be willing to avoid or give up doing certain things. This may require compromising personal preferences, though never essential Christian beliefs. Sometimes we must compromise so that we don't offend others or cause them to stumble in their faith. • MATTHEW 5:24 | "Leave your sacrifice there at the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person. Then come and offer your sacrifice to God. " Dbnd.al Seeking God's approval first requires reconciliation with God's people. Reconciliation s means giving up lesser things to gain greater things. • PHILIPPIANS 2:2 Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. Sometimes we should compromise for the sake of unity in the church. Agreement may mean giving up something "! " want for the sake of what "we " want. i selmon • 008 What's wrong with just a little sin if it could help me accomplish something bigger? • EXODUS 34:12 | "Be very careful never to make a treaty with the people who live in the land where you are going. If you do, you will follow their evil ways and be trapped. " it onA • 2 JOHN 1:9 | Anyone who wanders away from this teaching has no relationship with God. (See note on page 1144.) • REVELATION 2:14 | "But I have a few complaints against you. You tolerate some among you whose teaching is like that of Balaam, who showed Balak how to trip up the people of Israel. He taught them to sin by eating food offered to idols and by committing sexual sin. " Compromise can dull our sensitivity to sin. A little sin is just as bad as a lot of sin. Sin is sin, and sin is wrong. • JUDGES 16:1 One day Samson went to the Philistine town of Gaza and spent the night with a prostitute. ОН ° Trading morals, national leadership, and allegiance to one's people for a night of pleasure is a bad compromise. It is giving up too much to get too little. Trading the best of life for a moment of pleasure is a foolish choice. 1B 130505 How do I live in today's culture without compromising my convictions? • DANIEL 1:8-14 | Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food... He asked... permission not to eat these unacceptable foods.... «Please test us for ten days on a diet of vegetables and water, " Daniel said. ... The attendant agreed to Daniel's suggestion. Stand up for what is right and true, but in a respectful manner. Sometimes, as in Daniel's case, we are respected for our beliefs; other times we are not. • HEBREWS 3:12-13 | Be careful then, dear brothers and sisters. Make sure that your own hearts are not evil and unbelieving, turning you away from the living God. You must warn each other every day, while it is still "today, " so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God. Always be on the alert when living or working with those who don't see sin as something wrong. You can easily find yourself compromising and agreeing to do "little " sins. This will eventually dull your sensitivity to sin. A little sin now and then can lead to a life defined by sin. • DANIEL 12:13 | "As for you, go your way until the end. " (See note on page 785) Keep your eyes and heart focused on God's Word, and live according to what it says. are How can I learn to recognize the areas in which I am most likely to compromise? • JUDGES 16:15-17 | "How can you tell me, 'I love you,' when you don't share your secrets with me? " . She tormented him with her nagging day after day until.. Samson shared 91A9 his secret with her. (See note on page 232.) We are most likely to compromise in areas where we are spiritually weak. ОСМИ page A72 Compromise continued When I am negotiating for a compromise, how do I know if I'm about to make ha bad bargain? • 1 SAMUEL 8:19-20 | But the people refused to listen to Samuel's warning. "Even so, we still want a king, " they said. "We want to be like the nations around us. Our king will judge us and lead us into battle. " (See note on page 251.) The people were willing to lose personal and religious freedoms to win military might. Compromise is a bad deal when you trade eternal loyalties for temporal ones. Is bad compromise always trading away something good? • 2 KINGS 3:2 | He did what was evil in the LORD's sight, but not to the same extent as his father and mother. He at least tore down the sacred pillar of Baal that his father had set up. • 2 KINGS 15:3-4 | [Uzziah) did what was pleasing in the LORD's sight, just as his father, Amaziah, had done. But he did not destroy the pagan shrines, and the people still offered sacrifices and burned incense there. (See note on page 341,) °' Bad compromise is not always just a bad trade; sometimes it is failing to take the action that you and God know is right. Doing nothing when you know God wants you to do something is another form of bad compromise. ST:AE 2000X3。 Are there certain relationships that can more quickly lead me to compromise? 8 2 CORINTHIANS 6:14-15 | Don't team up with those who are unbelievers. How can L s righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness? What g harmony can there be between Christ and the devil? How can a believer be a partner lo with an unbeliever? (See note on page 1051) • 2 CHRONICLES 18:1 | Jehoshaphat enjoyed great riches and high esteem, and he made an alliance with Ahab of Israel. • EZRA 4:1-2 | The enemies of Judah and Benjamin heard that the exiles were rebuilding a Temple to the LorD... [They] said, "Let us build with you, for we worship your God. " • ROMANS 12:2 | Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform eiyou into a new person. vien ,alerom 8 Partnership, in business or marriage, is teaming up with another to act as one. God warns against a partnership in which one loves God and the other doesn't, for how can these two different belief systems act as one? 19 PROMISE PROM GOD • EPHESIANS 6:11 Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against e all strategies of the devil. Confession See Forgiveness; Mercy & Grace; Repentance Conflict See also Adversity; Communication; Criticism; Patience; Peace; Persecution; Spiritual Warfare; Unity & Teamwork Grown men stand toe to toe, faces beet red, veins standing out on their necks as they shout at each other, "I was safe! " "You were out! " "Safe! " "Out! " If a ball player disagrees with an umpire's call, a spectacular and entertaining argument sometimes ensues. Since people have differing opinions on everything from politics to sports to religion, conflict seems to be a given in human relationships. The Bible does not hide from the issue of conflict, nor does it condemn all conflict as sinful. From Moses to David to Jesus to Paul, the Bible's greatest figures found themselves in conflict-with someone or something. According to the Bible there is nothing inherently wrong with conflict. Disagreements happen. But the way we are to resolve our conflicts is extremely important. Conflict can become the catalyst to greater understanding, inti- macy, and depth of relationship; or it can bring anger, bitterness, and broken relation-ships. How you deal with conflict will literally shape the direction of your life. How does conflict start? hotog sd brn fanot of sldn 9d • 2 SAMUEL 15:6-12 | Absalom … stole the hearts of all the peopl... And the conspiracy gained momentum. (See note on page 285.) Conflict begins when you aren't getting what you want so you confront someone to try to get it. You want someone's behavior to be different, you want your way on some issue, you want to win, you want some possession, you want someone's loyalty. The list can go on and on. When the other person isn't willing to give you what you want, you find yourself in conflict that can sometimes lead to open warfare. • ACTS 15:39 Their disagreement was so sharp that they separated. Conflict begins when two opposing viewpoints are not willing to find common ground. • ESTHER 3:2-6 But Mordecai refused to bow... (Haman] was filled with rage... He decided it was not enough to lay hands on Mordecai alone... He looked for a way to destroy all the Jews throughout the entire empire. Conflict begins when your pride is hurt and you seek revenge. eerit s zeniltuo eucel • ROMANS 7:19 I want to do what is good, but I don't. I don't want to do what is wrong, oM but I do it anyway. (See note on page 1018.) SHTTAM • Conflict begins when good confronts evil. The two cannot peacefully coexist. One must triumph. • ROMANS 7:22-23 | I love God's law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still oos within me. nature and the ne rist experience conflict within themselves between the old sinful no. nature and the new spiritual nature. • MATTHEW 23:23-24 "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. Blind guides! " Joy f69 eb lliw eri There are times when you must actually initiate conflict in order to speak for truth and justice. Jesus confronted the Pharisees not only for their hypocritical behavior, but also because of their destructive influence as teachers and leaders. 29010s Owt 925i IT 291129b ЭТА 02 19 What are some ways to resolve conflict? q? dol er iva • GENESIS 13:8-9 | Abram said to Lot, "Let's not allow this conflict to come between us or our herdsmen.. Take your choice of any section of the land. " Solving conflict takes initiative; someone must make the first move, Abram gave Lot first choice, putting family peace above personal desires siw toilinod airt emil revO stuten • GENESIS 26:21-22 | Isaac's men then dug another well, but again there was a dispute elbien lutnia over it... [He] dug another well. This time there was no dispute. Solving conflict takes humility, a desire to see peace more than personal victory. ey omoe • 2 SAMUEL 3:1 | That was the beginning of a long war between those who were loyal to Saul and those loyal to David. (See note on page 275.) Solving conflict involves compromise, finding common ground that is bigger than your differences. If neither side is willing to take the initiative or show the necessary humility to seek common ground, conflict will result in a broken relationship or even war. • NUMBERS 12:1-2 | Miriam and Aaron criticized Moses because he had married a Cushite woman. They said, "Has the LorD spoken only through Moses? Hasn't he spoken through us, too? " (See note on page 133.) Solving conflict requires that we focus on, the real issue. We focus only on resolving the eepitesiat lis trigh ol tea yah eno liw bris runt problem, not attacking the person. page A74 Conflict continued • 2 TIMOTHY 2:24 | A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. When someone disagrees with what you are saying, maintain a gracious, gentle, and patient attitude instead of becoming angry and defensive. How do I keep a conflict from getting out of control? • PROVERBS 17:27 | A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even-tempered. Words can be used as tools or weapons and therefore must be used carefully. • MATTHEW 5:24 | "Go and be reconciled to that person. " We are not to "bury " or deny conflicts; instead, we should take immediate steps to resolve them. • MATTHEW 18:15-17 | "If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. " Jesus outlines a three-step process for confronting major conflicts among believers. How can we ever hope to resolve conflict with an enemy? • MATTHEW 5:43-45 | "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! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. " (See note on page 865.) Human nature loves friends and hates enemies. But Jesus brought a new command that adds a divine perspective-if you want to resolve conflict, reach out in love to your enemy. Sometimes it seems that I am at war with myself. There is a conflict within. What's the outcome of that? • MATTHEW 12:25 | "Any kingdom divided by civil war is doomed. A town or family splintered by feuding will fall apart. " (See note on page 873.) While we must recognize the battle over sin that constantly goes on within us, we must be committed to standing against it. Failing to stand against sin in your own life pits self against self, which is doomed to destroy you. If you allow Satan to command a strategic area of your life, he will defeat you. • GALATIANS 5:17, 22 | 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... But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness. (See note on page 1062.) When you become a Christian, a new conflict will begin inside you that will be a life-long battle: what you want versus what God wants. Fortunately, you also have the Holy Spirit living in you, and when you allow him, he gives you the tools you need to fight your sinful nature. Over time, this conflict within yourself will lessen (though never go away) as peace, patience, gentleness, self-control and other characteristics of God start to overcome your sinful nature. Some people seem to pick fights most of the time, trying to divide others. How should I respond to them? • ROMANS 16:17 | Watch out for people who cause divisions and upset people's faith. (See note on page 1027. Sometimes the best way to deal with conflict is to avoid it. Should Christians go to court? • 1 CORINTHIANS 6:7 | To have such lawsuits with one another is a defeat for you. (See note on page 1033.) The Bible says that lawsuits among Christians are to be avoided. Trust that God knows the truth and will one day set to right all injustices. PROMISE FROM GOD • MATTHEW 5:9 | "God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God. " Conscience See also Convictions; Decisions; Truth Conscience is the part of us that helps us understand if we are in line with God's will. You could look at it as God's gift to us that keeps us sensitive to his moral code because it helps us see ourselves as God sees us. But we must use this gift of conscience. If we don't, it will become dull and useless. More than that, it can malfunction if not properly cared for. It can become a flawed witness that may condemn us too harshly or let us off too easily. Our conscience will withess effectively to us if we exercise it- if we sincerely try to stay close to God, spend time in his Word, and understand ourselves and our tendencies toward right and wrong. If your conscience is witnessing faithfully for or against you, it will activate your heart and mind so that you know what is right and what is wrong, and you will have a strong inner call, a voice of accountability, to do what is right. If you have a reputation for not always doing the right thing, or if you find yourself unmoved by evil, it may be an indication that your conscience has become dull or even inactive. Let God, through his holy Word, continue to develop your conscience in godly ways; then it can accurately speak to you in a voice that reflects God's will and God's ways. Where does my conscience come from? раво вірніс • ROMANS 1:19-20 They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. 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. When God created humans, he created them with an innate knowledge of himself. Conscience is the God-given instinct he put deep inside you that guides you to know right from wrong. It is the part of you that helps you understand if you are in line with God's 2919 เรส) รน will and God's Word. How does our conscience really work? What does it do? • GENESIS 42:21 | Speaking among themselves, they said, "Clearly we are being punished i'ne because of what we did to Joseph long ago. We saw his anguish when he pleaded for his life, but we wouldn't listen. " (See note on page 41.) 6'5ill-al considenos 150.10 Our conscience testifies against us to ourselves, reminding us of our sins, bringing a sense of guilt. It then calls us to act to remove this sense of guilt by righting the bi wrong. If God created everyone with a conscience, why have some people done such horrible things? • 1 TIMOTHY 1:19 | Cling to your faith in Christ, and keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked. Sin is the act of going against your conscience. You know what you are doing is wrong because your conscience tells you so, but you do it anyway because it is so appealing. If you consistently go against what your conscience tells you, you can train yourself to not hear it calling out to you, warning you of danger. Without a strong conscience, you become insensitive to sin. In a sense you have "tricked " it into thinking all is well when it really isn't. How does God use other people to stir or prick our conscience? * (laench * 2 SAMUEL 12:13 | Then David confessed to Nathan, "T have sinned against the LORD, " -9 leval arli aworla co bra (See note on page 282.) LOX con Conscience continued David's conscience condemned him, and he confessed his sin of murdering Uriah and taking his wife. But it condemned him only after Nathan pricked his conscience! • God uses others to testify to our conscience so that our conscience may testify against us. When my conscience testifies against me, how should I respond? lo eno • EZRA 9:6 | "O my God, I am utterly ashamed; I blush to lift up my face to you. For our sins are piled higher than our heads, and our guilt has reached to the heavens. " (See note on page 424.) In the courtroom of righteousness and decency, our conscience witnesses against uS. no There should be a feeling of guilt over wrongs committed. That is a good indicator that your conscience is in working order. Then you should take action to right the wrong. How do 1 keep a clear conscience? ain ni emit bi 0Đ of 92010 V812 01 VI • ACTS 24;16 l "I always try to maintain a clear conscience before God and all people. " (See note on page 1006.) When you stay away from the temptation to sin, you are actively nurturing your conscience Ho and keeping it from witnessing against you. Listening to your conscience is a good way to keep away from sin. But keeping away from sin is the best way to keep a clear conscience. c • 1 CORINTHIANS 4:4 | My conscience is clear, but that doesn't prove I'm right. It is the Lord himself who will examine me and decide. Keeping a clear conscience doesn't automatically make you innocent. There's more to it than that. Conscience is not always an unbiased witness. You may have persuaded your conscience that all is well when it isn't. In a sense, you may have "bought off " the witness of your conscience. But you can't buy off God. He is the only truly unbiased witness and judge. Can I lose my conscience? • JUDGES 17:6 | In those days Israel had no king; all the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes. • JEREMIAH 7:24 | "But my people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts. They went backward instead beof forward. " You can't lose your conscience, but you can become so dulled to its urgings that you don't or can't hear it. The conscience is like a muscle; it must be exercised and developed. Even if you don't exercise it, the muscle is still there. Those who have done horrible deeds still have a conscience. But over time they have learned to tune it out, allowing them to commit heinous deeds. Without your conscience you feel free to do whatever you want. How can I develop my conscience? • HOSEA 12:6 | So now, come back to your God. Act with love and justice, and always depend on him. Even those who have rejected God can come back to him. When you commit yourself to God and live by the commands in his Word, he will restore your conscience. 휴, 들 PROMISE FROM GOD • PSALM 119:105 | Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Convictions See also Boundaries; Character; Compromise; Doubt; Honesty & Integrity; Justice; Truth Conviction is more than just a belief; it is a commitment to a belief. What you think, say, and do shows the level of your conviction. For example, when you believe Jesus Christ is who he claims to be, then out of this belief should come the conviction to live by his teachings. Convictions prepare us to effectively live a life of faith and to defend our faith when necessary. Conviction can also refer to the work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts, telling us what is right and wrong. Without the Holy Spirit convicting our hearts, we would be unprepared to face temptation and would easily give in when confronted by someone more forceful. Convictions hold us steady on the path of life and help us to faithfully live and act out our belief in God in practical ways. Keep your convictions sharp, and your life will be a great story of faith in God. What are some basic convictions I must have to effectively live out my faith? • HEBREWS 6:18 | So God has given both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us. God always keeps his promises. is bris ng ело си • EXODUS 20:3 | "You must not have any other god but me. " God must have first priority in your life. Bri of instiogmi ii al vril • HEBREWS 11:1 / Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see. You can't see faith, but you can see the evidence of faith as God does his supernatural work through people. This gives you assurance that your faith is real and a conviction that one day you will see what you can't now. • 2 TIMOTHY 3:16 | 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. 8:0 AAST • The Bible was written by God and is God's truth for all matters of faith and life. • 1 JOHN 1:9 | 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. • 2 CORINTHIANS 5:17 l This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! 19d0 DND 9M If you are truly sorry for your sins and confess them to God (repentance), and if you believe that God's Son Jesus died for you to take upon himself the punishment for sin you deserve, then God forgives you and gives you the gift of salvation. The moment you are saved, the Holy Spirit enters your life and begins transforming you into a new person on the inside. Then you know that your life can and will be different. • EPHESIANS 4:15 / 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.* cind b baiw g If you live by the truths in God's Word, you will become more and more like Jesus, which is your primary goal. • ROMANS 8:38-39 | Nothing can ever 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. "D lo brobimy di ai onw zissa 9ill shos bro Nothing can separate you from God's love for you. • 1 PETER 1:21 | Through Christ you have come to trust in God. And you have placed your faith and hope in God because he raised Christ from the dead and gave him great glory o Christ has power over death, for he brought himself back from death. + MJA29 • • JOSHUA 24:24 | "We will serve the LoRD our God. We will obey him alone. 87 0004 • PROVERBS 3:5-6 | Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own... understanding. Seek his will in all you do. list gilem ve analoves tuy tal It is essential to obey God completely. • HEBREWS 10:35 | Do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great Niseuro broteb of buen ton ob reward it brings you! On awe Convictions continued • JEREMIAH 17:7 | "But blessed are those who trust in the LoRD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. " Trusting in the Lord brings great blessing and eternal rewards. • PSALM 17:6 | 1 am praying to you because I know you will answer, O God. Bend down and listen as I pray. God answers prayer. • PSALM 16:8 | I know the LORD is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. God is always with you. • PSALM 135:5 | I know the greatness of the LORD -that our Lord is greater than any other god. • JOB 42:2 | "I know that you can do anything, and no one can stop you. " No one is greater than God. He is sovereign and all-powerful. Why is it important to have godly convictions? • ROMANS 14:23 | But if you have doubts about whether or not you should eat something, you are sinning if you go ahead and do it. For you are not following your convictions. If you do anything you believe is not right, you are sinning. Convictions can keep you from sinning. • DANIEL 1:8 | But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the king. He asked the chief of staff for permission not to eat these unacceptable foods. Convictions help you do what is right. • EZRA 4:3 | But Zerubbabel, Jeshua, and the other leaders of Israel replied, "You may have no part in this work. " To Convictions help you avoid compromising with those who want to negatively influence your values. • EXODUS 20:6 | "But I lavish unfailing love for a thousand generations on those who love me and obey my commands. " eConvictions help you experience more of God's blessing. • 1 JOHN 3:21 | Dear friends, if we don't feel guilty, we can come to God with bold confidence. Convictions help you confidently approach God. • DANIEL 1:17, 20 | God gave these four young men an unusual aptitude for understanding every aspect of literature and wisdom... Whenever the king consulted them in any matter requiring wisdom and balanced judgment, he found them ten times more capable than any of the magicians and enchanters in his entire kingdom. Convictions bring wisdom as a reward. • EPHESIANS 4:13-15 | This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and aus knowledge of God's Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ.. 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. Convictions help you become more like Christ. How do I live out my convictions? • PSALM 119:7 | As I learn your righteous regulations, I will thank you by living as I should! • JOHN 15:10 | When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father's commandments and remain in his love. You live out your convictions by making daily decisions to obey God's Word, the standard for your convictions. • DANIEL 3:16-18 | Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you. 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. " • ACTS 5:29 | But Peter and the apostles replied, "We must obey God rather than any human authority. " You live out your convictions by keeping God your main focus and not compromising your conscience. • NUMBERS 13:30-31 | 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! " • ESTHER 3:2 | All the king's officials would bow down before Haman to show him respect whenever he passed by, for so the king had commanded. But Mordecai refused to bow down or show him respect. You live out your convictions regardless of the pressure others put on you to do otherwise. • 1 THESSALONIANS 2:2 | You know how badly we had been treated at Philippi just before we came to you and how much we suffered there. Yet our God gave us the courage to declare his Good News to you boldly, in spite of great opposition. You live out your convictions with courage. • 2 CORINTHIANS 4:13 | But we continue to preach because we have the same kind of faith the psalmist had when he said, "I believed in God, so I spoke. " You live out your convictions with faith that God is real and his message in the Bible is true. • ROMANS 15:1 | We who are strong must be considerate of those who are sensitive about things like this. We must not just please ourselves. You live out your convictions while being considerate of others, using discernment @EuDO between personal preferences and Christian convictions. eob • 1 CORINTHIANS 9:19-23 | Even though I am a free man with no master, I have become a slave to all people to bring many to Christ. When I was with the Jews, I lived like a Jew to a bring the Jews to Christ. When I was with those who follow the Jewish law, I too lived under that law.... Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some. I do everything to spread the Good News and share in its blessings. You live out your convictions in order to bring others to Christ. Sri ob of • HOSEA 14:9 | Let those who are wise understand these things. Let those with discernment listen carefully. The paths of the LORD are true and right, and righteous people live by enIW walking in them. But in those paths sinners stumble and fall. 1998 You live out your convictions by listening closely to the Lord's wisdom. YUS0 9 How do my convictions impact my relationships? 84299 • ROMANS 14:1-6 | Accept other believers who are weak in faith, and don't argue with them about what they think is right or wrong... Those who feel free to eat anything must not look down on those who don't. And those who don't eat certain foods must not condemn those who do, for God has accepted them... Some think one day is more holy than another day, while others think every day is alike... Those who eat any kind of food do so to honor the Lord, since they give thanks to God before eating. And those who refuse to eat certain foods also want to please the Lord and give thanks to God. Having strong convictions does not mean you can be intolerant of or condemn one another. All people are made in God's image. It is not your job to change other people's convictions. Trust the Holy Spirit to work in their heart. What is the difference between stubbornness and conviction? • ISAIAH 50:7 | Because the Sovereign LoRD helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore, 110190 I have set my face like a stone, determined to do his will. Convictions continued • JOSHUA 14:7-8 / "Freturned and gave an honest report, but my brothers who went with me frightened the people from entering the Promised Land. For my part, I wholeheartedly followed the LoRD my God. " Conviction is the result of humbly trusting in the will and Word of God. Stubbornness is o proudly trusting in your own will. • 2 KINGS 17:13-14 | Again and again the LORD had sent his prophets and seers to warn both Israel and Judah: "Turn from all your evil ways. Obey my commands and decrees. the entire law that I commanded your ancestors to obey, and that I gave you through my servants the prophets. " But the Israelites would not listen. They were as stubborn as their ancestors who had refused to believe in the LorD their God. 112. Stubbornness is not listening to the advice from God's Word or the advice of godly people. Conviction is living by the advice of God's Word. PROMISES FROM GOD • ROMANS 2:7 | He will give eternal life to those who keep on doing good, seeking after the glory and honor and immortality that God offers. • 1 PETER 4:19 | Keep on doing what is right, and trust your lives to the God who created you, for he will never fail you. Counsel/Counselors See Advice iel m airl bris Courage See also Doubt; Enemies; Fear. Courage is the ability to act on what we know is right and good, to dare to do what we should or must. Fear paralyzes; courage is what helps us move ahead. Courage does not conquer fear, it simply renders fear ineffective. It gives us a confident assurance that we can succeed. Christians recognize that they have an extra resource in God's promised help in time of need. This should bring about a boldness to face any situation that comes our way. It should be noted that sometimes the courageous thing to do is run, if that is what will bring about the greatest good. The Bible speaks of courage to stand firm against evil, to remain strong in our faith, to resist temptation, to do the right thing. The more we learn to rely on God, the more courageous we will Where do I get the courage to go on when life seems too hard or obstacles seem too big? • DEUTERONOMY 20:1 | "The Lord your God… is with you! " • PSALM 27:1 | The LORD is my light and my salvation-so why should I be afraid? (See note mon page 493. SOCISAIAH 41:10 | "Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. " (See note on page 639.) • JOSHUA 1:9% "Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LoRD your God is with you wherever you go. " • 1 CHRONICLES 19:13 | "Be courageous! Let us fight bravely for our people and the cities of our God. May the LORD's will be done. " True courage comes from God. It is understanding that he is stronger than our mightiest foes and that he wants to use his strength to help us. Courage is not misplaced confidence in your own strength but well-placed confidence in God's strength. a erta • DEUTERONOMY 20:8 | "Is anyone here afraid or worried? If you are, you may go home before you frighten anyone else. " (See note on page 177.) Courage is contagitch you gain or lose courage by watching others, and others gain or lose courage by watching you. Will God take away the things that frighten me? • ACTS 4:24, 29-31 All the believers lifted their voices together in prayer. ...O Lord, hear their threats, and give us, your servants, great boldness....Stretch out your hand with ar healing power; may miraculous signs and wonders be done through the name of your holy servant Jesus. " After this prayer, the meeting place shook, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit. Then they preached the word of God with boldness. The early church was constantly threatened by religious persecution, The believers did not pray for the threats to end but for the courage to face them. Sometimes God will remove the things that frighten you. But often the Holy Spirit gives you the boldness to turn those threats into opportunities for spiritual growth and for declaring your faith. • ROMANS 5:4-5 | And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. 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. Hope helps you see beyond the immediate crisis. If God took away everything that frightened you, there would be no need for hope in your life. And it is through hope that we accept Christ as Savior and place our eternal future in his hands.olunt How do I find the courage to face death? u er enixem m eviteso 9is bas ytivite N asw eri tot emosad ew rerw ebieni erit no eu • LUKE 12:4 l "Dear friends, don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they can- o not do any more to you after that. " (See note on page 935.) ai no! xe avissel e'bod .everl By realizing that eternal life begins the moment you die on earth. „miri seisia bns vinole • 1 CORINTHIANS 15:54 Death is swallowed up in victory. bo? bib woll By the assurance that Jesus has won the victory over death. Jesus' death and resurrection proves he has the power to do the same for you if you believe in him. • 1 CHRONICLES 11:18 | So the Three broke through the Philistine lines, drew some water from the well by the gate in Bethlehem, and brought it back to David. apnirit essin elV By following a godly leader for a cause worthy of death. evidu erlt ebem ors How do I find the courage to face change? en at seri • GENESIS 46:3 | "Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for there I will make your family into a great nation. "* Change may be part of God's plan for you. If so, what you are headed into will give you joy and satisfaction beyond your expectations. o How ent • EXODUS 4:13 | But Moses again pleaded, "Lord, please! Send anyone else. gaidnirt s To experience fear is normal. To be paralyzed by fear, however, can be an, indication that you doubt God's ability to care for you in the face of change. • 2 SAMUEL 4:1 When Ishbosheth, Sau's son, heard about Abner's death at Hebron, he lost all courage, and all Israel became paralyzed with fear. ebian! If you take all your courage from another person, you will eventually be left with nothing when that person is gone. If you trust in God, you will have the strength to go on even when circumstances collapse around you. How do I find the courage to admit my mistakes? • 2 SAMUEL 12:13 | Then David confessed to Nathan, "T have sinned against the LORD. Nathan replied, "Yes, but the LorD has forgiven you. " To admit our mistakes and sins is to open the door to forgiveness and the restoration of relationships. How do I find the courage to stand firm in my convictions? 910 2u 6061 b00 • ESTHER 3:2 | But Mordecai refused to bow down or show Haman| respect. (See note on กวธอ เมซี ameldonq dgoont snrt Courage continued Courage to stand firm in our convictions comes from understanding where our true loyalties lie. If you are more concerned about what others think than about what God thinks, you will find yourself lacking courage and wavering in your faith. Are there consequences to courage? • LUKE 23:23-24 | And their voices prevailed. So Pilate sentenced Jesus to die as they demanded. (See note on page 948.) Standing up for what is right can get you in trouble with corrupt people. But failing to stand on up for what is right can get you in trouble with God. PROMISE FROM GOD • JOSHUA 1:9 | "Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LoRD your God is with you wherever you go. " Creativity Creativity is a fashioning, shaping, or conceiving of something unique. We admire creativity and are thrilled when we can exercise it. God is the greatest example of creativity, for he was wildly creative in making the universe. God also re-creates us by transforming us on the inside when we become Christians and the Holy Spirit comes into our lives. Creativity has so many expressions it would be impossible to even begin listing them here. God's creative expression is an example to us to use our creativity in ways that glorify and praise him. How did God create the universe? What did he do to make it? •GENESIS 1:3| Then God said, "Let there be light, " and there was light. • HEBREWS 11:3 | 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. (See note on page 1117.) Gol We make things with our hands, as directed by our minds. God simply spoke a command and made the universe. What is the most amazing part of all God's creation? • PSALM 139:13-14 | 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. (See note on page 553.) The work of creation became increasingly complex until God finally made a persona thinking, spiritual being in his own image. • 2 CORINTHIANS 5:17 | Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! Equally amazing as the creation of human beings is how each of us can become new inside when we believe in Jesus and invite the Holy Spirit to live within us. We are literally transformed so that we can have close fellowship with God and be worthy enough to enter his eternal Kingdom. For what purpose are we to be creative? Why did God create creativity? • EPHESIANS 2:10 | He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. • PSALM 71:22 | Then I will praise you with music on the harp....I will sing praises to you with a lyre. • PSALM 78:72 | He cared for them with a true heart and led them with skillful hands. God made us creative so that we could express ourselves in a multitude of different ways —we're able to worship, to sing, to love, to help, to play music, to make things, to think through problems. But each expression of our creativity needs to be God-honoring, page A83 reflect God's image in appropriate ways. because creativity is an extension of a characteristic of God. We have a responsibility to What are the greatest influences on my creativity? • PSALM 45:1 | Beautiful words stir my heart. I will recite a lovely poem about the king, for my tongue is like the pen of a skillful poet. (See note on page 503.) mind of God who created all human beings in his image. Creativity is the overflow of a full heart and mind that ultimately comes from the heart and Can our creativity become our undoing? How? • ISAIAH 44:16-17 | He burns part of the tree to roast his meat and to keep himself warm. ...Then he takes what's left and makes his god: a carved idol! He falls down in front of it, worshiping and praying to it, "Rescue me! " he says. "You are my god! " (See note on page 642) lead us astray. With our minds and our hands we can fashion something to sustain us or something to PROMISES FROM GOD • 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. • EPHESIANS 3:20 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. Crisis See Adversity timened i nso worl Criticism See also Advice; Communication; Conflict; Encouragement; Judging Others; Unity & Teamwork Though no one likes criticism-even when it is constructive —we sometimes need it. But it is much easier to receive criticism when it is offered gently and in love, rather than in H a harsh or humiliating way. One who offers constructive criticism invests in building a relationship and helping the other person become who God created him or her to be. Rejecting correction is the hallmark of a fool, but a core attribute of wisdom is a teachable heart. God has given you the gift of others' input to keep you from pursuing the wrong path. It is easy to dismiss criticism and decide you're on the right path. Sometimes it's painful to hear the truth, but it's worse to continue harmful behavior. The gentle rebuke of a trusted friend can be God's way of getting your attention. Sometimes God's guiding voice can be heard in the advice of godly people. If you're listening for God, he will always help you discern wise correction. But don't let your wounded pride make you reject constructive criticism that will help you grow. Evaluate whether the criticism is coming from a person with a reputation for wisdom and integrity. Ask yourself if the criticism is meant to heal or to hurt. Is the criticism just and true? Maintain a clear conscience by being honest and trustworthy. This allows you to shrug off criticism you know is unjustified. If criticism is justified, however, you are wise to listen and learn. Why should I be careful about criticizing others? • ROMANS 14:10 | So why do you condemn another believer?... Remember, we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. (See note on page 1025.) • JAMES 4:11 | If you criticize and judge each other, then you are criticizing and judging God's law. Constructive criticism can be a welcome and wholesome gift if given in the spirit of love. But criticism that ridicules, demeans, or judges someone has at least four harmful conse-quences. It can (1) tear down self-esteem, making a person feel shamed and worthless; (2) damage your reputation, making you look mean and merciless; (3) damage your ability to be listened to because you've made someone become defensive; and (4) bring greater judgment on you from God, who detests when you hurt others- i seet How should I respond to criticism? How do I evaluate whether it is constructive or destructive? • PROVERBS 12:16-18 T A wise person stays calm when insulted. An honest witness tells the truth; a false witness tells lies. Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing. bnu Wo Si If you are criticized, stay calm and don't lash back. Evaluate whether the criticism is coming from a person with a reputation for truth or lies. Ask yourself if the criticism is meant to heal or hurt. • ECCLESIASTES 7:5 | Better to be criticized by a wise person than to be praised by a fool. Measure criticism according to the stature of the person who is giving it. yeas • 1 CORINTHIANS 4:4 | My conscience is clear, but that doesn't prove I'm right. It is the Lord himself who will examine me and decide. Always work to maintain a clear conscience by being honest and trustworthy. This allows you to shrug off criticism you know is unjustified. • 1 PETER 4:14 | If you are insulted because you bear the name of Christ, you will be blessed, for the glorious Spirit of God rests upon you. Consider it a privilege to be criticized for your faith in God. God has special blessings for those who patiently endure this kind of criticism. How can I benefit from constructive criticism? • PROVERBS 15:31 | If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise. neesluc We shortchange our future when we reject truthful information about ourselves. Sometimes it's painful to hear the truth, but it's worse to carry on without improvement. How do i prevent unjust criticism against me? • ROMANS 14:18 | If you serve Christ with this attitude, you will please God, and others will approve of you, too. • MATTHEW 7:1 "Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. " You will usually avoid most criticism by avoiding words and actions that warrant criticism. 911 But recognize that some will criticize you simply because you are a follower of Jesus.: How do I offer criticism appropriately? • JOHN 8:7 | "Let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone! " • ROMANS 2:1 When you say they are wicked and should be punished, you are condemning yourself, for you who judge others do these very same things. Before criticizing another, take an inventory of your own sins and shortcomings so that you can approach the person with understanding and humility. • 1 CORINTHIANS 13:5 | [Love] does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. Constructive criticism is always offered in love, to build up. And criticism should always be responded to in love as well.sysi 19G LoSO PROMISES FROM GOD • PROVERBS 12:18 | Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing. • PROVERBS 15:31 If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise. • 1 PETER 4:14 | If you are insulted because you bear the name of Christ, you will be blessed, for the glorious Spirit of God rests upon you. page, Deatt inevit living least bring of ex peor Fort All V the fore mur peo mor calli Is C • Death See also Future; Heaven/Eternal Life; Salvation Death always seems to us the last word. No matter what we do to extend our lives, death inevitably catches up to us.ety are we so afraid to die? Why do we try so hard to keep Iving? Because we are uncertain of what happens after that. On this side of death, we at least know the rules of ole things irk, even it we don't like them. We know wha, things bring us happiness and pleasure. But what if this life is all there is? And if there is some sort of existence after our body ales, what will it be like? This creates fear and despair in many. people. The Bible has a g mat seal to say about death — and what is on the other side oft. For those who believe its message, there is great hope instead of fear and despair: Jesus, by dying for our sins and rising from the dead, has shown us how to trumph over deaths. All who trust in hine Wile bar earth at victory over death! There are two kinds of deaths= the cessation of life here on earth and the missed opportunity to live in heaven with God forever. To die physically is to leave our earthly bodies and our places in the earthly com-munity. To die spiritually, ete roy, is to miss eternal residence in heaven with God and his., people and to be separated from God forever. When we die physically, we become even more alive as we take up our residence in heaven. It is not pleasant to think of dying physi-cally. But it is devastating to think of missing heaven forever. Is death really the end? 1 08 29/000 MCCA SHON 93 1 Аа ЗИмИТНІЯО Я • • JOHN 11:25-26 Jesus told her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die. " • 1 CORINTHIANS 15:54-55 | Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: "Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting? " is ed vem diash, to ter • 1 THESSALONIANS 4:13 | And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died so you will not grieve like people who have no " hope. (See note on page 1085.) For those who believe in Jesus as their Savior, death is not the end, but only the beginning of an eternity of unspeakable joy with the Lord and with other believers. • PSALM 49:10 | Those who are wise must finally die, just like the foolish and senseless, leaving all their wealth behind. (See note on page 505.), sw f'nbluow yllser vol .elsone • MATTHEW 6:20 1 Store your treasures in heaven. " ni sislumusos bluow uoy emeldo • 2 CORINTHIANS 5:10 | We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in this earthly body. aidia erit yod s ever tliw wov • JOHN 14:2 | "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? " You can't take anything with you when you die, but there is a way to receive much when you arrive in heaven, for God rewards those who have been faithful to him and leaveni behind a legacy of goodness. • JOHN 14:2 | "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? " 109) When you travel, it's comforting to know there's a place to stay at the end of the day. This same comfort is yours as you wonder about the end of your life. Though death is a great unknown, Jesus Christ has gone before you. He has prepared a glorious place for you to stay. If you know and love Jesus, you can be confident your new home is ready and waiting. What happens when someone dies? lesbe. jduod oals ea enoielos • 1 THESSALONIANS 4:13 | We want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died. • 1 CORINTHIANS 15:52 1. When the trumpet sounds, thase who have died will be raised to nesitad secorio laum live forever. • REVELATION 14:110/ And they will have no relief day or night, for they have worshiped the beast and his statue and have accepted the mark of his name. (See note on page 161. page ABe Death continued • REVELATION 20:15 | And anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire. • REVELATION 21:3 | "Look, God's home is now among his people! " A Christian who dies will meet God and live with him forever. A person who is not a Christian will be separated from God forever. In what way does accepting Christ keep me from dying? • ROMANS 8:10 | 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. When we accept Christ, we are given eternal life. This does not prevent the death of our bodies, but it does assure true life with him in heaven forever and ever. And isn't that the life that counts the most? How do I keep a proper perspective about death? Why am I so afraid of it? • COLOSSIANS 3:1-2 | Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven... Think about the things of heaven. • 2 CORINTHIANS 5:4 | We want to put on our new bodies so that these dying bodies will be swallowed up by life. Fear of the unknown is natural, and fear of death can be healthy if it draws us to know-more about God. It is helpful to think of death as a beginning, not an end. It is our entrance into eternal life with God. C:GI &RAINTWIRI • PHILIPPIANS 1:21 / For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better. A fear of death may be an indication of a weak relationship with God. You must be ready + to die (be at peace with yourself) to appreciate life fully. In life after death, do we keep these bodies or get new ones, or do we have no bodies at all? • 1 CORINTHIANS 15:42 | Our earthly bodies are planted in the ground when we die, but they will be raised to live forever. (See note on page 1043.) Your present body gets sick and will increasingly become a burden to you. It will age and deteriorate. You really wouldn't want to live in your present body forever. Think how many problems you would accumulate in a few thousand years! You will welcome the new body God gives you when you suddenly realize how much more healthy and amazing it is than your present one. And you will have a body. The Bible clearly teaches that you will not be just a spirit floating around. PROMISES FROM GOD • JOHN 11:25 | "I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. " • ISAIAH 25:8 | He will swallow up death forever! The Sovereign LORD will wipe away all tears. o erlilo br Debt See Money Decisions See also Doubt; Leadership; Motives; Obedience; Priorities; Purpose Making a decision is arriving at a solution that ends uncertainty or that settles a dispute. It is distinguishing between options, some big, some little, some good, some evil. You must choose between little things, such as a chocolate or vanilla ice-cream cone, or between great issues, such as which person should you marry, which job should you take, which home should you buy? But the most important decision in life is this: "What should I do with Jesus? " Choosing Jesus determines where you will live forever. It also determines how you will live now on this earth. What is the most important decision I can make? • DEUTERONOMY 30:19-20 | "Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your aN 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. " • JOSHUA 24:15 | "Choose today whom you will serve..... But as for me and my family, we will serve the LORD. " • JOHN 3:16 | "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 14:6 | Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. " The most important decision we will make is whether or not we will be followers of the one true God. This decision requires believing that his Son, Jesus, died for your sins and rose from the dead so that you can have a relationship with God forever. This is a decision that has eternal implications. What are some principles of good decision making? • 1 SAMUEL 23:9-10 | But David learned of Saul's plan and told Abiathar the priest to bring the ephod and ask the LORD what he should do. Then David prayed, "O LORD... • 2 CHRONICLES 1:8-10 | Solomon replied to God, "... Give me the wisdom and knowledge to lead them properly. " We should always seek God's wisdom first in any big decision. • PSALM 25:4| Show me the right path, O LORD; point out the road for me to follow. (See note on page 492.) Knowing the Scriptures and gleaning their wisdom gives us more options in our decision, cl making and provides us with the discernment we need to make healthy choices. A right decision is one that is consistent with the principles of truth found in God's Word. If only one of the options would please God, that is the right decision. If there are several options that are consistent with God's Word, then rather than the decision itself, the most important thing may be the process of trusting God to help you make the most of the path you 09. choose. • PROVERBS 18:13 | Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish. Make sure you have all the facts. • PROVERBS 18:15 | Intelligent people are always ready to learn. Their ears are open for knowledge. 210099 IN L52 Be open to ideas. • 1 JOHN 5:14 | And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him. Trust God to listen to your requests and respond.sosi กรว UoN .cb oi • PROVERBS 12:15 | Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others. do Seek the advice of trusted friends. • 2 CHRONICLES 7:14 | "Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray... " Won 1:00 D918 Approach your decisions with humility and prayer. How do I know if I've made a good decision? • PSALM 79:9 | Help us, O God of our salvation! Help us for the glory of your name. You know you've made a good decision when what you've decided honors God. • GALATIANS 5:22-23 | But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. page A88 Decisions continued w voy exarw eniaooro "Seua al Ntiw ob i bluor You know you've made a good decision when the fruits of your decision produce good Sexern no i nolaloe • HEBREWS 5:14 I Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong. You know you've made a good decision when you've carefully and consistently followed the guidelines and commands of Scripture. SH200 • ROMANS 8:28 | 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. Even if you don't always make the best decision, God has the power to make your decision turn into something very good. 100 M9 SM NOW 9 Should I "put out a fleece "? 96 JUDGES 6:39 P Then Gideon said to God, " This time let the fleece remain dry while the ground around it is wet with dew. " (See note on page 223.) Gideon's example is often used by Christians facing a decision. However, great caution must be exercised when putting out a fleece, because this tends to limit our options when God has unlimited options to make available to us.boar How is my character revealed in my decisions? • 2 CHRONICLES 10:13 | But Rehoboam spoke harshly to them, for he rejected the advice of the older counselors. • PROVERBS 14:2| Those who follow the right path fear the LorD; those who take the sion wrong path despise him. Your decisions determine your actions, and your actions show what is in your heart. Do I need to worry about even seemingly small decisions? • 1 SAMUEL 15:22-23 L But Samuel replied, "What is more pleasing to the LORD: your burnt encofferings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice?.. Because you have rejected the - command of the LORD, he has rejected you as king. " (See note on page 258.) eier *Sinful decisions, even small ones, can have consequences like a cancer that grows wildly out of control. 32113 How can I be more decisive? • PSALM 119:5, 9-11 / Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect your decrees! on How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word.... I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. 10 01 When you persistently ask God to give you wisdom, perspective, and a desire to obey him, he promises to do it. And the more you know God through prayer and reading the Bible, the more you know what God wants you to do. And when you know what God wants you to do, you can be decisive when faced with choices because God's will for you is more obvious and clear. saiw est tud irigit a OW MW/O 2100% ai:st canavong . • ISAIAH 50:7 | Because the Sovereign LoRD helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore, I have set my face like a stone, determined to do his will. And I know that I will not be put 29V132 When you know the right thing to do —you are certain it is what God would want you to do, it does not contradict God's Word, and it does not use improper methods (like deception) to accomplish something good -then move ahead. Do the right thing the right way and o you will never regret your decision. PROMISES FROM GOD • PROVERBS 3:6 | Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. • JAMES 1:5 | If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. Depression See also Burnout; Encouragement; Grief; Lonelines; legol 10 Self-Esteem cenirl eealpain Sooner or later mevening rain, it can some form of depression, it can descend slowly like the coming of an situation of aluan ovenhelm like an avalanche of darkness. In can, e the result of a real intuaties stral e or loss, or it can invade our minds for no discernibe reason. The Bible incle written es of people who experienced depression of all kinds, and parts of Scripture God does not recorde experiencing feelings much like depression, The good news is that Gess dues not regard depression as sin but rather responds to those who suffer its darkness with great tenderness, understanding, and compassion. How am I vulnerable to depression? 92007g Hw) • 1 KINGS 19:3-4 | Elijah was afraid and fled for his life... Then he went on alone into the wilderness, traveling all day. He sat down under a solitary broom tree and prayed that he might die. "I have had enough, LORD, " he said. "Take my life, for I am no better than my a ancestors. " (See note on page 321) bstsdns/ordisคัว 01 94 You can be especially vulnerable to depression after a major victory. Elijah had just. defeated four hundred fifty prophets of Baal and seen God work several mighty miracles, yet he was afraid and depressed. Between his exhaustion and his emotional swing after the high of victory, he was susceptible to depression. • PSALM 42:3-5 Day and night I have only tears for food, while my enemies continually taunt me, saying, "Where is this God of yours? " My heart is breaking as I remember how it used to be... Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? Depression often comes from looking backward at what you have lost. igob on ai stenT 9т00 • ROMANS 7:19-24 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.... I love God's law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is 199(9% 3110 0921 dominated by sin and death? Depression can occur when you realize how wide the gap is between the ideal you strive for and the reality you see within and around you. This can create a great sense of loss. • MATTHEW 26:36-39 | Then Jesus went with them to the olive grove called Gethsemane, and he said, "Sit here while I go over there to pray. " He told them, "My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me. " 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. " 100 Depression can come from being asked by God to do an extraordinarily hard task and realizing what you may have to suffer to do it. • 1 SAMUEL 16:14| Now the Spirit of the LorD had left Saul, and the LORD sent a tormenting spirit that filled him with depression and feariti vier won aow noend? Bhat enacul When you neglect the Lord to the point where he can no longer get your attention, then he may neglect you for a while, and depression can move easily into the vacant room, in your heart. The farther you move from God, the less hope you have of receiving the joy of his blessings. 100 101 119V3 • JEREMIAH 8:18 | My grief is beyond healing; my heart is broken. NOrI ACY A broken heart is ripe for depression. • PROVERBS 13:12 | Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a dream fulfilled is a tree oflife. A heart without hope is a heart headed for depression. • ECCLESIASTES 4:8 | This is the case of a man who is all alone, without a child or a brother, yet who works hard to gain as much wealth as he can. But then he asks himself, "Who am 1 working for? Why am I giving up so much pleasure now? " Its all so meaningless and BO G:aST MIA29 N 2009) nitrole page A90 Depression continued If you spend your life pursuing meaningless things, you may become depressed when you recognize that what you are doing has little lasting value. • JEREMIAH 20:14, 18 | Yet I curse the day I was born! May no one celebrate the day of my birth.... Why was I ever born? My entire life has been filled with trouble, sorrow, and shame. Depression likes to keep company with trouble, sorrow, and shame. The more choices you make that result in trouble, sorrow, or shame, the deeper your depression will become. • PSALM 43:5 | Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again. Sometimes we don't understand why we are depressed. During those times we must run toward the loving arms of God, not away. Does God care when I feel depressed? • PSALM 34:18 | The LoRD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.b5n • MATTHEW 5:4 | "God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted. " God isn't disappointed by your depression and emotional struggles; on the contrary, he Ho feels a special closeness to you. You can actually experience even more of God's presence in times of brokenness. • PSALM 139:12 | Even in darkness I cannot hide from you. There is no depth to which we can descend where God is not present with us. When depression comes, we must remember that even though we cannot see or feel his presence, he an has not abandoned us. PSALM 130:1 From the depths of despair, O LORD, I call for your help. (See note on page 549.) We can cry out to God in prayer even from the darkest night of despair. He will hear us. • ISAIAH 53:3 | He was despised and rejected- a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief. We know that through Christ God understands the pain of human life. • MATTHEW 11:28 Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. " Jesus cares deeply for the weary and provides acceptance, love, and rest. • ROMANS 8:39 | Nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. Not even life's worst depression can separate us from the love of Christ. Does feeling depressed mean something is wrong with my faith? • JUDGES 15:18 | Samson was now very thirsty, and he cried out to the LORD, "You have er accomplished this great victory... Must I now die of thirst? " • 1 KINGS 19:3-4 | Elijah was afraid and fled for his life... He sat down under a solitary broom tree and prayed that he might die. victory. Even for the people of God, depression can often follow great achievement or spiritual • PSALM 40:2| He lifted me out of the pit of despair. • MATTHEW 14:30-31| When he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified grabbed him. and began to sink. "Save me, Lord! " he shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and God is able to lift us out of the pit of depression and fear. Can any good come out of my depression? • PSALM 126:5 | Those who plant in tears will harvest with shouts of joy. Ow, 002 모으 page A91 • 2 CORINTHIANS 12:9 | "My power works best in weakness. " When you are weak, you are more receptive to the Lord's strength. When everything is going your way, it's easy to overlook God's hand in your life, As God works through your weakness, however, you learn to depend more on him and recognize and be grateful for the good work that only he can accomplish in you. How can I help someone who is depressed? • 2 CORINTHIANS 1:4 | He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. • PROVERBS 25:20 | Singing cheerful songs to a person with a heavy heart is like taking someone's coat in cold weather or pouring vinegar in a wound. • ROMANS 12:15 | Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. The best way to help someone who is down is to model the gentle, caring love of Christ. Those dealing with depression need comfort and understanding, not advice and lectures. You can help people who are depressed by your quiet presence, your love, and your encouragement. Telling them to "snap out of it " or minimizing their pain by false cheeriness will just make them feel worse. There are also instances where you can lovingly suggest to provide the help someone needs. they get professional help from a trained counselor. God often works through other people Мол) Are feelings of depression sin? 1930V71 • ISAIAH 24:16 | We hear songs of praise from the ends of the earth, songs that give glory to the Righteous One! But my heart is heavy with grief. Weep for me, for I wither away. Deceit still prevails, and treachery is everywhere. Becoming angry and outraged when you see the sin of a terrible crime can leave you depressed about all the evil in the world. This is not a sin. • JOHN 11:33 | When Jesus saw her weeping and saw the other people wailing with her ... he was deeply troubled. • JOHN 12:27 | "Now my soul is deeply troubled. Should I pray, Father, save me from this hour'? But this is the very reason I came! " nsic 2 When Jesus saw others grieving and when he faced the cross, he felt deeply troubled or quite "low. " It is natural to feel low in the backwash of troubled times. Since Jesus cannot sin, to feel low or depressed cannot be a sin. It can be a result of sin or become a sin if you blame God, use it against God, or leave God out of your antidote. PROMISES FROM GOD • PSALM 40:2 | He lifted me out of the pit of despair... He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along. • MATTHEW 11:28 | Then Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. " wester 18 0П5 91 Desires See also Addiction; Discipline; Lust; Motives; Self-Control; Sexuality; Temptation; Vulnerability All of us are created with a capacity to desire. Desire can be healthy or unhealthy, godly or ungodly, casual or intense. We can desire something simple, like a home-cooked meal, or develop a burning passion for a cause that eventually consumes us. Some desires fuel passions to white heat, even driving a person to violence or crime to satisfy those desires. The Bible tells us to develop a desire-to hunger and thirst -for the Lord. it is good and holy to desire God, to long to know him personally, to come to love him deeply. It is also good and holy to desire the best for our families and friends, to hunger 6 od, Laring hoontolunhaihy daties and natur heatry ones alletong quest that has eternal implications. Desires continued Is it okay to want something? • 1 KINGS 3:5 I That night the LoRD appeared to Solomon in a dream, and God said, "What do you want? Ask, and I will give it to you! " (See note on page 303.) • PROVERBS 13:12 | Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life. God created desire within us as a means of expressing ourselves. Desire is good and healthy if directed toward the proper object of desire: that which is good and right and God-honoring. • PSALM 73:25 | I desire you more than anything on earth: • ISAIAH 26:8 | LoRD, we show our trust in you by obeying your laws; our heart's desire is to glorify your name. Your greatest desire must be a relationship with God, because that will influence all your other desires. How do I know if my desires are right or wrong? • JUDGES 14:3 4' But Samson told his father, "Get her for me! She looks good to me. " (See note 0l on page 231.) - • PHILIPPIANS 4:8 | Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. 01 Selfish desires take only yourself into account. You become so obsessed with what you tis want that you forget to ask if it is what God wants, if it's actually good for you, and if it will harm others. How do evil desires grow in my life? • DEUTERONOMY 29:18 | "I am making this covenant with you so that no one among you-no man, woman, clan, or tribe-will turn away from the LoRD our God to worship these gods of other nations, and so that no root among you bears bitter and poisonous fruit. " (See note on page 186.) A seed is planted - quietly, without fanfare or drums, without malice or evil intent —when "we take a step away from God. With the second and third steps, we move farther from 10 God, and the bitter, poisonous fruit of desire or lust begins to grow. 5 90.1150.11.018 6 60 How can I resist evil desires? Ta tuo boo 0,000 tanisp • JAMES 3:13 | If you are wise and understand God's ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works. Бл Keep yourself busy doing good things. 10 9511 • MATTHEW 6:13 | "And don't let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one. " Pray for strength in the face of temptation. • 2 CHRONICLES 34:33 | So Josiah removed all detestable idols. ( 9) Remove the source of temptation. • COLOSSIANS 3:2| Think about the things of heaven. no Fill your mind with God. • PROVERBS 15:22 | Plans go wrong for lack of advice; many advisers bring success. Find a person willing to help you. Can God help me change the desires within my heart? How? • EZEKIEL 36:26 | "And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubbom heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. " (See note on page 759) • ROMANS 7:6. | Now we can serve God, not in the old way... but in the new way of living in the Spirit, When we commit our lives to God, he gives us new hearts and new natures, along with new desires to please him. • EZRA 1:5 | Then God stirred the hearts of the priests and Levites... to go to Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple of the LORD. (See note on page 417.) God stirs our hearts with right desires. It is up to us to act on them. • ille How can I satisfy the deepest longings of my life? o erit ci Singia ¡ bescare narlw • MATTHEW 6:31-33 4 "So don't worry about these things, saying, "What will we eat? What 29igns oul esr will we drink? What will we wear? " These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. " 11 vol When we seek the Lord, and order our lives according to his priorities, everything else falls into proper perspective. We can trust him to provide all we need. • PSALM 107:9 | For he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.b ai teriW • JOHN 4:10-14| "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... Anyone who drinks this water will 10 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. " (See note on page 957.) • JOHN 6:35 | Jesus replied, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. " ers to e Too often we misunderstand our own desires. The things of this world will never satisfy the deepest longings of your heart. God alone can fulfill your longings because he built them into you from creation. tee • 1 CHRONICLES 16:11 | Search for the LoRD and for his strength; continually seek him. • 1 CHRONICLES 28:9 | "Learn to know the God of your ancestors intimately. Worship and W 10 serve him with your whole heart and a willing mind... If you seek him, you will find him. " Search for God as you would a buried treasure. Constantly read and study his Word, the Bible, and talk with him about everything. As the Scriptures promise, "If you seek him you will find him. " аЯ orw How do I deal with the desire to have what my neighbor has? Toe aif ls forw •DEUTERONOMY 5:21 "You must not covet your neighbor's wife. You must not covet your neighbor's house or land, male or female servant, ox or donkey, or anything else that belongs to your neighbor. " (See note on page 165) áo sol sry bsul Seeing our neighbor with "more " or "better " lights a fire in us. Uncontrolled, this flickering fire blazes into godless passion, lust, and covetousness, and we ask questions like, "Why can't I have a home that nice? A spouse that talented? A wife that beautiful? A bank account that big? " In asking such questions, we risk stirring the fires of desire and wanting to take tw evil i niso worl something from our neighbor. มH | Or:A 23MAb Is it wrong to desire my husband or wife sexually? • SONG OF SONGS 7:10-12 | I am my lover's, and he claims me as his own. 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. u-e There I will give you my love, (See nate on page 601/suf TuoY m God has built a fire in the hearts of men and women to desire one another sexually. It is a natural, God-given gift. But outside God's plan of marriage, this fire can blaze up and noioturar boog » ftas devour a person. gribrotarobss Jinaibedo pnied val PROMISE FROM GOD • PSALM 37:4 | Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you your heart's desires. 3w93 evol Niw bo สามด a Differences See Conflict; Diversity; Equality; Strengths & Weaknesses.von . NOV TOMON Iweboe griuzuq vE Difficulties See Adversity; Conflict; Pain alen page A94 Dignity See also Equality; Self-Esteem Dignity is the quality of worth and significance that every human being has been given When created in the image of God. Every person God created is valued by him. Dignity has two angles- recognizing our own worth before God, and recognizing that same Worth in others. Unfortunately, our sinful human nature causes us to rank everyone from important to insignificant. But a proper view of dignity motivates us to responsibly fulfill God's purpose for ourselves while also helping others find and achieve Gods purpose for them. This causes us to respect others and build them up rather than rank them underneath us. When we realize how esteemed we are by God, the opinions of others matter less. What is dignity and where do we get it? • GENESIS 1:27 | So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. • PSALM 8:5 | Yet you made them only a little lower than God and crowned them with glory Dignity is understanding who God made you to be— a human being who bears his image. In the eyes of the Creator, you have great worth and value and have been made for a special purpose. Your dignity comes not from what others think about you, but from the fact that God chose to create you and create within you unique spiritual gifts and abilities. This should give you the confidence to boldly serve him wherever he leads you. What is the evidence of dignity in my life? • RUTH 3:11 | "Now don't worry about a thing, my daughter. I will do what is necessary, for everyone in town knows you are a virtuous woman. " • PSALM 119:5 | Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect your decrees! • 2 KINGS 23:25 | Never before had there been a king like Josiah, who turned to the LORD with all his heart and soul and strength. • 2 CORINTHIANS 3:16-18 But whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. ... 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. You show dignity when your character reflects God's character. Since you are made in his image, he is your source of dignity. How can I live with dignity? • JAMES 4:10 | Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor. By recognizing who created you, the source of your dignity, you will live in God's presence, by his power, and for his purpose.' • PROVERBS 3:1-5 My child, never forget the things I have taught you. Store my commands in your heart. If you do this, you will live many years, and your life will be satisfying. Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will understanding. earn a good reputation. Trust in the LoRD with all your heart; do not depend on your own By being obedient to God's Word, the definition of dignity. • EPHESIANS 5:1-2 | Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. By pursuing love for others, which is the expression of dignity. • PROVERBS 4:8 | If you prize wisdom, she will make you great. Embrace her, and she will honor you. By pursuing God's wisdom, the basis of dignity. • TITUS 2:2 I Teach the older men to exercise self-control, to be worthy of respect, and to tive wisely. They must have sound faith and be filled with love and patience. By exercising self-control, the defining exercise of dignity. • ROMANS 12:17 | Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. By avoiding revenge and hostility, which destroy another's dignity as well as your own. • 1 PETER 5:6 | So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. By being humble, which helps others see dignity in you. • 2 CORINTHIANS 1:12 We can say with confidence and a clear conscience that we have lived with a God-given holiness and sincerity in all our dealings. We have depended on God's grace, not on our own human wisdom. That is how we have conducted ourselves before the world, and especially toward you. By maintaining a clear conscience, the result of living with dignity. 1A8% • PROVERBS 22:1 | Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold. By developing a good reputation, the reward of dignity. 300 210906 • PSALM 112:9 | They share freely and give generously to those in need. Their good deeds will be remembered forever. They will have influence and honor. By giving generously and doing good to others, the expression of dignity. How do I acknowledge others' dignity? • MATTHEW 19:19 | "Honor your father and mother. Love your neighbor as yourself. " • 1 CORINTHIANS 16:10 | When Timothy comes, don't intimidate him. He is doing the Lord's work, just as I am. Showing respect for and honor to others acknowledges them as people created in God's image. • ROMANS 13:7 Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honor to those who are in authority. ay Obedience to those in authority acknowledges their role and responsibility to lead you. • EXODUS 18:7 | So Moses went out to meet his father-in-law. He bowed low and kissed him. They asked about each other's welfare and then went into Moses' tent. • PHILIPPIANS 2:29 | Welcome him in the Lord's love and with great joy, and give him the honor that people like him deserve. Warmly accepting others acknowledges their worth and your desire to treat them as A199131 equals. • ROMANS 16:2 | 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 ud gnivip e to me. Meeting others' needs acknowledges that their needs are important. • ROMANS 12:10 | Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Taking joy in honoring others acknowledges you need them and appreciate their work and service, • PROVERBS 24:26 | An honest answer is like a kiss of friendship. • 1 TIMOTHY 5:1 | Never speak harshly to an older man, but appeal to him respectfully as you would to your own father. Talk to the younger men as you would to your own brothers. Speaking respectfully, lovingly, and truthfully acknowledges that others are worthy of your trust. • TITUS 2:7 | And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching. Learning from the good examples of others acknowledges the dignity their lives exemplity. page A96 Dignity continued How can I acknowledge God's dignity? • DANIEL 4:37 | "Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and glorify and honor the King of heaven. All his acts are just and true, and he is able to humble the proud. " By repenting and turning to God and acknowledging that he is Lord over all creation. • ROMANS 6:6-8 | 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. INDID 998 •By maintaining a loving and trusting personal relationship with God, which acknowledges that he loves us so much that he was willing to sacrifice his own Son so that we might live NO in relationship with him forever. • PSALM 86:11 | Teach me your ways, O LORD, that I may live according to your truth! Grant me purity of heart, so that I may honor you. i By striving for a pure heart, which acknowledges our goal of having a heart like God's. • PSALM 147:11 | No, the LORD's delight is in those who fear him, those who put their hope in his unfailing love. 2By emulating God's character, which acknowledges that God's character is perfect and we want to be like him. • PHILIPPIANS 2:12 Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. By showing God reverence, which acknowledges that he is Lord over allen • COLOSSIANS 1:20 / And through him God reconciled everything to himself. He made ™ 2 bi peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ's blood on the cross. By honoring his Son, Jesus Christ, which acknowledges that only through him can we a have salvation and eternal life. as • PSALM 119:48 | I honor and love your commands. I meditate on your decrees. 299 By living according to his Word, which acknowledges that it is the authoritative truth.on • PSALM 23:30/ He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. of vtilid mi By accepting his daily strength and guidance, which acknowledges that we cannot make it in life without him. • PSALM 69:30 Then I will praise God's name with singing, and I will honor him with thanksgiving. By giving thanks to God, which acknowledges that all we have is from him. • PHILIPPIANS 1:20 | For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed, but that I will continue to be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past. And I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die. ot By giving our lives in service to him, which acknowledges that we were created by him and to live for him. ІВЮСт VOI • ROMANS 6:13 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. With our bodies, which acknowledges our desire to be a vessel through whom God can work and desires to work. • ROMANS 13:7 | Give respect and honor to those who are in authority. By respecting others, which acknowledges that everyone is a unique individual created in God's image. • PROVERBS 14:31 | Those who oppress the poor insult their Maker, but helping the poor honors him. " for us. By meeting others' needs, which acknowledges our desire to care for others as God cares PROMISES FROM GOD • ROMANS 2:7 | He will give eteral life to those who keep on doing good, seeking after the glory and honor and immortality that God offers. • HEBREWS 13:18 | Pray for us, for our conscience is clear and we want to live honorably in everything we do. i bad sil or eh 3002 pratile Disagreements See Communication; Conflict 31:80 RAFABI - en uny nerv ДИТИІЯ03 Г Discernment See Advice; Decisions; Wisdom neDno it voy goex ot Discipline See also Accountability; Commitment; Habits; Planning, orle wol Self-Control Ask someone what discipline is and you will likely hear the word punishment or correc-tion. But that is not what the Bible's concept of discipline is all about. Discipline in the Bible is goal oriented - seeking to develop a godly person who will walk in God's ways. We tend to think of discipline as keeping others in line, but at the heart of discipline is discipling, helping people become followers, particularly followers of Christ. The emphasis is on loving guidance and teaching. What is the purpose of discipline? • DEUTERONOMY 8:5 | "Think about it: Just as a parent disciplines a child, the LorD your God disciplines you for your own good. " (See note on page 167.) • HEBREWS 12:6 L "The LoRD disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he. accepts as his child. " (See note on page 1119.) oot 1iw.jt .rlewsnt God's discipline is an act of love to help us. Our discipline of our children should be the same. Loving discipline is life building, but angry punishment can destroy a child's sense of self-worth. วnieuธว iuoriW • PSALM 94:12 | Joyful are those you discipline, LORD. (See note on page 529) idsdorg abix Effective discipline sets you on the right path, making you truly happy and thankful to be 510010 on the right way again. ent no grieusor • PROVERBS 12:12| To learn, you must love discipline; it is stupid to hate correction. B3H • Discipline is essential to developing skill, maturity, and character. twa wer werl york NiO. • PROVERBS 1:1-3 | These are the proverbs of Solomon, David's son, king of Israel.... Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, to help them do what is 00 mobi e bod right, just, and fair. 00 0cla The biblical concept of discipline is summarized in this introduction to the book of Proverbs. As Solomon wrote Proverbs to disciple his people-to teach them how to live, act, and be just and fair -so God wrote his Word to disciple us in these things. \ 1 li worl I ob woh 10л ol IS:€ AMA1280,103 • How does God discipline his children? • HEBREWS 12:7 | 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 seiN aenoqaar raters father? As a loving father. • PSALM 119:75 | I know, O LORD, that your regulations are fair; you disciplined me because TREE BORAVORS I needed it. • DEUTERONOMY 8:5 / "Just as a parent disciplines a child, the LoRD your God disciplines SOHAMAHARE you for your own good. " WET TO G951 When you need it. page A9g Discipline continued • JEREMIAH 31:18 | "I have heard Israel saying, "You disciplined me severely, like a calf that needs training for the yoke.... Turn me again to you and restore me, for you alone are the LoRD my God.' " When you deserve it. • ISAIAH 38:16 | Lord, your discipline is good, for it leads to life and health. You restore my health and allow me to live! When you need restoration. • 1 CORINTHIANS 11:32 | Yet when we are judged by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be condemned along with the world. To keep you from being condemned. How should I discipline my children? • PROVERBS 13:24 | Those who love their children care enough to discipline them. With love. Discipline is about relationships, not rules. It is about safety, not retaliation. Your goal is not revenge, but restoration, not to taunt, but to teach and redeem trust. • PROVERBS 19:18 | Discipline your children while there is hope. Otherwise you will ruin their lives. When they need it - before it is too late. Proper discipline puts your children back on the right path. If children wander off the path, it's much easier to find the path again if they're just a few feet from it. But if they've gone far off the path, it's very difficult to find the way back. They are in danger of being hopelessly lost. • EPHESIANS 6:4 | Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord. Never in anger. It is difficult to make a good decision when you are consumed by anger. Your emotions are driving your thinking. Discipline given in anger is too often spiteful and harsh. It will too often shame a child rather than restore him or her. • COLOSSIANS 3:21 | Fathers, do not aggravate your children, or they will become discouraged. Without causing aggravation and discouragement. Discipline will bring conflict and your kids probably will get mad at you. But aggravation is caused by constant nagging that e says they are never good enough. It attacks their sense of value and worth instead of focusing on the immediate problem at hand. • HEBREWS 12:10 | For our earthly fathers disciplined us for a few years, doing the best they knew how. But God's discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness. ₴1 With godly wisdom. All parents will make some mistakes when disciplining their children. Since God's discipline is always best, we need to constantly seek his wisdom. Remember, God's wisdom comes from his Word, but it also comes from godly people who have been in his Word and practiced discipline. of. How do I know if my discipline is too much, if I am being too harsh? • COLOSSIANS 3:21 | Fathers, do not aggravate your children, or they will become discouraged. (See note on page 1081.) • EPHESIANS 6:4 | Do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Misdirected discipline will create undesirable behavior. To discipline harshly may produce a harsh response. A child may rebel or may simply give up. Could my troubles actually be God disciplining me? • PROVERBS 3:11-12 | My child, don't reject the LoRD's discipline.... For the LorD corrects those he loves. • ZEPHANIAH 3:2 | No one can tell it anything; it refuses all correction. It does not trust in the LORD or draw near to its God. (See note on page 838.) like, refusalem in the time of Zephaniah, we can wilfuly refuse to listen to God or anyone else, refusing the correction that would help us. At the heart of that kind of stubbornness is a failure to rust and seek God. Stay beep us. At theoretof thin your life, trusting his direction through his Word and your brothers and sisters in Christ. How should discipline in the church be handled? • MATTHEW 18:15 "If another believer sins against you... " Go to the brother or sister and reprove him or her in private, If he or she does not listen, go with one or two witnesses. If he or she stil ref ises to listen, take the matter before the • 2 CORINTHIANS 2:6-7 | Most of you opposed him, and that was punishment enough... Now, however, it is time to forgive and comfort him. (See note on page 1047.) The church gives united disapproval, but forgiveness and comfort are in order if the person chooses to repent. Don't shut out one who is genuinely repentant. • 2 THESSALONIANS 3:14-15 I Stay away from them so they will be ashamed. Don't think of them as enemies, but warn them as you would a brother or sister. Christians who are not repentant should not be treated as though everything is all right. al They need to be warned of the consequences of their continued sin. • 1 CORINTHIANS 5:2 | You should remove this man from your fellowship. (See note on page 1033) • TITUS 3:10 | If people are causing divisions among you, give a first and second warning. After that, have nothing more to do with them. (See note on page 1103). There are times when the scope of the sin and the flagrancy with which it is carried out requires the church to remove the one in error from the fellowship so that person will not continue to cause division or lead others into sin. to 10) brts ysoot PROMISE FROM GOD • PSALM 94:12 | Joyful are those you discipline, LoRD, those you teach with your 2WAMOA。 instructions. 10 foos of grol9d 81:01 WHO! • Discouragement See Depression; Encouragement mT .o22 Discrimination See Racism & Prejudice Dishonesty See Honesty & Integrity vinu TO e fi el ysiW Disobedience See Obedience; Sin ：21 25AIY3S0014 02 (00d store sno Dissatisfaction See Bitterness; Happiness D8 ถวกว Distress See Adversity; Suffering Diversity See also Abilities; Equality; Racism & Prejudice; Strengths & Weaknesses; Unity & Teamwork On a football team, diversity is essential. The team needs blockers, wide receivers, running backs, a quarterback. Without players of different sizes and skills, the team cannot play the game well. The same is true in business; a company needs a variety of people with diverse skills in accounting, sales, production, typing, shipping, and man-aging. And the church cannot function well without preachers, teachers, custodians, administrators, musicians, decorators, and evangelists. Diversity continued ol ecu Diversity is everywhere- in government, neighborhoods, business, and families. We are diverse in skin color, nationality, religion, looks, skills, abilities, interests, personal-ties. Our differences cause us to work well together as a team. They take pressure off the individual to be responsible for everything. Maybe most important, our differe cen demonstrate God's creativity in making us. He didn't want us to be the same. Too often, however, diversity causes prejudice and hatred; we tend to want others to be just like us. But the Bible tells us that diversity should be celebrated and embraced because God created each of us different in order to accomplish the variety of work that needs to be done. God created us different, but he created us all in his image. Men and women, rich and poor, black and white— all have equal value in God's eyes, although all have different roles and gifts. The tragedy is when we don't see others as equally important. We are unique in our individuality but equal in our value. This is diversity at its best, welding differing backgrounds, racial origins, and educational and social levels into one team to accomplish the work God has given us. In Christ, a diversity of backgrounds can harmonize into a unity of ministry and purpose. Is diversity consistent with equality? • EPHESIANS 3:6 | And this is God's plan: Both Gentiles and Jews who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God's children. • 1 CORINTHIANS 12:4-6 | 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. Being equal is not synonymous with being identical. Diversity is a part of God's plan for today and for eternity. In God's eyes we are not all alike, but we are all equal. With all the diversity in our culture, how is unity possible in anything but a very small group? Ae MJAZO • ROMANS 12:5 | So it is with Christ's body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other. • JOHN 10:16 | "I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd. " • EPHESIANS 4:4-6 | For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future. There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all, in all, and living through all. God is the creator of true unity. The presence of the Holy Spirit in the church can bring unity and peace to any group of people, small or large. Why is it a waste of time to compare ourselves to others? • 1 CORINTHIANS 12:12-18 | The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body. So it is with the body of Christ... 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.... But our bodies have many parts, and God has put each part just where he wants it. onnetit The church is called the "body of Christ " or the "body of believers " and is often likened to a person's physical body where every part has its specific function. It is foolish to try to determine whether your hand or your foot is more important - you need both. You were created by God to serve a key role in his Kingdom, and that is true of every other believer. Only when you work together will God's Kingdom grow and flourish! The more you appreciate diversity, the more you will be able to work well together, jianevib ,mset lisdioot s no • ROMANS 12:4-5 | 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. In his grace, God has given each of us different gifts for doing certain things well. Diversity is essential for productivity. God has given each of us gifts-some of us are great organizers and administrators, while others are gifted musicians, teachers, and dishwashers! When everyone in the congregation uses their gifts to serve, the church becomes a powerful force for good, a strong witness for Jesus, and a mighty army to combat Satan's attacks against God's people in your community. Divorce See Marriage duob evi de v duob taval nia m'l nerW Doubt See also Convictions; Faith; Purpose; Worry Thial ezel 1:3月税120 To doubt is to be uncertain or undecided, to hesitate, to consider something unlikely. It is an inclination not to believe. Doubt comes when we don't have enough information to convince us something is true. Doubt can be minor, such as an uncertainty about the accuracy of a newspaper report, or it can be major, such as a lack of confidence in the claims of the Bible. Doubt begs resolution, for when we doubt we are without a clear way, we are at a loss. The process of wrestling with our doubts, however, can be good for us if we come out the other end with greater conviction of belief..oy evon of tauob wore lliw rist iuo Is it okay to doubt my faith? teur of ritpmente ant bnit liw voy • PSALM 95:9 | "For there your ancestors tested and tried my patience, even though they cIW saw everything I did. " (See note on page 530.) " ND 10g miSt 39 God gives us plenty of evidence to believe in him. Doubt comes when we fail to stop long enough to observe all the evidence. And when doubt turns to lack of trust, we are in danger of ignoring God altogether. OBOlD UOY WA • JOHN 20:27 | "Don't be faithless any longer. Believe! " (See note on page 976) Doubt can be healthy or destructive, depending on how we use it. o • GENESIS 3:4 | "You won't die! " the serpent replied. n 9d i nol " УмОмОЯзтОзо One of Satan's tactics is to get us to doubt God's goodness. He tries to get us to forget all God has given us and focus on what we don't have. If you are spending much of your time thinking about what you don't have, you may be slipping into unhealthy doubt. HelpFinder 19 SVD What happens when I lose confidence in God? HON SOO • JOB 23:3 | "If only I knew where to find God, I would go to his court. " 22 VON18 When tragedy strikes, our first inclination is to wonder what happened to God. Nagging doubts cause us to question his care for us. But God's love and care are endless. Losing confidence in that fact puts us in danger of falling away from him,os. " e'bod lisost uoy • MATTHEW 11:28 | "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and TS:OS WROU I will give you rest. " 913. When you begin to doubt God, run to him, not away from him. How else will you discover ot how much he really loves you? & el ereriT SonsDive al duob ever voy nerlW • JOHN 14:1-3 | "Don't let your hearts be troubled... Fam going to prepare a place for you... When everything is ready, I will come and get you. " if Losing confidence in God may cause us to forfeit the eternal blessings he is preparing for us. • HEBREWS 11:1 | Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things boR we cannot see. Faith is confident assurance that what you believe is really going to happen. When you begin to lose confidence in God, go right to his promises in the Bible. As you take confidence from the ones he has already fulfilled, you will develop greater faith that his future promises will be fulfilled. doruno gri Are there things I should never doubt? • EPHESIANS 1:14 | The Spirit is God's guarantee that he will give us the inheritance he promised and that he has purchased us to be his own people. evelled viles I nss woH • HEBREWS 13:5 | For God has said, "I will never fail you. I will never abandon you. ". 2 " Never doubt your salvation. Once you become a Christian, Satan cannot snatch you back. page A102 Doubt continued mor • 2 CORINTHIANS 6:21 God says, "At just the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, Thelped you. " Never doubt God's desire or ability to help you. When I'm struggling in my Christian life and have doubts, does it mean I have less faith? • PSALM 94:19 | When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer. • GENESIS 15:8 | But Abram replied, "O Sovereign LORD, how can I be sure? " • MATTHEW 11:2-3 | John the Baptist... sent his disciples to ask Jesus, "Are you the Messiah we've been expecting, or should we keep looking for someone else? " Many people in the Bible who we consider to be "pillars of faith " had moments of doubt. This doesn't mean they had less faith, but that their faith was being challenged in a new way. When you have moments of doubt, you are probably in new territory. Allow your doubt to move you closer to God, not farther away from him. As you move closer to him, you will find the strength to trust him and your faith will grow even stronger. What should I do when I find myself doubting God? • HABAKKUK 1:17 | Will you let them get away with this forever? Will they succeed forever in their heartless conquests? (See note on page 831.) Bring your doubts directly to God in prayer. Be candid and honest as you pour out your heart to the Lord. Your doubt can draw you closer to him. • MARK 9:24 | The father instantly cried out, "I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief! " Pray that God will give you the confident faith you need. 590 • DEUTERONOMY 7:18 | "Don't be afraid of them! Just remember what the LORD your God is did to Pharaoh and to all the land of Egypt. " 18P ₴ 6• MARK 8:17-19 | *Why are you arguing about having no bread? Don't you know or understand even yet? Are your hearts too hard to take it in? "You have eyes-can't you see? You have ears-can't you hear?' Don't you remember anything at all? When I fed the 5,000 with five loaves of bread, how many baskets of leftovers did you pick up afterward? " "Twelve, " they said. When you are struggling with doubt, take time to remember the way God has worked in o the lives of people in Biblical times and has worked in your life and your family's life. As you recall God's "track record, " you will grow confident that he will work in your present ¡situation as well. • JOHN 20:27 Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here, and look at my hands. Put is your hand into the wound in my side. Don't be faithless any longer. Believe! " When you have doubts, review the evidence. There is a great deal of historical evidence to verify the accuracy of the Bible's claims. dr • HABAKKUK 2:1 I will climb up to my watchtower... There I will wait to see what the LorD says and how he will answer my complaint. Be patient. Let God answer your questions on his schedule, not yours. Don't throw away your faith just because God doesn't resolve your doubt immediately. • 1 THESSALONIANS 5:11 | So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. • HEBREWS 10:25 | And let us not neglect our meeting together. When you are wrestling with doubt, keep attending church and stay close to other Christians. Resist the temptation to isolate yourself, for that will only serve to weaken your faith more. Doubt feeds on loneliness. How can I really believe that the Lord cares for me? • PSALM 139:13-17 | You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother's womb.... You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded Drever page A103 your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are • LUKE 12:6-7 | What is the price of five sparrows two copper coins? Yet God does not forget a single one of them. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows. you are God's unique creation. Don't underestimate your value in God's eyes. The Bible assures you time and again that Does my doubt keep God from helping me? • MATTHEW 14:31 | Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. "You have so little faith, " Jesus said. "Why did you doubt me? " eb wot When Peter was walking on the water, he was overcome by doubt. But Jesus did not punish him or let him drown. He saved Peter. Doubt can be a starting place where you begin to admit your weaknesses and grow in your faith. Let your doubts drive you into the Word of God and draw you into a deeper relationship with him. PROMISE FROM GOD 73513 aIE YHO！ • HEBREWS 13:5 | For God has said, "I will never fail you. I will never abandon you. " Emptiness See Doubt; Loneliness Encouragement See also Comfort; Compassion; Forgiveness, Friendship; Hospitality When strength fails and we grow weary and discouraged, we need someone to come alongside us, show understanding, cheer us up, and inspire us to have the strength and commitment to move on. When bills pile up and money runs short, we need an encour-ager. When we become a single parent and the world seems against us, we need an encourager. When friends or family turn against us, we need an encourager. Our strength and resolve weaken. Oh, for someone to come beside us and lift us up and comfort us. Encouragers help us stir renewed commitment, renewed resolve. They inspire us with courage and hope. Encouragers bring a beautiful gift, often a spiritual gift, when they bring renewal through encouragement. DOW WOT.JON When do I most need encouragement? • 2 CHRONICLES 20:12 | "O our God, won't you stop them? We are powerless against this ... We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help. " • DANIEL 10:19 | "Don't be afraid, " he said, "for you are very precious to God. Peace! Be encouraged! Be strong! " As he spoke these words to me, I suddenly felt stronger. • MATTHEW 9:36 | When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused. When you stand at life's crossroads, you need encouragement to move ahead in the right HelpFinder direction. • ISAIAH 35:3 | With this news, strengthen those who have tired hands, and encourage those who have weak knees. When you are tired and weak, encouragement can give you rest and strength to continue. • 1 THESSALONIANS 5:14 | Encourage those who are timid. Take tender care of those who are weak. When you feel life's challenges are stronger than you are, you need encouragement from na aú neo uoy the One who is stronger to tackle your problems. • 2 CHRONICLES 35:2 | Josiah also assigned the priests to their duties and encouraged them ял оли 2101293110 (0 90л) in their work at the Temple of the LORD. Encouragement continued When God has a job for you to do, you may feel overwhelmed and need encouragement from other believers. • 2 CORINTHIANS 7:13 | In addition to our own encouragement, we were especially delighted to see how happy Titus was about the way all of you welcomed him and set his mind at ease. When you are thrust into leadership, you need encouragement from those you will lead. • TITUS 2:6 | In the same way, encourage the young men. to live wisely. › duob vit As you move through life's stages, you need encouragement to keep going strong for God. How does God encourage me? • JOSHUA 1:9 "Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LoRD your God is with you wherever you go. " • PSALM 34:18 | The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. • DEUTERONOMY 31:6 | "Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the LORD your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor 13Я83Н abandon you. " 1019) You can be encouraged to know God is with you. • JOHN 15:18 | "If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first. " e enlitom? • HEBREWS 4:15 | This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. You can be encouraged when you understand that Jesus has been through what you are going through. • PSALM 119:25, 28L lie in the dust; revive me by your word... I weep with sorrow; bencourage me by your word. gan • ROMANS 15:4 | Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the c Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God's promises to be і то золе rite fulfilled. .You can be encouraged when you listen to God speak through his Word. 9108200 • ISAIAH 40:29-31| 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 faints ine ons 099n You can be encouraged when you receive God's power and strength. • PSALM 40:2 | He lifted me out of the pit of despair. ... He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along. You can be encouraged when God rescues and restores you, "Ign 2.90 979 JOSHUA 23:10 | "Each one of you will put to flight a thousand of the enemy, for the LoRD your God fights for you, just as he has promised. " M1 CORINTHIANS 15:57 But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ. nailerib You can be encouraged when God defends you./gA912 2wen aint MN 1 cieC HAIAZI • • 2 THESSALONIANS 2:16-17 | Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, e who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal comfort and a wonderful hope, comfort you and strengthen you in every good thing you do and say. onna You can be encouraged when God comforts you. • PSALM 138:3 As soon as I pray, you answer me; you encourage me by giving me strength. You can be encouraged when God answers your prayers. of rognotte ai orw end on • 1 KINGS 19:4-6 | "I have had enough, LORD, " he said. "Take my life, for I am no better than my ancestors who have already died. " Then he lay down and slept under the broom set his Voes 태, page A105 tree. But as he was sleeping, an angel touched him and told him, "Get up and eat! " He 100ked around and there beside his head was some bread baked on hot stones and a jar of water! So he ate and drank and lay down again. • PHILIPPIANS 4:19 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. You can be encouraged to know that God meets your needs. • LUKE 5:4-5 | When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Now go out where it is deeper, and let down your nets to catch some fish. " "Master, " Simon replied, "we worked hard all last night and didn't catch a thing. But if you say so, I'll let the nets down again. " You can be encouraged by listening and following God's instructions. • 1 CHRONICLES 28:20 Then David continued, "Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Don't be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. He will see to it that all the work ... is finished correctly. " You can be encouraged by being a part of God's work. A253 • 2 CORINTHIANS 7:6 | But God, who encourages those who are discouraged, encouraged us by the arrival of Titus. You can be encouraged when God sends others into your life to encourage you. • ROMANS 8:38-39 | 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. You can be encouraged with the assurance of God's love. stom wond You can be encouraged when God's peace floods your soul. ot ins How can I encourage others? 2 b00 yvol 15 ti ob 1 tud • EZRA 5:1-2 | Haggai and Zechariah son of Iddo prophesied to the Jews in Judah Sm and Jerusalem. They prophesied in the name of the God of Israel who was over them. ia Zerubbabel.. responded by starting again to rebuild the Temple. Sometimes encouragement involves getting a person involved once again in productive bod raiw qiria • ACTS 11:23 | Barnabas] encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord. Barnabas is known as the "great encourager " in the Bible. Barnabas's encouragement of H John Mark helped him become a great leader in the church. Encouragement is more than hollow praise; it is urging others to hold fast to the principles of faith. woy ni groma ed • PHILEMON 1:11 | Now he is very useful to both of us. 9002, รสัง กรมอาด) eze Showing trust in a person is a great source of encouragement to him or hers uoy nort • 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. DAel ano 10 9/09 smo T " Encouragement is affirming others and the work they are doing for God. emepussio • JOSHUA 24:13 "I gave you land you had not worked on, and I gave you towns you did JAUMAR T not build. " (See note on page 214.) Encouragement can come from reviewing God's past blessings. • JOB 29:24 | "When they were discouraged, I smiled at them. My look of approval was at boy pniwolls precious to them. " Sometimes just a smile is a great encouragement. What makes it easier to encourage others or receive encouragement? awev • JAMES 4:10 | Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor. (See note on page 1125.) page A10e Encouragement continued it is easier to encourage those who are humble because they will appreciate and better respond to your affirmation. What causes discouragement? • PSALM 73:2-3 | But as for me, I almost lost my footing... For I envied the proud when ! saw them prosper despite their wickedness. We become discouraged when we stop looking at all God has given us and focus on the success of others. • 1 KINGS 19:4 | "T have had enough, LORD, " he said. "Take my life, for I am no better than my ancestors. " Discouragement often comes after a great spiritual experience. • EZRA 4:4 | Then the local residents tried to discourage and frighten the people of ludah to keep them from their work. When God's enemies try to stop us from doing God's work, it can be discouraging. • 2 CORINTHIANS 2:16 | And who is adequate for such a task as this? Discouragement comes when you feel you can't get the job done, when you're not up to the task. • 2 CORINTHIANS 1:8-9 | We think you ought to know, dear brothers and sisters, about the trouble we went through in the province of Asia. We were crushed and overwhelmed beyond our ability to endure, and we thought we would never live through it. In fact, we expected to die. Discouragement can come simply from the crushing burdens and heartbreaks of life. You often know more than you wish you did about many situations— about the real nature of people and their 'dark side.' This knowledge combined with other hardships can wear you down. • ROMANS 7:15-24 | I don't really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don't do it. Instead, I do what I hate... I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature...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... I love God's law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Discouragement can come when you realize that, as long as you are in your present body, you will have to fight against your sinful nature which is working to destroy your relationship with God. How can I handle discouragement? • 1 PETER 5:8-9 | Watch out for your great enemy, the devil.... Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your family of believers all over the world is going through the same kind of suffering you are. os i 3 YSY 21 9f w0f When you are discouraged, you are particularly vulnerable to Satan's attacks. During these difficult times, be especially careful to stay close to God's Word and other believers. • 1 KINGS 19:10 | "I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me, too. " Discouragement makes us feel sorry for ourselves. We must guard against thinking we are the only ones who are going through troubles. It is encouraging to realize others are going through the same things we are. • 1 SAMUEL 1:10 | Hannah was in deep anguish, crying bitterly as she prayed to the LoRD. • EZRA 9:5-6 | I stood up from where I had sat in mourning... I prayed. Prayer is the first step to take when discouraged. It moves you into the presence of God, allowing you to be honest with him and share your burdens with him. • 2 CHRONICLES 20:15 | "Don't be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God's. " It would have been easy for the people of Judah to see only the vast enemy army and not God standing over it to destroy it. We must be careful to disconnect our feelings of ad when etter the ot upto ut the reyonda to die. • You co ople an page A107 discouragement from our assurance of God's love for us. Discouragement can cause us to doubt God's love, drawing us away from the source of our greatest help. • JAMES 4:10 | Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor. Acknowledge God's sovereignty and how much you need his help. • PSALM 42:5-6, 8 | Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again— my Savior and my God! Now I am deeply discouraged, but I will remember you... But each day the LORD pours his unfailing love upon me, and through each night I sing his songs, praying to God who gives me life. Trust God's promise to bring good out of the bad. Let him teach you something important the most help. even from your discouragement. Never separate yourself from the One who can give you • PSALM 55:22 | Give your burdens to the LORD, and he will take care of you. • MATTHEW 11:28-29 | 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. Let God carry your burdens when they are too heavy. This doesn't mean he will take all your problems away or that he will solve your problems for you. That happens in heaven. But for now, God promises to give you wisdom, strength, comfort, and discernment to deal with your problems in a positive and effective manner. Ca • ZECHARIAH 8:6, 13. | "This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: All this may seem impossible to you now. ... But is it impossible for me? .. Now I will rescue you and make you both a symbol and a source of blessing. So don't be afraid. " God can do the impossible, so let him! • 1 CORINTHIANS 15:58 | 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. Be enthusiastic about God's work, and then you will experience God's blessing. How can I help others who are feeling discouraged? vit asimone suay. • 1 SAMUEL 23:16 | Jonathan went to find David and encouraged him to stay strong in his faith in God. • ACTS 11:23 | When he arrived and saw this evidence of God's blessing, he was filled with joy, and he encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord. Encourage them to stay close to God and not neglect their relationship with him. • 2 CHRONICLES 32:8 | "He may have a great army, but they are merely men. We have the LORD our God to help us and to fight our battles for us! " Hezekiah's words greatly encouraged the people. Remind them what God can and wants to do for and through them. Encourage them with hope for the future. • TITUS 1:9 | He must have a strong belief in the trustworthy message he was taught; then he will be able to encourage others with wholesome teaching. Share God's instruction and teaching with them, for it is good news! • ISAIAH 35:3 | With this news, strengthen those who have tired hands, and encourage those who have weak knees. Encourage them with hope for the future. • PSALM 69:20 | Their insults have broken my heart, and I am in despair. If only one person would show some pity; if only one would turn and comfort me. • ROMANS 12:15 | Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Be kind and empathetic. • PROVERBS 15:30 | A cheerful look brings joy to the heart; good news makes for good health. Share a smile of encouragement. page A108 Encouragement continued PROMISES FROM GOR • PSALM 34:18 | The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. nug l • GALATIANS 6:9 | 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. ab 12a9 • JOSHUA 23:10 | "The LorD your God fights for you, just as he has promised. " • 2 CORINTHIANS 7:51 The more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. Enemies See also Evil: Persecution; Spiritual Warfare; Terrorism Enemies are people who oppose us. They may dislike or even hate us for something we've done or for something we stand for. Whether our enemies are opposing nations or playground bullies, the Bible gives specific instructions on how to deal with them. No matter who our enemies are and how they've wronged us, Jesus tells us not to seek revenge but to love them and pray for them. Jesus does not tell us to be a doormat and let them trample us, nor does he tell us to be like them. Jesus himself stood against his enemies. He tells us to keep their best interests in mind and treat them as we would hope to be treated. When we find it hard to love our enemies, remember we were all once enemies of Jesus before believing in him. And yet he still showed his love by dying on the cross for our sin so that we could live forever with him. How do my enemies try to hurt me? • GENESIS 3:1 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? " Your enemies try to hurt you by tricking you into sin. " e пво wOH 82 CHRONICLES 32:10-15 "This is what King Sennacherib of Assyria says: What are you trusting in that makes you think you can survive my siege of Jerusalem?.. Don't let Hezekiah deceive you! ... No god of any nation or kingdom has ever yet been able to rescue his people 'from me or my ancestors. How much less will your God rescue you from my power! " Your enemies try to hurt you by confusing you about right and wrong, good and bad. They will try to divide you from those who support you. "o • EZRA 4:1-39 The enemies of Judah and Benjamin heard that the exiles were rebuilding a Temple to the LORD, the God of Israel. So they approached Zerubbabel and the other leaders and said, "Let us build with you, for we worship your God just as you do.... " But Zerubbabel, Jeshua, and the other leaders of Israel replied, "You may have no part in " this work. " isYour enemies will try to hurt you by sweet talking you into compromising your faith and lifestyle. • JUDGES 4:3 | Sisera, who had 900 iron chariots, ruthlessly oppressed the Israelites for actwenty years. Then the people of Israel cried out to the LORD for help..w 8:28 HAIA2! • JOSHUA 17:16 | The descendants of Joseph responded, "It's true that the hill country is not large enough for us. But all the Canaanites in the lowlands have iron chariots.... They are too strong for us. " for what you believe. Your enemies will try to use intimidation and oppression to stop you from taking a stand • JUDGES 16:5 | The rulers of the Philistines went to her and said, "Entice Samson to tell you what makes him so strong and how he can be overpowered and tied up securely. Then each of us will give you 1,100 pieces of silver. " Your enemies will try to find your weak spot so they can use it against you. " se spinio. we will thing em, to sen at ar nst hig uld 레l Where can I turn when I feel overwhelmed by those who are against me? • JOSHUA 17:12 | But the descendants of Manasseh were unable to occupy these towns because the Canaanites were determined to stay in that region. (See note on page 208.) mined than we are. One of the first steps to defeating our enemies is to realize that they may be more deter- • PSALM 71:1-5, 14 | 0 LORD, I have come to you for protection; don't let me be disgraced. Save me and rescue me, for you do what is right... O Lord, you alone are my hope. I've praise you more and more. trusted you, O LorD, from childhood... But I will keep on hoping for your help; I will • PSALM 143:9 Rescue me from my enemies, LorD; I run to you to hide me. When you feel overwhelmed by opposition, turn to God and not away from him, for he is the only one who can really help you. Although your enemies may think they have you trapped, they underestimate the power of the One you serve. s nosT • PSALM 5:8 | Lead me in the right path, O LORD, or my enemies will conquer me. Make your way plain for me to follow. TAM d nemurl isnt eer Follow God's direction and instructions. You may be out of options, but he is the God of unlimited resources. Only he can show you the way to victory. • MATTHEW 10:28 | Don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell. • DEUTERONOMY 20:1 | "When you go out to fight your enemies and you face horses and chariots and an army greater than your own, do not be afraid. The LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, is with you! " 1189 ill ni esnst • EZRA 8:31 | We broke camp at the Ahava Canal on April 19 and started off to Jerusalem. And the gracious hand of our God protected us and saved us from enemies and bandits along the way. etseint ai teris Trust God for the outcome. Evil cannot defeat God, so if you are on his side, ultimate® victory is sure. What does it mean to love my enemies? Com tah slisa ab bo aácb woH • ROMANS 12:20-21 | "If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. "... Don't let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing 21 • good. (OLTIOW Showing love to one's enemies is always unreasonable- unless you realize that you were once an enemy of God until he forgave you: When you love your enemies, you see them as Christ does-people in need of grace. Getting to that point takes prayer. You can't pray for someone and not feel compassion for that person. This is how you can refrain from retaliating when that person hurts you, and this is how God can turn an enemy into a friend. • PROVERBS 25:21-22 | If your enemies are hungry, give them food to eat. If they are thirsty, give them water to drink. You will heap burning coals of shame on their heads, and the LoRD will reward you. • LUKE 23:34 | Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they don't know what they are doing. " And the soldiers gambled for his clothes by throwing dice. Joy 10 eltied 1) ni boo no • MATTHEW 18:21-22 | Then Peter came to him and asked, "Lord, how often should I ol forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times? " "No, not seven times, " Jes Jesus replea, "but seventy times seven! " • LUKE 6:29 | "If someone slaps you on one cheek, offer the other cheek also. If someone demands your coat, offer your shirt also. " Respond to your enemies - no matter what they try to do - with forgiveness, Your actions toward your enemies should include prayer for them as well as acts of kindness. Your words should be gentle. Your attitude should not be one of revenge or il will This is what Jesus would do. And this is what sets you apart from the rest of the world. • ISAIAH 53:7 | He was oppressed and treated harshly, yet he never said a word eventuv • 1 PETER 3:9 | Don't repay evil for evil. mere ont to yns geng ed lliw nox Enemies continued • MATTHEW 5:44 | "But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! " At times, your best response to opposition is no response at all. By repaying evil for evil, you stoop to fighting on their terms and you cut yourself off from God's righteous Are there really spiritual enemies - powers of darkness - trying to get me? • DANIEL 10:12-13 | Then he said, "Don't be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day you began to pray for understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your request has been heard in heaven. I have come in answer to your prayer. But for twenty-one days the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia blocked my way. Then Michael, one of the archangels, came to help me. " • MATTHEW 4:1 | Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted there by the devil. The Bible clearly teaches that human beings are involved in a spiritual battle. Far from excluding you from this spiritual battle, faith puts you right in the middle of it. You are in a battle for your very soul. You must recognize that and arm yourself, or you will be defeated. • EPHESIANS 6:12 | 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. Satan is alive and active, and his legions of demons are always on the attack. A battle rages in the spiritual realm-a battle you can't see but one you will experience if you seek to serve God. You need God's power, not your own, to stand strong and not allow temptation to overcome you. Most of all, since you do not always know or understand the evil that is threatening you, you need God's power to give you strength to face an unknown enemy. Have peace that God has already won the battle over death and has the power and desire to save you. How does God do battle for me? ovol oi ne • EXODUS 15:3 | "The LorD is a warrior; Yahweh is his name! " • ISAIAH 42:13 | The LORD will march forth like a mighty hero; he will come out like a warrior, full of fury. He will shout his battle cry and crush all his enemies. • 2 CHRONICLES 20:15 | "This is what the LorD says: Do not be afraid! Don't be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God's. " • EPHESIANS 6:11 | Put on all of God's armor. • REVELATION 11:15 | "The world has now become the Kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign forever and ever. " The purpose of evil is to defy God and wear down believers until they are led into sin. This gives Satan pleasure and greater power over the earth. But God is a warrior. He is always ready to fight on your behalf, always ready to come to your defense. In addition, he provides you with armor so that you can fight alongside him (read Ephesians 6:11-18). But you must join God in the battle or you will be vulnerable and helpless to withstand the enemy. If you join, you are guaranteed victory. he How can my enemies defeat me? • JUDGES 16:15-17 | Then Delilah pouted, "How can you tell me, 'T love you,' when you don't share your secrets with me? ... " She tormented him with her nagging day after day until he was sick to death of it. Finally, Samson shared his secret with her. The crafty Philistines knew they couldn't match Samson's brute strength, so they aimed at his weakness-his inability to stay away from seductive women. Temptation always strikes at your weak spot. Your weak spots are those areas you refuse to give over to God. It is those areas of weakness where you must ask God for the most help so he can cover your vulnerable spots with his strength. With a strategy to protect your points of vulnerability. you will be prepared for any of the enemy's attacks. • ROMANS 6:12 | Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires. • 3 JOHN 1:11 | Dear friend, don't let this bad example influence you. Follow only what is good. PROMISES FROM GOD • DEUTERONOMY 20:1 | "When you go out to fight your enemies…... do not be afraid. The LorD your God… is with you! " • 2 THESSALONIANS 3:3 | But the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one. 118 m91 Enthusiasm See Happiness ua ab Environment God is the creator of all the universe. His fingerprints are everywhere. As human artists express their personalities through creativity, so God has expressed his infinite glory through his creation. The Bible teaches that because our environment is an expression of the person and nature of God, it is to be treated with deep respect. We do not worship nature, of course, because the Creator, not the creation, is holy. But we must show our love and respect for the Creator by caring for his creation. What does the Bible say about the environment and our responsibility. in M environmental issues? • GENESIS 1:28 | God blessed them and said, "Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the AunzoL. earth and govern it. Reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the sanal animals. " Human beings were created to share responsibility for the earth by being good stewards of the created environment. • GENESIS 2:15 The Lord God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to tend and watch a1:8 MHOL over it. The first assignment God gave to Adam was to tend and care for the Garden of Eden. • DEUTERONOMY 20:19 | "When you are attacking a town and the war drags on, you must not cut down the trees.... Are the trees your enemies, that you should attack them? " (See 3131 note on page 178.) Even in a time of war God was concerned about the needless destruction of the environment. • LEVITICUS 25:5 | "The land must have a year of complete rest. " sve ai noitsvisa a boo God's instructions for the people of Israel to let the farmland rest every seventh year allowed for the conservation of good, productive land. ol gri 03： • PSALM 96:12-13 | Let the fields and their crops burst out with joy! Let the trees of the forest sing for joy before the LORD! Since God's glory is clearly seen in the beauty of nature, the environment, should never be thoughtlessly defiled. vilsubivibal PROMISE FROM GOD • PSALM 19:1-4 | The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. They speak without a sound or word; their voice is never heard. Yet their message has gone throughout the earth, and their words to all the world. Envy See Honesty & Integrity; Jealousy page A112 Equality See also Diversity; Fairness; Justice 103 Пів 39110nou 51.8 2ИАМОЛ One of the most encouraging messages of the Bible is that all people have equal value in God's eyes. How tragic that human beings have so completely abused this message. In government, at work, and even in families, we tend to immediately size up our place in the proverbial pecking order. Even more tragic is the fact that almost every great human tragedy from war to slavery, has occurred because one group of people felt superior to anotuer and would do anything to prove it. God established families, government, and work to function well with a leader. Leadership is vital to order, productivity, and teamwork. The problem comes when leaders abuse their authority and start acting as though their superior position gives them superior value. When we fail to see others as equal in value, injustice and evil get the upper hand. Being a child of God outranks any position or status. To look at ourselves as superior to others in value is to devalue their worth in God's eyes, If you long for justice and fairness, it begins with seeing everyone as equal in worth before God. Does God view people equally? 13 • GENESIS 1:27 | So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them:i erl Tis to 1015910 eri • PROVERBS 22:2 | The rich and poor have this in common! The LorD made them both. All people are created by God, have been made in the image of God, and have equal value in the eyes of God. • NUMBERS 15:15 | "Native-born Israelites and foreigners are equal before the LoRD and are subject to the same decrees. " Men and women, rich and poor, foreigner and native, slave and free— all are created with equal value in God's eyes, although all have different roles. 92s • JOSHUA 17:4 | These women came to Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the Israelite leaders and said, "The LORD commanded Moses to give us a grant of land along with the men of our tribe. " So Joshua gave them a grant of land along with their uncles, as ethe Lord had commanded. (See note on page 20,.,enemiesee saen e nisa It was God himself who decided in favor of these women, demonstrating not only his coni cern for them but also the importance of equality between men and women. 2123430 • JOHN 3:16 | "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. " nemng • ROMANS 3:22 We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this eis true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. st, • ACTS 10:34-35 | Then Peter replied, "I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. In ine every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right. " God's salvation is available to everyone. D9y D SVen ba 1 PETER 1:17 And remember that the heavenly Father to whom you pray has no favorites. He will judge or reward you according to what you do. • 2 CORINTHIANS 5:10 | For we must all stand before Christ to be judged. We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in this earthly body. God will determine punishment or reward as he judges each person equally and onie individually. How is there equality among believers? • GALATIANS 3:28 | There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus. (See note on page 1061.) • EPHESIANS 2:14-18 | For Christ himself has brought peace to us. He united Jews and Gentiles into one people when, in his own body on the cross, he broke down the wall of hostility that separated us... Now all of us can come to the Father through the same Holy Spirit because of what Christ has done for us. Faith in Jesus unites all believers as equals. page A113 • JAMES 2:1-4, 9 | 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? ... doesn't this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives? ... But if you favor some people over others, you are committing a sin. You are guilty of breaking not show favoritism. The church should care for others by focusing on their needs, not their status; then it will How is there equality in marriage? • 1 CORINTHIANS 11:11-12 | But among the Lord's people, women are not independent of men, and men are not independent of women. For although the first woman came from man, every other man was born from a woman, and everything comes from God. EPHESIANS 5:22-33 For wives, this means submit to your husbands as to the Lord... 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.... 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. • 1 CORINTHIANS 7:4 The wife gives authority over her body to her husband, and the husband gives authority over his body to his wife. Husbands and wives are created equal. Although God has assigned different roles and responsibilities to husbands and wives, both have equal value and both are worthy of equal honor. 2W 9 How should there be equality in my relationships? 100. • MATTHEW 7:1-2: | "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 • 3 08 judged. "e of o • ACTS 10:28 | Peter told them, "You know it is against our laws for a Jewish man to enter a Gentile home like this or to associate with you. But God has shown me that I should no 850. 6 longer think of anyone as impure or unclean. " Be careful not to stand in judgment of other people. You may not know all the facts or their circumstances. Just as you would not want others to constantly assess and evaluate you, refrain from doing it to others. PROMISES FROM GOD • EPHESIANS 2:18 | Now all of us can come to the Father through the same Holy Spirit because of what Christ has done for us. • ROMANS 3:22 | We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this Iw boog ei bod il is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are, on รวbie boD dRo sa vovo sisa Eternal Life See Faith; Heaven/Eternal Life; Salvation a gib of stire par eval eniune® Evangelism See Witnessing ridisaoq erlt aemoa Evil See also Enemies; Persecution; Sin; Spiritual Warfare Since the fall of mankind, the earth has not known a time without the influence of evil. We face an enemy far more powerful than any human foe. That enemy is Satan, the very embodiment of evil. His goal is to overcome good with evil in your life and in the world. Although we cannot visibly see Satan and his demons, we can see the destruction he causes in people's lives. Satan uses all sorts of tactics to try to take us as prisoners to Evil continued the side of evil. But God has given us very powerful spiritual weapons and armor to fight against the forces of evil (read Ephesians 6:13-18). If you want to be a mighty warrior and consistently overcome evil attacks, you must learn to use these weapons! The Bible teaches you what all these weapons are and how to use them. Where does evil come from? • DANIEL 7:25 | "He will defy the Most High and oppress the holy people of the Most High. " Evil is the by-product of Satan's work in our universe, which is often to oppress and wear down believers until they are led into sin. This gives Satan pleasure and greater power over the earth. • EZEKIEL 28:12-17 "You were the model of perfection... You were in Eden, the garden of God... I ordained and anointed you as the mighty angelic guardian.. in all you did from the day you were created until the day evil was found in you... And you sinned. So I banished you in disgrace... expelled you, O mighty guardian... I threw you to the ground. " Evil began in the heart of Satan, once a mighty angel warrior in heaven. When he sinned against God, he was expelled from heaven and now roams the earth, causing great evil by tempting mankind into sin. • ROMANS 3:23 | For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. • ROMANS 7:21-23 | I have discovered this principle of life-that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. I love God's law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. Since Satan first convinced Adam and Eve to sin, all people have been infected and bor or with a sinful nature. We are all literally born with a spiritual disease that causes us to sin-the desire to go our own way instead of God's way. The proof of this is that no one has ever lived a perfect life (except Jesus, who is God). So while we can work to sin less and to keep sin from controlling us, we can never - on this earth— eliminate sin altogether. Thus we can never hope to eliminate evil on this present earth. • JEREMIAH 17:9 | "The human heart is the most deceitful of all things, and desperately viên wicked. Who really knows how bad it is? " ud Your own heart, polluted by sin and selfishness, becomes a source for evil thoughts and actions. • EPHESIANS 6:12 | 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. Cosmic forces of evil, led by Satan, are engaged in a deadly rebellion against God and against you personally if you claim allegiance to God. If God is good, why does he let people do evil things? • GENESIS 2:15-17 | The LORD God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to tend and watch over it. 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. " Genuine love requires the freedom to choose. From the beginning, God desired a loving relationship with you, so he gave you this freedom. But with ability to make choices comes the possibility of choosing your own way over God's way. Your own way always leads to sin, because all people are born with a sinful nature (Romans 3:23). This breaks God's heart, but the alternative for God would be to make people as robots, not humans. And what kind of a relationship can you hope to have with a robot? But because of our sinful nature there is sin, and sin leads to evil. We are all prone to do evil things, but you can choose to do right most of the time because God gives you the power to do so. And when you do so, God is greatly pleased, good prevails, and Satan loses ground. or to figh Narrior The BibA ost High: and weas power ove Barden of blameles And you trew you sinned at evil by lard. › what is ; another sin that page A115 How can I combat and confront evil? • 1 JOHN 4:4 | The Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world. • 1 JOHN 5:4 | For every child of God defeats this evil world, and we achieve this victory through our faith. • EPHESIANS 6:16 | Hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Your first line of defense is to draw strength from the fact that God is more powerful than your problems and your enemies. Your faith in God is like a shield that protects you from the temptations and criticisms hurled at you every day. Without strong faith, the weapons of Satan and the "arrows " shot at you by your enemies would pierce and defeat you. So even when life seems overwhelming, hold tight to your faith like a shield and you will withstand the dangers and discouragements sent at you. And rejoice that you know God has already won the ultimate victory over sin and evil. • ROMANS 12:9 | Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Resolve to hate everything that is sinful and evil. • 1 CORINTHIANS 10:12-13 | If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall. 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. Stop giving in to temptation. God's Word makes it clear that sin always hurts you because it separates you from him (your source of mercy and blessing) and puts you in the clutches of the enemy. Giving in to temptation puts you right in the middle of the road where evil hurtles toward you at high speed. Being run over by the consequences of sin will cause great distress in your life. The next time you find yourself moving toward something you know is wrong, get off the road of temptation before the consequences of sin run you over. God has promised to give you the strength to resist temptation. • ROMANS 13:14 Instead, clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. And don't let yourself think about ways to indulge your evil desires. Surrender yourself to Christ's control. Make sure that you don't put yourself in situations y where you know your resolve for righteousness will be tested. The closer you walk with cb Christ, the harder it is to be caught in the snare of evil. • EPHESIANS 6:10-11 | 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. = Your own strength is insufficient to combat evil. With the armor that God gives you (which you learn about in the Bible) you can find the strength and protection to win the battle. • ROMANS 12:21 | Don't let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good. enosi • GALATIANS 5:22-23 | But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Combat evil with goodness. This is a difficult thing to do, but ultimately it is the only thing that will work, because righteousness is stronger than evil. ev. ter rguoาก It often seems that evil is winning; can this really be? • JOHN 16:33 | Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. It will appear at times that evil has the upper hand. But the Lord's power is supreme and he will win the final victory. • REVELATION 20:10 | Then the devil, who had deceived them, was thrown into the fiery lake of burning sulfur, joining the beast and the false prophet. There they will be tormented day and night forever and ever. When Jesus returns to usher in eternity, he will eradicate evil forever. No matter how bleak things may seem now, if you put your faith in Jesus Christ, you are on the winning side! What authority do I have when confronting evil? • ROMANS 8:15-17 | 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 page A11g Clive inoinco bre jadoo l Evil continued 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. One of the tricks of evil is to blind us to our authority and identity as children of God. Through faith in Christ we are children of the king of the universe, Like a crown prince or princess, we can stand tall and firm against any threat on the Kingdom. • MATTHEW 10:1 | Jesus called his twelve disciples together and gave them authority to cast out evil spirits and to heal every kind of disease and illness. • MATTHEW 28:18 | Jesus came and told his disciples, "I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. " Our authority in Christ Jesus not only helps us defend against temptation and evil, it gives us the power to take the offensive and overcome evil with good. PROMISES FROM GOD • PSALM 1:6 | For the LoRD watches over the path of the godly, but the path of the wicked leads to destruction. • REVELATION 20:10 | Then the devil, who had deceived them, was thrown into the fiery lake of burning sulfur, joining the beast and the false prophet. There they will be tormented er day and night forever and ever. Excuses See also Convictions; Honesty & Integrity Excuses are part of daily living. An excuse is designed to justify certain behavior. There are legitimate excuses ( "I couldn't meet you because I was sick "), and there are poor excuses ( "He dared me to steal it ". Poor excuses try to rationalize improper behavior. When you find yourself blaming others for your actions or lying to make you look better, your excuses will get you in trouble. It is far better in the long run to admit what you've done, seek forgiveness, and move forward. Where is the first excuse in the Bible? • GENESIS 3:12 | "It was the woman you gave me who gave me the fruit, and I ate it. " Adam made the first excuse. He blamed Eve, and indirectly he blamed God for giving him "the woman. " Then Eve blamed the serpent. Both tried to excuse their actions by blaming someone else g What are some examples of other people who had poor excuses? • GENESIS 16:5 | Then Sarai said to Abram, "This is all your fault! " Sarai (Sarah) couldn't have children, so she gave her slave to Abram in order to have a child through her. Later Sarah had second thoughts and blamed Abram for the whole thing. this calf! " 9)D) • EXODUS 32:24 | "When they brought it to me, I simply threw it into the fire— and out came Aaron's lame excuse for making an idol - something expressly condemned by God-was b that it just happened! How often we do the same thing, blaming our sin on circumstances actions (Romans 14:12; Revelation 20:12). beyond our control. But the Bible clearly says we are completely accountable for all our • LUKE 22:60 | But Peter said, "Man, I don't know what you are talking about. " Peter had an excuse for saying he didn't know Jesus— he wanted to save his life or, at best, avoid the ridicule of being associated with him. Ironically, it is when we start making excuses about not knowing Jesus that we are in the greatest danger. Can we ever excuse ourselves from God's work because we lack abilities or resources? * EXODUS 4:10. But Moses pleaded with the LoRD, "O Lord, I'm not very good with words. " • JUDGE weake said to Both qualit least know the h What k • GEN crie has EXC YOU 01S Sa d 을 • El Car • JUDGES 6:15-16 | "But Lord, " Gideon replied, "how can I rescue israel? My clan is the said to him, "I will be with you. " weakest in the whole tribe of Manasseh, and I am the least in my entire family! " The LORD Both Moses and Gideon thought they had good excuses to get out of serving God. But the qualifications God looks for are different from what we might expect. He often chooses the least likely people to do his work in order to more effectively demonstrate his power. If you know God has called you to do something, stop trying to excuse yourself. He will give you the help and strength you need to get the job done. 10 What kinds of excuses are particularly annoying to God? 000 ni en auis • GENESIS 4:10-11 The LoRD said, "What have you done? Listen! Your brother's blood at ai Jerive cries out to me from the ground! Now you are cursed and banished from the ground, which has swallowed your brother's blood. " s steivol l Excusing sin will not be overlooked by God. You can't hide from him, so don't bother trying. You are only setting yourself up for future judgment. • 1 SAMUEL 15:15 | "It's true that the army spared the best of the sheep, goats, and cattle, " Saul admitted. "But they are going to sacrifice them to the LORD your God. We have destroyed everything else. " (See note on page 258.) Trying to justify sinful actions with spiritual motives. God is never pleased with sin, even if you think the end justifies the means. wow Bria shito iors ton • EZEKIEL 33:20 | "But I judge each of you according to your deeds.» e ¿'bog ni sults* • 1 PETER 1:17 | He will judge or reward you according to what you do. So you must live in reverent fear of him. stil voy evsy orw boe Trying to make yourself look good when you don't deserve it. Taking responsibility for outw actions is the only way to stop the excuses. • HAGGAI 1:2-4 | "The people are saying, 'The time has not yet come to rebuild the house of the LORD.' " (See note on page 841.) Neglecting your spiritual priorities by using the excuse that "the timing isn't right. " aNT Can anyone be excused for not accepting the Lord? a of eysw emoz eye teriw • PHILIPPIANS 2:9-11 | God. gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow. ' and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord. We all have excuses for not putting God first — we're too busy, we're not sure how to wit-ness, we'll do it later, we don't know where to start. Do you think those excuses will hold up when we see God face-to-face? von lo 190 • ROMANS 1:20 | 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,aaooua prind ot "I had a terrible father, and he turned me against God. " Another excuse that sounds AJ o good— at first. "I never heard. " "The Bible is too hard to understand. " "My parents never took me to church. " All sound like good excuses. But on Judgment Day, the Lord will not accept them. Everyone has at least had the testimony of nature, God's work. That alone luntist gives witness to his presence and power. NONHO S 1 robamado PROMISES FROM GOD • 1 PETER 1:17 | And remember that the heavenly Father to whom you pray has no favor-ites. He will judge or reward you according to, what you do. So you must live in reverent oH 1-0:01 41903 1 • fear of him during your time here. 2o br • 1 JOHN 1:8-9 | If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth. 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. Failure See also Mistakes; Sin; Success To fail is to fall short, to be perceived as weak, to break down, to fall, to not reach your purpose, to lack success. No wonder we are all so afraid of failure! When it comes to failure, we must decide whose rules we are playing by. Would you rather be a success in business and a failure as a parent, or vice versa? Would you rather be successful by the world's standards or God's? Now is the time to decide what definitions of success and failure you will live by. What is failure in God's eyes? • EXODUS 34:6-7 | The LoRD passed in front of Moses, calling out, "Yahweh! The LORD! The God of compassion and mercy! I am slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. I lavish unfailing love to a thousand generations. I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin. But I do not excuse the guilty. " • MALACHI 3:5 | "At that time I will put you on trial....I will speak against those who cheat employees of their wages, who oppress widows and orphans, or who deprive the foreigners living among you of justice, for these people do not fear me, " says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. • HEBREWS 3:12 | Be careful then, dear brothers and sisters. Make sure that your own hearts are not evil and unbelieving, turning you away from the living God. Failure in God's eyes is not living the way he created you to live, never acknowledging him as creator of all, and rejecting him. God gave you the gift of life, and he created you to have a relationship with him. Your greatest failure would be to reject that way of life and to reject the God who gave you life. When it comes to failure, what is one thing I can count on? • 2 CORINTHIANS 12:9 | Each time he said, "My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness. " (See note on page 1055.) One thing is certain: We must all learn to live with failure. We all fail. We all have weaknesses. The key to strong character is how we live with failure. What are some ways to prevent failure? • 1 CHRONICLES 28:20 | "Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Don't be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. He will see to it that all the work... is finished correctly. " (See note on page 381.) - Courage and perseverance help prevent failure, especially if we know that God approves bof the task we are doing. 3i 11.00 l • PROVERBS 15:22 | Plans go wrong for lack of advice; many advisers bring success. (See note on page 571.) Good advice helps prevent failure. Asking for counsel from several advisers is more likely to bring success. • LAMENTATIONS 3:23 Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. (See note on page 724.) •God's great faithfulness is like a fresh batch of bread delivered daily to sustain us. It not only helps prevent failure but also helps us start over after we have failed. And he extends his faithfulness in greater measure to those who sincerely and consistently try to follow him. • 2 CHRONICLES 12:1 | But when Rehoboam was firmly established and strong, he abandoned the Law of the Lord, and all Israel followed him in this sin. Living by God's Word will help prevent a great deal of failure. How do I move ahead after I've failed? • 1 CORINTHIANS 10:6-7 | These things happened as a warning to us, so that we would not crave evil things as they did, or worship idols as some of them did. Remember that failure can be helpful; it can teach us important lessons about what to avoid in the future. We need not repeat our mistakes! page A119 • JOSHUA 8:1 | Then the LORD said to Joshua, "Do not be afraid or discouraged. " (See note on page 199.) Don't be afraid of failing again. Failure wins when you accept defeat and give up. • 2 TIMOTHY 2:12 | If we endure hardship, we will reign with him. Failure isn't the end - it's about beginnings. You can recover and move on. There is a way out. 0402 = it most. Realize that God's work is not limited by our failures. He does not reject us in our weakness but rather embraces us so that we can receive strength to be all he intended us to be. What is the one gift from God that never fails, never stops? • 1 CORINTHIANS 13:8 | Prophecy and speaking in unknown languages and special knowledge will become useless. But love will last forever! Virtually all of our special gifts and talents will fade over time as we age and turn feeble. But the one great gift from God that never fails or fades, and continues forever, is love. This is a gift from God that we can give to others, and its benefits extend far beyond our lifetimes. PROMISES FROM GOD • PSALM 37:23-24 | The LORD directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand. • HEBREWS 13:5 | For God has said, "I will never fail you. I will never abandon you. " is BIES IUOTO Fairness See also Equality; Justice of tiet ed of ei esob worl Life just isn't fair! How many times have you said that? Heard that? Something really wasn't fair, and you knew it. Someone wasn't fair, and you resented it. Of course life isn't always fair and people aren't always fair, and circumstances aren't always fair. But we must recognize first that fairness is not the same as equality. God doesn't give us all the same circumstances, the same job, the same kind of family, the same environment in which to live. Since we are all unique individuals, we approach life in unique ways and we reap unique rewards and consequences. And God treats us differently in order to bring each of us to him. But he loves us all the same and desires the same salvation for us all. Fairness in how we treat others, then, involves weighing the circumstances and doing what is best for others. We may not be able to treat others equally, even our children, but we do need to be equal in the way we love and value those involved. What's the goal of fairness? • MATTHEW 7:12 | "Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. " • ISAIAH 33:15-16 | Those who are honest and fair... these are the ones who will dwell on high. • PSALM 103:6 | The LoRD gives righteousness and justice to all who are treated unfairly. Being fair is making sure that right prevails, that people are not unjustly treated. It indicates® we are thinking more about others than ourselves and that we are sensitive to their needs. It demonstrates a sense of justice that does not want to see evil or sin win. It is an inner desire for integrity and an outward desire to build up the self-worth of others. It is to be like Christ. • PROVERBS 24:29 | And don't say, "Now I can pay them back for what they've done to me! I'll get even with them! " Seeking justice against evil is fair and right; getting even is revenge. What's the difference between fairness and justice? * ISAIAH 10:1 | What sorrow awaits the unjust judges and those who issue unfair laws. Fairness continued • ROMANS 2:5-6 | For a day of anger is coming, when God's righteous judgment will be revealed. He will judge everyone according to what they have done. • COLOSSIANS 3:25 | But if you do what is wrong, you will be paid back for the wrong you have done. For God has no favorites. Fairness is playing by the rules; justice is holding other people accountable when they don't. Is God fair when my circumstances say he's not? Sometimes it seems as if he favors one person above another. • PSALM 98:9 | The LORD…. is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world with justice, and the nations with fairness. • ROMANS 3:26 | God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he makes sinners right in his sight when they believe in jesus. If God gave us what we deserved, none of us would make it to heaven, for the Bible says that all people have sinned against God (Romans 3:23). God is not only fair by offering us tulanother way to heaven, but he is also merciful by giving it to us freely. All we need to do is accept it (Romans 6:23). • ECCLESIASTES 9:11 i The fastest runner doesn't always win the race, and the strongest warrior doesn't always win the battle. The wise sometimes go hungry, and the skillful are not necessarily wealthy. (See note on page 593.) • JOHN 3:16 | " ... so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eteral life. " God does not promise us equality of things here on earth, but he does promise that all have an equal chance of eternal life in heaven, where there will be no more adverse circumstances. How does God expect us to be fair to others? • ZECHARIAH 8:16 | "But this is what you must do: Tell the truth to each other. Render verdicts in your courts that are just and that lead to peace. " (See note on page 848.) g In truthfulness and fairness we recognize the other person as an equalne • 1 CHRONICLES 21:17 | And David said to God "... I am the one who has sinned and done wrong! ... Let your anger fall against me. " We should not only accept the consequences of our actions, but should ask God that they eMs: fall on us and not other innocent people who might be affected by our actions. How can I treat others fairly? • LEVITICUS 19:15 | "Do not twist justice in legal matters by favoring the poor or being partial to the rich and powerful. Always judge people fairly. " • MATTHEW 20:12-15 | "Those people worked only one hour, and yet you've paid them just as much as you paid us who worked all day in the scorching heat. He answered one of il them, Friend, I haven't been unfair! Didn't you agree to work all day for the usual wage? be jealous because I am kind to others?' " Take your money and go. I wanted to pay this last worker the same as you... Shoula you Try to treat people equally as much as possible. However, when this is not possible, you still need to be equal in the way you love and value them. • EXODUS 23:2-3 | "When you are called to testify in a dispute, do not be swayed by the that person is poor. " crowd to twist justice. And do not slant your testimony in favor of a person just because Try your best not to show favoritism. When you're asked to tell the truth in order to settle a dispute, tell it without bias. Avoid the temptation to hurt someone who doesn't deserve i. And also avoid the temptation to help a friend by withholding the truth. • ISAIAN 33:14-15 | "Who can survive this all-consuming fire? " Those who are honest and. fair, who refuse to profit by fraud, who stay far away from bribes, who refuse to listen. those who plot murder, who shut their eyes to all enticement to do wrong. page A121 • JEREMIAH 22:3 | "This is what the LORD says: Be fair-minded and just. Do what is right! Help those who have been robbed; rescue them from their oppressors. " Anticipating the complete fairness that will govern life in eternity can help motivate you to model that perfect standard as best as you can in this life. • ZECHARIAH 8:16 I "But this is what you must do; Tell the truth to each other. Render verdicts in your courts that are just and that lead to peace. " • PROVERBS 12;22 | The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth. The more you tell the truth and treat others fairly, the more you experience peace of mind and heart. How should I respond when life isn't fair? ni revert elil Lay 01• EZEKIEL 18:25 "Yet you say, "The Lord isn't doing what's right!' Listen to me, O people of Israel. Am I the one not doing what's right, or is it you? " Don't blame God for the unfairness of other people. • ECCLESIASTES 9:11 | The fastest runner doesn't always win the race, and the strongest warrior doesn't always win the battle. The wise sometimes go hungry, and the skillful are not necessarily wealthy. And those who are educated don't always lead successful lives. • ISAIAH 9:7 | His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. ARAN It is true that life is not always fair. Expected results don't always happen the way you thought. But if you look around, you will realize that many others are a lot worse off than you, and you have much to be grateful for. If your life has been particularly hard, there is great hope in knowing that this life isn't the end. God promises to make all things right and fair for eternity to those who love and follow him. • PSALM 37:28 | The LORD loves justice, and he will never abandon the godly. He will keep them safe forever. Your ultimate vindication will be through God's efforts, not your own. HAIAGI 2:8M4OL。 285193 PROMISE FROM GOD • PSALM 37:28 | The LoRD loves justice, and he will never abandon the godly. He will keep them safe forever.s & sr 3ม3 LAITAJAD * 31 top of vEW it ei nitie? Faith See also Salvations, Faith is more than just believing; it is trusting our very lives to what we believe. For example, we can believe that someone can walk across a deep gorge on a tightrope. But are we willing to trust that person to carry us across? Faith says yes. Faith in God says that we are willing to trust God with our very lives. We are willing to follow his guidelines for living as outlined in the Bible because we have the conviction that this will be best for us. We are even willing to endure ridicule and persecution for our faith because we are so sure that what we believe is true and that the Christian life is what 2180439 is best for us eternally. 0S2u2390 Faith seems so complicated; how can I ever get it? Why does it seem SOp • confusing sometimes? ope aura| tori eveiled verti แรกw boD fi n Shen S 1 CORINTHIANS 2:14. 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. Iw 1ü8 10Л Confusion is often the direct result of not knowing God and being tossed about by whatever seems good to you at the time. The line between right and wrong is not clear, and you're not even sure if it should be. That's confusing. Ni goet • 2 CORINTHIANS 4:3-4 | If the Good News we preach is hidden behind a veil, it is hidden only from people who are perishing. Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the CISS NANA Faith continued 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. Confusion can be caused by evil. Satan tries to confuse God's followers into thinking that God cannot and will not help them. • MARK 5:36 | But Jesus overheard them and said to Jairus, "Don't be afraid. Just have faith. " Too often we make faith difficult, but that wasn't what Jesus intended. Faith isn't compli-cated. It simply means trusting Jesus to do what he has promised - and he promised to give you life forever in heaven if you just believe he is who he said he is, the Son of God. • LUKE 6:13 | At daybreak he called together all of his disciples and chose twelve of them to be apostles. (See note on page 925.) Faith is simply a willingness to follow Jesus. • PSALM 131:2 | Yes, like a weaned child is my soul within me. 10 MATTHEW 18:2-3 | Jesus called a little child to him... 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. " (See note on page 879.) • MARK 10:14 | [Jesus) said to them, "Let the children come to me. Don't stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. " it is not hard for a little child to have faith. The child simply believes with calm assurance that his parents will provide and protect. You can have this same uncomplicated trust in God. y Why should I have faith in God? • ISAIAH 25:9 | "This is the LORD, in whom we trusted. Let us rejoice in the salvation he brings! " • JOHN 5:24 | "I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. " • JOHN 14:6 | Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the qo Father except through me. " 0S • GALATIANS 3:22 | But the Scriptures declare that we are all prisoners of sin, so we receive God's promise of freedom only by believing in Jesus Christ. Faith is the only way to get to heaven. It is the only doorway to eternal life. If God created eternity, then only through God can we get there. • HEBREWS 11:1 | Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see. (See note on page 1117.) Faith gives us hope because it is the most real thing in our lives. How does faith in God affect my relationship with God? How does it change the way I live? • GENESIS 15:6 | And Abram believed the LorD, and the LorD counted him as righteous because of his faith. (See note on page 15.) • ROMANS 3:24-25 P Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight.. People blood. are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his •Sin breaks our relationship with God because it is rebellion against God. A holy God cannot live with unholy people. But when we accept Jesus as Savior and ask him to forgive our sins, this simple act of faith makes us righteous in God's sight and puts us into right relationship with him again. • ISAIAH 26:3 | You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you. Faith in God brings peace of mind and heart because we know that we belong to him, and we know that one day all pain and suffering will end. page A123 • ROMANS 8:5 | Those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. • 1 CORINTHIANS 12:1 Now, dear brothers and sisters, regarding your question about the OMI special abilities the Spirit gives us. • GALATIANS 5:22 | But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness. Faith is inviting God's Holy Spirit to live within us. It is not just an act of the mind, but it taps us into the very resources of God so that we have the power to live in an entirely new way. If God himself is living within us, our lives should be dramatically changed. How can i strengthen my faith? 食〇 nea worl • GENESIS 12:1, 4 | The LORD had said to Abram, "Leave your native country. "... So Abram departed as the LORD had instructed. Like a muscle, faith gets stronger the more you exercise it. When you do what God asks you to do and then see him bless you as a result of your obedience, your faith grows stronger. The next time God calls you to do something, you will have more confidence to move ahead without hesitation. F0 03 9 1 10 9111 5 • PSALM 119:48, 54 | I honor and love your commands. I meditate on your decrees.!? Your decrees have been the theme of my songs wherever I have lived. • ROMANS 10:17 | So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ. • HEBREWS 11:8| 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. NO TOTI Faith is grounded in God's Word. Your faith will grow stronger as you study the Bible and reflect on the truths about who Godis, his guidelines for your life, and how he wants to do his work on earth through you. Faith is not simply a matter of positive thinking or human effort. Faith is divinely inspired by the Holy Spirit working through the Word of God. Your faith grows as you read the stories of God working through people across the centuries and you realize he will do the same in you. • 2 CORINTHIANS 3:14 | But the people's minds were hardened, and to this day whenever the old covenant is being read, the same veil covers their minds so they cannot understand the truth. And this veil can be removed only by believing in Christ. 100₴ • 2 KINGS 6:17 | 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. The strongest faith is not one based on physical senses but on spiritual convictions. There is a spiritual element to this world that we cannot see, but is very real. Your faith will become stronger the more you allow the Holy Spirit to strengthen your "spiritual vision, " , " so that you can sense and see the results of God working in your life and in the lives of those around you. When I'm struggling in my Christian life and have doubts, does it mean I have less faith? • 2 PETER 1:4-5 | He has given us great and precious promises.... Make every effort to respond to God's promises. • GENESIS 15:8 | But Abram replied, "O Sovereign LORD, how can I be sure that I will ° actually possess it? " • MATTHEW 11:2-3 | John the Baptist... sent his disciples to ask Jesus, "Are you the Messiah we've been expecting? " Many people in the Bible who we consider to be "pillars of faith " had moments of doubt. The key is to never give up on our faith and to always ask if, over time, our lives have been moving closer to or further away from God. Even during moments of doubt, you must Invest the effort and discipline to allow your faith to grow. Faith continued How much faith must I have? • MATTHEW 17:20 | "T 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. " The mustard seed was often used to illustrate the smallest seed known to people. Jesus says that faith is not a matter of size or quantity. It is not the size of your faith but the size of the One you believe in that makes the difference. You do not have to have great faith in God; rather you have faith in a great God. How can we pass faith on from generation to generation, or is faith mine alone? TR JUDGES 2:10 | After that generation died, another generation grew up who did not acknowledge the LoRD or remember the mighty things he had done for Israel. (See note 2180 пл e on page 218.) One generation's devotion to God does not secure the next generation's devotion to God. But one generation can leave a legacy of godliness, which clearly points the way to what But one gen trotis like, thus making it attractive to others. We must. Butthen itselves for a lifetime with the next generation, sharing God's love and goodness. But then it is up to the people of the next generation to make faith their own. PROMISES FROM GOD • ACTS 16:31 | "Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved. " 3*1 PETER 1:7 | 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. Faithfulness See also Commitment; Convictions; Obedience; Presence of God DOR to zenota "You can count on me-I will not let you down. " Saying that implies faithfulness A husband and wife vow on their wedding day to be faithful to one another, devoted and committed to one another in all areas of marriage. It is a vow to be with one's spouse, to stay with one's spouse, and to build up one's spouse. Again and again throughout the Bible, God holds faithfulness up as one of the foundational qualities that he expects from his people. There is nothing like the faithfulness of a spouse, friends and family, and God to build our sense of security. How do I cultivate faithfulness? 02• 2 KINGS 12:15 No accounting of this money was required from the construction supervisors, because they were honest and trustworthy men. (See note on page 339.) and completely trustworthy. • DANIEL 6:4 | But they couldn't find anything to criticize or condemn. He was faithful.. Cultivate faithfulness by being honest and trustworthy. าคอ yry • DEUTERONOMY 28:9 | "If you obey the commands of the Lord your God and walk in his ways, the LorD will establish you as his holy people. " Cultivate faithfulness by obeying God's Word.2 • 1 TIMOTHY 3:12 | A deacon must be faithful to his wife. • MDYC No Cultivate faithfulness by keeping your promises and commitments. Why should I be faithful? Society tells me I should be able to do what I want. • PROVERBS 3:3-4 | Never let loyalty and kindness leave you!. Then you will ... ear a good reputation. Faithfulness brings a good reputation and trust from others. page A125 • RUTH 4:11 | "May you prosper in Ephrathah and be famous in Bethlehem. " (See note on page 242) • ESTHER 2:22 | But Mordecai heard about the plot and gave the information to Oueen Esther. (See note on page 444). God chooses to accomplish great deeds through faithful people. 1319 61 • HEBREWS 3:14 | Ifwe are faithful to the end…. we will share in all that belongs to Christ! • REVELATION 11.18 | "It is time to judge the dead and reward your servants the prophets, as well as your holy people. " (See note on page 1159). Faithfulness brings eternal rewards. y elgoral seuds led Is God faithful? aoriflubs • DEUTERONOMY 7:9 | "He is the faithful God who keeps his covenant for a thousand, o ent generations. " • 1 KINGS 8:23 | "0 LORD, God of Israel, there is no God like you b. You keep your covenant/ and show unfailing love to all who walk before you in wholehearted devotion. " • гІазиза - • 2 THESSALONIANS 3:3 | But the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one. (See note on page 1089) ] 2 " HOX et:s 24A129N93 God faithfully does what he savs he will de. As you read the Bible, you will discover myriad promises God has already fulfilled. When you read the promises yet to be fulfilled, you can count on God's faithfulness to fulfill them because he always does just what he says. • PSALM 89:5 | All heaven will praise your great wonders, LORD; myriads of angels will praise you for your faithfulness. (See note on page 526.) 2313회 God is completely faithful. His faithfulness is so great it makes the angels sing! 1019910. What are the rewards of faithfulness? epelivna sri v bns ebredeut • LUKE 19:17 | "You have been faithful with the little I entrusted to you, so you will be governor of ten cities as your reward. " • REVELATION 2:10 | "If you remain faithful even when facing death, I will give you the crown of life. " (See note on page 1152.) anne 1917 ateil oldia erit Staying faithful, even to the point of death, brings great rewards in heaven. bris isitneo 10 5102 How does my faithfulness affect others? Noilaundani • ISAIAH 38:19 | Each generation tells of your faithfulness to the next. It is both the privilege and obligation of each generation to reveal to the next the faithfulness of our God. We can leave a rich heritage by building this awareness in the minds of our children and grandchildren and circle of friends and neighbors. This is of far more lasting value than any other kind of inheritance we might leave behind. as ni egasno D inemtimmos How do I know if God is starting to do important work in my life? st MIA89 - • ZECHARIAH 4:10 | "Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LorD rejoices to see the work begin. " (See note on page 846) of binz iwot now 915 กร What may seem insignificant to you could be seen by God as a great beginning. New beginnings, no matter how small, that move us toward a life of greater faithfulness, are welcomed by God. ed jon Voll uoy anoest o Viehev B 107 How do I handle betrayal— when someone hasn't been faithful to me? milshi • 2 TIMOTHY 2:13 | If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is. (See note on page 1099.) When others are unfaithful to us, we remain faithful, Otherwise, we become as faithless as they are. or damminos ort sode loT PROMISES FROM GOD • DEUTERONOMY 7:9 | "He is the faithful God who keeps his covenant for a thousand oa generations and lavishes his unfailing love on those who love him and obey his commands. " • HEBREWS 3:14 | If we are faithful to the end... we will share in all that belongs to Christ. Family See also Adoption; Marriage Is a family merely a group of relatives? Or is it something more? Families were God's unique idea from the beginning. There is no greater institution, no better group of people to effect positive change in the world than the family. There is no better place to learn the essential principles of life than in the family. And nowhere can the truths of God's Word be more effectively taught and modeled. Conversely, there is no institution, no group of people with more power and ability to destroy a person than the family. Physical and ver. bal abuse, as well as neglect, can damage the emotional well-being of a child well into adulthood, and often for a lifetime. The failure of parents to teach spiritual truths to their children directly impacts their relationship with God and how they treat others. Family is the environment that shapes a child's lifetime direction. What is family? How does the Bible define it? • GENESIS 2:24 | This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one. • EPHESIANS 2:19 | You are members of God's family. • JAMES 1:18 | He chose to give birth to us by giving us his true word. The Bible talks about both an earthly family - made up of husband, wife, and sometimes children — and the family of God, which is all believers united together by the bond of faith, • GENESIS 4:1 | Now Adam had sexual relations with his wife, Eve, and she became pregnant. When she gave birth to Cain, she said, "With the LORD's help, I have produced a man! " (See note on page 7.) Husbands and wives have the privilege in joining in the continuing work of creation by producing children. • 1 CHRONICLES 9:1 | All Israel was listed in the genealogical records in The Book of the Kings of Israel. The Bible lists several genealogies, all recorded by family units, showing the family. as central and fundamental to the development of people and of nations. • PROVERBS 6:20 | My son, obey your father's commands, and don't neglect your mother's instruction. Nowhere can truth be more effectively taught and modeled than in the family. • JOSHUA 24:15 | "But as for me and my family, we will serve the LORD. " The family is one of God's greatest resources for communicating truth and effecting change in any community. This change is directly related to the family's spiritual commitment and zeal. • PSALM 127:3 | Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him. Children are a wonderful blessing. • RUTH 4:14-17 | Then the women of the town said to Naomi, "Praise the LORD, who has now provided a redeemer for your family! May this child be famous in Israel. "... And they named him Obed. He became the father of Jesse and the grandfather of David. For a variety of reasons, you may not be part of the same legal family throughout your lifetime (having the same spouse, siblings, etc.). Whatever family you find yourself in, your responsibility is to love them with all your heart and model the ways of God. That kind of legacy will yield beautiful fruit for generations. What is my responsibility to my family? • DEUTERONOMY 6:6-7 | "And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home. " • PROVERBS 22:6 | Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it. To give them spiritual training and explain the gospel of Jesus to them. arn the Nord up ot nd w into their mily i mes f faith ced page A127 • 2 TIMOTHY 1:51 remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother, Eunice. • EXODUS 10:2 | "You can tell your children and grandchildren about how I made a mockery of the Egyptians and about the signs I displayed among them. " (See note on page 61.) • JOEL 1:3 | Tell your children about it in the years to come... Pass the story down from generation to generation. (See note on page 798.) To share spiritual experiences with them and remind them of their spiritual heritage. "9 • TITUS 2:4-5 | These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children... to work in their homes. • EPHESIANS 6:4 Bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord. a good role model. To love them and discipline them when necessary. To teach them proper conduct. To be • PROVERBS 31:27 | She carefully watches everything in her household and suffers nothing from laziness. To provide for them. • 1 SAMUEL 3:13 | "I have warned him that judgment is coming upon his family forever, because his sons are blaspheming God and he hasn't disciplined them. " (See note on page 248.) • 1 KINGS 1:6 | Now his father... had never disciplined him at any time, even by asking, "Why are you doing that? " • PROVERBS 29:15 To discipline a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child. Neglecting to teach your children spiritual truths and neglecting discipline have tragic consequences. • DEUTERONOMY 12:7 | "There you and your families will feast in the presence of the LORD your God, and you will rejoice in all you have accomplished because [he] has blessed you. " (See note on page 171.) Family celebrations are an effective way to bond family members to each other and to God. • PSALM 102:28 | "Their children's children will thrive in your presence. " (See note on page 532.) Faith in God is the most important inheritance we can pass along to future generations. • DEUTERONOMY 1:31 | "And you saw how the Lord your God cared for you all along the way as you traveled through the wilderness, just as a father cares for his child. " (See note on page 160.) • 1 TIMOTHY 5:8 | But those who won't care for their relatives, especially those in their own household, have denied the true faith. Such people are worse than unbelievers. one Wo As God abundantly cares for us, so we should joyfully care for our family. s 2udoxa What does the Bible say about the role of parents? • 2 TIMOTHY 3:15 | You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood. (See note on page 1099.) Parents are responsible for teaching their children a love for the Word of God. neibedo • DEUTERONOMY 6:4-9 | Repeat them again and again to your children. (See note on page 165.) Parents are responsible not only to teach their children biblical values but also to model for them lives of obedience. • PROVERBS 3:12 | For the LORD corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights. • HEBREWS 12:11 / No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening it's painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living, Parents are responsible to discipline their children with consistency, wisdom, and love. • GENESIS 25:28 | Isaac loved Esau... but Rebekah loved Jacob. Parents are not to show favoritism between children. • 1 SAMUEL 2:29 | "Why do you give your sons more honor than you give me! " i Parents who are too indulgent do not help their children develop character. 2910 him HTOA Family continued • LUKE 15:20 | "Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him. " The mark of a loving parent is the willingness to forgive. How should I discipline my children? • PROVERBS 13:24 | Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. Those who love their children care enough to discipline them. Discipline your children with love. If you have their safety and well-being in mind, you will need to disciple them in order to protect them. • PROVERBS 19:18 | Discipline your children while there is hope. Otherwise you will ruin their lives. Discipline is almost always most effective when done right away because it makes the cause and effect of the punishment more relevant. Small children may need more discipline when they are young to teach them what is safe and right. As your children grow up, you will probably need to discipline them less and less as they put into practice the things they've learned from your loving correction. •EPHESIANS 6:4 | Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord. Never discipline out of anger because the only thing it teaches a child is to react in anger. If you are angry, calm down before you discipline. When you are calm enough to discipline, be sure to explain to your children what they did wrong, that you love you them, and instruct them in how to do better next time. Then they will not only learn from their mistakes but also how to react in love, not anger. COLOSSIANS 3:21 I, Fathers, do not aggravate your children, or they will become discouraged. Discipline should be done without causing aggravation and discouragement. Aggravating your children takes the focus off your love and concern for them. This is discouraging for children because they don't see the point of the discipline, only the 429 discipline itself. 9* 919 10Y 11 • HEBREWS 12:104 For our earthly fathers disciplined us for a few years, doing the best they knew how. But God's discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness. ca The Bible is full of wisdom on how to deal with children. Commit these words of wisdom to aw. heart and devote yourself to putting them into practice. How should children relate to parents? • EXODUS 20:12 | "Honor your father and mother. Then you will live a long, full life in the land the LorD your God is giving you. " oni • EPHESIANS 6:1 | Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord. To obedience.. Even if you disagree with your parents, you must still show them honor, respect, and What if I am a single parent or grew up in a single-parent home? MOR21 • PSALM 68:5 | Father to the fatherless, defender of widows... (See note on page 513). God has a special place in his heart for those who are lonely or abandoned. What did Jesus think of children? • MATTHEW 18:2-3 | Jesus called a little child to him.. Then he said, "T tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven. " Entering heaven and greatness in heaven are keyed to childlikeness. Jesus thought childhood extremely important to attach such significance to it. • MARK 10:16 | Then he took the children in his arms and placed his hands on their heads and blessed them. What EP 10 page A129 Jesus wanted to make it clear that children are special in his eyes. If Jesus had such a high regard for all children, shouldn't we also have a high regaras, it Jesus What kind of relationship does God want parents and children to have? on • EPHESIANS 6:1, 40 Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord. for this is the right thing to do,.. Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the or this treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes womone Lord. (See note on page 1069.) • PROVERBS 22:6 | Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they in will not leave it. parents are God's shepherds for their children, commissioned to guide them, nurture them, care for them, clothe them, feed them, and help them come to know the Lord. How can I most effectively teach my child about God and his ways? nu nnies 9idcso Ailsen • DEUTERONOMY 17:18-19 | "So commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these words of mine. Tie them to your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. Teach them to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up, " 8W3209, • PROVERBS 22:61 Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it. • EXODUS 13:8-9 | "On the seventh day you must explain to your children, I am celebrating what the LORD did for me when I left Egypt.' This annual festival will be a visible sign to you, like a mark branded on your hand or your forehead. Let it remind you always to recite this teaching of the LORD: 'With a strong hand, the LorD rescued you from Egypt.' " As parents, we have the remarkable privilege of living what we want our children to learn (role modeling), sharing God's truth we want them to hear (precepts), guiding them in which way to go (choices), and then watching with joy as our work continues to future generations. The best way to teach our children God's ways is to continually live them out ourselves.* Why are stories used so much with children? poog tset ai garlw • EXODUS 10:2 "I've also done it so you can tell your children and grandchildren about how I made a mockery of the Egyptians and about the signs I displayed among them-and so you will know that I am the LORD. "e Storytelling is an age-old method instituted by God, proven by people of all generations, and always accepted by children ifset Tug ru When wonderful things happen, how can I pass them on to my children and grandchildren? • asT el at These days would be remembered and kept from generation to generation and celebrated by every family. (See note on page 449.) God had done wonderful things for the Jewish people through Esther, things so wonderful that they would not be forgotten for generations to come. Make it an annual tradition to share past blessings. esob terW Should I treat other believers like members of my own family? • 1 PETER 3:8 | Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters. Be tenderhearted, and keep a humble attitude. God's family should have all of the qualities of family life. We should love one another, sympathize with one another, and help one another. We should be bonded into a special iod as omsa on al 0871 family relationship: to bist PROMISES FROM GOD • ISAIAH 59:21 | "My Spirit will not leave them, and neither will these words I have given you. They will be on your lips and on the lips of your children and your children's children эте волос d bnA forever. " Family continued • PROVERBS 22:6 | Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it. n • PSALM 127:3 | Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him. Fathers See Family Fear See also Anxiety; Courage; Worry Fears are real and natural, at times more real than that which we fear. Fears may leave us feeling unsettled and insecure, doubting our self-worth, having sleep problems or health problems, and worrying about how tomorrow will treat us. The issues that we want settled are simple-how do we avoid fear when we can, how do we live with it when we must, and what can we learn from it? When is fear not good? • HEBREWS 10:31 | It is a terrible thing to fall into the hands of the living God. Fear is territying if we have to fall into the hands of God without having made peace with him. • GENESIS 26:7 | He was afraid to say, "She is my wife. " (See note on page 24.) • JOSHUA 17:16 | "The Canaanites... have iron chariots... They are too strong for us. " Fear is not good if it keeps us from doing the things we ought to do. We are not meant to live in fear. • NUMBERS 13:28-31 "But the people living there are powerful.... We even saw giants there!... We can't go up against them! They are stronger than we are! " (See note on page 134) Fear is not good when we allow it to distort our view of our great God who is greater than any problem we face. When is fear good? • PSALM 2:11 | Serve the LoRD with reverent fear, and rejoice with trembling. (See note on bi page 481.) Because God is so great and mighty, and because he holds the power of life and death in his hands, we must have a healthy, reverent fear of him. A healthy fear helps us keep our perspective about where we need to be in our relationship with God. • 2 CORINTHIANS 7:1 And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God. A healthy fear of God motivates us to strive for holiness. • DEUTERONOMY 31:7-8| "Be strong and courageous!... Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. " Fear can be good if it teaches us about courage. Joshua couldn't have truly understood courage if he hadn't experienced fear. Fear gave him courageous character and taught him to rely on and trust in God. What does it mean to fear God? • JOB 13:11 | "Doesn't his majesty terrify you? Doesn't your fear of him overwhelm you? " • PSALM 33:8 | Let the whole world fear the LORD, and let everyone stand in awe of him. • PSALM 128:1 | How joyful are those who fear the LorD—all who follow his ways! • PROVERBS 9:10 | Fear of the LoRD is the foundation of wisdom. Fearing God is not the same as being afraid of God. Being afraid of someone drives you away from that person. Fearing God means being awed by his power and goodness. This draws you closer to him and to the blessings he gives. Fear of God like the respect you have for a beloved teacher, coach, parent or mentor who motivates you to do your best and avoid doing anything that would offend them or provoke their displeasure. You fear God because of his awesome power; you love God for the way he blesses you with it. page A137 • 2 CORINTHIANS 7:1 1 And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God. A healthy fear of God motivates you to strive for holiness. What can I do when I am overcome with fear? How do I find the strength to go on? • PSALM 46:1-2 | God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. note on page 503.) So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sed. (See • JOHN 14:27 | "Tam leaving you with a gift-peace of mind and heart.... So don't be troubled or afraid. " God promises to comfort us in our fear if we seek him when we are afraid. We have the confident assurance that he is with us in any circumstance. • DEUTERONOMY 31:6 | "Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before abandon you. " them. For the LORD your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor Remind yourself that God is always with you. Your situation may be genuinely threatening, but God has not abandoned you, and he promises to stay with you. Even if your situation is so bad that it causes death, God has not left you but has instead ushered you into his very presence. • EPHESIANS 1:3 | All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us. with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms. Remind yourself that no enemy or adversity can take away your most important blessings - the forgiveness God gave you for your sins, your relationship with him, and your eternal salvation. These remain secure even when your world falls apart. • REVELATION 22:5| And there will be no night there-no need for lamps or sun-for the Lord God will shine on them. And they will reign forever and ever. Remind yourself that as a Christian, your destiny is victory! Present hardships and heartaches are temporary. You can go forward with the confidence that you are on the winning side. PHILIPPIANS 4:6-7 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. Pray with a thankful heart, asking God to give you what you need to deal with your fear. Peace is not the absence of fear but the conquest of fear. Peace is not running away but a overcoming. • 2 TIMOTHY 1:7 | For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. Fear presents an opportunity for you to develop greater faith as you call upon the power of God to help you. • GENESIS 26:7 | When the men who lived there asked Isaac about his wife, Rebekah, he said, "She is my sister. " He was afraid to say, "She is my wife. " • JOSHUA 17:16 | "But all the Canaanites in the lowlands have iron chariots.... They are too strong for us. " Fear must not keep you from doing the things you know are right. You are not meant to live in fear. PROMISES FROM GOD • LEVITICUS 26:6 | "I will give you peace in the land, and you will be able to sleep with no cause for fear. " • PSALM 91:11 / "He will order his angels to protect you wherever you go, " Finances See Giving; Money HelpFinder Forgiveness See also Mercy & Grace; Salvation A Lendinos The Bible commands us to forgive others when they have wronged us and to seek forgive. ness when we have wronged others. When we do this, we follow the example of God, who extends to us the ultimate forgiveness - pardon for our sins. Forgiveness is the pathway to freedom. When God forgives you, you are free from guilt and restored to fellowship with him. When you forgive someone who has wronged you, you are free from bitterness and resentment that can saturate your soul like toxic waste. And when you have been forgiven by another, you are free from indebtedness to them. Receiving God's forgiveness and 10т)| forgiving others are at the core of what it means to be a follower of Jesus. Confessión should precede forgiveness. Confession takes the lid off, opens the window, opens the door, revealing what is within - sin or faith. Confession can be either acknowledgment of guilt or gladly acknowledging allegiance to Christ. When we acknowledge the ugliness of sin, it is embarrassing and sometimes painful to take the lid off. Ironically, many find it almost equally embarrassing to reveal their deep-seated faith. Perhaps the embarrassment is in letting others see deep into our lives, Perhaps it is a reticence to reveal something personal, whether good or bad. But confession is a necessary part of knowing God, asking forgiveness, and being freed from sin. It is also a necessary part of knowing others and having others know us. ch92919 vI9v What is involved in true confession? Tartes oni bod tazioTallA ! 2:1 2ИА123499 • 2 CHRONICLES 7:14 | "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 " • PSALM 51:3-4, 17 | 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.. The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God. • PSALM 38:18 I confess my sins; Iam deeply sorry for what I have done. be 1 JOHN 1:9 | 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. Feeling sorrow for your sin, showing humility before God, seeking God and his forgive-ness, turning to God in prayer, turning from sin -these are ingredients of confession to God. Does confession involve more than sorrow for sin? • MATTHEW 10:32 "Everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. " • PSALM 111:1 Praise the LORD! I will thank the LoRD with all my heart as I meet with his goaly people. 1JO Confession includes praise to God for his mercy as well as his desire and ability to forgive. glance to him. Confession also includes gladly acknowledging Jesus as Lord and publicly claiming alle- d i 2stimonp) ent lio iu8 " Do we confess our sins to God or to others? 61• EZRA 10:11 s "Confess your sin to the LorD, the God of your ancestors, and do what he demands. " (See note on page 425.) • 1 CHRONICLES 21:8 | David said to God, "I have sinned greatly... Please forgive my guilt for doing this foolish thing. " We confess sin to God first, for only God can forgive sin. • JAMES 5:16 | Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. 0:98 203 It can be healing to confess sin to one another, especially if the others are committed to praying for you, encouraging you, and supporting you as you seek restoration. It is also important to confess sin to those who you have wronged. pnivia se? page A133 Why do we confess Our sins to God? • 2 SAMUEL. 12:13 YeThen David confessed to Nathan, "I have sinned against the LoRD.» Nathan replied, "Yes, but the LORD has forgiven you. " • 1 JOHN 1:9 | If we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us. Confession precedes forgiveness. Confession indicates our desire to have our sins forgiven. If we have no desire to have our sins forgiven, God will not forgive them. • 2 SAMUEL 24:10-12 | "Please forgive my guilt, LORD, for doing this foolish thing.* The next morning the word of the LORD came to the prophet Gad... "This is what the LORD says. .. Choose one of these punishments, and I will inflict it on you. " While God always forgives when we confess, we will usually still have to live with the consequences of our actions. Does God truly forgive sin when we confess it to him? • PSALM 32:5 | Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt. I said to myself, "I will confess my rebellion to the LORD. " And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone. • PROVERBS 28:13 | People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and tum from them, they will receive mercy. (See note on page 583) 15 กรว With sin comes guilt. It's part of the baggage that sin brings. Confession is the act of recognizing and admitting those sins to God, paving the way for God to work in you. Confession wipes the slate clean so that you can be reconciled to God and have another chance to live for him. What if I don't feel forgiven? • ROMANS 3:27 | Our acquittal is not based on obeying the law. It is based on faith. (See note on page 1015. When God forgives you, your record is wiped clean. He looks at you as if you've never sinned. In addition to forgiveness, what are other benefits from confession? os moll • PSALM 32:5 | Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt. I said to myself, "I will confess my rebellion to the LORD. " And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone. God removes your guilt. • PSALM 51:12 | Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you. God restores your joy and willing obedience. i artie vin • JAMES 5:16 | 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. 22819 God transforms you from the inside out. 6 1 not of inew bod bluow yriw What does it really mean to be forgiven? • COLOSSIANS 1:21-23 | You are holy and blameless as you stand before him without a single fault. (See note on page 1079.) not airi tot no. evoi a'bod • ISAIAH 1:18 | "Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow. " 1 co Forgiveness means that God looks at you as though you have never sinned. You are blameless before him. • ACTS 8:22-23 | "Perhaps he will forgive your evil thoughts, for I can see that you are ... held captive by sin. " o evigiot biuora ew ,fimil tuorisi bof as teut 4571 Forgiveness frees you from slavery to sin. • HEBREWS 10:22 | Let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ's blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water. Forgiveness frees you from the guilt of sin. • MATTHEW 5:44 | "Love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! " зольЛе091 Forgiveness paves the way for harmonious relationships, even with your enemies. Vsw Forgiveness continued • ROMANS 4:7 | "Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sins are pul out of sight. " Forgiveness brings great joy. • ACTS 2:38 | Peter replied, "Each of you must repent of your sins and tum 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. " Forgiveness of sins allows you to receive the gift of God's Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit allows you to tap into the very power of God to help you battle temptation and to guide you through life. • ROMANS 10:9-10 | If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you ar Forgiveness is only way you can have the assurance of eternal life in heaven. Can any sin be forgiven? There must be some sin too great to be forgiven. • JOEL 2:32 | "But everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved. " (See note on • MARK 3:28-29 "Tell you the truth, all sin and blasphemy can be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven. This is a sin with eternal consequences. " • ROMANS 8:38 | Nothing can ever separate us from God's love. Forgiveness is not based on the magnitude of the sin, but the magnitude of the forgiver's love. No sin is too great for God's complete and unconditional love. The Bible does actually mention one unforgivable sin-an attitude of defiant hostility toward God that prevents us from accepting his forgiveness. Those who don't want his forgiveness are out of its reach. What can I do to activate God's loving forgiveness? • 2 CHRONICLES 7:14 | "If my people... 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. " (See note on page 389.) • 1 JOHN 1:9 | But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us. • 2 SAMUEL 12:13 | Then David confessed to Nathan, "I have sinned against the LorD. " Nathan replied, "Yes, but the LoRD has forgiven you. " Confessing sin is the first step to forgiveness. Why would God want to forgive me for a terrible sin? • NUMBERS 14:19 | "In keeping with your magnificent, unfailing love, please pardon the sins of this people. " God's love is his motivation for his forgiveness. Do I have to forgive others who hurt me? • MATTHEW 18:21-22 | Peter came to him and asked, "Lord, how often should I forgive seventy times seven! " someone who sins against me? Seven times? " "No, not seven times, " Jesus replied, "but Just as God forgives us without limit, we should forgive others without counting how many times. • LUKE 23:34 | Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they don't know what they are doing. " • COLOSSIANS 3:13 | Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Jesus forgave those who mocked him and killed him. There was a total absence of repentance at the cross; instead the people mocked him. But Jesus forgave them anyway because he knew this was part of God's greater plan. are pur and be receive 5 Care u are page A135 • PHILEMON 1:15-16 | It seems you lost Onesimus for a little while so that you could have him back forever. He is no longer like a slave to you. He is more than a slave, for he is a beloved brother, especially to me. Now he will mean much more to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord. Forgiveness can lead to reconciliation in relationships. • 1 PETER 3:9 I Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will grant you his blessing. When people say hurtful things about you, God wants you to respond by blessing them. How can I forgive someone who has hurt me deeply? What happens when I forgive? 1911 • MATTHEW 6:14-15 | "If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins. " • MARK 11:25 | "But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too. " Being unwilling to forgive shows that you have not understood or benefited from God's forgiveness. • MATTHEW 5:44 | "Love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! " Forgiveness means praying for those who hate and hurt you. This releases you from the destructive emotions of anger, bitterness, and revenge. • EPHESIANS 4:32 | Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. God's forgiveness is the motivation and the model for your forgiveness of others. If God has forgiven you, how can you refuse to forgive someone who has wronged you? And your forgiveness, like God's, is a gift of grace, free to the recipient yet costly to the giver. • ROMANS 12:19 | 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. ОПІТЬС Punishing evildoers is God's job, not yours, and God can be trusted to administer justice. Therefore, you can remove yourself from the endless cycle of revenge and retaliation by forgiving. 01 11 083V089 • EPHESIANS 4:31 | Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. An unforgiving attitude not only ruins your relationships, but it also poisons your soul. The person most hurt by unforgiveness is you. Can forgiveness stop sin's consequences? • 2 SAMUEL 12:13-14 | Then David confessed to Nathan, "I have sinned against the LORD. " Nathan replied, "Yes, but the LORD has forgiven you... Nevertheless.. your child will die. " (See note on page 282.) The consequences of sin are often irreversible. When God forgives us, he rarely eliminates the consequences of our wrongdoing. These consequences should be a powerful reminder for us when we face temptation again. • 1 CHRONICLES 21:11-13 | "These are the choices the LorD has given you..... Decide what answer I should give the LORD who sent me. " "I'm in a desperate situation! " David replied. (See note on page 374.) Considering the consequences before we sin can be enough incentive to help us avoid the sin altogether. Is there a limit to the number of times we should forgive a person? • LUKE 17:4 | "Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and asks forgiveness, you must forgive. " (See note on page 941.) Does love have a limit? Neither does forgiveness! Forgiveness continued PROMISES FROM GOD • JEREMIAH 3:22 | "My wayward children, " says the LORD, "come back to me, and I will heal your wayward hearts. " * ACTS 2:38 "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. " •. 1 JOHN 1:9 | If we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. Friendship See also Communication; Hospitality; Love; Neighbors How many friends do you have? Who are they? If you are typical, your friends range from casual acquaintances to those you would die for. Sometimes we are closer to our friends than our own brothers or sisters. Friends share affection, companionship, confidences, consideration, devotion, esteem, faithfulness, fellowship, harmony, helpfulness, loyalty, partnership, support, sympathy, trust, and understanding. Friends are those you want to spend time with. God created us for relationships— with each other and with him. Our friendship with God should be the model for all our other friendships. Can I truly be friends with God? • JAMES 2:23 "Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith. " He was even called the friend of God. • EXODUS 33:11 | The LoRD would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Tu Both Abraham and Moses are referred to as friends of God. We are his friends, too, if we truly seek him and love him. ° PSALM 25:14 | The LORD is a friend to those who fear him. He teaches them his covenant. Sharing our secrets is a mark of great friendship. When God shares the secrets of his promises with us, we know that he considers us his friends. What is the mark of true friendship? • PROVERBS 17:17 | A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need. • 1 SAMUEL 18:3 | And Jonathan made a solemn pact with David, because he loved him as he loved himself. (See note on page 261.) Some friendships are fleeting and some are lasting. True friendships are glued together with bonds of loyalty and commitment. They remain intact despite changing external circumstances. What gets in the way of friendships? • 1 SAMUEL 18:9-112 From that time on Saul kept a jealous eye on David... Saul had a spear in his hand, and he suddenly hurled it at David. Jealousy is the great dividing force of friendships. Envy over what a friend has will soon turn ne to anger and bitterness, causing you to separate yourself from the one you truly cared for. • PSALM 41:9 | Even my best friend, the one I trusted completely ... has turned against me. jor (See note on page 501) vI ba When respect or commitment is seriously damaged, even the closest friendship is at risk. • 2 SAMUEL 13:11 | But as she was feeding him, he grabbed her and demanded, "Come to bed with me. "or eviin Friendships are destroyed when boundaries are violated. How can I turn my enemies into friends? • GENESIS 50:17-21 | "So we ... beg you to forgive our sin. " continue to take care of you. " ... "No, don't be afraid. I will Forgiveness restores broken relationships. page A137 • MATTHEN S: B3 T sor You have heard the law that says, Love your neichbor " and hate you different from anyone else? " your enemy. But I say, love your enemies!.. If you are kind only to your friends, how are Jesus expects his followers to love not only friends but also enemies. What do I do when I'm having trouble making friends? ！ MUHAN • JOB 19:19 | "My close friends detest me. Those I loved have turned against me. " • JOHN 5:7 | "I have no one to put me into the pool. " We all go through times when it seems our friends have deserted us. Examine your relationships to make sure you are not causing the breach. yam uev -e9ost ynam asr nol)silauจิ • JOHN 15:15 "I no longer call you slaves... Now you are my friends. " simiuen beitatse HEBREWS 13:5 | "I will never fail you. I will never abandon you. " lem bas Loy clus soru Remember that God is your constant friend and will never leave you. Keep, showing God's, love to others, and they will be drawn to you. yatcamet! NB 800W istufoiq tepgid • EPHESIANS 4:32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, va just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Acts of kindness and generosity attract others to you. • 1 KINGS 5:1 / King Hiram of Tyre had always been a loyal friend of David. When Hiram learned that David's son Solomon was the new king of Israel, he sent ambassadors to congratulate him. • MATTHEW 7:12 | "Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. " omiemoe Everyone wants to have good friends, but few are willing to invest the time and effort necessary to build such relationships. You may not make friends quickly and easily, " but you can build strong, lasting friendships over time. It might help you to consider? the qualities you desire in a good friend —then work to develop those qualities in your Hiw iscw mon? own life. 2AAANう Whether casual or romantic, male/female friendships can involve unique 02 pressures and temptations. Does the Bible offer any guidelines for dating relationships? 82:0 T 30 • 1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-5 | Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous. "... It does not bne nis? demand its own way. Paul's timeless description of Christian love becomes the standard of respect and decency that should mark all our relationships, including our dating relationships uorla ena nava • EPHESIANS 5:3, 18 | Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you... Snoisteur Be filled with the Holy Spirit. • MATTHEW 5:28 | "Anyone who even looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. " In dramatic contrast to much that we see in our modern world, Jesus calls us to a standard ted conerettib of sexual purity in thought as well as in deed. Why is it important to feel like you belong somewhere? tonou " | eit AUNBOL • DEUTERONOMY 33:27 | "The eternal God is your refuge, and his everlasting arms are under you. " • ROMANS 1:6 | And you are included among those... who have been called to belong to Jesus Christ. • ROMANS 8:1 | So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. We all need a sense of belonging, for in belonging is security and acceptance. When you feel you belong, you feel secure and accepted. Feeling accepted gives you confidence to share your deepest feelings without worry of rejection. And when you belong to God, that security and acceptance can never be taken away - it lasts for eternity, tar luteNso o8 Friendship continued PROMISES FROM GOD • LEVITICUS 26:12 | "I will walk among you; I will be your God, and you will be my people • NAHUM 1:7 | The LORD is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in him. Frustration See also Anger; Bitterness Frustration has many faces — you may feel baffled, shut out, defeated, disappointed, dig. satistied, neutralized, undermined, or inhibited. Frustration empties you, confuses you, underous your and makes you feel like you were so close and yet so far away. The Bids says that frustrations are a part of living in this sinful worid. And one of the biggest frus. trations is the way sin and evil seem so often to push away good. But God offers us the bigger picture: Frustrations are temporary obstacles that can be overcome, sometimes by eliminating them, but most often by persevering through them. Why do I get frustrated? • MICAN 6:15 | *Youwill plant crops but not harvest them, You willpress your olives but ra get enough oil to anoint yourselves. You will trample the grapes but get no juice to make your wine. " (See note on Bitterness on page 823.) Sometimes you are frustrated when you work hard for something but it doesn't happen. • JAMES 4:3 | And even when you ask, you don't get it because your motives are all wrong-you want only what will give you pleasure. Sometimes you are frustrated in your prayers, expecting certain answers that never come because you have the wrong motives. You don't see how God is actually protecting you from what will hurt you. • EZRA 4:5 | They bribed agents to work against them and to frustrate their plans. Sometimes we are frustrated when others try to hinder or stop what God has called us to do. • JOB 10:18 | "Why, then, did you deliver me from my mother's womb? Why didn't you let me die at birth? " Pain and suffering bring frustration. • PSALM 94:3 | How long, O LoRD? How long will the wicked be allowed to gloat? Everyone should be frustrated by the evil all around us. How am I to respond to frustration? • PROVERBS 21:2 | People may be right in their own eyes, but the LoRD examines their heart. Examining the source of your frustration helps you know how to deal with it. There is a big difference between being frustrated in your quest to do good and being frustrated becaus you are not getting your way. Each must be dealt with differently. • JOSHUA 1:9 | "Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LorD your God is with you where? you go. " Don't be discouraged. You have a source of strength and courage to see you througn. • EXODUS 17:4 | Then Moses cried out to the LORD, "What should I do with these people? " • JOHN 6:5 | "Where can we buy bread to feed all these people? " Only he is able to handle them. Recognize that some problems don't have a human solution. You must take them to God. • EPHESIANS 6:4 | Do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Be careful what you say when you are frustrated. page A139 What frustrates God? • PSALM 78:40-42 | Oh, how often they rebelled against him in the wilderness and grieved his heart... Again and again they tested God's patience and provoked the Holy One of Israel. They did not remember his power and how he rescued them from their • HOSEA 6:4 | "O Israel and Judah, what should I do with you? " asks the LORD. "For your love vanishes like the morning mist and disappears like dew in the sunlight. " It is frustrating to God to give unending love, mercy, and forgiveness to his people, only to see them block these blessings and starve their souls in a spiritual desert. PROMISE FROM GOD • ISAIAH 26:3 | You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Future See also Heaven/Eternal Life; Salvation; Will of God If we saw too much of the future, we'd either be very afraid of the bad things ahead or get very cocky about our accomplishments. The future can be scary because no one truly knows what will happen tomorrow or the next day, how their life will turn out, how long they will live, or what will become of their family and friends. And for many, their greatest fear is what happens after death. Is there a future after we die? God tells us there is and that we can determine what our future will look like for all eternity. In our present life, we all will probably live for less than a hundred years. In our eternal life on the new earth, one hundred million years will still be just the beginning. Amazingly, God has determined that how you live during your short time on earth will determine your future for all eternity. Wondering what unique role God has planned for us in eternity gives meaning to our troubles and adversity today. When you are absolutely convinced that God will keep his promises to you found in his Word, you will want to follow him without hesitation. If your mind and heart are truly in tune with his will, you won't be going where you don't want to go. Then tomorrow you will see God's plan for you more clearly than today, and each day thereafter your eternal future comes more and more into focus. God has a definite plan for you now and for your future, but he doesn't reveal it all at once. He wants you to trust him each step of the way. The key is to realize that God is able to do anything he prom-ises, and when that happens, the troubles of this world are put in perspective because you know that your future-for all eternity —is secure. This gives you peace no matter what happens. Since God alone knows the future, who can plan your future better than he? By aligning your vision with God's vision for your life, you will be able to navigate your future with purpose and clarity. 183430 • How can I face the future when it is so uncertain? ทวานี • HEBREWS 13:8 | Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. • PSALM 121:8 | The LoRD keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and " DUD forever. You can face the uncertain future because you have an unchanging God who loves and guides you. As the old saying puts it: We know not what the future holds, but we know who holds the future. • JOHN 16:33 | "Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. " Jesus never promised a problem-free life; in fact, he guaranteed just the opposite. So don't be surprised by hard times or be afraid of them. Jesus is greater than any problem 27MAT you will ever encounter. • MATTHEW 6:34 | "So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today. " {bod eolevfaurt ferw Future continued Most of the things we worry might happen never do. So don't waste time on the "*what it " od aif bovelr o worries. Spend your worry time as prayer time. 9D121 10 5N0 What do I have to look forward to? 194 • 1 PETER 1:4-5 | We have a priceless inheritance - an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see. We who are God's children will inherit the heavenly riches reserved for us. Until we enter heaven, God preserves our inheritance there. • 1 CORINTHIANS 2:9 | "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined 5.05 HALABA what God has prepared for those who löve him. " ostag n We think too little about the great future that awaits us beyond this mortal life. When we take time to ponder the glorious future ahead, it puts everything in a new light and perspective. • 1 CORINTHIANS 15:54-57 | Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: "Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting? ") A But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ. JO T • REVELATION 14:12' This means that God's holy people must endure persecution patiently, obeying his commands and maintaining their faith in Jesus. (See note on page 1161.)W Those who trust Jesus Christ need have no fear whatsoever as they face death. Death is simply a doorway into our heavenly home. This hope of eternal life gives us courage and discipline to persevere in life now. We know that nothing we do for the Lord will be wasted Why doesn't God reveal more of the future to his followers? • ISAIAH 46:9-10 | "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 14:24 | The LORD of Heaven's Armies has sworn this oath: "It will all happen as I have planned. It will be as I have decided. " ns enom esmos eru @ 1 PETER 1:13 So prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control. Put all your no hope in the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to 89 m the world. God reveals enough to give us hope. We know there is a heaven, we know how to get there, and we know that our future will be more wonderful than we can imagine. Perhaps to know any more than that would be beyond our finite understanding. oY enine " • GENESIS 12:1-4 | The LoRD had said to Abram, "Leave your native country... and go to the land that I will show you. I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you. " es Soo l Abram departed as the Lord had instructed. • DEUTERONOMY 29:29 | The LoRD our God has secrets known to no one. We are not. accountable for them, but we and our children are accountable forever for all that he has revealed to us, so that we may obey all the terms of these instructions. i gost • JOHN 21:22 | Jesus replied, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? As for you, follow me. " God reveals enough to encourage us to obey. To achieve God's future rewards requires present obedience. ont ablon • PROVERBS 20:24 | The LoRD directs our steps, so why try to understand everything along the way? 1 10 0 ea 1o camil pisn yd beangua od I'noo • JAMES 4:13-16 | Look here, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we are going to a certain town and will stay there a year. We will do business there and make a profit. " How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog-it's here a little eaven ‹ faith enter ined le give atient eath is ge and waste, while, then it's gone. What you ought to say is, "If the Lord wants us to, we will live and do this or that. " Otherwise you are boasting about your own pretentious plans. God reveals enough to increase our dependence on him. When we know that he knows the future and that he wants us to be part of that future, we realize we must rely on him to our future, not trying to create it all by ourselves. lead us there. That is the essence of what it means to live by faith. Faith is trusting him for • ECCLESIASTES 3:11. | God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted from beginning to end. a ni raini or eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work • HEBREWS 11:20-22 It was by faith that Isaac promised blessings for the future to his sons, Jacob and Esau. It was by faith that Jacob, when he was old and dying, blessed each of Joseph's sons and bowed in worship as he leaned on his staff. It was by faith that Joseph, when he was about to die, said confidently that the people of Israel would leave Egypt. He even commanded them to take his bones with them when they left. »0 e God reveals enough to allow us to place our faith in him; he can be trusted with the future. As I wait for eternal life, how can I be sure God will direct my future in this life? •PSALM 32:8 The LoRD says, *I will guide you along the best pathway for your life.I will advise you and watch over you. "ok soy Lrth sto 1 srodiw onr ruiv sd arsvio h woy Jort The Lord directs our steps. Though the pathway may lead through some dark valleys or seem to take some unnecessary detours, we will one day look back and discover that the Lord's way was best. • JEREMIAH 29;11 L "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. " Too often we doubt God's care. We are tempted to think he is neglecting us or giving us the bare minimum. But God, our loving Creator, desires the best for us. We must cling to this hope. • 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 Christ Jesus returns. God finishes what he starts. We should not allow the limitations of our finite perspective to blind us to the promise that God will complete his work in us nen g erl 16ew lliw uoY How has God guaranteed my future? | ross • 2 CORINTHIANS 1:22 And he has identified us as his own by placing the Holy Spirit in our hearts as the first installment that guarantees everything he has promised usser ni •EPHESIANS 1:13-14 / And now you Gentiles have also heard the truth, the Good News that God saves you. And when you believed in Christ, he identified you as his own by giving you the Holy Spirit, whom he promised long ago. The Spirit is God's guarantee that he will give us the inheritance he promised and that he has purchased us to be his own people. v3R God guarantees our future with the gift of the presence of the Holy Spirit in us and the security of the power of Jesus' salvation for us. When we are "in Christ, " we will live as long as the Lord lives, which is forever. Though our present bodies will die, our redeemed souls, along with our new bodies, will live with him forever. SNO DIT 190,8 900 What are some practical ways of living today for the future? To haq ed Hiw wot • PSALM 73:24 | You guide me with your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny. Seek God's counsel daily. You can't see the next step in the future, but the Lord God sees the whole pathway that lies ahead of you. Ask him to be with you! • PROVERBS 24:14 | In the same way, wisdom is sweet to your soul. If you find it, you will have a bright future, and your hopes will not be cut short. • GALATIANS 5:22-23 | But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Be wise, honest, good, and peace loving. But you can't be truly wise on your own. You need God's wisdom from his Word. You can't be truly good or honest or peace loving without) Future continued being redeemed, saved, and washed clean by the Lord's salvation. You will then be good because he is good, honest because he is perfect, and peace loving because he is peace. What are some promises I can look forward to in my future with God? • 1 JOHN 3:2 | Dear friends, we are already God's children, but he has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is. You will one day be like Christ. You will not be equal to him in power and authority, but you will be like him in character and perfection, for there is no sin in those who are welcomed into heaven. • JEREMIAH 29:11 | "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. " The great plans God has for you will someday be revealed and fulfilled. Spend today ずつ knowing God better. Then tomorrow, you will better know his plans for you. • JOHN 14:1-4 | "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. " - When you die, you will go to live with Christ in his home forever. • TITUS 3:7 | Because of his grace he made us right in his sight and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life. • TPETER 1:4-5 | We have a priceless inheritance- an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see. You will inherit the heavenly riches reserved for God's children. • REVELATION 3:5 | "All who are victorious will be clothed in white. I will never erase their names from the Book of Life, but I will announce before my Father and his angels that they are mine. " You will wear the garments of heaven and will be identified with Christ. • REVELATION 21:4 | "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. " In heaven you will never hurt, cry, have pain, or experience sorrow. Evil will be gone forever. 10A COLOSSIANS 3:4 | And when Christ, who is your life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all his glory. 9You will share the glory that belongs to Christ. • REVELATION 11:15 | Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices shouting in heaven: "The world has now become the Kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign forever and ever. " • ZECHARIAH 14:9 | And the Lord will be king over all the earth. On that day there will be one LorD—his name alone will be worshiped. God's enemies. You will be part of an eternal Kingdom ruled by the Lord God himself. It will be free from • HEBREWS 2:14 | 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. Christ will break the power of death and of Satan. PROMISES FROM GOD be JEREMIAH 29:11 | "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. " page A143 • MATTHEW 26:64 | "In the future you will see the Son of Man seated in the place of power at God's right hand and coming on the clouds of heaven. " Generosity See Giving 10 9090d Gifts See Abilities; Giving Giving See also Money On the surface, giving appears to be sharing possessions, wealth, income, and the like. More importanty ova gi sharing yourself. Giving is a most remarkable concept, originating in the heart of a giving God, a God who pours forth more blessings on his people than we can ever deserve or expect. The gift of life, the gift of love, the gift of salvation, the gift of eternity in heaven —all of these are priceless. The possessions we have are generally a tangible result of what we have invested in time and energy and talent. But who we are-our character - is always a direct result of what we have invested of ourselves with God and others. And one of the great and unique promises of the Bible is that the more we give, the more we receive —not necessarily in material possessions, ман but in spiritual and eternal rewards. What is generosity? 25A3V009 • DEUTERONOMY 15:7-8 | "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. " • JOHN 6:9 | "There's a young boy here with five barley loaves and two fish. But what good is that with this huge crowd? " (See note on page 959.) • HEBREWS 13:16 | Don't forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God. Generosity is sharing with someone in need 3U • DEUTERONOMY 16:17 | "All must give as they are able, according to the blessings given to them by the LoRD your God. " biO srit aliniv Generosity involves sharing your blessings./ e steel well erli • 2 CORINTHIANS 8:3 |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 9:7 | 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. " (See note on page 1053.) se sevip boo Generosity is not just what you give but the attitude with which you give it. Why should I give? • MALACHI 3:10 / "Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my lemple. If you do. 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! " (See note on page 856.) We should give because God commands it. While we should never give just to get something in return (for that violates giving as an act of love), God does promise bountiful blessings for those who obey this command. • JOHN 3:16 | "For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son. " (See note on page 955.) • LUKE 21:3 | "I tell you the truth, " Jesus said, "this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. " The model for all giving is the heart of God. He loved so much that he gave, not merely possessions or money, but his only Son to redeem a lost world. page A144 Giving continued ІЭНТТАМ • EXODUS 23:19 | "As you harvest your crops, bring the very best of the first harvest to the house of the LoRD your God. " We should give a tithe because it demonstrates that God is first in our lives. O19 • 1 CHRONICLES 29:14 | "Everything we have has come from you, and we give you only what you first gave us! " We should give because it reminds us that the things we have are not what is most important. • PSALM 54:6 | I will sacrifice a voluntary offering to you. We should give out of a grateful heart. • 2 CORINTHIANS 9:11 | And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. otaluc "We should give to others so that God will be glorified. • 1 PETER 4:10_| God has given each of you a gift... Use them well to serve one another. The more we give of ourselves, the more God's generosity flows through us. one 15819 How much should I give? 910月 • DEUTERONOMY 14:22 | "You must set aside a tithe of your crops- one-tenth of all the crops you harvest each year. " (See note on page 173.) • PROVERBS 35-10 Honor the lORD with the best part of everything you produce. Then he will fill your barns with grain. T21 v • 1 CORINTHIANS 16:2| On the first day of each week, you should each put aside a portion of the money you have earned. (See note on page 1043.) • 2 CORINTHIANS 9:7 | You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. 22 CORINTHIANS 8:12 | Whatever you give is acceptable if you give it eagerly. And give according to what you have, not what you don't have. • 2 SAMUEL 24:24 | But the king replied to Araunah, "No, I insist on buying it, for I will not 01| present burnt offerings to the LorD my God that have cost me nothing. " (See note on page 296) While the Old Testament specifically talks about giving God one-tenth of what we make, the New Testament encourages us to give what we can, to give sacrificially, and to give out Tof a grateful heart. For many, this will mean giving far more than one-tenthlin How does God give? • 1 TIMOTHY 2:6 | He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time. God gives sacrificially. He gave his Son, Jesus, to become human and give up his own life to give you eternal life. • 2 CORINTHIANS 8:9 You know the generous grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty he could make you rich. 2 God gives unselfishly. He shares everything he has with you. • Fob wi no 2 CORINTHIANS 9:8 | And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. • EPHESIANS 3:20 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. God gives generously and abundantly. His gifts to you are beyond imagination.* • JOEL 2:23 | Rejoice, you people of Jerusalem! Rejoice in the LORD your God! For the rain he sends demonstrates his faithfulness. God gives graciously and never begrudges any good thing to his children. • 1 CORINTHIANS 12:11 | It is the one and only Spirit who distributes all these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have. page A145 • MATTHEW 25:15 | "He gave five bags of silver to one, two bags of silver to another, and one bag of silver to the last dividing it in proportion to their abilities. " God gives personally. He plans thoughtful gifts according to your abilities and your character. • ACTS 11:17 | "And since God gave these Gentiles the same gift he gave us when we believed fu in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to stand in God's way? " • JOHN 3:16 | "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 gives without discrimination. He made people of all nations, tribes, dialects, races, and ethnic groups and sees them as equal. • JAMES 1:5 | If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. God gives without resentment. He is a joyful, cheerful giver. • ROMANS 11:29 | For God's gifts and his call can never be withdrawn.ip omoe ste jeriW God gives without the threat of rescinding. His gifts are "forever gifts. " 2MAISSM/403 T • What are some gifts 1 can give to God? N SWO 21S збаг то бАта • soul and all your strenand, you must love the Loan your God with al your heart, alyour You can give God your undivided devotion. You cannot truly love God with only part of your heart. • PSALM 51:17 | The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God. You can give God your humbled spirit and repentant heart. me end elerio ovie nso uoy • 1 SAMUEL 15:22 | But Samuel replied, "What is more pleasing to the LorD: your burht offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams. " M T9 NASSOV You can give God your obedience. When you obey him, you give him the gift of yourself for his use. This shows God your commitment and devotion to him. 8S-85:18 28838089 • REVELATION 1:6| He has made us a Kingdom of priests for God his Father. All glory and power to him forever and ever! You can give God glory. w0、 3-B:F WHOUEA • PSALM 54:6 | I will sacrifice a voluntary offering to you; I will praise your name, O LORD, © 9า9ม ถวามรว for it is good. You can give God your offerings with a grateful heart. 3อ/9rosriork • PSALM 107:1 | Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever. You can give God your thanks. 1919824 grone ver • MATTHEW 26:7-13 | While he was eating, a woman came in with a beautiful alabaster jar of expensive perfume and poured it over his head. The disciples were indignant when they saw this. "What a waste! " they said. "It could have been sold for a high price and the money given to the poor. " But Jesus, aware of this, replied, "Why criticize this woman for doing such a good thing to me? You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me. She has poured this perfume on me to prepare my body for burial. I tell you the truth, wherever the Good ni News is preached throughout the world, this woman's deed will be remembered and discussed. " You can give God your lavish worshipey tol brar bue are ho tol vebe sill sit bluora • 1 CORINTHIANS 16:2 / On the first day of each week, you should each put aside a portion of the money you have eared. Don't wait until I get there and then try to collect it all at once. • MALACHI 1:7-8 | "You have shown contempt by offering defiled sacrifices on my altar. Then you ask, 'How have we defiled the sacrifices? " You defile them by saying the altar of the LORD deserves no respect. When you give blind animals as sacrifices, isn't that wrong? And isn't it wrong to offer animals that are crippled and diseased? Try giving gifts like that to your governor, and see how pleased he is! " says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. voy 5101 903 You can give God your first and your best. page A146 Giving continued • ROMANS 12:1 | 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 he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. • 1 CORINTHIANS 6:19-20 | 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. You can give your body to God. In other words, you dedicate it to be used for good and not evil. You commit yourself to take good care of your body, which is the home of God's Holy Spirit, just as you take care of God's church. You do not allow impure and harmful things into your body because of the damage they can do. When you give your body to God, you receive the wonderful blessing of his Spirit working unhindered through you. What are some gifts I can give to others? • 1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-7 | 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. You can give others the gift of love. • MATTHEW 6:14 | "If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will. forgive you. " You can give others the gift of forgiveness. • 1 PETER 3:7 | In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God's gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will 10) not be hindered. • PROVERBS 31:28-29 | Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her: "There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all! " You can give others honor and respect. • 3 JOHN 1:5-6 | Dear friend, you are being faithful to God when you care for the traveling a teachers who pass through, even though they are strangers to you. They have told the church here of your loving friendship. Please continue providing for such teachers in a manner that pleases God. You can give others friendship and show them hospitality. • 2 CORINTHIANS 9:9 | "They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever. " • MARK 6:38, 42-44 | "How much bread do you have? " he asked. "Go and find out. " They came back and reported, "We have five loaves of bread and two fish. " much as they wanted, and afterward, the disciples picked up twelve baskets of leftover ..They all ate as bread and fish. A total of 5,000 men and their families were fed. • 2 CORINTHIANS 8:12-14 | Whatever you give is acceptable if you give it eagerly. And give according to what you have, not what you don't have. Of course, I don't mean your giving should make life easy for others and hard for yourselves. I only mean that there should be some equality. Right now you have plenty and can help those who are in need. Later, they will have plenty and can share with you when you need it. In this way, things will be equal. You can give your money, service, and other resources to meet others' needs. • ROMANS 1:11 | For I long to visit you so I can bring you some spiritual gift that will help you grow strong in the Lord. the Lord. You can give others a spiritual blessing by encouraging them to grow stronger in page A147 But I'm just barely making it with my budget. What if I don't seem to have enough to give? • PROVERBS 3:9-10 | Honor the LORD... with the best part of everything you produce. Then he will fill your barns with grain. • MALACHI 3:10 | "Bring all the tithes....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! " God promises to provide for you when you give back to him. • 2 CORINTHIANS 9:8 | God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. If we're not careful, we will never think we have enough. The secret to happiness is learning to be content with what we have, whether it is much or little, and learning how to live abundantly even with little (See Philippians 4:11-12). 113 500/ What are some principles of giving for those in Christian work? • NUMBERS 18:25-26 | "Give these instructions to the Levites: When you receive from the people of Israel the tithes I have assigned as your allotment, give a tenth of the tithes you receive. " (See note on page 140.) Those who live on tithes and offerings are not exempted from giving to the Lord. • JOSHUA 18:7 | "The Levites, however, will not receive any allotment of land. Their role as priests of the Lord is their allotment. " (See note on page 209.) Those in ful-time Christian work often forgo material wealth and, therefore, an inheritance to pass along. They need our regular support. How has God shown generosity toward me? Him wort • ROMANS 5:15 | But there is a great difference between Adam's sin and God's gracious " gift. For the sin of this one man, Adam, brought death to many. But even greater is God's wonderful grace and his gift of forgiveness to many through this other man, Jesus Christ. • ROMANS 10:12 | The ... Lord.. gives generously to all who call on him. God has generously offered you the gift of life forever in a perfect world. All you have to do is accept it and believe that he's really giving you such a magnificent gift. If God were not a generous and compassionate God, he might have made his followers work for their salvation, or he might have given only a privileged few the chance to get into heaven. But he offers the same gift to all. What is hard to believe is how few accept it. • TITUS 3:6 | He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior. God has also generously given the Holy Spirit to all who believe in him. God doesn't ox Th provide his presence just to the super righteous or the giants of faith. He provides his presence to everyone who chooses to believe in him. • 1 CORINTHIANS 12:1, 4, 6-7, 11, 18, 22, 27 | Now, dear brothers and sisters, regarding your question about the special abilities the Spirit gives us... There are different kinds of spiritual gifts...A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other. ... It is the one and only Spirit who distributes all these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have.... Our bodies have many parts, and God has put each part just where he wants it... In fact, some parts of the body that seem weakest and least important are actually the most necessary... All of you together are Christ's body, and each of you is a DWIN S part of it. God gives every person special abilities and every believer unique spiritual gifts, carta What are the benefits of generosity? • 2 CORINTHIANS 9:11-14 | 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. So two good things will result from this ministry of giving— the needs of the believers... will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God. As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you page A148 rell m'l opbud vm dsiw li gais I MIST Giving continued are obedient to the Good News of Christ. And they will pray for you with deep affection because of the overflowing grace God has given to you. Generosity glorifies God and enriches your life. Others will thank God and honor him as their needs are met, and many will pray for you. • 1 CHRONICLES 29:9-14 | The people rejoiced over the offerings, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the LORD, and King David was filled with joy. Then David praised the LoRD... "Everything in the heavens and on earth is yours... Wealth and honor come from you alone.... Everything we have has come from you, and we give you only what you first gave us! " Generosity reminds us that the things we have are gifts to be shared with others. • 1 PETER 4:10 / God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. (Unsonude Use them well to serve one another. The more generous you are with others the more God's generosity flows through you, • ACTS 20:35 | Remember the words of the Lord Jesus: "It is more blessed to give than to Keeping something may please you, but giving provides you the joy of pleasing God and the satisfaction of helping others. etto ors zoril • PSALM 112:5-6 | Good comes to those who lend money generously and conduct their 210 business fairly. Such people will not be overcome by evil. Those who are righteous will be long remembered. God blesses the generous with things that money can never buy:. How will I know when I'm generous enough? rizersniod mw • LUKE 21:1-4 , 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. " 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. " Observing people at the Temple treasury, Jesus described God's standard for gauging generosity: The degree of your sacrifice matters more than the value of your gift. Millionaire philanthropists whose high-dollar gifts never alter their lifestyle may be less generous in God's eyes than the struggling single parent who foregoes a needed pair of shoes in order to give to God. He looks for the willing heart, not the extravagant amount. God looks for what giving will do in your life, not just what it will accomplish for his Kingdom. Does your giving sometimes cause you to do without something significant? Can you honestly say you give sacrificially? That is the giving that reveals true generositynenep What will greed do to me? • PROVERBS 21:26 | Some people are always greedy for more, but the godly love to give! (See note on page 577.) • ISAIAH 56:11 | Like greedy dogs, they are never satisfied. They are ... intent on personal gain. (See note on page 653.) 1 2915 2 9110 3.1 979. Greed makes us ignorant of others' needs and causes us to think only of ourselves. neighbor's wife. " • EXODUS 20:17 | "You must not covet your neighbor's house. You must not covet your • 2 KINGS 5:26 | Is this the time to receive money and clothing, olive groves and vineyards, sheep and cattle? " we know we should not have. Envy, or coveting, is a form of greed. Greed can overpower us, moving us to go after things • 1 CORINTHIANS 5:11 | You are not to associate with anyone who claims to be a believer yet indulges in sexual sin, or is greedy, or worships idols, or is abusive, or is a drunkard, or cheats people. In this passage God ranks greed with some of the worst kinds of sin. o page A749 • 2 CHRONICLES 10:15 | So the king paid no attention to the people. (See note on Pride on page 391.) all, u Motivated by pride and greed, Rehoboam pressed too hard and his kingdom was divided. Those who insist on having it all often wind up with little or nothing. • PROVERBS 11:24 | Be stingy and lose everything. NOUG The more you accumulate, the greater your chance of losing everything. e samo How can I resist the temptation of greed? • MARK 10:21-22 | Looking at the man, Jesus felt genuine love for him. "There is still one thing you haven't done, " he told him. "Go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me. " At this the man's face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions. up everything we have, but if he did, could you? Ask yourself: How tightly do I hold on to what I have? Jesus doesn't ask most of us to give • 1 SAMUEL 8:3 1 But they were not like their father, for they were greedy for money. They accepted bribes and perverted justice.. • PROVERBS 28:25 Greed causes fighting. elset to ensla di aaorit vo • EPHESIANS 5:5 For a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. oa • 2 PETER 2:14 4 They commit adultery with their eyes, and their desire for sin is never aw under God's curse. satisfied. They lure unstable people into sin, and they are well trained in greed. They live o Ask yourself: Who do I know that is greedy and stingy? Do I really want to become like them? • MATTHEW 6:19-21 "Don't store up treasures here on earth. Store your treasures in heaven... Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. " • LUKE 9:23-25 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, And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but are yourself lost or destroyed? " Ask yourself: How long do I want to enjoy "good things "? If you want to enjoy some good things temporarily, just in this life, then you will have more of a struggle with greed. If you want to enjoy good things for eternity, then you will invest in different things —truly good things -now so that you can enjoy God's rewards forever, s) sd enor AL - • 1 CORINTHIANS 4:7 | What do you have that God hasn't given you? And if everything you have is from God, why boast as though it were not a gift? 03 so • JOB 1:21 | "I came naked from my mother's womb, and I will be naked when I leave. The LorD gave me what I had, and the LorD has taken it away. Praise the name of the LORD! " Ask yourself: Who really owns my things? Remind yourself that everything comes from the hand of God and therefore everything is God's. This changes your perspective on your iniguord nia possessions. • COLOSSIANS 3:2-3| Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. For you• died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. Ask yourself: What do I think most about? Redirect your focus from material things, which don't last, to things that last forever - your relationship with God and with others. Macoeol | моа атезиза » PROMISES FROM GO DIDISMIZA NO WSNT | cc.ai J3UnAoS。 • PROVERBS 28:27 | Whoever gives to the poor will lack nothing ou feud baD yowpips • LUKE 6:38 | "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. " 91914 S:ES 8162439-H 913 or hip? "fotwd Giving Up See Quitting 5 HelpFinder page A150 Goals See Planning; Purpose Godliness See Character; Faithfulness; Maturity Grace See Mercy & Grace Gratitude See Thankfulness Greed See Giving Grief See also Betrayal; Death; Regrets; Suffering Grief comes from suffering, discomfort, confusion, restlessness, pain, heartache, and usually with plenty of tears. Some grief, like losing a loved one, can be understood only by those who have walked that dark valley before. Grief is like a deep pit. It tortures our soul and robs us of the joy of living. But there is a great theme in the Bible- that although we walk through the valley of the shadow, there can be comfort and hope, as long as God is with us. He doesn't spare us from grief in this life, but he does help us through it. And ultimately, he helps us overcome it for all eternity. When do we grieve? • RUTH 1:9 | Then she kissed them good-bye, and they all broke down and wept. • NEHEMIAH 2:2-3 | So the king asked me, "Why are you looking so sad? "... I replied, "... The city where my ancestors are buried is in ruins, and the gates have been destroyed 01 by fire. " We grieve when we see loved ones hurt or in great need. • JOHN 11:35 | Then Jesus wept. • ACTS 9:39 | The room was filled with widows who were weeping. We grieve over the death of a loved one. • JAMES 4:9 | Let there be tears for what you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy. • 2 CORINTHIANS 7:10 | For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away 9r from sin and results in salvation. We should genuinely grieve for our sins and beg God to remove them. Until Christ-has cleansed us of those sins, we nurture them, and they continue to lurk within us. Jo Confession and forgiveness will cleanse sin and wipe away the tears that unconfessed sin brought. • LUKE 13:34 | "0 Jerusalem, Jerusalem... ! How often I have wanted to gather your o children together as a hen protects her chicks. " roi We should grieve over lost souls. How can I get over my grief? Is it possible? • GENESIS 50:1 | Joseph threw himself on his father and wept over him. • 2 SAMUEL 18:33 | The king was overcome with emotion. He went up to the room over the gateway and burst into tears. And as he went, he cried, "O my son Absalom! " First, recognize that grief is necessary and important. We need the freedom to grieve. It is an important part of closure because it allows us to honestly express the way we feel. •GENESIS 23:2-4 | There Abraham mourned and wept for her. Then, leaving her body, he said to the Hittite elders, "... Please sell me a piece of land so I can give my wife a proper burial. " Participate in the process of grief. Take time to personally mourn, but also become involved in the necessary steps to bring closure to your loss. We grieve because we have had a posi-a way of honoring what was meaningful. tive experience — what we lost was important to us. Getting involved in the process of grief is • ECCLESIASTES 3:4 1 dance. (See note on page 589.) A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to • 2 SAMUEL 19:6 "You have made it clear today that your commanders and troops mean pleased. " nothing to you. It seems that if Absalom had lived and all of us had died, you would be Grief has its season, tears, move on, and but then it is time to move on to another. God wants us to wipe our be redemptive to other grieving people. • GENESIS 21:17 | God heard the boy crying, and the angel of God called to Hagar. • ISAIAH 66:13 | "I will comfort you there in Jerusalem as a mother comforts her child. " • 2 CORINTHIANS 1:3 | God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. • JOHN 11:35 | Then Jesus wept. (See note on page 967.) มอวก3 God knows we grieve, understands our sorrow, and comforts us. He does not promise to preserve us from grief but to help us through it. • REVELATION 21:4 | He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. Take hope that there will be no more grief in heaven. How can God use my grief for good? • 2 CORINTHIANS 7:10 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. • JOEL 2:13 | "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. Your times of grief can lead to confession, repentance, and a restored relationship with God. When grief leaves your soul empty, God can fill it with more than you ever dreamed. • LAMENTATIONS 3:20-23 | I will never forget this awful time, as I grieve over my loss. Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the LORD never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. worl Grief can renew your hope in God. In your grief, hang onto the knowledge that the "faithful love of the LORD never ends! " AN MHOU • PSALM 30:11-12 | You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy, that I might sing praises to you and not be silent. O LorD my God, I will give you thanks forever! Grief can lead to a time of praise and thanksgiving to God. • 2 CORINTHIANS 1:4 | He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. Your grief can give you the ability to better comfort others. Grief is a teacher that helps you learn compassion for others who are grieving. How can I help others who are grieving? • PROVERBS 25:20 | Singing cheerful songs to a person with a heavy heart is like taking someone's coat in cold weather or pouring vinegar in a wound. • PSALM 69:20 | Their insults have broken my heart, and I am in despair. If only one person would show some pity; if only one would turn and comfort me. Give your attention, sympathy, and comfort to the grieving. Pretending that the pain is not there is like rubbing salt in a wound. It is difficult to be with someone who is grieving, but you don't need to come up with the right words to make it all go away. You can't. Your concern and presence will help a grieving person more than words. Grief continued • PROVERBS 17:22 | A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person's strength. Be aware of the toll that being brokenhearted takes on a person's spirit, mind, and body. Awareness leads to sympathy; sympathy leads to soothing the wounded, and that leads to healing. • ROMANS 12:15 Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Sensitivity to others feelings is needed. You can feel others' sorrow as surely as you can feel their joy. Being too cheery when others are grieving will only make them feel worse. • 1 PETER 5:12 | Thave written and sent this short letter to you with the help of Silas, whom I commend to you as a faithful brother. My purpose in writing is to encourage you and assure you that what you are experiencing is truly part of God's grace for you. Stand firm in this grace. voum Encourage the brokenhearted. Words of comfort can lift a hurting person. A • JOB 21:34 | "How can your empty clichés comfort me? " • JOB 16:2 | "I have heard all this before. What miserable comforters you are! " ni boa Be careful with the words you use with those who are grieving. Explanations and clichés are rarely comforting. Love, sympathy, and the power of your presence are urgently needed. Sometimes the best comfort you can give is to just be there. • JOB 42:11 | 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. And each of them brought him a gift of money and a gold ring. • PSALM 68:6'| God places the lonely in families; he sets the prisoners free and gives them joy. As family and friends, you can support one another. Family life must be a safe haven from a wounding world. How does rebellion against God bring grief to him? • PSALM 78:40 | Oh, how often they rebelled against him in the wilderness and grieved his heart in that dry wasteland.ne constreger пої 0o oj ose • GENESIS 6:6 So the LoRD was sorry he had ever made them... It broke his heart. How many a parent has grieved when a child rebelled? How often God must grieve when we rebel against him. How do I deal with loss in my life? • JOHN 11:35 | Then Jesus wept. Don't deny your loss. Great grief is the result of great love. The tears of Jesus at Lazarus's death forever validate our tears of grief. • GENESIS 50:3 | The Egyptians mourned [Jacob's] death for seventy days. (See note on page 49) Grief is a process that must not be denied or hurried. The rituals of wakes, visitations, funerals, and memorial services all help us move through the stages of grief. •2 SAMUEL 11:1 In the spring of the year, when kings normally go out to war, David sent Joab... However, David stayed behind in Jerusalem. нас en For reasons not entirely known, King David gave up the active leadership of his troops. The loss may have created a vacuum in his life that he was seeking to fill with an immoral relationship with Bathsheba. As we grieve our losses we must be careful not to "medicate " our pain with that which will only create more pain. • JOB 1:20-21 | Job stood up and tore his robe in grief... He said, "... The LORD gave me what I had, and the LORD has taken it away. " • 2882V0A Losses always bring pain. Recognizing and expressing that pain is not wrong or sinful, but rather it is a healthy expression of how God created us. * HEBREWS 10:34 | You suffered along with those who were thrown into jail, and when all you owned was taken from you, you accepted it with joy. You knew there were better things waiting for you that will last forever. page A153 It is important to allow yourself to grieve, but there comes a time for grieving to end. By e serving God and others with all the energy and enthusiasm you can muster, you will begin to find healing. And as a Christian, you have the comfort of knowing that you will be with God forever in a place where all grief will be gone forever. I feel like l've lost everything. Where can I turn? On 013 aw SIM " • PSALM 34:18 | The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. PSALM 56:8 1 You keey track of all my sorrows, You have collected all i ears tiyour bottle. You have recorded each one in your book. Turn to God in times of loss, for he alone can give you hope. SASON Пот в 2181910 • PSALM 119:28 I weep with sorrow; encourage me by your word. 1 non ew li jeos Turn to God's Word in times of loss, for there you will find God's encouragement.* 8DL • 2 CORINTHIANS 1:4 | He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. Turn to godly people in times of loss, for they can give you God's comfortab ON Ti Rue ro Jsrtini e1 9r rijii oi 2ni , 110 229,192 9ry e: WHOL SS PROMISES FROM. GOD: •PSALM 34:18 | The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. • PSALM 147:3 | He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds. € ВИАМОВ Growth See Maturity ilertefun NOY 10T H leaiuoy visnsarent Guilt See also Forgiveness; Mercy & Grace; Regrets; Sin Te beyomet Ne've all felt guilty about something we've done wrong. Guilt is a God-given mechanism, to alert us that we've sinned. Sometimes we aren't even aware we've done something wrong until the feeling of guilt creeps up. Other times we feel stronger guilt than the deed warrants. Ignoring the guilt is dangerous because we can eventually tune it out and feel too comfortable with sin. The best way to deal with guilt is to confess the sin to God and ask forgiveness. If the sin is against another person, confess, it to them as well. Forgiveness is the only cleansing agent that can remove both the sin and the guilt. to How am I guilty? • ROMANS 3:23 For everyone has sinned; we all all short of God's gorious standard. • JAMES 2:10 | The person who keeps all of the laws except one is as guilty as a person who has broken all of God's laws.siegee eldiezogmi mese maim sago23 You are guilty of sin, as every human being who ever lived has sinned. The magnitude of sult may change with the magnitude of sin, but the presence of guilt is as sure with a "itle sin " as with a "big sin. " DOX • JAMES 4:17 l Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it. eri Sin is not only doing wrong things but also not doing right things, ire of coy einswer • JONAH 1:5 / But all this time Jonah was sound asleep down in the hold.| T: re MJA29 The absence of a guilty conscience doesn't always mean you are doing right. ona mars bo@ เอมา 1 Dns arena How can I be freed from guilt? • PSALM 19:12-13 / Cleanse me from these hidden faults. Keep your servant from deliberate sins! Don't let them control me. Then I will be free of guilt. (See note on page 488) Keep guilt away by avoiding sin as much as possible and by promptly confessing any sin to God, Guilt is a consequence of wrongdoing: yurlie 29vigtol sH 101, 6:801 MJA29 • ACTS 13:39 | Everyone who believes in him is made right in God's sight of au deng Guilt continued This is a wonderful example of the grace of God. All we have to do is accept God's free git. of salvation. This means believing that God sent his Son, Jesus, to die for our sins so that we are no longer guilty for them. • NUMBERS 14:40-41 | "We realize that we have sinned, but now we are ready to enter the land the LorD has promised us. " But Moses said, ".. It won't work. " We must be sincere in admitting guilt. • JEREMIAH 3:13 | "Only acknowledge your guilt. Admit that you rebelled against the LoRD your God. " (See note on page 667.) There is a high cost to acknowledging guilt and admitting sin, but there is an even higher cost if we don't. • JOB 6:29 | Stop assuming my guilt. Job's friends kept assuming he was guilty for some sin that caused his trouble. There are two lessons here: (1) Sometimes we are not guilty of wrongdoing, but we feel guilty. We must learn to discern between true and false guilt. (2) We can better deal with our own guilt if we develop an attitude of not assuming everyone else is guilty. • 1 JOHN 1:9 | 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. Prayer and confession free us from guilt. Don't let guilty feelings over sin keep you from prayer, your only means of confessing to God and restoring your relationship with him. • ROMANS 3:23-24 | 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. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. This is the gospel in a nutshell: God knows you are guilty and knows you cannot save yourself. He has done for you what you cannot do for yourself. He sent Jesus Christ to pay the penalty for your sin. When you trust in him, the ultimate punishment for your sin is fully removed and you are freed from guilt. How do I handle lingering feelings of guilt even after I have confessed my sin? • ACTS 10:36 This is the message of Good News... there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all. ROMANS 1:16-17 For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes— the Jew first and also the Gentile. This Good News tells us how God makes us right in his sight. News that seems too good to be true is sometimes the hardest thing to believe. God's Good News is the best news you'll ever hear, and best of all it is true! Every person is or on death row-doomed to an eternity of being separated from God. We all have been declared "guilty. " Escape might seem impossible, especially if you have done some ternbe things. But to everyone God offers the most amazing gift -freedom from eternal death and life forever in heaven with him where all is good and perfect. All you have to do is believe this Good News by accepting the truth that Jesus died for your sins. When you do, your guilt is gone completely and your life is so changed you'll gratefully follow Jesus and live the way he asks his believers to live. God doesn't want you to feel guilty about being free; he wants you to enjoy your freedom and make the most of it. • PSALM 51:7 | Purify me from my sins, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter Trust God's truth, not your fickle, fluctuating feelings. Most of your guilt may really be shame and regret over what you have done or the lingering consequences of your actions. cleanse you from shame and regret as well. Along with confessing your sins, you need to embrace God's promise to forgive you and • MARK 3:28-29 | "I tell you the truth, all sin... can be forgiven. " • PSALM 103:3, 10 | He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases..... He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve. s tree ye $ 80 nter the the Lon higher nere are iy. We own ; our sis au from n him. andard. * Jesus save nrist to pa Sin is tu Forgiveness means that God looks at you as though you have never sinned. When you receive his forgiveness, you are blameless before him. When God forgives, he doesn't sweep your sins under the carpet; instead, he completely washes them away. unnecessary guilt. If you have confessed your sin, don't go through another day with the weight of PROMISES FROM GOD • ACTS 13:39 | "Everyone who believes in him is made right in God's sight. " • ROMANS 8:1 / So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. Habits See also Discipline; Maturity; Priorities A habit is a usual manner of behavior, a pattern. There are good habits and bad habits, M much the same as any person exhibits both good and bad behavior. The question is, what's the prevailing pattern? The term bad habits brings to mind things like smoking, drinking too much, or biting your nails. But spreading gossip, complaining, or backbiting can become bad habits too. Worry can become a bad habit and can hurt us deeply. Good habits, on the other hand, can be of great value. The habit of prayer is something beautiful. Daniel was willing to risk his life rather than give up his habit of prayer. We can make witnessing about Christ a good habit. The Bible has much to say about habits that will benefit us for a lifetime (and beyond) and habits that are bound to destroy us. What are some of the bad habits the Bible talks about? • 1 JOHN 3:8 | When people keep on sinning, it shows that they belong to the devil. A39. Sin is a habit none of us can end completely, but a pattern of sinful living shows that we may not be serious about following God. to tider s. • EXODUS 8:28-32 | "All right, go ahead, " Pharaoh replied. "I will let you go. "... But na Pharaoh again became stubborn and refused to let the people go. (See note on page 59.)D A Pharaoh exhibited the bad habits of lying and wanting his own way. Both of these ares habits we can easily slip into, but they are disastrous. • NUMBERS 11:1 | Soon the people began to complain about their hardship.sd pnixas! The Israelites developed a bad habit of complaining. Regular complaining can quickly turn into bitterness. • 1 TIMOTHY 5:13 | They will learn to be lazy and will spend their time gossiping. Too much time and too little to do can be fertile ground for bad habits. This idleness makes it easy to develop the bad habit of gossip. Here Paul was talking about widows who had too much time on their hands. But the principle applies to us all. NON 95ITO How do I deal with bad habits? • ROMANS 7:15 | I don't really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don't do it. Instead, I do what I hate. Have you ever felt this way? Paul reveals to us one of the best ways to deal with bad habits— recognize them for what they are and confess them honestly. Paul knew that he could not kick the habit of sin overnight. But he knew that, with God's help, he could make progress every day. In the same way, we may have to give up a habit in phases, one day at a time. • 1 JOHN 2:15 | Do not love this world nor the things it offers you. Sin often appears lovely and attractive. In the same way, bad habits often feel good even though we know they are ultimately bad for us. Breaking a bad habit can be hard because we are losing something we like. Understand that there may be a grieving process. But this pain over losing a bad habit brings the deeper joy that we are doing what is pleasing al to God. • COLOSSIANS 3:2 | Think about the things of heaven. We must replace a bad habit with something good. page A15g Habits continued oy figuort as uoy is aloel boo tart eneem • ROMANS 6:12-14 T Do not let sin control the way you live; do nor sive in to sister 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. Sin is no longer your master, for you no longer live under the requirements of the law. Instead, you live under the freedom of God's grace. One of Satan's great lies is that you are a victim who has no power to resist some of the powerful influences around you. The world teaches you that heredity, environment, and circumstances excuse you from responsibility. But God is more powerful than anything that seeks to control you. When you call upon his power through prayer and the support of the Holy Spirit and fellow believers, God breaks the chains that hold you and sets you free. How do I develop good habits? 31241 • HEBREWS 10:25 | Let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do. Meeting together as believers is a good habit because it provides necessary fellowship with other believers, it develops the habit of group Bible study, it keeps us busy when we might otherwise be slipping into bad habits, and it offers an accountability group. ° GENESIS 26:21-22 | Isaac's men then dug another well, but again there was a dispute Jenover it... Abandoning that one, Isaac moved on and dug another well. This time there was no dispute over it. o Isaac pursued a habit of peace. In this case, it meant staying away from the source of the conflict, the Philistines, even at great cost. • PSALM 28:7 | The LORD is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart...I burst cout in songs of thanksgiving. As a young boy, David developed the habit of talking to God, singing songs about him, and writing psalms. This helped him to trust in and follow God all his life. -8 3 cul • ROMANS 6:16 | 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. Breaking bad habits is a choice; it doesn't just happen. You stand each day at various crossroads, where you have the opportunity to choose bad ways (often sinful ways) or God's way. The choice is yours. • 1 TIMOTHY 4:7-8 | Train yourself to be godly. "Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come. " • 1 CORINTHIANS 9:25 | 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. Good habits— such as reading God's Word, praying, and giving your time and money in service - give you spiritual stamina, purpose, and direction. They also help you keep your eyes on the ultimate goal of eternal life. PROMISE FROM GODIO •ROMANS 8:5-6Those 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 Spint. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Sprit control your mind leads to life and peace.i a Happiness See also Celebration; Purpose is happiness a passing emotion or a permanent state? The Bible says it can be both. There is happiness that reacts to happenings (which is temporary and volatile), and there is happiness that overrules happenings (which is strong and lasting), which is often. referred to as joy. Happiness based on happenings is part of life, but if that is all we cân who napf with 18 20 arou may wha deta chri subs Doe can count on we have to keep feeding ourselves with events to keep us upbeat. Those who know the joy that comes from God don't need events or happenings to keep them happy. They learn how to develop inner joy through a personal relationship with God; it's not based on what but on who. The relationship continues as we share happiness with others. Happiness is one of the few things that is hot subtracted from us when it is added to others. Enthusiasm is a by product of happiness. It is your reactions to life around you based on a sincerely happy and joyful heart/ Do you lack enthusiasm? It may mean you have lost your sense of purpose, that you don't know or have forgotten what you are living for. It may also mean that you've become bogged down by the details of life, too busy to stop and enjoy the wonder all around you. The new person in Christ should indeed be enthusiastic, for something special has happened with eternal substance. Does God promise me happiness? Taterso of zasniggar pnid l nso wok • PHILIPPIANS 4:4, 12 Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again-rejoice... I have learned the secret of living in every situation. • JAMES 1:2 | When troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. boz? as teul God does not promise temporary happiness; in fact, the Bible assumes problems will come our way. But God does promise lasting happiness for all those who believe in him. This kind of happiness stays with us despite our problems. God wants us to be happy now and for all eternity. HON 93 3 393591135 253 10 brisce Where do I find real and lasting happiness? eerio, buswot tiletiga 20зіотах3 • HEBREWS 12:2 We do this by keeping our eyes on jesus... Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Tygen bee Keep your eyes on Jesus. Y Mi Irignal Ot:08 YMOMGABTU30 " • PSALM 112:1'| How joyful are those who fear the LoRD and delight in obeying his commands. • PSALM 119:35 | Make me walk along the path of your commands, for that is where my 8119044 happiness is found. (See note on page 543) Fear God and trust in him; delight in doing his commands. • PSALM 16:8-9 | I know the Lord is always with me.. No wonder my heart is glad. " *Happiness is based on God's presence within us, which brings true contentment. • GALATIANS 5:22 | But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy. The presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives produces joy. Jiniel • PHILIPPIANS 1:25 161 am convinced that I will remain alive so I can continue to help all of you grow and experience the joy of your faith. y diw pried ni trigileb of uoy rifiw gine Faith in God brings happiness, for God has promised that when we truly seek him, we will surely find him (Jeremiah 29:13-14). • MATTHEW 25:21 | "You have been faithful in handling this small amount. " ". Let's celebrate together!' 0STIN A job well done brings a deep sense of satisfaction and is an occasion for joy. eson sad) 18 тел: ivera ent ni bedhoseb lusdist! How can I be happy during difficult circumstances? bulanooseies-litused airt C 2 CORINTHIANS 12:10 | 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 irevoq isutnige onihia red esroh isheisiv am strong. • 1 PETER 4:12-13 | Dear friends, don't be surprised at the fiery trials you are going og through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad - for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful 29 joy of seeing his glory. Difficult circumstances help us better understand what Christ went through for us and 919)l 9050913 THO 03і0 make us partners with him. Happiness continued • ROMANS 5:2 | And we confidently and joyfully look forvard to sharing God's glory. • HEBREWS 10:34 | When all you owned was taken from you, you accepted it with joy. You knew there were better things waiting for you that will last forever. Hope in God's promise of eternal life can make us happy because we know that what we are presently going through will one day end. • ACTS 5:41 | The apostles left the high council rejoicing that God had counted them worthy to suffer disgrace for the name of Jesus. When you live in such a way that even your suffering brings honor to Jesus, he has a special place of honor for you, and this should bring you a deep sense of joy. How can I bring happiness to others? • ROMANS 12:10 | Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. • HEBREWS 12:15 | Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Treating others with God's love will bring them happiness. Just as God is the wellspring of true happiness, so you are his conduit of that happiness to others. • 2 CORINTHIANS 7:13 | In addition to our own encouragement, we were especially delighted to see how happy Titus was about the way all of you welcomed him and set his mind at ease. Exercising hospitality toward others will help them relax and be happy for a time. o How can I make God happy? • DEUTERONOMY 30:10 | "The LorD your God will delight in you if you obey his voice and keep the commands and decrees written in this Book of Instruction, and if you turn to the Lord your God with all your heart and soul. " • PSALM 37:23 | The LorD directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. • PROVERBS 15:8 | The LORD... delights in the prayers of the upright. • ZEPHANIAH 3:17 | For the LorD your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs. Can finite, sinful human beings truly bring joy and delight to the Lord, the creator of the universe? God says yes. He created you because he wants to have a relationship with you, to delight in being with you. But you must also want a relationship with him. Is it possible to be happy when we have nothing materially? • HABAKKUK 3:18 | Yet I will rejoice in the LORD! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! (See note on page 834.) Habakkuk described in the previous verses an utter stripping of material prosperity. Then this beautiful verse concludes that still he will find joy in the Lord. • PROVERBS 13:7 | Some who are poor pretend to be rich; others who are rich pretend to be poor. (See note on page 569.) Material riches can bring spiritual poverty. Material poverty can bring spiritual riches. It is possible to have both types of riches, but watch out if you are materially blessed, so your blessing doesn't become a curse. • MATTHEW 6:19-21 | 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. page A159 How does sharing my faith with others bring happiness? • ISAIAH 52:7 | How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings page 649.) good news... of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns! (See note on The Good News of the Messiah, the Lord Jesus, and the wonderful relationship we can have with God through him, is news of great joy and happiness for us. When we receive ness when we share it with others. this news as our own, we are supremely happy. But there is an added measure of happi- • DANIEL 12:3 / to righteousness will shine like the stars forever. " "Those who are wise will shine as bright as the sky, and those who lead many Godliness is like sunshine, radiating the warmth and light from God himself. Witnessing is like moonlight, reflecting the Son to others. • PROVERBS 13:9 | The life of the godly is full of light and joy, but the light of the wicked will be snuffed out. Goodness is from God, and God is light. When we live godly lives, we are lamps along the way, but when we live ungodly lives, the lamps go out. The light of godliness brings true happiness. What kinds of pleasure am I free to enjoy? mabielrine vi ninos • ECCLESIASTES 2:24-25! So I decided there is nothing better than to enjoy food and drink and to find satisfaction in work. Then I realized that these pleasures are from the hand of God. For who can eat or enjoy anything apart from him? • 1 TIMOTHY 4:4-5 | Since everything God created is good, we should not reject any of it but receive it with thanks. For we know it is made acceptable by the word of God and prayer. God intends for you to enjoy the life he gave you and the good things he created for all people. • DEUTERONOMY 14:26 | When you arrive, you may use the money to buy any kind of food you want-cattle, sheep, goats, wine, or other alcoholic drink. Then feast there in the presence of the LORD your God and celebrate with your household. • NEHEMIAH 8:10 | "Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. " It is good to enjoy occasions of celebrating God's goodness and love, which can include good food, family, and friends. 8: 5 • PSALM 127:4-5 | Children born to a young man are like arrows in a warrior's hands. How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them! • PSALM 128:6 | May you live to enjoy your grandchildren. God wants you to enjoy the blessing of family. • 2 TIMOTHY 2:6 | And hardworking farmers should be the first to enjoy the fruit of their labor. God wants you to enjoy the fruit of your labors. • JOHN 4:34 | Then Jesus explained: "My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work. " The best kind of pleasure is delighting in doing what God wants. • PSALM 16:5, 11 | LORD, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing.... You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever. God wants you to take pleasure in him because he knows all the good blessings he has in store for you. Can I really serve God with enthusiasm? I thought the Christian life was supposed to be serious. • JOSHUA 22:5 | "Love the LoRD your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul, " • 2 SAMUEL 6:14 | And David danced before the Lord with all his might. page Ate, feasnigger gnind avorto difiw rifict yo Happiness continued • EPHESIANS 3:18 And may you have the power to understand, as all cod's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. There are areas of the Christian life that are very serious - sin and its consequences, church discipline, and fighting the presence of evil. But there is also a great delight in knowing that the God of the universe loves us, has a plan for us, and made this wonderful world for us. In fact, he tes us to serve him enthusiastically- joyfully and with a great sense of delight. God understands that enthusiasm lights the fire of service. 51 01 What dampens enthusiasm most, and how should we guard against it? • MATTHEW 13:20-21 "The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy. But since they don't have deep roots, they fall away was soon as they have problems. " (See note on page 874.), 9N 2793409 Spiritual dropouts have lost enthusiasm for their mission. A person who lacks depth has no place for the seeds of God's Word to grow, and without that depth, the hot sun of persecu tion or adversity causes enthusiasm to wither. The sense of purpose fades and along with it, one's relationship with God. How can I regain my enthusiasm for life and faith? I me ewesola to ebni • COLOSSIANS 3:23.| Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. sast Your attitude improves when you do even life's most distasteful or mundane duties as a praise offering to the Lord. How can you disdain what you joyfully offer to God? • PSALM 103:2 | Let all that I am praise the LorD; may I never forget the good things he does for me. Counting your blessings will increase your enthusiasm. Forgetting your blessings will lead to apathy and the feeling that you deserve more. • PSALM 19:1 1 The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. 12110 GRO. at Stop to look, listen, smell, and feel. A stunning sunset, the tiny veins of a leaf, or a fresh breeze can lift your spirits if you take a moment to let yourself wonder at God's creation. The glory of God will lift you from the mundane. • MARK 6:31 | Then Jesus said, "Let's go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile. "' 2013 oy D ot nsod n9tblinD Taking care of your body through proper rest, nutrition, and exercise will have a positive impact on your outlook toward life. • PROVERBS 12:25 | Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up. • 2 CORINTHIANS 9:2 In fact, it was your enthusiasm that stirred up many... to begin giving. to tiust e Choose to spend time with enthusiastic people. Their spirit will rub off on you because enthusiasm is contagious! • PSALM 9:2 | I will be filled with joy because of you. I will sing praises to your name, 0 Most High. • REVELATION 3:15 | "I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! " (See note on page 1155.) Focus on the Lord and worship him, even if you don't feel like it, and your enthusiasm wil • MATTHEW 4:19 | Jesus called out to them, "Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people! " 2 е • ROMANS 11:29 | For God's gifts and his call can never be withdrawn. nicalm your sense of God's unchanging purpose for your life, making an impact for eter Kingdronen God's power at work within you. Working as God's partner to advance Gods Kingdom —now there's something to be enthusiastic about! ad b PROMISES FROM GOD • PSALM 1:1 | Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand " around with sinners, or join in with mockers. • 1 CORINTHIANS 15:58 | 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. • PSALM 16:11 | You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever. Hardship See Adversity; Pain; Suffering sri siti) N 2 ioNT Healing See also Pain; Suffering 887V099 Health is well-being — physical, mental, emotional, moral, spiritual. We can be physically sick while mentally, emotionally, morally, socially, and spiritually well. Or we can have health and sickness in any other combination. Tragedy strikes when several of these gang up on us, as they often do. Sometimes emotional sickness or spiritual sickness induces physical sickness. Or sometimes we are so physically ill that it takes us down emotionally and spiri-tually. At the headwaters of all health is spiritual health-being fit spiritually, in tune with the Lord God himself. For the sick, the concept of healing is a new lease on life. Sickness is debilitating, creating a dark hole in our lives - something wrong or something missing. People with sick bodies have limitations that restrict freedom of movement, freedom of capabilities, and even freedom to enjoy life. Oh, to be released from sickness, to be healed! Healing may be physical, emotional, or social, but it may also be spiritual, a restoration of the soul. Sin is the ultimate sickness, eating at the core of the soul; but spilling out on i teri our physical, mental, social, and moral well-being. Healing from sin is a great gift that comes from a right relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Does God care when I am sick? 5еБ900 1i ezendoi3 • PSALM 41:3 . The LorD nurses them when they are sick and restores them to health. • MATTHEW 15:29-31 | Jesus returned to the Sea of Galilee and climbed a hill and sat down. A vast crowd brought to him people who were lame, blind, crippled, those who couldn't speak, and many others. They laid them before Jesus, and he healed them all. The crowd was amazed! Those who hadn't been able to speak were talking, the crippled were made well, the lame were walking, and the blind could see again! And they praised the God of Israel. • PHILIPPIANS 2:27 | And he certainly was ill; in fact, he almost died. But God had mercy on him-and also on me, so that I would not have one sorrow after another. Vileutiqa • MATTHEW 4:23| Jesus traveled throughout the region of Galilee, teaching in the synagogues and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom. And he healed every kind of disease and illness. • MATTHEW 10:1 | Jesus called his twelve disciples together and gave them authority to cast out evil spirits and to heal every kind of disease and illness. • MATTHEW 8:17 This fulfilled the word of the Lord through the prophet Isaiah, who said, "He took our sicknesses and removed our diseases. " • REVELATION 21:4 | "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. " God has full authority over all sickness, and he cares deeply when you are sick. He has the authority and power to heal whoever he chooses. Eventually, he will remove all sickness and suffering from all his children for eternity. Sometimes he chooses not to heal a person here on earth, even a devout believer! We usually do not understand why, but someday we will. Healing continued What is a positive way I can respond in times of personal sickness? • PSALM 103:2 | Let all that I am praise the LORD; may I never forget the good things he does for me. Praise the Lord for his ability to forgive your sins and heal your diseases. Even if he chooses not to heal you physically, he has already healed you spiritually if you have put your faith in Jesus. Praise the Lord when he uses your sickness to move you closer to him. 10 • 2 CORINTHIANS 12:8-10 | 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. • PROVERBS 17:22 | A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person's strength. Pray for healing and be content with God's decision. If he chooses not to heal you then look for ways you can minister to others through your sickness. You might wind up having a greater impact on them than if you were healthy. • PSALM 73:26 | My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the erl strength of my heart; he is mine forever. • 1 CORINTHIANS 15:43 | 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. Regardless of the condition of your health, whether you are well or sick, you can rejoice * that God faithfully remains your strength. Your frail earthly body will one day be gloriously transformed for eternity. What is my responsibility toward those who are sick? • GALATIANS 4:14 | Even though my condition tempted you to reject me, you did not despise me or turn me away. Sickness in a friend or loved one may be unpleasant, but that is no reason to reject any-one. It is easy to stay away from older family members when their health fails. We should treat others, even when they are sick, as though they were angels from God. How can I minister to the sick? • JAMES 5:14-15 | Are any of you sick? You should call for the elders of the church to come and pray over you, anointing you with oil in the name of the Lord. Such a prayer offered in faith will heal the sick, and the Lord will make you well. And if you have committed any sins, you will be forgiven. You can pray for those who are sick. Some will be healed and some will be strengthened spiritually even though they are not healed. • MARK 2:3-5 | 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, less said to the paralyzed man, "My child, your sins are forgiven. " • JOHN 5:7 | "I can't, sir, " the sick man said, "for I have no one to put me into the pool wher the water bubbles up. Someone else always gets there ahead of me. " Often, there are practical ways to help those who are sick get the help and healing they need. • GALATIANS 4:13-14 | Surely you remember that I was sick when I first brought you the Good News. But even though my condition tempted you to reject me, you did not despise. me or turn me away. No, you took me in and cared for me as though I were an angel from. God or even Christ Jesus himself. • LUKE 10:33-34, 36-37 | Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him. Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds อี้ page A163 with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him... "Now which of these three would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by bandits? " Jesus asked. The man replied, same. " "The one who showed him mercy. " Then Jesus said, "Yes, now go and do the • MATTHEW 25:36 | 1 was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.' You can meet the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of the sick. What is the greatest danger to my health? • ROMANS 6:16 | 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. • JEREMIAH 30:12-13, 17 | "No medicine can heal you... I will give you back your health and heal your wounds. " • ROMANS 6:23 | The wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord. Sin is a terminal disease, leading not merely to physical death, but eternal death. But God is the Great Physician. He can heal and restore spiritual health through his gift of salvation, leading to eternal physical health in heaven. How can God use my sickness in a positive way? S:8 MJA29 * • 2 CORINTHIANS 12:7-9 I was given a thorn in my flesh. Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. Each time he said, "... My power works best in weakness. " When we are weak, God's power and strength can be more easily seen in us. When we think we are self-sufficient, God will not exercise his greatest strength in us. How do I keep my soul in good health? to tiuaer 2s elsen eh • 1 TIMOTHY 4:8 | "Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come. " (See note on page 1093.). to ais v As your body needs exercise to keep physically fit, so your soul needs exercise to keep fit spiritually. 100 How can my attitude affect my health? • PROVERBS 17:22 1 A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person's strength. It's both a Bible truth and a fact of life — a positive, cheerful disposition has a positive srIV impact on our health. 8000X3-0 ba torrel From what do I need to be healed? • LUKE 8:42 | His only daughter, who was about twelve years old, was dying. • MARK 1:40 | A man with leprosy came and knelt in front of Jesus, begging to be healed. We long to be healed from sickness and disease. • ISAIAH 61:1 | He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted. Our broken hearts need healing and restoration. • PSALM 30:11 | You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. We need healing from sorrow. • PSALM 55:20 | As for my companion, he betrayed his friends. We need to be healed from the pain of betrayal. • ROMANS 6:23 | For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life. • PSALM 103:3 | He forgives all my sins. We need to be healed from sin. Healing continued • PROVERBS 17:22 | A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person's strength. At times, we need healing from depression and sadness. How does God heal? 2ny • 2 KINGS 20:7 | "Make an ointment from figs. " So Hezekiah's servants spread the ointment over the boil, and Hezekiah recovered! He heals through physicians and medicine.. • PSALM 119:93 | I will never forget your commandments, for by them you give me life. • MARK 3:5 | Then he said to the man, "Hold out your hand. " So the man held out his hand, and it was restored! " LUKE 5:12-13 | "Lord, " he said, "if you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean. " Jesus reached out and touched him. "I am willing, " he said. "Be healed! " (See note on page 923.). 10 2. He heals through miracles. bo MARK 2:4-5 I They couldn't bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, so they dug a hole no, through the roof above his head. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, "My child, your sins are forgiven. " • PSALM 6:2 | Heal me, LoRD, for my bones are in agony. (See note on page 483. 919. • JAMES 5:14 | Are any of you sick? You should call for the elders of the church to come and pray over you. He heals in response to prayer. • ISAIAH 38:16 L Lord, your discipline is good, for it leads to life and health. (See note on page 635.) He heals as the result of disciplining us. • GENESIS 27:41; 33:4 | Esau hated Jacob.... Then Esau ran to meet him and embraced him, threw his arms around his neck, and kissed him. And they both wept. (See note on page 32) He heals through time. • ISAIAH 53:5 | 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. toe 2 By death Christ brought us life. Through woundedness he brought us healing. By taking our punishment, he set us free. What kind of healing does God do today? • EXODUS 15:26 | "For I am the LoRD who heals you. " God is not bound by the limitations of this world. He can intervene to overcome any ori threat to your life, including illness and disease — physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional. • LUKE 5:12-13 | "Lord, " he said, "if you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean. " Jesus reached out and touched him. "I am willing, " he said. "Be healed! " And instantly the leprosy disappeared. Jesus has the ability and the willingness to heal you. You are not bothering God when you pray for healing; you are expressing your faith and trust in him. For reasons unknown. Jesus doesn't heal all your illnesses, but he does perform great acts of healing in you every day -healing you from sin, grief, sickness, and the weariness of your soul. • PSALM 147:3 | He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds. • MALACHI 4:2 | "But for you who fear my name, the Sun of Righteousness will rise with healing in his wings. And you will go free, leaping with joy like calves let out to pasture. " cannot be contained. God's healing can reach every level of your life. His healing brings a joy and freedom that cannot be contained. page A165 • JOHN 5:6-9 | When Jesus saw him and knew he had been ill for a long time, he asked him, "Would you like to get well? " "I can't, sir, " the sick man said... Jesus told him, "Stand up, pick up your mat, and walk! " Instantly, the man was healed! Jesus' healing of this lame man demonstrated that God loves those who are sick or have deformities as much as he loves those who are healthy. In Jesus' day, many physical deformities were seen as making a person unacceptable to God. When Jesus touched 1기 , this man, he revealed both God's power and his compassion for the whole person. God can and does heal today - through the body's natural processes, through medical science, and through miraculous means. But the greatest disease is sin, which disfigures the soul. Jesus heals the disease of sin by his forgiveness and grace. Have you allowed him to touch that part of your life? • JAMES 5:14-16 | Are any of you sick? You should call for the elders of the church to come and pray over you, anointing you with oil in the name of the Lord. Such a prayer offered , in faith will heal the sick, and the Lord will make you well, And if you have committed any sins, you will be forgiven. Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. elds love bag ne The Lord often uses others to give you his gifts— including healing. He has given authority in to church leaders to be vessels for this special work. While you may not feel worthy or capable, pray for one another in obedience to God. noiideb erit exem of vlut • PSALM 32:3-5 | When I refused to confess my sin, my body wasted away, and I groaned all day long... Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt. I said to myself, "I will confess my rebellion to the LORD. " And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone. • PSALM 103:3 | He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases. | sH MJA29 Sin can make you sick, literally. There are times when repentance and God's forgiveness can pave the way for healing. • PSALM 119:931 I will never forget your commandments, for by them you give me life. Following God's direction can bring healing in your life. God's Word shows you how to break free from the stress, pressure, and unhealthy practices that undermine your health. Why doesn't God always heal people? 23:692 9717 AnovsoH • MATTHEW 4:23-24| Jesus traveled throughout the region of Galilee... And he healed every kind of disease and illness. News about him spread as far as Syria, and people soon began bringing to him all who were sick. And whatever their sickness or disease, or if they were demon possessed or epileptic or paralyzed-he healed them all. 3 nsmun ert • REVELATION 21:4 | "He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death et or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever. " apsmi e'boa • REVELATION 22:1-2 | Then the angel showed me a river with the water of life, clear as aeri crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb. It flowed down the center of the ri main street. On each side of the river grew a tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, with à fresh crop each month. The leaves were used for medicine to heal the nations. No fanit er God has full authority over all sickness. He can heal whoever he chooses. But why he ed an heals some and not others is not known. Sometimes it is his will to release a person from their suffering and sickness through death. Eventually, he will remove all sickness and aBr suffering from his children for eternity. You will live in heaven forever where there will be 83 mor no sickness or disease. 005 - • 2 CORINTHIANS 12:9 | "My power works best in weakness. " vsed G Y leet everli al We do not know why God heals some and not others, But we do know that God's power is magnified through our weaknesses and infirmities if we allow him to work within us. If you have been praying to be healed, or praying for a loved one to be healed, and God has not done it, trust that he has something even greater that he wants to accomplish through the illness.ss How do I deal with it when I'm not healed? nett TIOn • 2 CORINTHIANS 12:10 | I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. page A165 • JOHN 5:6-9 | When Jesus saw him and knew he had been ill for a long time, he asked him, "Would you like to get well? " "I can't, sir, " the sick man said... Jesus told him, "Stand up, pick up your mat, and walk! " Instantly, the man was healed! Jesus' healing of this lame man demonstrated that God loves those who are sick or have deformities as much as he loves those who are healthy. In Jesus' day, many physical deformities were seen as making a person unacceptable to God. When Jesus touched 1기 , this man, he revealed both God's power and his compassion for the whole person. God can and does heal today - through the body's natural processes, through medical science, and through miraculous means. But the greatest disease is sin, which disfigures the soul. Jesus heals the disease of sin by his forgiveness and grace. Have you allowed him to touch that part of your life? • JAMES 5:14-16 | Are any of you sick? You should call for the elders of the church to come and pray over you, anointing you with oil in the name of the Lord. Such a prayer offered , in faith will heal the sick, and the Lord will make you well, And if you have committed any sins, you will be forgiven. Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. elds love bag ne The Lord often uses others to give you his gifts— including healing. He has given authority in to church leaders to be vessels for this special work. While you may not feel worthy or capable, pray for one another in obedience to God. noiideb erit exem of vlut • PSALM 32:3-5 | When I refused to confess my sin, my body wasted away, and I groaned all day long... Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt. I said to myself, "I will confess my rebellion to the LORD. " And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone. • PSALM 103:3 | He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases. | sH MJA29 Sin can make you sick, literally. There are times when repentance and God's forgiveness can pave the way for healing. • PSALM 119:931 I will never forget your commandments, for by them you give me life. Following God's direction can bring healing in your life. God's Word shows you how to break free from the stress, pressure, and unhealthy practices that undermine your health. Why doesn't God always heal people? 23:692 9717 AnovsoH • MATTHEW 4:23-24| Jesus traveled throughout the region of Galilee... And he healed every kind of disease and illness. News about him spread as far as Syria, and people soon began bringing to him all who were sick. And whatever their sickness or disease, or if they were demon possessed or epileptic or paralyzed-he healed them all. 3 nsmun ert • REVELATION 21:4 | "He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death et or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever. " apsmi e'boa • REVELATION 22:1-2 | Then the angel showed me a river with the water of life, clear as aeri crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb. It flowed down the center of the ri main street. On each side of the river grew a tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, with à fresh crop each month. The leaves were used for medicine to heal the nations. No fanit er God has full authority over all sickness. He can heal whoever he chooses. But why he ed an heals some and not others is not known. Sometimes it is his will to release a person from their suffering and sickness through death. Eventually, he will remove all sickness and aBr suffering from his children for eternity. You will live in heaven forever where there will be 83 mor no sickness or disease. 005 - • 2 CORINTHIANS 12:9 | "My power works best in weakness. " vsed G Y leet everli al We do not know why God heals some and not others, But we do know that God's power is magnified through our weaknesses and infirmities if we allow him to work within us. If you have been praying to be healed, or praying for a loved one to be healed, and God has not done it, trust that he has something even greater that he wants to accomplish through the illness.ss How do I deal with it when I'm not healed? nett TIOn • 2 CORINTHIANS 12:10 | I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. • ECCLESIASTES 3:11 | Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart. God created you with an instinct for heaven, an inner longing to live forever. It is not just wishful thinking; it is God's intended purpose for you. • 1 CORINTHIANS 15:20 | But in fact, Christ has been raised from the dead. He is the first of a great harvest of all who have died. Jesus' resurrection gives you the promise and assurance of your own resurrection to heaven and eternal life. • GENESIS 1:1, 9, 11, 20, 24, 27, 31, 1, In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth... Then God said, "Let the waters beneath the sky flow together into one place, so dry ground may appear. ".. Then God said, "Let the land sprout with vegetation- every sort of seed-bearing plant, and trees. "... Then God said, "Let the waters swarm with fish and other life. Let the skies be filled with birds of every kind. ".. Then God said, "Let the earth produce every sort of animal. " ... [Then] God created human beings in his own image... Male and female he created them... Then God looked over all he had made, and he saw that it was very good! 1-818 288N08 o • REVELATION 21:1 | Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth. God originally created earth to be heaven — the place where he lived with mankind and walked and talked with them side by side. Sin changed all that when it separated us from God and corrupted the earth. But the point is that God originally thought of heavenly paradise as a very physical place, with trees and plants, mountains and water-falls, fruits and vegetables. The Bible consistently refers to the new heaven- the place where we will be reunited with God— as the new earth. The place where we will live forever with God will be very similar to the place we live now. If God said the original earth he created was "very good, " then the new earth he is preparing for us will be similar and familiar to us. 2W58827 • REVELATION 21:4-5 "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, " And the one sitting on the throne said, "Look, I am making everything new! " (See note on page 1167) zists M The promise of Scripture is that God will remove all the sin and struggles of this fallen world and create a new heaven and new earth. The best this world has to offer can't even compare with the glory to come! What is heaven like? • ISAIAH 65:17 | "Look! I am creating new heavens and a new earth, and no one will even think about the old ones anymore. " bod .enovieve ol egori • PHILIPPIANS 3:21 | He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like his own. • REVELATION 22:5 | And there will be no night there-no need for lamps or sun-for the Lord God will shine on them. And they will reign forever and ever. Heaven is far beyond anything you can imagine. In heaven you will live forever with God. There will be no sadness, no pain, no evil, and no death. Everything will be perfect and glorious, God will give you a new body, and you will be able to talk face-to-face with the Lord Himself. • 1 JOHN 3:2 | Dear friends, we are already God's children, but he has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like him, a for we will see him as he really is. • REVELATION 21:4 | "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 gohe forever. "» 2 511 5) You will one day be like Christ. You will not be equal to him in power and authority, but you will be like him in character and perfection, for there will be no sin in those who are welcomed into heaven. In heaven you will never hurt, cry, have pain, or experience sorrow. Evil will be gone forever. page A168 237241231303 Heaven/Eternal Life continued Who will get into heaven? • MATTHEW 5:3 / "God blesses those who... realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. " • MATTHEW 19:14 | 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. " • JOHN 3:16 | "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. " Those who have a relationship with Jesus Christ and believe that he alone is God are " promised eternal life with him. When you know Jesus and sincerely accept that only he can forgive sin (the one thing that separates you from God), you are guaranteed entrance narinto heaven. How can I be sure I will go to heaven? • ACTS 16:31 | "Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved. " • ROMANS 5:8-9 | 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. • ROMANS 10:9-10 I If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart is that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are (netaieroo u & ent aldisfoger bris arunt ,alis s saved. "If you believe Jesus died to take the punishment for your sins and recognize that only he i can forgive you, the Bible promises you will go to heaven. You cannot earn your way to on heaven; it is God's gift to those who give their allegiance to Jesus. • HEBREWS 2:14-15 | 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. Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying. ai enutgua? to eaim • ROMANS 8:34 | 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. The default destination for everyone who dies is hell. The Bible is clear that sin deserves eternal judgment. It is also clear that everyone has sinned (Romans 3:23). But God offers hope to everyone. God sent his Son Jesus to die—to take the punishment for sin that we deserve. If he had only died that wouldn't be enough. But he rose from the dead, proving that he alone has power over death. The only one who has ever defied death promises this same kind of forever life to all who follow him. • 1 CORINTHIANS 15:42 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. Faith in Jesus would be meaningless if he hadn't risen from the dead. Jesus' resurrection was the essential aspect of God's plan to allow you to spend eternity with him. Because Jesus was raised from the dead with a new body, you can be assured that he has the power over death and that you, too, will be resurrected one day with a new body and live forever with him in heaven. serbluto แบบ ของรบอราม วwabm9iri 105G S'E • ROMANS 8:38-39 | 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. God's love is stronger than any person, supernatural foe, or circumstance that may threate wo you. No matter what comes your way, nothing can separate you from God's love when you trust in Jesus Christ. Or the that re page A769 How does my knowing about heaven affect my life now? • 2 CORINTHIANS 4:17 | 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! God determined that how you live during your short time on earth should prepare you for heaven. This gives purpose to life, perspective on your troubles, and anticipation for the unique role God has planned for you in eternity. • 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 Christ Jesus returns. The key to perseverance on earth is having a clear view of heaven. When you see clearly where you are going, you can endure the hardships along the road? 0138 • MARK 8:36-37 | "And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? " • LUKE 12:15-21 | Then he said, "Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not oH measured by how much you own. " "Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a nich relationship with God. " • 1 CORINTHIANS 2:9 "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him. " If the rewards of this earthly life were the only things to live for, then a "why bother " attitude would be understandable. But there are two reasons why this perspective is mis-taken. First, when you try to obey God, you put yourself in position to enjoy life the way it is meant to be enjoyed. Your relationships are more fulfilling, your life has integrity, you find joy in serving others and bettering your world, and your conscience is clear. Second, this life is not all there is. The Bible is very clear that those who trust Jesus Christ for forgiveness of sin receive the promise of eternal life. Your faithfulness in this life may or may not result in material prosperity, but the rewards in heaven will be more than you could ever imagine. • MARK 8:34-35| "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. " • GALATIANS 5:24 | Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. SION When you are absolutely convinced that Jesus died on the cross to spare you from eternal punishment and to give you the free gift of eternal life, then the troubles of this world are put in perspective. You know that your future-for all eternity-is secure. This gives you peace no matter what happens in this life, and it changes the way you react to life's troubles and trials. Your sinful nature no longer controls you; you are free to live as God abrow ri Dote3tge wants you to live. • 1 THESSALONIANS 5:18 | Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. • JOHN 11:25 | T am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will ive, even after dying. " You should be neither too elated when earthly things go well nor too distressed when they fail, because you know that the best of this life is just a shadow of what is to come. SI:S Does the Bible really claim there is only one way to heaven? • JOHN 14:6 | Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. " Jesus is the only way to heaven. We may want to buy our way in, work our way in, think our way in. But the Bible is clear - Jesus Christ provides the only way in. 82 WoH PROMISES FROM GOD • JOHN 14:2 | "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?* ) 10) Heaven/Eternal Life continued • 1 CORINTHIANS 2:9 / "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him. " Help See also Protection; Provision All of us are weak, inadequate, or incapable in some areas of life. We need help to move ahead. We need help to get the job done. We need help to restore a relationship. We need help to develop our skills. We need help to say, "I'm sorry. " God is our ultimate helper, for he is wiser, stronger, more loving, more of everything than we are. We should cultivate the habits of seeking the help of both God and others and of offering help to those in need. Then we are becoming the kind of complete person God intended when he created us. How does God help me? • 2 CHRONICLES 15:4 | "But whenever they were in trouble and turned to the LORD... and sought him out, they found him. " (See note on page 395.) God helps you by always being available. God is present to help you whenever you call out to him. Prayer is the lifeline that connects you to God for daily help. • PHILIPPIANS 4:19 | 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. bro JAMES 1:5 | If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. God helps you by providing resources to meet your needs. God has a full supply house and a ready supply system. It's free for the asking, but you must ask. • 2 CHRONICLES 14:11 | "0 LORD, no one but you can help the powerless against the mighty! " • PSALM 28:7 | The LorD is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. God helps you by giving you strength to face any crisis. God protects you from being defeated by the enemy and gives you spiritual victory. • ISAIAH 30:21 | Your own ears will hear him. Right behind you a voice will say, "This is the way you should go. " God helps you through his Holy Spirit by giving you an extra measure of wisdom and discernment. • ROMANS 8:26 | 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. God helps you to pray even when you don't know how or what to say. How do I ask others for help? Why would they want to help me? • NEHEMIAH 2:5 | "If it please the king... send me to Judah to rebuild the city. " Don't be afraid to ask for help. Nehemiah went right to the top-to the person who could help the most — and got the help he needed. People may be more interested and approach- able than we think. • MARK 2:12 | They were all amazed and praised God, exclaiming, "We've never seen anything like this before! " Asking for help can be a blessing to other people. Because four men asked Jesus to hep their paralyzed friend, many onlookers believed in Jesus. How can I help others? • 1 JOHN 3:17 | If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in. need but shows no compassion-how can God's love be in that person? • ISAIAH 1:17 Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows. (See note on page 605.) page A171 You can help others by sharing your abundance with those who have less. Be open to the ing you to be his helper. prompting of the Holy Spirit and opportunities that come to you, for they may be God ask- • ECCLESIASTES 4:9-10 | 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. • ROMANS 16:2 | Help her in whatever she needs, for she has been helpful to many. You can help others by being available. When people try to do it all themselves, they are limited by their weaknesses. But when you depend on each other for help, you compensate for one person's weakness with another person's strength. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but a mark of unity. • ROMANS 12:13 | When God's people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. You can help others by showing hospitality. 1B ON • ACTS 16:9 | That night Paul had a vision: A man from Macedonia in northern Greece was standing there, pleading with him, "Come over to Macedonia and help us! " You can help others by telling them the Good News of Jesus, giving them an opportunity to experience salvation and eternal life, or er em vion ed of • ACTS 20:28 | "So guard yourselves and God's people. Feed and shepherd God's flock-his church, purchased with his own blood- over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you as leaders. " You can help other believers grow spiritually. • GALATIANS 6:1 | If another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. You can help other believers who have stumbled in their walk with God, showing them how to restore their relationship with him. von ev jor ew nso wot How should I respond when God offers his help? of 30 • PSALM 66:17 For I cried out to him for help, praising him as I spoke. (See note on page 512.) In asking God for help, we must have two hands lifted to God, one begging for help and one full of thanks and praise. PROMISES FROM GOD • HEBREWS 13:6 | "The Lord is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me? " • GENESIS 18:14 | "Is anything too hard for the LORD? " • PSALM 23:1-3 | The LoRD is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. • PHILIPPIANS 4:19 | 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. แรงมอที่ si romof To Violeginoo al jennio Helplessness See Encouragement; Failure; Hope v2 9111 Holiness See also Forgiveness; Mercy & Grace; Presence of God I Holiness means to be fully dedicated and devoted to God, committed to allowing him to form his characteristics in us, which makes us distinct and set apart from the world's way of living. Holiness is the absence of sin, evil, and wrongdoing. It is being spotlessly free from blemish. But holiness is much more than the absence of sin. It is the presence of righteousness, purity, and godliness. When we become Christians, ou makes us holy by forgiving our sins. He looks at us as though we had never sinned. But while he sees page A172 o glen neo Holiness continued us as holy, we have not perfected holiness. We must still strive each day to be more like Jesus, more holy. Only when we get to heaven will we be completely holy. What does it mean to be holy and live a holy life? • 1 CORINTHIANS 1:2 | I am writing to... you who have been called by God to be his own holy people. He made you holy by means of Christ Jesus, just as he did for all people everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. • 1 CORINTHIANS 6:11 | But you were cleansed; you were made holy. All who believe in Jesus Christ are made holy. • EPHESIANS 1:4 | Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. • 1 CORINTHIANS 1:30 | Christ made us right with God; he made us pure and holy. We are brought into a state of holiness not by what we do but by what Jesus did for us, 20 cleansing us from sin through his forgiveness. • EPHESIANS 5:25-27 | He gave up his life for (the church] to make her holy and clean.... To present her to himself as a glorious church without a spot or wrinkle or any other blemish. To be holy means that God looks at us as though we had never sinned. • JOHN 17:17 | "Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth. " We grow in holiness by constantly learning the truths of the Bible and living by them. • 2 CORINTHIANS 7:1 | Let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body We grow in holiness by working hard to keep sin out of our ives. • ROMANS 12:1 | I plead with you to give your bodies to God... Let them be a living and holy sacrifice-the kind he will find acceptable. How can we hope to live holy lives? On our own, it is not possible, for we are sinful people. But we can give our bodies to God as an offering, a living sacrifice to him. He will help us to become more and more noly. • HEBREWS 10:12-14 1, Our High Priest offered himself to God as a single sacrifice for sins. ... By that one offering he forever made perfect those who are being made holy. Holiness here on earth is not perfection; it is striving for purity. However, God promises that those who are believers will one day, in heaven, be perfect. How is God holy? • JOSHUA 24:19 | Joshua warned the people, "You are not able to serve the LORD, for he is a holy and jealous God. " SOR! R 1 SAMUEL 6:20 | "Who is able to stand in the presence of the LORD, this holy God? " they cried out. g st God is completely separate from sin and evil. He is perfect and has no sin in him. • HEBREWS 7:26 | He is the kind of high priest we need because he is holy and blameless, unstained by sin. He has been set apart from sinners and has been given the highest place of honor in heaven. Christ is completely holy because he is completely free from sin. • AMOS 4:2 | The Sovereign LoRD has sworn this by his holiness. When God makes a promise, his holiness ensures that he will always do what he says. • MATTHEW 13:41c| "The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will remove from his Kingdom everything that causes sin and all who do evil. " God's holiness will not tolerate evil in his eternal Kingdom. • ISAIAH 6:3 | "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Heaven's Armies! The whole earth is filled with his glory! " • ISAIAH 63:15 / LORD, look down from heaven; look from your holy, glorious home, and! see us. (See note on page 659.) RUINADO * Dog % pue I S/ MOH • пол 1137% God Сала 40 b 7 nor 3H63• be ht ，160 freed • DEUI • COLO 월 chos God in hi Thro 5 55 page A173 and is reflected in nature on earth. God is dazzling and glorious in his absolute purity. His holiness is so glorious it fills heaven How is it possible for me to be holy? • JOB 14:4 | Who can bring purity out of an impure person? No one! nese emool Isrmils eni You cannot create holiness in yourself because you were born with a sinful nature, I. • LEVITICUS 21:8. | "I, the LORD, am holy, and I make you holy. " gitgeosb moi set eids God is the only one who can make you holy. Holiness means to reflect God's hature in cixe every way. The word holy is translated from a Hebrew word that means "to be separate, " o "to be set apart. " As such, holiness includes not only moral integrity, but also your entire outlook on life as you realize that you are in the world but hot of it. God promises to help you break free from the attractions of this world so that you can live for him. *s MIA81 • EPHESIANS 1:4 Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. .291 $191 • 1 CORINTHIANS 1:30 | Christ made us right with God; he made us pure and holy, and he freed us from sin. 17:81 388390月9 You become holy not by what you do but by what Jesus did for you, cleansing and tol forgiving you from sin. 2hogxa boo • DEUTERONOMY 14:2 | You have been set apart as holy to the LORD your God, and he has chosen you... to be his own special treasure. God makes you holy by setting you apart as special for him. • COLOSSIANS 1:22 Yet now he has reconciled you to himself through the death of Christ in his physical body. As a result, he has brought you into his own presence, and you are holy and blameless as you stand before him without a single fault. Through Christ's death you can stand blameless in God's presence. г УНТОМІТ Г Siberos on) How can God do holy work through unholy people? egnird vizenoh • EXODUS 28:1 | Call for your brother, Aaron, and his sons, Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. Set them apart from the rest of the people of Israel so they may minister to me and be my priests. (See note on page 77.) God knew the future sins of these men when he ordered them set apart to become his ministers. In the same way, he will use you if you consecrate yourself to his service and ask him to cleanse you, 29n 09. 290148 132 • EZEKIEL 20:41 When I bring you home from exile, you will be like a pleasing sacrifice to me. And I will display my holiness through you as all the nations watch. (See note on page 744.) What are the rewards of holiness? JOVI 98 •ST ZAMOR ! • ACTS 20:32 | "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. " Holy living has countless practical benefits, It brings inner peace and confidence to your life. More important, holiness guarantees an eternal inheritance for you in heaven and gives you close fellowship with God. noaze ai ieenot wo beimso eoleul 20n0d ed ot eyed PROMISE FROM GOD • 1 THESSALONIANS 3:13 | May he or make your hearts strong, blameless, and holy as you stand before God our Father when our Lord Jesus comes again with all his holy people. 2910 2,090.190 Honesty & Integrity see also Betrayal; Character, Convictions: H Excuses; Truth Dishonest people want to rob someone else to enrich themselves. At its core, dishonesty is taking something that is not ours. It can be taking material possession, like stealing something from a store. Just as bad, however, is robbing someone of their reputation or page A174 Honesty & Integrity continued self-esteem, taking from them to try to enhance our own position. Cheating at a board game seems harmless enough to some, but in fact we are robbing someone else of the affirmation of victory. It is dishonest to pursue a sensual relationship to gain sex or 企 affection with no intent of returning true affection. Honest people, however, want to give full measure in return for anything they take. Honesty is being truthful, right, fair, honor. P. able, free from deception, and marked by integrity. When we are honest in all detals, we experience these distinet advantages: (1) a clear conscience; (2) the trust and respect of others; and (3) God's blessing. Make the decision to be honest in all areas of life. Why is it so important to be honest? • PSALM 24:3-4 | Who may climb the mountain of the LORD? Who may stand in his holy o place? Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, who do not worship idols and never m tell lies. 9,We will inherit God's goodness. • PROVERBS 16:11 | The LORD demands accurate scales and balances; he sets the standards. for fainess. God expects it. • MATTHEW 12:33 | "A tree is identified by its fruit. " • PROVERBS 12:5 | The plans of the godly are just. • LUKE 16:10 | "If you are dishonest in little things, you won't be honest with greater responsibilities. " Honest dealings reveal your character. • 1 TIMOTHY 1:19 | Keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked. Honesty brings a clear conscience. • DEUTERONOMY 25:13-15 | "You must use accurate scales when you weigh out merchandise, and you must use full and honest measures….. so that you may enjoy a long life. " (See note on page 181.) God blesses you when you are concerned not about how much you get but about being honest in getting it. • PROVERBS 11:3 | Honesty guides good people; dishonesty destroys treacherous people. Dishonesty and deception are a form of bondage because you are always trying to hide your real motives. There is freedom in honesty because it allows for forgiveness, vulner-ability, positive change, and healing. • ROMANS 12:3 Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves. Honestly evaluating your walk with the Lord is the only way to keep growing in faith. • PROVERBS 6:16-19 | There are six things the LORD hates-no, seven things he detests: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that kill the innocent, a heart that plots evil, feet that race to do wrong, a false witness who pours out lies, a person who sows discord in a family. Honesty is essential for truth, justice, and trust in all relationships. Truth is revealed and justice carried out only when people are honest. If you can't trust friends and family members to be honest, your relationships crumble from distrust and deceit. • PSALM 24:3-5. Who may climb the mountain of the LorD? Who may stand in his holy place? Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, who do not worship idols and never tell lies. They will receive the LORD's blessing and have a right relationship with God their savior. Honesty is necessary in your relationship with God, Dishonesty, a sin, keeps you from a close relationship with him and, in fact, puts you at odds with him. • PSALM 36:10 | Pour out your unfailing love on those who love you; give justice to those with honest hearts. • protection. eris Striving for honesty will help you experience the benefits of God's ultimate justice and page A175 • LUKE 16:10 1 "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. " • 2 KINGS 12:15 No accounting of this money was required from the construction supervisors, because they were honest and trustworthy men. Striving foresent bulles you develop a reputation of integrity. Consistent honesty in the past and present builds trust for continued honesty in the future. • PSALM 37:37 Look at those who are honest and good, for a wonderful future awaits those who love peace. Striving for honesty helps you to enjoy life because you can live at peace with God and yourself. Does honesty always mean telling everything I know? • ECCLESIASTES 3:7 A time to be quiet and a time to speak. • PROVERBS 29:20 | There is more hope for a fool than for someone who speaks without thinking. • COLOSSIANS 4:6 | Let your conversation be gracious and attractive. Honesty should not be confused with gossip. Just because you know something doesn't mean you should tell everyone about it. Honesty also involves integrity, making sure that what you say is helpful and builds others up rather than tears them down. The person who thinks before speaking is often the wisest. Why does cheating matter to God? Is it always wrong? • PROVERBS 11:1 | The LORD detests the use of dishonest scales, but he delights in accurate weights. (See note on page 567.): • MALACHI 3:5 | "I will speak against those who cheat employees of their wages, who oppress widows and orphans, or who deprive the foreigners living among you of justice, for these people do not fear me, " says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. • 1 CORINTHIANS 6:9-10 | Don't you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don't fool yourselves. Those who ... are thieves, or greedy people... or cheat people-none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God. If you want God's blessing, you must live by his standards of fairness and justice. Cheating violates a holy God. Cheating and godliness cannot live together in peace. One must give in to the other. Cheating is the opposite of honesty because the motives behind it are always to deceive someone else. How can anyone trust a cheater? • ROMANS 13:9| The commandments say, "You must not commit adultery. You must not murder. You must not steal. You must not covet. " These ... are summed up in this one commandment: "Love your neighbor as yourself. " 28я30841 Cheating is evidence that you do not love or respect the person you cheated and that you are thinking only of yourself. What is integrity? • 1 CHRONICLES 21:24 | "I will not take what is yours and give it to the LORD. I will not present burnt offerings that have cost me nothing! " 0199 • MICAH 6:8 | No, 0 people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. • JOB 2:3 | 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. " Integrity is character and conduct in harmony with God and his Word. S-n's 20 • PSALM 15:1-2 | Who may worship in your sanctuary, LoRD? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill? Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right, speaking the truth from sincere hearts. page A17e 01:81 340J SS) su 31 Honesty & Integrity continued Integrity means living a life that is consistent in belief and behavior, in words and deeds. Your integrity is reflected in your relationship with God and with other people. 20m • PROVERBS 11:3, 5 | Honesty guides good people; dishonesty destroys treacherous people. .. The godly are directed by honesty; the wicked fall beneath their load of sin. Integrity is the guiding principle of life and relationships, and it is directed by honesty. • PROVERBS 16:11 | The LoRD demands accurate scales and balances; he sets the standards for fairness. • LUKE 16:10 "T you are faithful in litte things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won't be honest with greater responsibilities. " (See note on 1290 page 940.) • 2 CORINTHIANS 4:2 | We reject all shameful deeds and underhanded methods. We don't try to trick anyone or distort the word of God. We tell the truth before God, and all who are honest know this. Integrity begins with small decisions and choices made when no one else is watching, • 1 CHRONICLES 21:8 | "Thave sinned greatly... Please forgive my guilt for doing this eno 19ve foolish thing. " an Integrity is admitting when you have sinned and seeking forgiveness from God and others. What are the benefits of integrity? • 1 CHRONICLES 29:17 | I know, my God, that you examine our hearts and rejoice when you 8H3VORA 91 find integrity there. • PROVERBS 12:22 | The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth. 239 Integrity pleases God, 2° • PROVERBS 10:9 | People with integrity walk safely, but those who follow crooked paths will be exposed. • PROVERBS 12:3 | Wickedness never brings stability, but the godly have deep roots. Integrity provides stability. Each step away from a life of integrity is a step closer to a slippery slope that will lead you into trouble. • PSALM 18:25 | To the faithful you show yourself faithful; to those with integrity you show integrity. • PSALM 25:21 | May integrity and honesty protect me, for I put my hope in you. • ISAIAH 26:7 |-But for those who are righteous, the way is not steep and rough. You are a God who does what is right, and you smooth out the path ahead of them.. wo • PROVERBS 13:6 | Godliness guards the path of the blameless, but the evil are misled by sin. nc bs Integrity allows you to continue uninterrupted fellowship with God and helps you to live under his protection and guidance. When you lack integrity, you are exposed to all kinds of sin and harm, especially the disintegration of your character. • PSALM 24:3-5 | Who may climb the mountain of the LorD? Who may stand in his holy " place? Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, who do not worship idols and never es tell lies. They will receive the LORD's blessing and have a right relationship with God thei 28 PROVERBS 20:7 | The godly walk with integrity; blessed are their children who follow them. 2* When you live your life with integrity, God blesses not only you but also future generations. How can I develop integrity in my own life? • PROVERBS 2:1-2, 5, 9 | My child, listen to what I say, and treasure my commands. Tune gon your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding... Then you will understand what it means to fear the LORD, and you will gain knowledge of God... Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair, and you will find the right way to go. deech. us pete But tim e note a, Concentrate on learning wisdom from God. The more you understand what is just, right and fair to him, the more you will develop integrity. • PSALM 119:130 | The teaching of your word gives light, so even the simple can understand. • PROVERBS 1:3 | -/These proverbs'] purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, to help them do what is right, just, and fair. Look to God and his Word to find the standard of integrity. • PROVERBS 11:3, 5 | Honesty guides good people; dishonesty destroys treacherous people. ... The godly are directed by honesty. • NUMBERS 14:24 "But my servant Caleb has a different attitude than the others have. He has remained loyal to me, so I will bring him into the land he explored. His descendants will possess their full share of that land. " Consistently live an honest life in all your dealings with people- even when you are in the minority, It is not enough to possess integrity; you must practice it. i ap no 78 109 • 2 TIMOTHY 2:21 chIf you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable no use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work. voi eni de or isntaie Those who want to be used for godly purposes commit themselves to a life of integrity. V 51Q ฿ ai agon isafl soon Ise? How does the Lord enable me to seek integrity? ven erw bris el bod oriw toi • PROVERBS 2:1-2, 5, 9 | My child, listen to what I say, and treasure my commands. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding... Then you will understand what it means to fear the LORD, and you will gain knowledge of God.!. Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair, and you will find the right way to go. God gives you the wisdom you need to lead a life that honors him. His Word gives you understanding, discernment, and motivation so that you choose the way of integrity. • GALATIANS 5:17-25 | And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires... But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.... Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit's leading in every part of our lives. • JOHN 14:15-17 | "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. " p Moppias God has given you the Holy Spirit to conform you to the image of Jesus. He works in your heart, mind, and body to produce godly attitudes, thoughts, and behavior. ans to doney How is integrity demonstrated in our lives? ent ni triog bexit s no prizuoot as taut • DANIEL 6:4 | Then the other administrators and high officers began searching for some fault in the way Daniel was handling government affairs, but they couldn't find anything to cnticize or condemn. He was faithful, always responsible, and completely trustworthy. • 2 CORINTHIANS 7:2 | Please open your hearts to us. We have not done wrong to anyone, r nor led anyone astray, nor taken advantage of anyone. 21001) -ЕЛ:8 2ИА|99131Н9 • 1 THESSALONIANS 4:12 | Then people who are not believers will respect the way you live. louort boD roidw 1o (See note on page 1085.) • TITUS 2:7-8 And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind... Then those who oppose us will be ashamed and have nothing bad to say about us. Integrity is evident in the ways we conduct ourselves and treat others. Our words and actions are to be consistent and above reproach. aufut fuoy no ae • JOB 27:4-6 | "My lips will speak no evil, and my tongue will speak no lies... My conscience is clear for as long as I live. " • ACTS 23:1 | Gazing intently at the high council, Paul began: "Brothers, I have always lived before God with a clear conscience! " - page A178 Honesty & Integrity continued • 1 TIMOTHY 1:19 | Cling to your faith in Christ, and keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked. We maintain integrity by keeping our conscience clear before God and others. PROMISE FROM GOD • PROVERBS 12:19 | Truthful words stand the test of time, but lies are soon exposed. Hope See also Faith; Future; Heaven/Eternal Life; Salvation What we hope for may be small or great, consequential or inconsequential. Hope may be as insignificant as a trivial dream for a birthday gift. Or it may be a forever kind of hope. For a prisoner on death row, a pardon offers hope of freedom. For the spiritual prisoner on death row because of the consequences of sin, God offers ultimate hope by forgiving our sins so that we can be with him forever. When life seems impossible, God brings eternal hope. Hope is essential to our perseverance, our getting through the tough times. Without hope we give up. Hope requires one thing, though — a trust in the One who brings real hope. Real hope is not wishful thinking about what isn't, but a prayerful claim for who God is and what he will do for us. What is my hope? Where does hope come from? • PSALM 39;7 | And so, Lord, where do I put my hope? My only hope is in you. • PSALM 71:5 | 0 Lord, you alone are my hope. I've trusted you, O LORD, from childhood. The Lord himself is the source of greatest hope. Only when you trust him with your future can real hope begin to grow in you, because he created you with a great future in mind, both on this earth and for all eternity. vo 1 PETER 1:21 | Through Christ you have come to trust in God. And you have placed your faith and hope in God because he raised Christ from the dead and gave him great glory. The resurrection, the greatest event in history, is the foundation of hope. It should impact how you live each day. • 1 PETER 1:3-6 | It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, and we have a priceless inheritance-an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay... There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. Just as focusing on a fixed point in the distance helps you travel in a straighter line, Jesus* followers fix their eyes on the eternal horizon where they will live with him forever with no pain or sorrow or suffering. As you move straight toward your eternal goal, your hope for eternity makes you better able to endure the discomforts of daily life. How does hope help me live better today? • PHILIPPIANS 3:13-14 | I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward ato 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. • TITUS 2:12-13 | We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed. (See note on page 1103.) energy to press on in your daily tasks. Hope focuses on your future, especially your eternal future. It gives you the motivation and • 1 JOHN 3:3 I And all who have this eager expectation will keep themselves pure, just as he is pure. Hope is the motivating factor to help you resist temptation and keep your life pure before Goes. What can SAM You co any ho • ACTS stocks You c hope • PROV wick, you 응 • PSA You 우 r some page A179 What can I do when things seem hopeless? • 1 SAMUEL 1:10 | Hannah was in deep anguish, crying bitterly as she prayed to the LORD. You can pray. In the middle of Hannah's hopelessness, she prayed to God, knowing that if any hope were to be found, it would be found in him. • ACTS 16:24-25 The jailer put them into the inner dungeon and clamped their feet in the stocks. Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God. You can worship. Paul and Silas were on death row for preaching about Jesus, yet in this hopeless situation they sang praises to God. Why? Because they had an eternal perspective. • PROVERBS 10:28 | The hopes of the godly result in happiness, but the expectations of the wicked come to nothing. You can focus on eternity. No matter how hopeless things seem here on earth, in Jesus you have ultimate, eternal hope. People who don't know Jesus Christ have nothing but a hopeless view of what happens after death. Those who know him have been promised a joyful eternal future in heaven, and that knowledge brings hope. • PSALM 27:14 Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous. You can remember that God's timing is perfect. • HAGGAI 1:9 | "You hoped for rich harvests, but they were poor. And when you brought your harvest home, I blew it away. Why? Because my house lies in ruins, says the LORD of Heaven's Armies, while all of you are busy building your own fine houses. " (See note on page 841.) - MOR You can persevere by putting God first, because when you follow where he leads, you know you will be going in the right direction. зваха ві всон How can I maintain hope in discouraging circumstances? • DANIEL 3:23-28 So Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, securely tied, fell into the ni roaring flames. But suddenly, Nebuchadnezzar jumped up in amazement and exclaimed to his advisers... "Look! " ... "I see four men, unbound, walking around in the fire. sw unharmed! And the fourth looks like a god! " Then Nebuchadnezzar came as close as he could to the door of the flaming furnace and shouted: "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abeanego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here! " So Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stepped out of the fire.... The fire had not touched them. Not a hair on their heads was singed, and their clothing was not scorched. They didn't even smell of smoke! Then Nebuchadnezzar said, "Praise to the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego! He sent his angel to rescue his servants who trusted in him. They defied the king's command and were willing to die rather than serve or worship any god except their own God. SON DNT bOOg, YOt Don't panic! Start praying. You'll discover God's presence. • ISAIAH 26:3 | You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are 3 90G fixed on you! • MATTHEW 6:31-33 | "So don't worry about these things, saying, "What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. " bns Focus on God. Keep praying. You'll discover God's peace. • ROMANS 12:12 | Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. Remember God is sovereign and loving. Be patient and prayerful. You'll discover the joy of knowing he cares for you. • ROMANS 15:4 | Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God's promises to be Read God's Word. Learn how to apply it to your life. You'll discover the power of God's promises, • PSALM 31:24 | So be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the LORD! Hope continued • ISAIAH 40:31 | But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high I on wings like eagles. They will un and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. Wait quietly and patiently for God to work. You'll discover he always comes through. What plans does God have for me? How is hope involved in God's plan for me? • JEREMIAH 29:11 | "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. " (See note on page 693.) PHILIPPIANS 3:13-14, 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. God never plans evil or hopelessness for his people. And his ultimate plan is to give us eternal life with him in heaven, where pain, sorrow, and suffering are gone forever. How can I keep hoping when God never seems to act? • PSALM 71:5 | O Lord, you alone are my hope. Who but God controls the future? Who but God has a home for us that is eternal? Who but God forgives our sins? Who but God can give us a life that lasts forever? No wonder he is • ROMANS 8:24 | We were given this hope when we were saved. (If we already have something, we don't need to hope for it.) Salvation comes through trust in Christ, believing he will do for us what he has promised. Hope is expecting that he will give us everlasting life and that we will live with him forever. We can't see these things, but we can hope with assurance, for our hope is built on a trust in the most trustworthy one of all. • HEBREWS 11:1 | Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see. We have faith in God to do what he has promised, and we can be absolutely sure that he will. So our hopes are not idle hopes, but they are built on the solid foundation of his trustworthiness. ro บอก์ D10 PROMISES FROM GO D032 • ISAIAH 25:8 | He will swallow up death forever! The Sovereign LorD will wipe away all tears. • JEREMIAH 29:11 | "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. " Hospitality See also Neighbors; Serving In Biblical times, hospitality was not merely a gracious act: It was a necessity. There were no motels or hotels as we know them, only a very few crude inns without bathrooms, bedrooms, or restaurants. Therefore, strangers in town were to be treated by the residents as guests, and a host was expected not only to house them but also to feed and protect them. Hospitality was known as the "love of strangers. " We have set this kind of hospitality aside today, for we have developed an unfortunate distrust of strangers-sometimes earned, sometimes not. But we are still to be hospitable— that is, graciously receiving others into our homes, feeding them, sometimes housing them, always making to receive us into his eternal home when we trust him. them feel the warmth of welcome. The ultimate hospitality is God's, for he has promised How should I show hospitality to others? • 1 PETER 4:94 Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay- • GENESIS 19:2 | "My lords, " he said, "come to my home to wash your feet, and be my guests for the night. " 40x-1181 "GENESIS sure him arivers t The bas acts of k Does ever a few? • ROMAN, •1 PETE • 3 JOHN pass th •HEBRE this ha •ISAIAR • MATTI drink. • LUKE thela While as be is als What is • LUKE it, ai The The ous prei Is hos • 2 T I soar hin , for me re plane 1d, 1 prea 48h No us Who br or he i nised, rever. a trus • GENESIS 24:32 | So the man went home with Laban, and Laban unloaded the camels, gave him straw for their bedding, fed them, and provided water for the man and the camel drivers to wash their feet. 0 10 The basics of good hospitality — a welcome mat, a place to stay, food to eat -are simple acts of kindness that can be offered by almost anyone. boe ny bna parol 581в0 dias Does everyone need to practice hospitality, on is it a special gift for just be sla a few? sq se • ROMANS 12:13 | Always be eager to practice hospitality. on bib auseb ni suisy testg • 1 PETER 4:9 / Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay. N • 3 JOHN 1:5 You are being faithful to God when you care for the traveling teachers who pass through./ratue • HEBREWS 13:2 | Don't forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it! • ISAIAH 58:7 | "Share your food with the hungry, and give shelter to the homeless. " st • MATTHEW 25:35-36 | "I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink.;. I was sick, and you cared for me. " S:€ BUTIT • • LUKE 14:12-13 | "When you put on a luncheon or a banquet... invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. " 30 1000 While hospitality in extra measure is certainly a gift, we are all called to practice hospitality as best we can, for it is a true act of kindness, and it encourages and strengthens others. It is also an expression of gratefulness for what God has done for us. 2. 150v w ณ 1gn What is the most important part of hospitality? al yilirnuk • LUKE 10:42 | "There is only one thing worth being concermed about Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her. " (See note on page 933.) el viilimuH The most important part of hospitality is the sharing of ourselves and our Lord with others. The Bible mentions both elaborate meals (Genesis 18:1-8; 2 Samuel 3:20) and spontaneous get-togethers (Acts 10:23). Don't be intimidated by hospitality, thinking you must g prepare big meals and clean the house. Just share yourself. OnIM sa ot yewritsa ant ai vilinuH Is hospitality more than the way we welcome others into our homes?3vons • • 2 TIMOTHY 1:16 | May the Lord show special kindness to Onesiphorus and all his family because he often visited and encouraged me. He was never ashamed of me because I was in chains. (See note on page 1097.), Hospitality reaches beyond our own homes to places of confinement such as hospitals, nursing homes, or prisons. 01 01. 20W31 posd r9gnoitt How can I show Jesus hospitality? a กมที S GVEN 01 boinsw boo • REVELATION 3:20 | "Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and ove open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends. " (See note on { 01 0지 10ว อ gr หมา page 1155.) 31 Jesus wants to be your guest, not only in your home but also in your heart. He knocks at the door of your heart and home, wanting to come and fellowship with you. What are you :tS werfisM bser) gnix min e:S 2W9183H waiting for? PROMISES FROM GOD • HEBREWS 13:2 | Don't forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it! if oe m eib of qu terit • MATTHEW 25:35-36 | "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 sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me. " Love ”Hatred stirs up quarrels, but love makes up for all offenses.“ Proverbs 10:12 NLT ”“I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow! 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. This is my command: Love each other.“ John 15:9-13, 17 NLT Seven Twelve Three Forty 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 https://bible.com/bible/116/jer.29.11.NLT ”This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. It leads us through the curtain into God’s inner sanctuary.“ Hebrews 6:19 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/heb.6.19.NLT ”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 https://bible.com/bible/116/rom.5.5.NLT ”Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.“ Hebrews 11:1 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/heb.11.1.NLT ”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 https://bible.com/bible/116/rom.15.13.NLT ”All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation,“ 1 Peter 1:3 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1pe.1.3.NLT ”Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again— my Savior and“ Psalms 42:5 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.42.5.NLT ”And his name will be the hope of all the world.”“ Matthew 12:21 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.12.21.NLT ”Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.“ Romans 12:12 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/rom.12.12.NLT Church notes: Mia’s church notes: Evan’s church notes: