Fruit of the Spirit- Part 9- SELF-CONTROL

SELF-CONTROL

 

 

 

 

-Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such there is no law.

 

The last mentioned of the Fruit of the Spirit, self control is the one most people would probably prefer to leave out. It can often be the hardest to practice, and it encompasses all the preceding Fruit of the Spirit. Perhaps that is why it was mentioned last; to leave it afresh in your mind. We know that a lack of SELF-CONTROL has a detrimental effect on us, but it also affects our relationships; those we come into contact with.

 

~Proverbs 25:28- Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control.

 

Without self-control in our lives, we become vulnerable to all kinds of problems. Anything out of CONTROL in your life can harm others and cause damage in relationships. Including (but not limited to):

-Uncontrolled anger

-Uncontrolled lust

-Uncontrolled spending (The #1 cause for divorce is financial stress & money problems)

-Uncontrolled drinking

-Uncontrolled ambition (The workaholic who’s never at home with the family)

-Uncontrolled tongue

~How do we obtain self-control? Here are 9 key ways that will help in maintaining your self-control:

1) Master your moods– Keep you attitude in check, do what’s right even when you don’t feel like it; live by commitment, not by emotions

 

2) Watch your words–Put your mind in gear before you talk.

-Proverbs 13:3 He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin.

 

3) Restrain your reaction– How much can you take before you lose your cool?

-Proverbs 19:11 A man’s wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense.

 

4) Stick to the plan– If you don’t determine how your time is spent, others will; Remember though, we are to follow God’s will & His plan 1^st. Have control enough to be in it.

-Ephesians 5:15-17 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.

 

5) Manage your money– learn to live on less than you make; invest the rest. The value of a budget is that it tells your money where you want it to go, instead of wondering where it went.

-Proverbs 21:20 In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has.

 

6) Maintain your health– (to the best of your ability) Thus, you can accomplish more & enjoy your achievements.

-Psalm 38:3 Because of your wrath there is no health in my body; my bones have no soundness because of my sin.

 

7) Avert your eyes– This one’s tough. You can’t control everything you see, but you can control how much you look at it

-Matthew 5:28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. (I’m pretty sure the same standard applies to ladies looking at men; sorry, you’re not off the hook)

 

8.) Don’t allow anger to bring sin– like it plainly says in Ephesians 4:26, “In your anger do not sin” God let us know that we will get angry, but we must release the pressure before the top blows, no matter how we’ve been wronged.

-1 Thessalonians 5:15 Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.

 

9) Know when to “Cork the Bottle”– The Bible doesn’t specifically say that we can never drink, but it’s clear that we are not to get drunk.

-Ephesians 5:18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.

 

~Now, where do you need self-control?

 Discipline today will help you determine success tomorrow. We must realize that we cannot accomplish this on our own, but we need Holy Help.

 

–2 Timothy 1:7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.

 

The key to self-control, is giving up control to God. With Him in the driver’s seat, you’re sure to get where you need to be. The more our progression, the further He’ll take us.

 

–Matthew 25:23 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’

 

 There is tremendous potential to be used in positive ways that honor Christ. In reality, we are still subject to sin and death. Although we are not totally evil ourselves, we are still susceptible to weakness & fleshy desires. Our body can be used for good if the flesh is not in control.

 

-Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship..

 

~How can we be living sacrifices?

 

-Self-discipline isn’t in our nature. Spirit-Control, not self-control, makes the difference. The Holy Spirit can control the things I can’t. Ask God to help you, through the Holy Spirit, to help you do right in His eyes.

 

-Philippians 2:13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

 

-Open the door to let the Holy Spirit fill you, and close the door of flesh to Satan by confessing sin & claiming Christ’s crucifixion.

 

-Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

 

-Renew your mind with God’s word

 

-Romans 12:2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

 

-Allow the Holy Spirit to help you master your emotions (with the fruit of the Spirit); Present yourself as an instrument of righteousness.

 

  -Romans 6:12-13 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. 13Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness.

 

  -Love the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind, & strength.

 

 -Mark 12:30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.

 

-The key to self-control is surrendering control. Surrender your control to God; allow Him to move in your life. Who better to run your life, than the One who made your life?

 

 

 

 

 

“Fruit of the Spirit- Self-Control” Bible Study prepared by Justin Lessard. Email: ferventservant1@hotmail.com

Web: https://justinlessard.wordpress.com & http://www.myspace.com/justinlessard

If you wish to use this study, all I ask is that you leave the credit info lines, including the name, email, & web address, above.

Fruit of the Spirit- Part 8- GENTLENESS

Gentleness

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

——-

Gentleness is described as: compassionate, delicate, sensitive, merciful.

Exhortations to be gentle-

~2 Timothy 2:24-26 And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kindly to every one, an apt teacher, forbearing, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant that they will repent and come to know the truth, and they may escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will.

~Titus 3:1-2 Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for any honest work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all men.

~James 3:17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, without uncertainty or insincerity.

~Acts 24:4 But‑‑not to be tedious‑‑I beg you, with your accustomed fairness, to listen to a brief statement of our case.

-Why do you think wisdom is 1^st pure, then peaceable, gentle,…(James 3:17)?

 

-Why might listening to the gospel be “tedious”?

 

–We are to be gentle toward unbelievers, not to force them into an uncomfortable obligation, not to be rude, or too forward, but with sensitivity of the Spirit, discern the need delicately, tactfully, and explain to them that Christ is the Answer.

~1 Thessalonians 2:6-8 …nor did we seek glory from men, whether from you or from others, though we might have made demands as apostles of Christ. But we were gentle among you, like a nurse taking care of her children. So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.

~2 Corinthians 10:1 I, Paul, myself entreat you, by the meekness and gentleness of Christ‑‑I who am humble when face to face with you, but bold to you when I am away!–

-Why is it important not to be self-seeking or a “glory-hound” in our evangelism?

-Why might Paul have been more timid in the presence of the Corinthians, and bold when away?

~Galations 6:1 Brothers, even if a man is caught in some fault, you who are spiritual must restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; looking to yourself so that you also aren’t tempted.

~1 Timothy 6:11 But you, man of God, flee these things, and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and gentleness.

-We are also to be gentle toward other believers, as well; our brothers and sisters in Christ. As such we are called to greater peace. (Hebrews12:14 Strive for peace with all men, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord; Romans 12: 18 If possible, so far as it depends upon you, live peaceably with all.) If an issue arises, talk about it, carefully, and not too hastily. We are permitted to anger, but it should be “known not shown”. ( Eph 4:26 Be angry but do not sin;..) If the issue is regarding them, how might Jesus Himself talk to the person, knowing the importance of the problem better than we would? (In short, W.W.J.D.?) If we shout “Repent or DIE!!” or “Stop screwing up all the time!”, we will get a poor response more often than not.

 

~Ecclesiastes 10:4 If the spirit of the ruler rises up against you, don’t leave your place; for gentleness lays great offenses to rest.

 

~1 Corinthians 4:20-21For the Kingdom of God is not in word, but in power. What do you want? Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and a spirit of gentleness?

 

-These verses show us that these are spiritual battles.

-What place should we not leave? (Eccl. 10:4)

-What power is there in the spirit of gentleness?

~James 3:13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by his good conduct that his deeds are done in gentleness of wisdom.

 

~Philippians 4:5 Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.

 

Gentleness of the Lord

~2 Samuel 22:36 You have also given me the shield of your salvation; Your gentleness has made me great.

 

~Psalm 18:35 You have also given me the shield of your salvation. Your right hand sustains me. Your gentleness has made me great.

 

~Isaiah 40:11 He will feed his flock like a shepherd, he will gather the lambs in his arms, he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young.

 

-Is this verse literally talking about sheep? What does it mean by “carry them in his bosom”?

 

~Matthew 11:29-30 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

 

-What is an easy yolk to you?

 

-What can we learn from Christ about gentleness?

-How can gentleness give us rest?

-What can YOU be gentler with/ about?

 

“Fruit of the Spirit- Gentleness” Bible Study prepared by Justin Lessard. Email: ferventservant1@hotmail.com

Web: https://justinlessard.wordpress.com & http://www.myspace.com/justinlessard

If you wish to use this study, all I ask is that you leave the credit info lines, including the name, email, & web address, above.

 

 

Fruit of the Spirit- Part 7- Faithfulness

 

Faithfulness

-Galatians 5: 22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self‑control; against such there is no law.

-Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

– What do you hope for?

 

-James 1: 5-8 If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. 6But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 7That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; 8he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.

 

We see that the essential component of faith is trust. In order to have faith in God, you must first believe that He exists, and that He rewards you when you seek Him. (Heb. 11:6)

– Where do you think your faith would be if you trusted God completely in everything?

There are 3 main acts of faith in this passage from Luke 5:1-11:

      1One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret, with the people crowding around him and listening to the word of God, 2he saw at the water’s edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets. 3He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat.

 4When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.”

 5Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.”

 6When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. 7So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.

 8When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” 9For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, 10and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon’s partners.

   Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will catch men.” 11So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.

 

-Luke 5: 1-7 -1^st act of faith in this passage- lowering the nets

-Luke 5: 8-10a -2^nd act of faith in this passage- bowing and confessing Jesus as Lord

-Luke 5: 10b-11 -3^rd act of faith in this passage- leaving everything to follow Him, at His Word.

That they would leave their entire lives, careers, families & possessions behind and follow this man would say that they completely dismissed any possibility of the great catch to be a coincidence. Jesus calls us, as He called the apostles then, to follow after Him, not just see a marvelous work and say, “Wow. That was neat.” He has called us into a lifestyle of keeping faith; we are called to faithfulness.

 

-2 Corinthians 5:7 We live by faith, not by sight.

 

– What things have you had to leave behind in order to walk by faith?

 

-Exodus 15: 22-24 Then Moses led Israel from the Red Sea and they went into the Desert of Shur. For three days they traveled in the desert without finding water. 23 When they came to Marah, they could not drink its water because it was bitter. (That is why the place is called Marah.) 24 So the people grumbled against Moses, saying, “What are we to drink?”

– When you face hardship, or painful experiences, how is your attitude toward God affected?

 

-Exodus 15: 25-26 Then Moses cried out to the LORD, and the LORD showed him a piece of wood. He threw it into the water, and the water became sweet.
      There the LORD made a decree and a law for them, and there he tested them. 26 He said, “If you listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the LORD, who heals you.”

 

– What does it cost you to be faithful to the people you love and care for?

 -When is it most important to be there for them?

 

– Joshua 1: 1-9 After the death of Moses the servant of the LORD, the LORD said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide: 2 “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites. 3 I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. 4 Your territory will extend from the desert to Lebanon, and from the great river, the Euphrates—all the Hittite country—to the Great Sea ^[a] on the west. 5 No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.

 6 “Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers to give them. 7 Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. 8 Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”

 

Moses is dead, and Joshua is now in charge of a wandering nation. Recall a task you took on that seemed to large to handle.

– How did you feel when you took that task on?

 

 

In verse 5, God promises Joshua, “As I was with Moses, so I will be with you”.

– How can it be a comfort just to have someone by your side during challenging times?

 

-Romans 10:17- Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.

 

So faith, then, comes from the word of Christ. Scriptural faith must be according to God’s Word. It is also a condition of the heart, not the mind; it is present, not future, and, if we look back to vs 10 of that chapter, “For man believes with his heart and so is justified, and he confesses with his lips and so is saved.” Thus, verbalizing our faith in Christ leads to justified salvation.

Even Jesus, faithful to the call of His mission, quoted scripture three times against Satan in the desert.

-Are you strengthened/ supported by scripture?

 

– 1 John 5:4 for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. 

 

We know that one who is saved through faith is sanctified by the sacrifice of Christ’s blood, but what does it mean to “be sanctified”? “sanct-“ comes from the word saint, or holy one. “-ication” means ‘to make’. For example: purification= to make pure; clarification= to make clear; so sanctification means to make saintly, or more literally, to make holy. So, then, one of the outcomes of faith is holiness.

 

In verse 9 of Joshua 1 (above), God commands us to be strong and courageous.

– Why is this command necessary?

 

Simon could’ve said, ”You’re nuts! We won’t catch a thing.” Moses could’ve said, “A piece of wood? That can’t be right.” Joshua could’ve said, “This is too much. I can’t handle it.” They could have, but they didn’t. They were faithful to the call on their lives. In response, fish were caught, water was made pure, and a lost people were shown the way home. However, if they had said these things, they would have been right. Simon didn’t fill the nets, the Lord did. The wood didn’t purify the water, the Lord did. Joshua didn’t deliver the nation, the Lord did. And all that the Lord required was an act of faith.

 

– Habakkuk 2:4- … but the righteous will live by his faith

 

– Romans 14:23- But the man who has doubts is condemned if he eats, because his eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.

 

– 1 Corinthians 16:13- Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.

– What are some of the resources Christ has given you to live faithfully?

-What does Christ expect of you?

 

 

“Fruit of the Spirit- Goodness” Bible Study prepared by Justin Lessard. Email: ferventservant1@hotmail.com Web: https://justinlessard.wordpress.com & http://www.myspace.com/justinlessard

If you wish to use this study, all I ask is that you leave the credit info line, including the name, email, & web address, above.

 

Fruit of the Spirit- Part 6- GOODNESS

Goodness

Discussion-

– Do you consider yourself to be a pretty good person?

 

-Proverbs 14:14 A perverse man will be filled with the fruit of his ways, and a good man with the fruit of his deeds.

-What do you think you would be like if God withdrew goodness from you entirely?

 

 

-Psalm 107 can be divided into 5 illustrations of God’s goodness- verses 4-9, 10-16, 17-22, 23-32 & 33-43

 

 

Psalms 107

 1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good;
       his love endures forever.

 2 Let the redeemed of the LORD say this—
       those he redeemed from the hand of the foe,

 3 those he gathered from the lands,
       from east and west, from north and south.

 

-How do verses 1-3 intro the theme of this Psalm?

 

-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_

Psalms 107

 4 Some wandered in desert wastelands,
       finding no way to a city where they could settle.

 5 They were hungry and thirsty,
       and their lives ebbed away.

 6 Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble,
       and he delivered them from their distress.

 7 He led them by a straight way
       to a city where they could settle.

 8 Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love
       and his wonderful deeds for men,

 9 for he satisfies the thirsty
       and fills the hungry with good things.

-How is God’s kindness shown in this section of verses?

 

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Psalms 107

 10 Some sat in darkness and the deepest gloom,
       prisoners suffering in iron chains,

 11 for they had rebelled against the words of God
       and despised the counsel of the Most High.

 12 So he subjected them to bitter labor;
       they stumbled, and there was no one to help.

 13 Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble,
       and he saved them from their distress.

 14 He brought them out of darkness and the deepest gloom
       and broke away their chains.

 15 Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love
       and his wonderful deeds for men,

 16 for he breaks down gates of bronze
       and cuts through bars of iron.

-How is God’s kindness shown in this section of verses?

 

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Psalms 107

 17 Some became fools through their rebellious ways
       and suffered affliction because of their iniquities.

 18 They loathed all food
       and drew near the gates of death.

 19 Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble,
       and he saved them from their distress.

 20 He sent forth his word and healed them;
       he rescued them from the grave.

 21 Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love
       and his wonderful deeds for men.

 22 Let them sacrifice thank offerings
       and tell of his works with songs of joy.

-How is God’s kindness shown in this section of verses?

 

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Psalms 107

 23 Others went out on the sea in ships;
       they were merchants on the mighty waters.

 24 They saw the works of the LORD,
       his wonderful deeds in the deep.

 25 For he spoke and stirred up a tempest
       that lifted high the waves.

 26 They mounted up to the heavens and went down to the depths;
       in their peril their courage melted away.

 27 They reeled and staggered like drunken men;
       they were at their wits’ end.

 28 Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble,
       and he brought them out of their distress.

 29 He stilled the storm to a whisper;
       the waves of the sea were hushed.

 30 They were glad when it grew calm,
       and he guided them to their desired haven.

 31 Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love
       and his wonderful deeds for men.

 32 Let them exalt him in the assembly of the people
       and praise him in the council of the elders.

-How is God’s kindness shown in this section of verses?

 

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Psalms 107

 33 He turned rivers into a desert,
       flowing springs into thirsty ground,

 34 and fruitful land into a salt waste,
       because of the wickedness of those who lived there.

 35 He turned the desert into pools of water
       and the parched ground into flowing springs;

 36 there he brought the hungry to live,
       and they founded a city where they could settle.

 37 They sowed fields and planted vineyards
       that yielded a fruitful harvest;

 38 he blessed them, and their numbers greatly increased,
       and he did not let their herds diminish.

 39 Then their numbers decreased, and they were humbled
       by oppression, calamity and sorrow;

 40 he who pours contempt on nobles
       made them wander in a trackless waste.

 41 But he lifted the needy out of their affliction
       and increased their families like flocks.

 42 The upright see and rejoice,
       but all the wicked shut their mouths.

 43 Whoever is wise, let him heed these things
       and consider the great love of the LORD.

-How is God’s kindness shown in this section of verses?

 

 

-What do these illustrations have in common?

-What needs do the people have in each of these sections?

vv. 4-9

10-16

17-22

23-32

33-43

-What needs do you most relate to?

 

-In each situation, the people call to God for help. Is this your first reaction to distress? If not, what is?

 

-Repeatedly, the psalmist tells us to thank the Lord. Why do we need this reminder?

 

-What are some ways we should give thanks to God for His goodness and love? (vs. 21-22 & 31-32)

 

-Verse 43 says to “heed these things”. What things are we to heed?

 

-How does seeing God answer people’s cries for help make the fruit of goodness more real to you?

 

-In what ways can we imitate the goodness of God displayed in this psalm?

 

Mark 10:17-18 As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 18″Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone.

 

-If no one is good but God, how can we be called to be good?

 

 

Mark 10:27 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.”

Micah 6: 8 He has showed you, O man, what is good.
       And what does the LORD require of you?
       To act justly and to love mercy
       and to walk humbly with your God.

Matthew 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.

Matthew 7:15-20 “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. 16By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. 19Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.

 

–Personal reflection– What kind of fruit are you bearing? What kind of seeds have you sown?

 

Luke 6:27-36 “But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. 29If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. 30Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. 31Do to others as you would have them do to you.

32″If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even ‘sinners’ love those who love them. 33And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even ‘sinners’ do that. 34And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even ‘sinners’ lend to ‘sinners,’ expecting to be repaid in full. 35But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. 36Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

 

 

Here we have a lesson in how to be of good character. What are some of the more difficult commands from this passage to follow?

 

 

“Fruit of the Spirit- Goodness” Bible Study prepared by Justin Lessard. Email: ferventservant1@hotmail.com Web: https://justinlessard.wordpress.com & http://www.myspace.com/justinlessard

If you wish to use this study, all I ask is that you leave the credit info line, including the name, email, & web address, above.

 

Fruit of the Spirit- Part 5- KINDNESS

Kindness

 

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

      

Kindness is the language that the mute can speak and the deaf understand. Kindness lives in open hearts and opens hearts to live. It’s a message we can all comprehend; the message is timeless.

 

-1 Cor. 13:4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

-Psalm 141:5 Let a righteous man strike me—it is a kindness; let him rebuke me—it is oil on my head. My head will not refuse it. Yet my prayer is ever against the deeds of evildoers

-Titus 3:3-6 At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior,

 

-What is kindness? How would you define it?

 

 

 

-Why is it a kindness to “let a righteous man strike me”?

 

 

-Proverbs 12:25 An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.

-Proverbs 11:16-17 A kindhearted woman gains respect, but ruthless men gain only wealth. 17 A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself.

-How does it benefit us to be kind?

-Proverbs 19:17 He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward him for what he has done.

-Proverbs 14:31 He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.

This serves as a reminder that God is the Maker of all, including the needy, poor and oppressed.

-Ruth 2:19-20 (after Ruth had worked serving a kind Boaz) 19 Her mother-in-law asked her, “Where did you glean today? Where did you work? Blessed be the man who took notice of you!” Then Ruth told her mother-in-law about the one at whose place she had been working. “The name of the man I worked with today is Boaz,” she said. 20 “The LORD bless him!” Naomi said to her daughter-in-law. “He has not stopped showing his kindness to the living and the dead.” She added, “That man is our close relative; he is one of our kinsman-redeemers.”

 

-Is Ruth & Naomi’s response typical? Should it be?

 

 

-How might the Lord bless/reward us for obeying this command?

 

 

-Proverbs 14:21 He who despises his neighbor sins, but blessed is he who is kind to the needy.

-Titus 2:1-5 You must teach what is in accord with sound doctrine. 2Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance. 3Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. 4Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, 5to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.

-Luke 6:35 But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.

 

– What are some things we need to correct about ourselves to be kind?

 

 

-Colossians 3:12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

-1Thessalonians 5:15 Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.

-Jeremiah 9:24 “but let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,” declares the LORD.

 

-How can we boast in the Lord’s kindness?

 

 

-Isaiah 63:7 I will tell of the kindnesses of the LORD, the deeds for which he is to be praised, according to all the LORD has done for us— yes, the many good things he has done for the house of Israel, according to his compassion and many kindnesses.

-Acts 14:17 Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.”

-Genesis 39:20-21 Joseph’s master took him and put him in prison, the place where the king’s prisoners were confined. But while Joseph was there in the prison, 21 the LORD was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden.

 

-These are some specifics of God’s kind nature- What are some today?

 

 

-Isaiah54:8 (re: the future glory of Zion) In a surge of anger I hid my face from you for a moment, but with everlasting kindness I will have compassion on you,” says the LORD your Redeemer.

-Genesis 32:9-10 (note that God’s kindness isn’t failing, it is everlasting, even though we’ll never deserve it) Then Jacob prayed, “O God of my father Abraham, God of my father Isaac, O LORD, who said to me, ‘Go back to your country and your relatives, and I will make you prosper,’ 10 I am unworthy of all the kindness and faithfulness you have shown your servant. I had only my staff when I crossed this Jordan, but now I have become two groups.

-Ephesians 2:6-9 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9not by works, so that no one can boast.

-Notice the similarities between 2 Samuel 22:50-51 & Psalm 18:49-50. Words worth repeating.

-2 Samuel 22:50-51 Therefore I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations; I will sing praises to your name. 51 He gives his king great victories; he shows unfailing kindness to his anointed, to David and his descendants forever.”

-Psalm 18:49-50 Therefore I will praise you among the nations, O LORD; I will sing praises to your name. 50 He gives his king great victories; he shows unfailing kindness to his anointed, to David and his descendants forever.

 

-Psalm 106:7-8 When our fathers were in Egypt, they gave no thought to your miracles; they did not remember your many kindnesses, and they rebelled by the sea, the Red Sea. 8 Yet he saved them for his name’s sake, to make his mighty power known.

 

Though the kindness of God was forgotten/ ignored, He showed another kindness, by sparing them again and again in the desert place. When we are without kindness, we can be in a spiritual “desert place”, a dry place of emptiness.

 

– What is the difference between kindness and brotherly love?

 

 

 

– What are the similarities between kindness and brotherly love?

 

 

 

– What is the difference between kindness and mercy?

 

 

 

– What are the similarities between kindness and mercy?

 

 

 

-How can/ will YOU practice kindness?

 

 

 

“Fruit of the Spirit- Kindness” Bible Study prepared by Justin Lessard. Email: ferventservant1@hotmail.com Web: https://justinlessard.wordpress.com & http://www.myspace.com/justinlessard

If you wish to use this study, all I ask is that you leave the credit info line, including the name, email, & web address, above.

Fruit of the Spirit- Part 4- Patience

…Patience…

 

*Job 6:11 What strength do I have, that I should still hope? What prospects, that I should be patient?

*Proverbs 14:29 A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly.

*Proverbs 15:18 A hot-tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel.

Are you patient? Here’s one way of knowing: I believe it was Pastor John Hagee who said this of patience: “Do you find yourself in front of the microwave oven screaming, ‘Hurry up!’?”

 

*Romans 8: 24-25 For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? 25But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.

 

-What things are we patient for?

 

-How can being patient seem different depending on the situation? For Ex: Lets say you had to wait a week sitting alone in a jail cell.  Seems like a LONG time. You also have a week before school starts after a great summer. Doesn’t seem like long enough. So how can patience be compared to the situations?

 

*Proverbs 16:32 Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city.

*Proverbs 19:11 A man’s wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense.

*Proverbs 25:15 Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.

 

-What does that mean to you, when he says, “a gentle tongue can break a bone”?

 

*Psalm 37:7 Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.

*Psalm 40:1  I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry.

*Habakkuk 3:16 heard and my heart pounded, my lips quivered at the sound; decay crept into my bones, and my legs trembled. Yet I will wait patiently for the day of calamity to come on the nation invading us.

*Romans 12:10-12 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

 

-Contrast the difference between momentary and long-term patience. i.e.: waiting for popcorn vs. waiting for the right spouse.

 

*Ephesians 4:2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

*Colossians 3:12-13 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

* 1 Thessalonians 5:14 And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone.

* 2Timothy 4: 2 Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.

 

-Who should we be patient with? Why do we need patience in preaching the Word?

 

 

*Romans 9:22-25 What if God, choosing to show his wrath and make his power known, bore with great patience the objects of his wrath—prepared for destruction? 23What if he did this to make the riches of his glory known to the objects of his mercy, whom he prepared in advance for glory— 24even us, whom he also called, not only from the Jews but also from the Gentiles? 25As he says in Hosea:
   “I will call them ‘my people’ who are not my people; and I will call her ‘my loved one’ who is not my loved one,”

 

-Answer the questions asked in the verses in your own words.

 

 

* 1Timothy 1:15-16 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. 16But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life.

* 2Peter 3: 9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

* 2Peter 3:15 Bear in mind that our Lord’s patience means salvation, just as our dear brother Paul also wrote you with the wisdom that God gave him.

 

– What is the ultimate source of patience?

 

 

* 2Timothy 3:10 You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance,

*Hebrews 6: 12-15  We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. 13When God made his promise to Abraham, since there was no one greater for him to swear by, he swore by himself, 14saying, “I will surely bless you and give you many descendants.” 15And so after waiting patiently, Abraham received what was promised.

*James 5:7-11 Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains. 8You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. 9Don’t grumble against each other, brothers, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door! 10Brothers, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.

 

-Why is it important to have patience during times of suffering?

 

*Revelation 3:10 10Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world to test those who live on the earth.

*Revelation 14:11-12 And the smoke of their torment rises for ever and ever. There is no rest day or night for those who worship the beast and his image, or for anyone who receives the mark of his name.” 12This calls for patient endurance on the part of the saints who obey God’s commandments and remain faithful to Jesus.

 

-What promises might we inherit with patience? What will we avoid with patience?

-What will YOU practice patience with?

“Fruit of the Spirit- Patience” Bible Study prepared by Justin Lessard. Email: ferventservant1@hotmail.com Web: https://justinlessard.wordpress.com & http://www.myspace.com/justinlessard

If you wish to use this study, all I ask is that you leave the credit info line, including the name, email, & web address, above.

 

Fruit of the Spirit- Part 3- PEACE

Peace

 

-Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self‑control; against such there is no law.

 

-Ephesians 6:13 Therefore, put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and, having done all, to stand. 14Stand therefore, having the utility belt of truth buckled around your waist, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15and having fitted your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16above all, taking up the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the evil one. 17And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;

 

Peace is not only a fruit of the Spirit, but an important part of the armor of God.

–What’s up with God and all this talk of peace; why not just let us fight it out?

 

-Romans 5:1 Being therefore justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ;

 

-Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be on his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

 

-John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful.

 

Peace I leave with you; as my parting gift. The allusion is to the Hebrew form of benediction, which is, “Peace be with you.” My peace; that which resembles his own, and which he alone can give: “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding.”

 

 -John 16:33 I have told you these things, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have oppression; but cheer up! I have overcome the world.

 

–Did Jesus leave in a peaceful way, or a violent way?

–Why did He experience such pain, while giving us complete peace; don’t we deserve even a  little punishment for our sin? 

 

-Psalm 85:10-11 Mercy and faith have come together; righteousness and peace have given one another a kiss. Faith comes up from the earth like a plant; righteousness is looking down from heaven.

 

 -Ecclesiastes 11:10 Therefore remove sorrow from thy heart, and put away evil from thy flesh: for childhood and youth are vanity

 

-What things will accompany peace? Or… What things will peace accompany?

 

                                                                                                               

 

 

 

-Romans 12:18 If it is possible, as far as rests with you, live peaceably with every one.

 

-2 Corinthians 13:11 Finally, brothers  rejoice. Be perfected, be comforted, be of the same mind, live in peace, and the God of love and peace will be with you.

 

-1 Corinthians 14:33  For God is not a God of confusion, but of peace. As in all the assemblies of the saints…

 

-Who is the job of spreading peace left to?

 

-Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.

 

-Phil. 4:6-7 In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. 7The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.

 

-Isaiah 11:6-9 The wolf shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid, and the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them. 7The cow and the bear shall feed; their young shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. 8The sucking child shall play over the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the adder’s den. 9They shall not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain; for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD as the waters cover the sea.

 

 My holy mountain; mount Zion, which here represents the kingdom of Christ.

 The gospel has power to subdue the fiercest hearts, and tame the most savage.  When all nations submit themselves to the power of God’s peace, violence will cease, and humanity will live together in harmony and blessedness.

-In what ways do you think the peace of Christ will work its way into humanity?

 

– Ephesians 2:14-16 For he is our peace, who made both one, and broke down the middle wall of partition,

 15 having abolished in the flesh the hostility, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man of the two, making peace;

 16 and might reconcile them both in one body to God through the cross, having killed the hostility thereby.

 

– 1 Thess. 5:12-14 But we beg you, brothers to know those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you, 13 and to respect and honor them in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves.  14 We exhort you, brothers, admonish the disorderly, encourage the fainthearted, support the weak, be patient toward all.

 

-What good is our example of Christ’s peace if we ourselves are not living in peace?

 

-How can we conduct ourselves better to show the world that the peace of Christ is in us?

 

 

 

  *VARIOUS TRANSLATIONS

“Fruit of the Spirit- Peace” Bible Study prepared by Justin Lessard. Email: ferventservant1@hotmail.com Web: https://justinlessard.wordpress.com & http://www.myspace.com/justinlessard

If you wish to use this study, all I ask is that you leave the credit info line, including the name, email, & web address, above.

 

 

Fruit of the Spirit- Part 2- JOY

Joy

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

*Romans 14:17 “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.”

 

-Joy is defined as “A very glad Feeling; happiness; delight”

 

*Joel 1:12 “The vine is dried up
       and the fig tree is withered;
       the pomegranate, the palm and the apple tree—
       all the trees of the field—are dried up.
       Surely the joy of mankind
       is withered away..”

*Matthew 13:20-21 “The one who received the seed that fell on rocky places is the man who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. 21But since he has no root, he lasts only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he quickly falls away.”

*Lamentations 5:15-16 “Joy is gone from our hearts;
       our dancing has turned to mourning.

 16 The crown has fallen from our head.
       Woe to us, for we have sinned!”

 

–What are some of the ways we can acquire an absence of joy?

 

*Nehemiah 8:10 “…This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

*Psalm 116:3-5 “The cords of death entangle me, the anguish of the grave came upon me; I was overcome by trouble and sorrow. Then I called on the name of the Lord: ‘O Lord, save me!’ The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion.”

–What happens to our trouble when we call on the Lord?

 

*Psalm 6:6-9 “I am worn out from groaning;
       all night long I flood my bed with weeping
       and drench my couch with tears.

 7 My eyes grow weak with sorrow;
       they fail because of all my foes.

 8 Away from me, all you who do evil,
       for the LORD has heard my weeping.

 9 The LORD has heard my cry for mercy;
       the LORD accepts my prayer.”

 

 

-What are some effects that lack of joy has on us?

 

*Isaiah 60:20 “Your sun will never set again,
       and your moon will wane no more;
       the LORD will be your everlasting light,
       and your days of sorrow will end.”

 

 

*Jeremiah 31:12 “They will come and shout for joy on the heights of Zion;
       they will rejoice in the bounty of the LORD—
       the grain, the new wine and the oil,
       the young of the flocks and herds.
       They will be like a well-watered garden,
       and they will sorrow no more.”

-What happens when we give the Lord control, and He takes over?

 

 

*2 Corinthians 7:7-10 “and not only by his coming but also by the comfort you had given him. He told us about your longing for me, your deep sorrow, your ardent concern for me, so that my joy was greater than ever.

 8Even if I caused you sorrow by my letter, I do not regret it. Though I did regret it—I see that my letter hurt you, but only for a little while— 9yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us. 10Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.

 

–When does God want us to have sorrow?

 

-What is the difference between godly and worldly sorrow?

 

 

*Luke 10:21 “At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, ‘I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure.’”

*John 3:29 “The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom’s voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete.”

*3 John 3-4 “It gave me great joy to have some brothers come and tell about your faithfulness to the truth and how you continue to walk in the truth. 4I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.

*Acts 14:17 “Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.”

-Where does joy come from?

 

*1 Thessalonians 1:6 “You became imitators of us and of the Lord; in spite of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit.”

*1 Peter 1:8-9 “Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 9for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.”

*John 15:9-11 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. 10If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s commands and remain in his love. 11I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.”

-How do we acquire this joy from the Lord?

 

 

*Habakkuk 3:17-18 “Though the fig tree does not bud
       and there are no grapes on the vines,
       though the olive crop fails
       and the fields produce no food,
       though there are no sheep in the pen
       and no cattle in the stalls,

    18 yet I will rejoice in the LORD,
       I will be joyful in God my Savior.”

–Can we have joy in the midst of our drama?

 

 

*Luke 1:14 “He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth”

*Luke 6:23 “Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven. For that is how their fathers treated the prophets.”

–How should we react to joy/ What do we do with it?

 

-What do you have joy in?

 

-Testimony time!!! Tell of a sorrowful, sad or depressing time that was washed away by the joy of the Lord.

“Fruit of the Spirit- Joy” Bible Study prepared by Justin Lessard. Email: ferventservant1@hotmail.com Web: https://justinlessard.wordpress.com & http://www.myspace.com/justinlessard

 

 

If you wish to use this study, all I ask is that you leave the credit info line, including the name, email, & web address, above.

Fruit of the Spirit- Part 1- LOVE

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

Read:

-1 Corinthians 13:4-8

-1 John 4:11

-1 John 3:18

-What are some examples of how we can love one another with action and in truth?

 

Read:

-1 John 4:16-19

-Do we deserve God’s love?

-Why do think He still loves us?

 

Read:

-John 3:16

-Psalm 145:20

God loves us. We love God. God loves others. We love others. All is well in this big circle of love.

-What does it mean to have God watch over us?

 

Read:

-Mark 12 :28-34

-Deuteronomy 6:5-6

–Why do you think this commandment is greater than “Thou shalt not steal” or “…kill”

 

-How can this verse (Mk.12:31) relate to 1 Peter 4:8 (Love covers a multitude of sins)?

 

–Let us compare for discussion-

   -How is physical love (from “sex” to “significant others” love) different from spiritual love (brotherly/sisterly; as Christ loved; as God loved)?

-How can we obtain stronger ability to love others as Christ loves?

 

Read:

-Luke 23:32-43

 (After reading) His love was patient, kind, not envious, boastful, or proud. He was not rude and certainly not self-seeking; nor was He angered and He kept no record of wrongs; He, in fact, erased them. Christ did not delight in evil, yet He rejoiced in truth. He protects us; He’s trustworthy, He is our hope and He perseveres. Jesus Christ never fails.

 

-1 Cor. 13:13 Says, “These three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.”

-Why is love greater than hope or faith?

 

Read:

-1 Thess. 4:9

-Jn 13:35

-1 Jn 2:10

-1 Jn 4:7-8

 

–The Lord brings us together, makes us into a family, teaching us to love our brothers and sisters in Christ. We are His Church. Yet, we are all different in countless ways. We are rich, poor, man, woman, some are leaders, some are followers, each according to the talents and guidance given to us by God through the Holy Spirit, as well as the needs of the community. In many ways, we are more different than alike, l yet God’s love knows no boundaries. We are family.

At times, we can get caught up with others’ doings and feelings. The only way to love one another wholly is to keep our eyes focused on the One who loves all, unconditionally; regardless of race, color, creed, ethnicity, history, physical condition, offences, opinions, attitudes, wrongs,…etc. God loves. God is love. To love like God is to be more like Christ.

 

“Fruit of the Spirit- Love” Bible Study prepared by Justin Lessard. Email: ferventservant1@hotmail.com Web: https://justinlessard.wordpress.com & http://www.myspace.com/justinlessard

 

 

If you wish to use this study, all I ask is that you leave the credit info line, including the name, email, & web address, above.