John Lloyd - Identity in Christ: Who am I?

Strengthen Your Core Series

Identity in Christ:  Who am I?

October 20, 2019

Pastor John Lloyd

Our physical bodies are made up of several core muscles.  If kept in shape through exercise, they will function properly.  God’s goal for followers is to make us more like Jesus.  This happens when we think like Jesus, CORE beliefs, act like Jesus, CORE practices and be like Jesus, CORE virtues.   We need to exercise our CORE in order to glorify God.  The journey of becoming like Jesus begins by thinking like Jesus. When we start thinking like Jesus, we are well on our way to becoming like Jesus.  Today, we will consider the core belief of what happens to our identity when we put our trust in Christ.  This new identity changes us from the inside out. 

Romans 8:14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” 16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.



Ephesians 2:19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.



Memory Verse: John 1:12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.

Key Question: Who am I?

Key Idea: I believe I am significant because of my position as a child of God.

I.  Sift through the _______________ you are listening to for your identity.

Key Questions:  Who am I?  Where does my significance come from?

Major factors to answer these questions• to feel loved • to have a sense of purpose • to feel secure • to feel significant • to have a sense of belonging.

Think, Act, Be Like Jesus by Randy Frazee

Where do I stand with the Ultimate Somebody?

Whose voice am I listening to?

I John 3:1 See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him.

Ask God to show you the loudest voice and where you are finding your significance.

II.  God is able to give a new ___________ to anyone who trusts Him for it.

John 1:12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.

I John 3:1 See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Ephesians 2:19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God.

(Ephesians 2:17-18)

God’s greatest gift to us is our new identity in Christ.

III.  Drive down on what it really means to be God’s _____________.

Romans 8:17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.

As a believer in Jesus Christ, you are a child of God and heir to his kingdom.

“Remember who you are. Don’t compromise for anyone for any reason.  You are a child of the Almighty God.  Live that truth.”  Lysa Terkeurst

I Corinthians 3:16 Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?

As a believer in Jesus Christ, you are a temple of God’s dwelling.



2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

As a believer in Christ, you are a new creation.

Philippians 3:20 But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.

As a believer in Jesus Christ, you are a citizen in of heaven.

Significance comes from being God’s child.

IV.  Let your identity in Christ impact your ________________.

Romans 8:15 For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” 16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.   This frees us from falling back into old patterns of fear.



Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.  2For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. This frees us from condemnation.

“When people say, “I know God forgives me, but I can’t forgive myself,” they mean that they have failed an idol, whose approval is more important than God’s.” Timothy Keller Counterfeit Gods

Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 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. Our worth comes from our position not our performance. 

I Thessalonians 5:11 Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. 

As a believer, our desire is to build people rather than tear them down.

“There is no one who is insignificant in the purpose of God.” Allistair Begg

I Peter 4:10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.

As a believer, your motivation is to serve/give and not get/receive.

John 1:12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.

As a believer, we live to express who we are in Christ not to prove who we are. 

I John 3:1 See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him.

Use a scale of 1-6 to rate how strongly you believe the statements below            (1 = not belief at all, 6 = complete confidence). 

_____ I believe God loves me; therefore my life has value.

_____ I believe I exist to know, love and serve God.

_____ I believe God loves me, even when I do not obey Him.

_____ I believe I am forgiven and accepted by God.

Spiritual Growth Questions for October 20, 2019

(Take one question each day and grow deeper in Bible study)

Use a scale of 1-6 to rate how strongly you believe the statements below   

(1 = not belief at all, 6 = complete confidence). 

_____ I believe God loves me; therefore my life has value.

_____ I believe I exist to know, love and serve God.

_____ I believe God loves me, even when I do not obey Him.

_____ I believe I am forgiven and accepted by God.

1.     Unfortunately, most people find their identity and value in things that do not last (i.e., wealth, power, beauty, influence).  Why is it so tempting to find our worth in these fading attributes?

2.     Read Ephesians 2.  What verses speak to you about our incredible new heritage made possible by God’s great love?  List the different ways our identity is described in this chapter. 

3.     Read Luke 19:1-9.  In what ways did Zacchaeus’ conduct change when Jesus restored his identity?  If you could start over with a new identity as Zacchaeus did, what would you leave in your past?

4.     Read Romans 8:14-17.  Discuss ways that our new identity in Christ frees us to live without being controlled by anxiety and fear.

5.     Read I Corinthians 3:16, 6:19, I Corinthians 12:12-14.  How does our new identity call us to live differently?  Be specific.

6.     Read I Peter 2:4-10.  Highlight all the phrases that speak to our new identity in Christ.  Share which one stood out to you.

7.     How does understanding our identity in Christ change the way we interact with people in our lives?

8.     What practical steps could people take to adjust their identity-finding process if it is unhealthy or misguided? 

Memory Verse: John 1:12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,

I John 3:1 See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him.

Michael Porter- Self-Control

Strengthen Your Core Series

Self-Control

October 13, 2019

Pastor Michael Porter

Sermon Series Introduction: Our physical bodies are made up of several core muscles.  If kept in shape through exercise, they will function properly.  God’s goal for followers is to make us more like Jesus.  This happens when we think like Jesus, CORE beliefs, act like Jesus, CORE practices and be like Jesus, CORE virtues.   We need to exercise our CORE in order to glorify God.  The journey of becoming like Jesus begins by thinking like Jesus. When we start thinking like Jesus, we are well on our way to becoming like Jesus. 

Today, we will consider the core virtue of self-control.

Sermon Text: Titus 2:11-14:

      11     For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people,

      12     training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age,

      13     waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ,

      14     who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.

Key Idea: Better self-control requires greater submission to the Gospel.

Sermon Outline:

I.      Self-Control Begins with the Gospel (Titus 2:11)

II.     Self-Control is Motivated by the Gospel (Titus 2:12)

III.    Self-Control Anticipates the Hope of the Gospel (Titus 2:13-14)

I. Self-Control Begins with the Gospel (Titus 2:11)

Titus 2:11, “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people,”

II. Self-Control is Motivated by the Gospel (Titus 2:12)

Titus 2:12, “training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age,”

III. Self-Control Anticipates the Hope of the Gospel (Titus 2:13-14)

Titus 2:13-14, “waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.

Spiritual Growth Questions for October 13, 2019

Reflect on the following questions and use a scale of 1-6 to rate how well you are living out the statements below (1 = not living out at all, 6 = living out completely). 

___      I desire a greater sense of self-control in my everyday walk with God.

___      I recognize that sin is what makes self-control needed in the first place, and only the gospel of Jesus Christ can do away with my sin.

___       I believe I truly can be freed from my habitual sins and addiction and attain better self-control when I surrender control to God.

Other Verses to Reflect On

1.     Romans 8:1-4 (Memorization Recommended)

               8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. 3 For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, 4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.

2.     Galatians 5:19-25

               19 Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, 20 idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, 21 envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22            But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.

3.     2 Peter 1:3-4

               3 His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, 4 by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire 5 For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, 7 and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

John Lloyd - Single Mindedness

Strengthen Your Core Series

Single Mindedness

October 6, 2019

Pastor John Lloyd

Our physical bodies are made up of several core muscles.  If kept in shape through exercise, they will function properly.  God’s goal for followers is to make us more like Jesus.  This happens when we think like Jesus, CORE beliefs, act like Jesus, CORE practices and be like Jesus, CORE virtues.   We need to exercise our CORE in order to glorify God.  The journey of becoming like Jesus begins by thinking like Jesus. When we start thinking like Jesus, we are well on our way to becoming like Jesus.  Today, we will consider the core action of singlemindedness and setting godly priorities for our lives.

Matthew 6:19 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 22 “The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light, 23 but if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness! 24“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money. 

Memory Verse: Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Key Idea:  I focus on God and His priorities for my life.

Key Question: How do I keep my focus amid distractions?

I.               Single ______________________ prioritizes what fills my heart.

Matthew 6:19 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Jeremiah 2:13 for my people have committed two evils: they have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters, and hewed out cisterns for themselves, broken cisterns that can hold no water.

Deuteronomy 6:5 You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.

To be single-minded means to have one desire that trumps all others. One goal. One focus.  From the beginning, God made clear that he should be his people’s main focus. But this is challenging in a hectic, fast-paced world.  The spiritual practice of singlemindedness is all about determining our priorities to ensure we are practicing our faith, living out our beliefs and accomplishing God’s will for our lives.  Frazee

Matthew 6:24“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.  (Problems come when we worship the wrong the thing)

Single-mindedness is freedom.  Duplicity is bondage.  Single-mindedness brings joy and balance.  Duplicity brings anxiety and fear.  Richard Foster

 Takeaway:

II.  Singlemindedness puts first things ___________.

Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. (John 8;29-30)

A.      God __________________ what He gives. 

Matthew 6:26 Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?  (Freedom from anxiety about these things is an inward evidence of seeking the kingdom first)

Matthew 6:30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?  Matthew 6:32 (Knowing God cares about you)

B.      God gives so we can be __________________.

Matthew 6:20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.

Deuteronomy 8:17 Beware lest you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth.’ (Ps.62:10, Prov.11:28)

Singlemindedness allows us to genuinely enjoy possessions without destroying us.  (Materialism versus asceticism). 

I Timothy 6:18They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, 19thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.  (I Timothy 6:17)

Takeaway:

III.  Singlemindedness lives with an inward attitude of ______________.

 2 Chronicles 20:12b For we are powerless against this great horde that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.”

No one can deny that our lifestyles today are chaotic and complex.  Single-mindedness actually offers simplicity.  Our lives can be uncluttered by the Creator and set on a path toward purpose and peace by his grace and mercy.  Frazee

Colossians 3:1 If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. Colossians 3:17

Philippians 3:8 Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith.

Philippians 3:13 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

The practice of single-mindedness is about setting priorities. This involves putting our past decisions and actions behind us and focusing on God’s kingdom with help from the Holy Spirit. The product of a life of single-minded determination and focus is an untouchable peace from the hand of the one true God who loves us deeply. Seek first God’s kingdom!  Randy Frazee

Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Use a scale of 1-6 to rate how well you are living out the statements below (1 = not living out at all, 6 = living out completely). 

___      I desire Jesus Christ to be first in my life.

___      I see every aspect of my life and work as service to God.

___       I spend time each day reading God’s Word and praying.

___      I value a simple lifestyle over one cluttered with activities and material

             possessions.

Singlemindedness allows us to enjoy life on earth while preparing well for eternal life in heaven.Try to do one thing each day that will outlive ourselves and last for eternity

Spiritual Growth Questions for October 6, 2019

(Take one question each day and grow deeper in Bible study)

Use a scale of 1-6 to rate how well you are living out the statements below    (1 = not living out at all, 6 = living out completely). 

___      I desire Jesus Christ to be first in my life.

___      I see every aspect of my life and work as service to God.

___       I spend time each day reading God’s Word and praying.

___      I value a simple lifestyle over one cluttered with activities and material possessions.

1.     Read Deuteronomy 6:1-9.  Look for what God promised to the Israelites if they obeyed the first commandment and kept their covenant with God.

2.     Read Matthew 6:19-24.  What kind of treasures keep us from being single-minded?  How can unhealthy eyes keep us from being single-minded?  Why isn’t it possible to serve two masters? 

3.     Read 2 Chronicles 20. Identify the key beliefs in which Jehoshaphat anchors his prayer.  How can these key beliefs instill confidence and guide our decisions? 

4.     Read Philippians 3:1-14.  Read this passage twice. What does the Apostle Paul do to stay single-minded in his focus?  How could this be helpful to you in your walk with God?

5.     What does this admonishment mean to you?  Does it change how you prioritize things in your life? 

6.     Which area of your life (relationships, finances, work, family, etc.) is hardest to submit to God’s will and guidance? 

7.     How have you experienced the benefits of single-mindedness?  What action step can you take this week to increase your awareness of God’s involvement in your daily life? 

Memory Verse: Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

John Lloyd - The Way to Know God and His Will

Strengthen Your Core Series

God’s Word: The way to know God and His will

September 29, 2019

Pastor John Lloyd

Our physical bodies are made up of several core muscles.  If kept in shape through exercise, they will function properly.  God’s goal for followers is to make us more like Jesus.  This happens when we think like Jesus, CORE beliefs, act like Jesus, CORE practices and be like Jesus, CORE virtues.   We need to exercise our CORE in order to glorify God.  The journey of becoming like Jesus begins by thinking like Jesus. When we start thinking like Jesus, we are well on our way to becoming like Jesus.  Today, we will consider the core belief that the Bible is inspired and guides our beliefs and actions.

Hebrews 1:1 Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. 3 He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, 4 having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs.

Memory Verses: 2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

Key Question: How can I know God and His will for my life? 

How do we know such important life matters as the following:

Who the one true God is, God’s love for us, our birth into sin and separation from God, Jesus’ payment for our sin to restore us, the best way to live a successful and productive life and the truth about the future and God’s ultimate redemption of man.

Key Idea:  I believe the Bible is the inspired Word of God that guides my beliefs and actions.

I.                Our great need is for the ______________________ of God.

Ephesians 1:18 having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, Luke 24:45



Psalm 19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.  Romans 2:14-15

“The Bible is seen not as a catalyst for revelation but as the

revelation itself.  The Bible’s truth does not depend in any way on

whether a person believes the truth.  This is God’s revelation about

Himself.  It embodies truth beyond s is God’s revelation about Himself.  It embodies truth beyond the scope of our own abilities.  It comes from God.”  R.C. Sproul  Can I trust the Bible?

II.              The revelation of God has been _________________ down.

2 Peter 1:20 Knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. 21For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:4

A.      The Words in Scriptures are ____________ Words.

2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

Theopneustos- God breathed

“Inspiration is that mysterious process by which the divine casualty worked through the human prophets without destroying their individual personalities to produce divinely authoritative and inerrant writings.” Norman Geisler

Hebrews 1:1 Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world.  John 5:39, Matt. 4:4, I Cor. 2:13-14, Ephesians 6:17

John 6:63b The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. 

If we are to know God’s will, it will be because we have studied His Scriptures. Jesus had a high view of Scripture so should we. Sproul

Takeaway: The Scriptures are sufficient to reveal God to anyone who is seeking.  They are God’s Word to us!     

B.     The Words in Scriptures have been carefully _________________. translated and protected.

Closest book of antiquity: The Iliad by Homer- 643

New Testament copies- 24,000

Oldest known copy of the Iliad is 500 years younger from the original.

Oldest known copy of the N.T is less than 100 years from the original.

In the New Testament only 400 words carry any question as to their original penning, none of which relate to actual doctrine. This is a 99.9 accuracy rate.  Randy Frazee

 III.  The Bible is authoritative-possessing the right to ______________ our lives.

Psalm 119:1 Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the LORD!     2 Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart, 3 who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways!     4 You have commanded your precepts to be kept diligently.

As the Word of God, the Bible has the right to govern a Christian’s life. Frazee

Deuteronomy 29:29 “The secret things belong to the LORD our God, but the things that are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law.

IV. The Bible is infallible-unfailing in _________________________ its purposes.

Isaiah 55:10 “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven  and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater,  11 so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth;  it shall not return to me empty,  but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.

John 17:17 Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.

I Thessalonians 2:13 And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.

Scriptures are sufficient in guiding us to what to think about a particular doctrinal issue or to do in a particular situation.

The sufficiency of Scripture reminds us that we are to add nothing to Scripture and that we are to consider no other writings of equal value to Scripture.

God does not require us to believe anything about himself or his redemptive work that is not found in Scripture.

The sufficiency of Scripture shows us that no modern revelations from God are placed on a level equal to Scripture in authority.

The Bible is not a book of suggestions, but rather claims to be the very Word of God and invites you to let it rule and guide every aspect of your life.                  

  Reflective Questions: Are you in or out?  

Do you believe the Bible is the Word of God and that it has the right to command your belief and action? 

Spiritual Growth Questions for September 29, 2019

(take one question each day and grow deeper in Bible study)

Which statements are easy to declare with certainty? Which are more challenging, and why?

I believe the Bible is absolutely true in matters of faith and morals.

I believe the words of the Bible are words from God.

I believe the Bible has decisive authority over what I say and do.

I believe the Bible is relevant to address the needs of contemporary culture.

1.     Read John 1:1-14, 4:14, 5:39, 6:63, 7:37-38, 10:34-35.    What is his relationship to the written word?  What would we know about Jesus if we did not have the written word?  How is Jesus revealed as the Living Word?  How does Jesus view the Scriptures? 

2.     Read 2 Timothy 3:16-17.  In what ways have you seen the Bible be specifically useful in teaching, rebuking, correcting and training? In what ways can the Bible inform and govern your decision making in the areas of business, family life, friendships, and recreation?

3.     Read 2 Peter 1:20-21.  What are these verses teaching as to how the Bible was written?  Consider there are 66 books and 40 writers but one theme flowing throughout.  What role did God play and what role did man have in writing the Scriptures? 

4.     Read Exodus 20:1-21.  What verse/s stand out to you?  Why?  How do the Ten Commandments reveal what is most important to God?

How would the world be different if all humanity were guided by the Word of God? 

5.     How has understanding the Scriptures changed the way you see the world? How has the Bible given you a better understanding of who you are and your purpose in this world? 

6.     Many people are overwhelmed by the Bible, but it doesn’t have to be that way. If you have any obstacles that get in the way of reading and understanding God’s Word, honestly confess them. Then, spend some time as a group discussing ways to overcome these challenges.

Memory Verses: 2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

John Lloyd - Finding Strength in the Storm

Strengthen Your Core Series

Finding Strength in the Storm

September 22, 2019

Pastor John Lloyd

Our physical bodies are made up of several core muscles.  If kept in shape through exercise, they will function properly.  God’s goal for followers is to make us more like Jesus.  This happens when we think like Jesus, CORE beliefs, act like Jesus, CORE practices and be like Jesus, CORE virtues.   We need to exercise our CORE in order to glorify God.  The journey of becoming like Jesus begins by thinking like Jesus. When we start thinking like Jesus, we are well on our way to becoming like Jesus.  Today, we will look at how God brings peace to our soul in the midst of storms. 

John 14:25 “These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you. 26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.

Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Key Idea:  I have found peace with God, peace with others and peace with myself.

Key Question: How do I find peace in the storm?  Where do I find strength to battle anxiety and fear?

I.               Supernatural peace with God comes through ____________.

Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end,

Romans 5:1 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

Colossians 1:20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.

Ephesians 2:14 For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility 15 by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, 16 and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility. 17 And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. 18For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father.  Colossians 1:20, I Jn 3:20

Takeaway: 

II.  Seek God’s ______________ for peace with others.

James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.

I Kings 3:7 And now, O LORD my God, you have made your servant king in place of David my father, although I am but a little child. I do not know how to go out or come in. 8 And your servant is in the midst of your people whom you have chosen, a great people, too many to be numbered or counted for multitude. 9 Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?”

“The outcome of Solomon’s decision is recorded below. If we want greater peace in our lives, we should first seek to live in obedience to God and then apply his wisdom to find peace in our relationships with others.” Frazee

Matthew 5:23 So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.

Romans 14:19 So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.  Romans 12:17-21, I Timothy 2:1-2, Titus 3:2-5

 2 Corinthians 13:11 Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.  (See question 4)

Peace principles:  Settle issues as they arise, ask for wisdom, be obedient to God as the foundation, pursue peace not division, sow seeds of peace with everyone, receive it from God and let it rule in your heart.  Write out what is making you anxious about the relationship.

Takeaway: 

 III.  The ____________________ is the source of supernatural peace.

John 14:25 “These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you. 26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.

John 20:21 Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” 22And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.

Matthew 6:31 Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. 34 “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.

Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.

“If it is something big enough to be anxious about, it is something God wants you to pray about it.”

I Peter 5:7 Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  (Spend some time on question 6)

“The peace of Christ brings an end to our soul’s search for security. The peace of Christ brings the proper response to a hurting world.  The peace of Christ brings us an invitation to the atmosphere in heaven while on earth. If we daily surrender to Christ when the storms of life threaten, his peace will keep us grounded and secure.”  Randy Frazee

Peace, use a scale of 1-6 rate how fully your life demonstrates the statements below (1 does not demonstrate at all, 6 demonstrates fully). Which statement is challenging for you?  Why? 

___ I know God has forgiven me because of what Jesus has done.

­­___ I am not angry with God, myself, or others.

___ I forgive people who have hurt me deeply.

___ I have inner peace from God.

Spiritual Growth Questions for September 22, 2019

(take one question each day and grow deeper in Bible study)

1.     Which of the statements below are easy to declare with certainty? Which are more challenging? Why?

I know God has forgiven me because of what Jesus has done.

I am not angry with God, myself, or others.

I forgive people who have hurt me deeply.

I have inner peace from God.

2.     Although true peace is available to all who call on Jesus Christ as Lord, many continue to live with fear and anxiety.  Why do you think that is the case?

3.     Read Romans 5:1-11, Ephesians 2:11-22.  How do we receive peace with God?  Write down every word that describes peace in our relationship with God? What did the apostle Paul want the Roman and Ephesian Christians to know?  What verse stood out to you in this reading? How is this helpful in your relationship with God? 

4.     Reflect on this statement: “I am not angry at God, myself or others.” If you or someone was angry with someone else, what should they do? Read Matthew 5:23-24, Matthew 18:15, Galatians 6:1, Romans 14:19, Ephesians 4:3 for guidance.

5.     What are some biblical ways to overcome fear and anxiety? What have you found to be the most successful?

6.     Read Matthew 6:25-34 and Philippians 4:4-9 two times.  What verse/s stands out to you?  Why?   What role does prayer play in combating anxiety?  Can you think of an example from your own life or someone’s else?

7.     What is impeding your ability to experience God’s true peace? What one action could you take to overcome these obstacles?  Reflect deeply on the two passages below as a first step. 

Isaiah 26:3 You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.

Memory Verses:  Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

John Lloyd - How Do I Study God's Word?

Strengthen Your Core Series

Bible Study:  Takes me to Where God Wants me to be

September 15, 2019

Pastor John Lloyd

Our physical bodies are made up of several core muscles.  If kept in shape through exercise, they will function properly.  God’s goal for followers is to make us more like Jesus.  This happens when we think like Jesus, CORE beliefs, act like Jesus, CORE practices and be like Jesus, CORE virtues.   We need to exercise our CORE in order to glorify God.  The journey of becoming like Jesus begins by thinking like Jesus. When we start thinking like Jesus, we are well on our way to becoming like Jesus.  Today, we will look at the action of Bible study and how it can take us where God wants us to be.    

 Psalm 19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure,  making wise the simple; 8 the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure,  enlightening the eyes; 9 the fear of the LORD is clean,  enduring forever;     the rules of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. 10 More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb. 11 Moreover, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.

Memorize  Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

Luke 24:44 Then he said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled.” 45 Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures,

Key Idea: I study the Bible to know God and his truth and to find direction for my daily life.  Prayer:  Lord, make me and take me where you want me to be.

We have learned that Spirit led disciplines are avenues to encounter the transforming grace of God.  The most critical discipline is the intake of God’s Word.  Donald S. Whitney. Spirit of the Disciplines

Key Question: How do I study God’s Word? 

I.               Clear the deck of all __________________.

Psalm 19:12 Who can discern his errors? Declare me innocent from hidden faults. 13 Keep back your servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me!



 Psalm 51: 6 Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being, and you teach me wisdom in the secret heart. 7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.  I John 1:9 

Psalm 139:23 Search me, O God, and know my heart!  Try me and know my thoughts! 24 And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!  2 Corinthians 7:1, Ephesians 5:26

Psalm 32: 8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.

Takeaway: 

II.  Let His Word bring _________________ to our soul.

Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly,

Psalm 1:2 but his delight is in the law] of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.

Psalm 19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple

Psalm 19:8 the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart.(19:8b,9)

Psalm 19:10 More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb.

I Thessalonians 2:13 And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men  but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.  Revelation 1:3

“If you want to be changed, if you want to become more like Jesus Christ, discipline yourself to read the Bible.”  John Blanchard

“Reading gives us breadth, but study gives us depth.” Jerry Bridges

Time, Bible Reading Plan, find one word, phrase, verse to meditate on each time you read.   One thing you want to remember. 

What is one thing you can do to improve your intake of God’s Word? 

Takeaway: 

 III.  Apply what you ____________ to your life.

Ask God how am I to respond to this text?  What would you have me to do as result of my encounter with this part of His Word?

Psalm 119:18   Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.

John 14: 26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.

Psalm 119:50. This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life.

James 1:22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.

Does the text reveal something I should believe about God?

Does this text reveal something I should praise, thank, or trust God for?

Does this text reveal something I should pray about for myself or others?

Does this text reveal something I should have a new attitude about?

Does this text reveal something I should make a decision about?

Does this text reveal something I should do for the sake of Christ, others or me?

Hebrews 10:25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

“If you work the words into your life, you are like a smart carpenter who dug deep and laid the foundation of his house on bedrock. When the river burst its banks and crashed against the house, nothing could shake it; it was built to last” (Luke 6:48 MSG).

John 15:5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

___   I read the Bible daily.

___  I regularly study the Bible to find direction for my life.

___  I seek to be obedient by applying the truth of the Bible to my life.

___  I have a good understanding of the contents of the Bible. 

Takeaway:

Spiritual Growth Questions for September 15, 2019

(take one question each day and grow deeper in Bible study)

Please use at least one of these questions with each passage and write down your responses.  If helpful write them down in your Bible for future use. 

Does the text reveal something I should believe about God?

Does this text reveal something I should praise, thank, or trust God for?

Does this text reveal something I should pray about for myself or others?

Does this text reveal something I should have a new attitude about?

Does this text reveal something I should make a decision about?

Does this text reveal something I should do for the sake of Christ, others or me?

1.     Read Psalm 119:9-24, Psalm 1:2-3.  What is the difference between studying God’s Word and hiding it in our hearts?  What is the difference between reading God’s Word and meditating on it day and night?  What are the promised benefits for doing this?   

2.     Read Matthew 13:1-23.  According to this passage, what enemies of the Word are taking root in our hearts?  How do we open our hearts to be more receptive to the Word?  Explain how you might apply this into your own Bible reading and listening to the Word.

3.     Read Psalm 119:33-40 three times.  Take some time to meditate on these verses.  What do you think the psalmist is asking for?

What does he want to do and not to do?  Write a prayer for your own life like this one.

4.     Read Psalm 119:97-112 three times.  Write down what the psalmist outlines as the benefits of Bible study.  Do you feel the same way as the psalmist?  Why or why not?

5.     Read Matthew 4:1-11.  Describe each temptation and how Jesus uses the word to overcome each one.  What can we learn from this?  How could this be applied to our lives?

6.     As a group discuss the motivations someone could possess for studying the Bible.  Discuss which reasons are the most compelling.

7.     What obstacles usually hinder a person from practicing consistent Bible study?  Discuss ways to overcome these challenges.

Memory Verse:  Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

John Lloyd - Right Relationship With God

Strengthen Your Core Series

Salvation: How to Have a Right Relationship with God

September 8, 2019

Pastor John Lloyd

Our physical bodies are made up of several core muscles.  If kept in shape through exercise, they will function properly.  God’s goal for followers is to make us more like Jesus.  This happens when we think like Jesus, CORE beliefs, act like Jesus, CORE practices and be like Jesus, CORE virtues.   We need to exercise our CORE in order to glorify God.  The journey of becoming like Jesus begins by thinking like Jesus. When we start thinking like Jesus, we are well on our way to becoming like Jesus.  Today, we will focus on how we come into a right relationship with God.

Acts 2: 36 Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.” 37 Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 38 And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” 40 And with many other words he bore witness and continued to exhort them, saying, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation.” 41 So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.

Ephesians 2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9not a result of works, so that no one may boast.



Key Idea: A person comes into a right relationship with God by God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ.

The Problem:   We are not born into a relationship with God.

The Solution:   There is only one solution and our good God provided it.

The Outcome:  We have a lasting relationship with our loving God.

 How do I come into a relationship with God?

I.               We are not born into a __________________________ with God.

 Romans 5:12 Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned.



Romans 5:15 But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if many died through one man’s trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free gift by the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many.

Psalm 58:3 The wicked are estranged from the womb; they go astray from birth, speaking lies.

Jeremiah 17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick, who can understand it?

John 2:24 But Jesus on his part did not entrust himself to them, because he knew all people.

Some ways humans try to deal with this problem:

A.     It’s something we __________ or _________________.

Galatians 2:21 I do not nullify the grace of God, for if righteousness were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose. Ephesians 2:9

B.     People ________________ their own way.

Genesis 3:5 For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”

Isaiah 53:6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way;

C.    ________________ is going to make it.  (Universalism)

2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. (Revelation 20:11-15)

Romans 9:2 I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart… 

Takeaway:

II.  There is only one ________________ and God provided it.

Acts 4:12 And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

Exodus 12:13 The blood shall be a sign for you, on the houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague will befall you to destroy you, when I strike the land of Egypt.

Isaiah 53:5 But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.

John 19: 30 When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

Hebrews 9:14 how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.  (Acts 2:38)

Acts 20:21 testifying both to Jews and to Greeks of repentance toward God and of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.

Takeaway:

III. The outcome is a ________________ relationship with God.

John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

I Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.

Acts 2:36 Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.”

Romans 5:17 For if, because of one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ.

Romans 10:9 because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.

Colossians 2:6 Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him,

Takeaway:

Based on your hearing this message on salvation.  How strongly do you believe the statements below (1= no belief at all, 6 complete confidence).

____  I believe I will inherit eternal life because of what Jesus has done for me.

____  I believe nothing I do or have done can earn my salvation.

____  I believe salvation comes only through Jesus.

____  I believe people are saved because of what Jesus did, not because of what    

they do.

Spiritual Growth Questions for September 8, 2019

(Take one question each day and grow deeper in your relationship with God)

1.  Read Genesis 2:8 & 9, 2:15-17, 3:1-24.  How would you describe Adam and Eve’s life in the garden before they disobeyed God?  What was life with God like afterward?  How have modern minds disbelieved this Genesis account?  Discuss how freewill allows the possibility of both love and evil?

2.  Read Exodus 12:21-31, Hebrews 10:1-14.  What are the similarities between the sacrificed lamb and the sacrifice of Jesus?  What type of “Passover” has been caused by Jesus’ blood applied to our lives? 

3.  Study/Discuss the problem of evil.  Read Isaiah 1:5, Jeremiah 17:9, Romans 3:10 and 3:23.  What do these verses teach about the effect of evil? How has evil affected our relationship with God? Read Colossians 2:14-15.  What has God done to remedy evil?

4. Discuss what is at stake if I believe I can work or earn my way to heaven.  Read Ephesians 2:8-9, Galatians 2:21, Acts 15:11.  What impact does this view have on the sacrifice of Jesus?

Group Questions: 

5.  What visible attributes can be found in someone who has received the gift of salvation?

6.  Read Ephesians 2:8-9.  How would you define the word grace?  What is the opposite of grace?  What makes grace such a difficult concept to grasp?

7.  Read Romans 5:12-21.  How did Jesus’ choice overturn the effect of Adam and Eve’s sin in our lives?  What do these Scriptures tell you about the character of God and his feelings toward you and all of humanity?

8.  How do I have a relationship with God? 

9.  How is the sacrifice of Christ applied to us individually?  What do we do actively and passively? 

10.  Is there someone in your life who needs to know about salvation by grace through faith in Jesus?  What’s stopping you from having that conversation?

Memory Verses:  Ephesians 2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

John Lloyd - Joy

Strengthen Your Core Series

Joy: God’s Provision for Endurance

September 1, 2019

Pastor John Lloyd

Our physical bodies are made up of several core muscles.  If kept in shape through exercise, they will function properly.  God’s goal for followers is to make us more like Jesus.  This happens when we think like Jesus, CORE beliefs, act like Jesus, CORE practices and be like Jesus, CORE virtues.   We need to exercise our CORE in order to glorify God.  The journey of becoming like Jesus begins by thinking like Jesus. When we start thinking like Jesus, we are well on our way to becoming like Jesus.  Today we will focus on joy as God’s provision for endurance.

John 15:5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 7If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. 9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. 11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.

Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. 18 Whoever thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men.

Key Idea: Despite my circumstances, I feel inner contentment and understand my purpose in life.

What gives us true happiness and contentment in this life?

I.                Find the real source of _____________.

Psalm 16:11 You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy;  at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Luke 2:10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

If seeking blessings first, joy depends on the blessings. If seeking Jesus first, joy depends on our unchanging Savior. 

 John 15:9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. 11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.

Takeaway: 

II.  Joy is available even in the ___________________ circumstances.

Philippians 4: 11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Hebrews 12:2 Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 11:34)

Habakkuk 3:17 Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, 18 yet I will rejoice in the LORD;  I will take joy in the God of my salvation.19 GOD, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like the deer’s; he makes me tread on my high places.

Joy has more to do with remaining in the presence of Jesus than avoiding problems and struggles of this life. (see Psalm 16:11)

Happiness is a state of mind; joy is a mindset.

Happiness comes and goes while joy can be constant.

Happiness is dependent, joy is independent.

Happiness is conditional, joy is unconditional. Randy Frazee

Takeaway:

III.  Choosing joy brings ___________________ and _________________.

James 1: 2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.  I Peter 1:6-8

John 16:22 So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.

 Only Jesus can make our lives flourish in the midst of trouble. In Him, joy is strengthened when life is challenging. Joy can grow through our difficult circumstances. 

Takeaway:

IV.  Joy comes when the _____________ are _______________.

Luke 15:3 So he told them this parable: 4“What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? 5And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ 7Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. (Luke 10:20)

Takeaway:

 V.  Joy will replace or reduce _________________.

Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Proverbs 17:22 A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

Nehemiah 8:10 And do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.”

Joy becomes a filter by which we view life.  It’s not rose colored glasses; it’s a brand new set of eyes.  Joy changes our perspective and perception of negative circumstances.  Joy is an ongoing reminder that God is in control. He is in charge of the outcome.  Joy comes from trusting the controller of all things. Frazee

The joy of Christ will become contagious through us.

The joy of Christ will draw others to Christ through us.

Joy, use a scale of 1 – 6 to rate how fully your life demonstrates the statements below (1 = does not demonstrate at all, 6 = demonstrates fully).

______I have inner contentment even when things go wrong.

______ Circumstances do not dictate my mood.

______ I am excited about my sense of purpose for my life.

______ I can be content with the money and possessions that I now have.

Spiritual Growth Questions for September 1, 2019

(take one question each day and grow deeper in joy)

1.     Carefully read Psalm 16.  As you read make note of what the psalmist (David) did to increase his joy.  What does he warn that will increase sorrow?  What verse stands out to you?  How can it be applied in your life right now?

2.     Read John 10:10, Romans 14:17-18, Philippians 4:4, I Thess. 5:16.  Describe what each one teaches us about the Christian life.

3.     Read Psalm 16:11, Psalm 66:18, Isaiah 59:2.  Christian joy is essentially the enjoyment of communion with God.  In view of this, what do Psalm 66:18 and Isaiah 59:2 suggest concerning a common hindrance to joy?  What then should be one of the first things we do when we are not experiencing the joy of the Lord?

4.     Read James 1:2-4, Romans 5:3-5 gives us God’s perspective regarding trials of our faith that He either allows or sends into our lives.  What is this perspective?  How could we maintain joy in the midst of trials?

5.     Read Romans 15:13, 15:4 and Romans 8:28.  What is the promise given to us?  Does the fulfillment of this promise depend on our believing it?  Explain your answer.  How can the message of Romans 15:13 help us appropriate the promise of Romans 8:28? 

6.     Taking the long-range view of life helps us increase our joy. Study the following passages of Scripture, and then describe what it means to take the long-range view.  Read Romans 5:2, 2 Corinthians 4:18, Hebrews 10:34, I Peter 1:6. 

How often do you joyfully acknowledge God’s goodness in your life? Identify one good thing God has given to you or done for you in the past week.

Take a moment to celebrate it with someone else.

What is impeding your ability to choose a lifestyle of joy?

How can you overcome this obstacle?

List two or three Scriptures used in this outline to help you grow in your joy. How can you master these verses so that they can be effective in your life?

What action step can you take this week to increase the presence of joy in your daily life? 



John Lloyd - Prayer

Strengthen Your Core Series

Prayer:  Avenue to God’s Transforming Power

August 25, 2019

Pastor John Lloyd

Our physical bodies are made up of several core muscles.  If kept in shape through exercise, they will function properly.  God’s goal for followers is to make us more like Jesus.  This happens when we think like Jesus, CORE beliefs, act like Jesus, CORE practices and be like Jesus, CORE virtues.   We need to exercise our CORE in order to glorify God.  The journey of becoming like Jesus begins by thinking like Jesus. When we start thinking like Jesus, we are well on our way to becoming like Jesus.  Today, we will explore some answers to the question: “How do I grow by communicating with God?”

Matthew 6:9 Pray then like this: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.10 Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread, 12 and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. 

Luke 22:31 “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, [4] that he might sift you like wheat, 32 but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.”

Luke 22: 41 And he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, 42 saying, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.” 43 And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him.



Key Idea:  I pray to God to know Him, to find direction for my life and to lay my requests before him.

Key Question: How do I grow by communicating with God?

I.               Follow the ________________ of Jesus.

Mark 1:35 And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed. (Lk.6:12, Mark 6:46)

Matthew 26:39 And going a little farther he fell on his face. “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.”

Prayer is the practice creating the vital connection between God’s heart and ours.  Randy Frazee

“I pray because I can’t help myself.  I pray because I’m helpless.”

C.S. Lewis concerning his wife’s battle with cancer.

II. Prayer is a way to __________ God.

Psalm 77:10 Then I said, “I will appeal to this, to the years of the right hand of the Most High.”11 I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. 12 I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds.

Luke 22: 41 And he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, 42 saying, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.” 43 And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him.

“Prayer, secret, fervent, believing prayer-lies at the root of all personal godliness.” William Carey

Job 13:15 Though he slay me, I will hope in him; yet I will argue my ways to his face.

Isaiah 55:8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD.  9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. (Philippians 3:8-10)

Take Away:

III.  Prayer is a way to find the __________________ we need.

Psalm 25:4 Make me to know your ways, O LORD; teach me your paths. 5 Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long.

“To pray is to change.  Prayer is the central avenue God uses to transform us.  If we are unwilling to change, we will abandon prayer as a noticeable characteristic in our lives.  When we pray God slowly and graciously reveals to us our hiding places, and sets us free from them.” Richard Foster

Psalm 25:12 Who is the man who fears the LORD?  Him will he instruct in the way that he should choose.

Prayer is not talking; it is listening.

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

Take Away:

IV.  Prayer is a way to lay our ___________________ before God.

I Peter 5:7 Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

When we are in the spirit of prayer… we want what He wants… we love what he loves.  Richard Foster

Luke 11:9 And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 10 For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.

Hebrews 11:35 Women received back their dead by resurrection. Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, so that they might rise again to a better life. 36 Others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. 37 They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword. They went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, mistreated— 38 of whom the world was not worthy—wandering about in deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.

Hebrews 11:39 And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised,

Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Prayer is not only a practice; it is a privilege! To have direct access to the one true God 24/7 proves he is a personal God who wants to be in a relationship with us. Each time we pray we affirm our identity as children of God. He not only gives us the right to come to him, but he also longs for us to come to him. Jesus modeled the life of prayer during his stay on earth. Prayer (talking, listening and resting in God’s presence) is an effective way to know him better and find direction for our lives. Why carry life’s burdens alone when God invites us to lay them before him? When we do, we find a peace that transcends all understanding.”  Randy Frazee Think, Act and Be like Jesus

Which statements are easy to declare with certainty?  Which are more challenging, and why?

_____ I seek God’s will through prayer.

_____ I regularly confess my sins to God.

_____ Prayer is a central part of my daily life.

_____ I seek to grow closer to God by listening to him in prayer.

Take Away:

Spiritual Growth Questions for August 25, 2019

(Take one question each day for your daily devotions.)                                           How do I grow by communicating with God?

1.     Read Mark 1:32-35, Luke 6:12-16, Mark 6:39-46, Matthew 26:36-46

Notice how Jesus prayed before and after every major event in his life.  What can we learn from the pattern of prayer Jesus demonstrated?

2.     Read Psalm 77:1-20, Ecclesiastes 5:1-3.  What can we learn about prayer from the psalmist and Solomon? 

3.     Read Judges 6-7.  What do Gideon’s interactions with God teach us about God’s character?

4.     Read Luke 11:1-13.  What main points does Jesus teach about prayer?

5.     Read Philippians 4:6-9.  How do Paul’s words about prayer encourage you?  How do they challenge you?

Group starter questions:

A.     In what ways have you seen and experienced the power of prayer at work?

B.     In what ways has prayer helped you navigate the tough decisions that life throws at us?

C.    What one aspect of Jesus’ prayer life would you like to emulate?

KEY VERSE: “If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened; but God has surely listened and has heard my prayer. Praise be to God, who has not rejected my prayer or withheld his love from me!” (Psalm 66:18 – 20)

As you recite this verse, ask yourself, “Does my life reflect this statement?”  I pray to God to know Him, to find direction for my life and to lay my requests before him.

1.     How could this practice be applied in my life?

2.     What visible attributes can be found in someone who regularly connects with God through prayer?

3.     What impedes your ability to communicate with God?  How can you overcome these obstacles?

4.     What action step can you take this week to develop your connection with God through prayer?  



Evan Rogers - Live From Done

Strengthen Your Core Series

Relationship With God / Live From Done

August 18, 2019

Evan Rogers

 Who can have a relationship with God? 

Who is God? 

What does having a relationship with God look like? 

Why would I want one? 

How do I maintain a relationship with God? 

All the answers to these questions are found in the Bible.

The Bible is about God’s rescue plan.

Genesis 1:1 In the beginning, God

Lord is used 7365 times in the King James Bible It is the most used Noun in the entire bible. God is the second most and is used 4,293. Jesus is used 953 and Christ 523 times.

Specific nouns referring only to God are used 13,134 times. 

Luke 24:27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures

the things concerning himself.

John 5:39 You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me,

Revelation 22:5 And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever.

Genesis 2:15 The LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it. 16 And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, “You may surely eat of every tree of the garden, 17 but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.”

Genesis 6: 5 The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.

Mark 10:18 And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone.

Genesis 9:11 I establish my covenant with you, that never again shall all flesh be cut off by the waters of the flood, and never again shall there be a flood to destroy the earth.”

Genesis 15:18 On that day the Lord made a covenant with Abram, saying, “To your offspring I give this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the river Euphrates,

Exodus 24:8b “Behold the blood of the covenant that the Lord has made with you in accordance with all these words.”

1 Samuel 8:7 And the LORD said to Samuel, “Obey the voice of the people in all that they say to you, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected me from being king over them. 8 According to all the deeds that they have done, from the day I brought them up out of Egypt even to this day, forsaking me and serving other gods, so they are also doing to you.

2 Samuel 7:12 “When your days are fulfilled and you rest with your fathers, I will set up your seed after you, who will come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He shall build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be his Father, and he shall be My son. If he commits iniquity, I will chasten him with the rod of men and with the blows of the sons of men.

15 But My mercy shall not depart from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I removed from before you. 16 And your house and your kingdom shall be established forever before you. Your throne shall be established forever.” ’ ”

Jeremiah 23:7 “Therefore, behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when they shall no longer say, ‘As the Lord lives who brought up the people of Israel out of the land of Egypt,’ 8 but ‘As the Lord lives who brought up and led the offspring of the house of Israel out of the north country and out of all the countries where he had driven them.’ Then they shall dwell in their own land.”

John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. 4 In him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. 

14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Romans 8:22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now.

Luke 19: 9 And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Evaluate your heart right now in this moment. Are you guilty? Have you contributed to the stain of sin in the earth? Have you cursed the very ground God was so kind to give you? Have you wronged a brother? 

Luke 23:20 Pilate addressed them once more, desiring to release Jesus, 21 but they kept shouting, “Crucify, crucify him!”  

We Killed Him. 

We destroyed everything God ever gave us, so he gave us himself. 

Luke 24:6 He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, 7 that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on the third day rise.”

John 3:13 No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. 14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. 

16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. 

18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. 19 And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. 

20 For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. 21 But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.”

Romans 5:6 For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die— 8 but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 

9 Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. 10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. 

11 More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.

Matthew 7:22 On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ 23 And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’

I Corinthians 13:1 If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.

1 John 4:19 We love because he first loved us.

John 14:15 “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever,

1 Corinthians 1:26 For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; 

28 God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, 29 so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. 30 And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption, 31 so that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.”

2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Romans 8:31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? 

35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? 

37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Matthew 22: 36 “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” 37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.

John Lloyd - Love

Strengthen Your Core Series

Love: God’s Heart Expressed

August 11, 2019

Pastor John Lloyd

Our physical bodies are made up of several core muscles.  If kept in shape through exercise, they will function properly.  God’s goal for followers is to make us more like Jesus.  This happens when we think like Jesus, CORE beliefs, act like Jesus, CORE practices and be like Jesus, CORE virtues.   We need to exercise our CORE in order to glorify God.  The journey of becoming like Jesus begins by thinking like Jesus. When we start thinking like Jesus, we are well on our way to becoming like Jesus.  Today, we will answer this question:  What does it mean to sacrificially and unconditionally love others?

I Corinthians 13:4 Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant 5 or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; 6 it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. 7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8 Love never ends.

I John 4:10 In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us.



Key Idea:  I am committed to loving God and loving others.

Definition:  God’s love is unconditional, sacrificial, forgives and perseveres.

John 15: 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

Abides- to stay put; to continue in a specified condition, endure.

Believing/thinking like Jesus revolves into Acting like Jesus and then turns to being like Jesus.  The process is driven by the very presence of God. Frazee

What does it mean to sacrificially and unconditionally love others?

I.                God’s love is ________________________.

John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

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

Romans 8:38 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Takeaway: We receive God’s unconditional love and pass it on to others.

II. God’s love allows us to __________ like we never could before.

A.      God’s love is _______________________.

I John 4:10 In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

Ephesians 5:2 And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Ephesians 5:25 Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her,

John 15:13 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.

I John 3:16 By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.

“Love gives, even at great cost to itself.”  Jerry Bridges

I John 4:19 We love because he first loved us.

Takeaway:  We receive Christ’s love for us and then pass it on to others.

B.      God’s love __________________.

I John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Psalm 32:5 I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not cover my iniquity; I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD,” and you forgave the iniquity of my sin. Proverbs 28:13

 Micah 7:18 Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over transgression for the remnant of his inheritance? He does not retain his anger forever, because he delights in steadfast love. 19 He will again have compassion on us; he will tread our iniquities underfoot.    You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.

Colossians 3:13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. 

Reflective question:  How can withholding forgiveness be an adversary of genuine love? 

 Takeaway:  We receive Christ’s forgiveness and then pass it to others.

C.  God’s love ______________________.

I Corinthians 13:7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Romans 5:5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

What the Spirit, given, …to faith, does, is to flood the heart with God’s love and with assurance of it. 

John 7:38 Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’”

Titus 3:5 he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, 6whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,

Matthew 5:43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,

I Peter 1:22 Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart,

Colossians 3:14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.

There are three overall prayer requests I make for myself and for others whom I pray: that I and they would grow in holiness, humility, and love.  Of these three, love has priority, for if I love God I will seek to be holy and I love other people I will seek to be humble, putting their interests ahead of mine.  Jerry Bridges.

Which statements are easy to declare with certainty? Which are more challenging and why?

_____  God’s grace enables me to forgive people who have hurt me.

_____  I rejoice when good things happen to other people.

_____  I demonstrate love equally toward people of all races.

_____  I frequently give up what I want for the sake of others.

Takeaway: We receive God’s forbearance with us and then pass it on

Spiritual Growth Questions for August 11, 2019

(Take one question each day for your daily devotions.)                         How can I honor God in the way He deserves?

1.     Read I Corinthians 13 and make two lists.  What are the characteristics of love in the positive sense (all that love is).  What characteristics does love not have? 

2.     Read I Samuel 19.  Write down the ways that Jonathan offered David unconditional love.  What stands out to you?

3.     Read John 13:31-35.  What quality of love stands out in these verses? 

4.     Read I John 4:19-21.  What is the best strategy for developing authentic and genuine love for God and others?

5.     Matthew 18:21-22. Discuss how withholding forgiveness can be an adversary of genuine love.  

Discussion Questions:

Put in your own words what happened in the shift from the Great Commandment of the Old Testament to the new commandment of Jesus.

How could this virtue express itself in your life?

What visible attributes can be found in someone who embodies the virtue of love?

What is impeding your ability to embrace this virtue?  How can you overcome this obstacle?

Who are the toughest people for you to love?  Family members? Coworkers? Strangers? Explain why.

It’s easy to love someone who meets our needs.  Is it possible to genuinely loves someone who does nothing for you or even hurts you?  If so, how? 

What action step(s) can you take this week to love more like Jesus?

(Questions drawn from Randy Frazee’s Think, Act and Be like Jesus and Believe Study Guide)

I Corinthians 13:7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8 Love never ends.

John Lloyd - Worship

Strengthen Your Core Series

Worship: Giving God the Honor He Deserves

August 4, 2019

Pastor John Lloyd

Our physical bodies are made up of several core muscles.  If kept in shape through exercise, they will function properly.  God’s goal for followers is to make us more like Jesus.  This happens when we think like Jesus, CORE beliefs, act like Jesus, CORE practices and be like Jesus, CORE virtues.   We need to exercise our CORE in order to glorify God.  The journey of becoming like Jesus begins by thinking like Jesus. When we start thinking like Jesus, we are well on our way to becoming like Jesus.  Today, we will ask the question, “How can I honor God in the way He deserves?”  Worship Him! 

Psalm 95:1 Oh come, let us sing to the LORD;  let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!  2 Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving;  let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise! 3 For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods. 4 In his hand are the depths of the earth; the heights of the mountains are his also. 5 The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land. 6 Oh come, let us worship and bow down;  let us kneel before the LORD, our Maker!  7 For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand.

Matthew 4:10Then Jesus said to him, “Be gone, Satan! For it is written,  “‘You shall worship the Lord your God  and him only shall you serve.’”



Key Idea:  I worship God for who He is and what He has done for me.

Definition:  Worship is attributing worth to something or someone.

The spiritual discipline of publicly and privately worshiping God is one of the means He has given us to receive grace to grow in Christlikeness. Worship is the first spiritual discipline that helps key beliefs to move from my head to my heart.  Randy Frazee

How can I honor God in the way He deserves?

I.                Worship is ______________ on and ________________ to God.

Worship comes from the Saxon word weorthscype, which later became worthship. To worship God is to ascribe the proper worth to God.

95:1. He has offered salvation to us.  95:2. Everything we have is due to His blessing.  95:3. He is great and above all other gods. 95:4-5. His creation is breathtaking. 95:6 He is our maker… we are His creation

95:7 He desires for us to be His people and our Shepherd.

Romans 12:1 I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.  John 4:23

Things that enliven our worship and start revival in our hearts: (from the Welsh revival which started from the youth). Evan Roberts

1.     Put away any unconfessed sin.  Psalm 66:18

2.     Put away any doubtful habit.   I Corinthians 6:12

3.     Obey the Holy Spirit promptly.  Acts 5:32

4.     Confess Christ publicly.  Romans 1:16

Takeaway:  Live throughout this week as an heir to the kingdom, listening for His voice and obeying His Word.

II. Worship God ____________ and _____________________.

A commitment to worship God is a vow to be bold and unashamed of our love and devotion to him.  We worship God for who He is and what He has done for us.

A.     Worship through our ____________ of praise.

Exodus 15:1 Then Moses and the people of Israel sang this song to the LORD, saying,“I will sing to the LORD, for he has triumphed gloriously;  the horse and his rider  he has thrown into the sea. 2 The LORD is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation; this is my God, and I will praise him, my father’s God, and I will exalt him. 3 The LORD is a man of war; the LORD is his name.

Exodus 15:11 “Who is like you, O LORD, among the gods?  Who is like you, majestic in holiness,  awesome in glorious deeds, doing wonders?

20Then Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women went out after her with tambourines and dancing. 21And Miriam sang to them: “Sing to the LORD, for he has triumphed gloriously; the horse and his rider he has thrown into the sea.”

Describing the modern culture, “they worship their work, work at their play, and play at their worship.”  Lord help us to cultivate the discipline of worship.”  Donald Whitney Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life.

B.     Worship through our daily _______________.

Daniel 6:5 Then these men said, “We shall not find any ground for complaint against this Daniel unless we find it in connection with the law of his God.”

Daniel 6:10 When Daniel knew that the document had been signed, he went to his house where he had windows in his upper chamber open toward  Jerusalem. He got down on his knees three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as he had done previously.

C.    Worship through our ________________________.

Acts 16:23 And when they had inflicted many blows upon them, they threw them into prison, ordering the jailer to keep them safely. 24Having received

this order, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. 25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns and the prisoners were listening to them,

If worship does not change us, it has not been worship.  If worship does not propel us into a greater obedience, it has not been worship.  Richard Foster

Takeaway:  I am not ashamed for others to know that I worship God.

III. Worship together in ___________________.

Hebrews 10:22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. 17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Take Away: I commit to worship God with the songs I sing, the words I speak and the way I live my life. Dong this habitually will surely lead me closer to the great and gracious God of the universe.   Psalm 95:1-2

Revelation 5:9 “Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, 10 and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth.”

Which one of these are easy to declare with certainty?  Which are more challenging and why? 

____I thank God daily for who he is and what he is doing in my life.

____I attend religious services and worship with other believers each week.

____I give God the credit for all that I am and all that I possess.

____I am not ashamed for others to know that I worship God.

Spiritual Growth Questions for August 4, 2019

(Take one question each day for your daily devotions.) How can I honor God in the way He deserves?

1.      Read Psalm 95:1-7.  What does the passage tell us about how and why we should worship God?

2.     Read Daniel 6:1-27.  What effect did Daniel’s bold worship have on the unbelieving King Darius? In what ways do you think our modern-day worship could have that same effect?

3.     Read Matthew 23:1-28.  With what behaviors and attitudes of the Pharisees did Jesus take issue?  (Hint: Jesus introduces each one with “woe to you.”)

4.     Read Acts 16:16-35. Why do you think God desires that we worship him when we are in a difficult situation? When was the last time you worshiped God when it might not have immediately made sense to do so?

5.     Read Colossians 3:1-17.  According to the apostle Paul, what was the centerpiece of New Testament worship? What attitudes and actions constituted proper worship? 

Discussion Questions:

6.     As a group, make a list of different ways that worship can be expressed to God.

7.     What about God’s character compels you to give him your worship?

8.     Discuss which worship song lyrics best describe your feelings about God?

9.     In what diverse ways do you see your fellow group members expressing worship to God?

10.  In what ways can worship become a heartless ritual?

11.  What can we learn from Jesus’ rebuke of the Pharisees?  How do we keep ourselves from making the same mistake?

12.  What has God done in your life that produced a desire to worship Him?

(Questions drawn from Randy Frazee’s Think, Act and Be like Jesus and Believe Study Guide)

Michael Porter - Jesus Is Supreme

Christ is Supreme

July 21, 2019

Michael A. Porter

Christ is central to the Christian faith. Jesus himself asserted this in John 14:6, “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” Because of this, the most important thing we must know about a person is what they believe about Christ. And while there are many passages that talk about the person and work of Jesus Christ, Colossians 1:15-20 covers all the essentials and encapsulates them in just three words: Christ is Supreme.

Below is a condensed outline of my much longer message on Colossians 1:15-20. Again, the big idea of this message is simple: Christ is supreme. This will be shown with the two points listed below.
 

Christ is Supreme

1. Christ is supreme over __________________. (vv. 15-17)

Paul’s Claim:

Looking first at v. 15, Paul boldly declares Christ’s supremacy over creation in a twofold manner. First, Paul declares Christ as being “the image of the invisible God,” meaning that in Christ the invisible God became visible in the flesh (compare with John 1:14). Second, Paul declares Christ as being “the firstborn of creation,” which illustrates Christ’s supremacy in rank over creation, much like how the firstborn son of a royal family is of a higher rank and privilege than his younger siblings. Collectively, Paul is making the point that Jesus is not only distinct from creation as the very image of God, but also that Jesus stands supreme over creation as the unrivalled firstborn heir to the throne.

Discussion Question: What are some of your initial thoughts about this grand picture of Jesus?

Paul’s Reasoning:

Looking at vv. 16-17, Paul then provides reasons to back up the claim he made in v. 15, particularly with respect to Jesus’ status as the firstborn Lord over all creation. Looking at v. 16, his reasoning is simple: because creation was made by Jesus, through Jesus, and for Jesus. Looking at v. 17, Paul drives this point home further by affirming by explaining that not only did Jesus exist before creation, but it is in Jesus that creation continues to exist into the future. That said, Jesus’ supremacy over creation is obvious.

Discussion Question: What difference does realizing the supremacy of Christ over creation make in the way we live our day-to-day lives? 

1. Christ is supreme over the _______________________. (vv. 18-20)

Paul’s Claim:

Following the same pattern as before, Paul boldly declares Christ’s supremacy in v. 18, and then gives his reasoning in vv. 19-20. Looking first at his claim in v. 18, we see that Paul shifts his focus from creation over to the redemption of a new creation, i.e. the church. According to v. 18, the church is not only a new creation, but it is so valuable that it is referred to as Christ’s own body! Moreover, this new creation was founded by Christ through his resurrection from the dead, and this further attests to his supremacy over everything – even over death.

Discussion Question: How might this passage be an encouragement to a believer wrestling with the question of their own worth?

Paul’s Reasoning:

Lastly, looking at vv. 19-20, Paul explains the basis for how this new creation came about. In v. 19, Paul reminds the reader that Christ was fully God in human form. Why? Because only God incarnate could accomplish what Jesus accomplished. And what did Jesus accomplish? Looking at v. 20, Paul explains that this new creation came about by the cross of Christ. The only way that true peace can be made between God and his fallen creation is by dealing with the penalty of sin – that is, death. Jesus Christ, the supreme Lord over creation, lowered him to the point of entering into his own creation as a baby, lived a sinless life undeserving of death, and yet died anyway as the ultimate offering for sin. Christ took the death penalty that rebellious humanity deserved, and by the blood of his cross, made peace between the Holy God and sinful humanity. So, Christ is supreme over creation in that he brought life out of nothing, and Christ is supreme over the new creation, the church, in that he brought life out of death. In short, he is supreme over everything. 

Discussion Question: How do you respond to all of this?

John Lloyd - Strengthen Your CORE

Strengthen Your Core Series

Introduction: Strengthen Your CORE

July 14, 2019

Pastor John Lloyd

Our physical bodies are made up of several core muscles.  If kept in shape through exercise, they will function properly.  God’s goal for followers is to make us more like Jesus. This happens when we think like Jesus, CORE beliefs, act like Jesus, CORE practices and be like Jesus, CORE virtues.   We need to exercise our CORE in order to glorify God. Today, we will continue to introduce what CORE is all about. 
 

Acts 14:21 When they had preached the gospel to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch, 22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God. 23 And when they had appointed elders for them in every church, with prayer and fasting they committed them to the Lord in whom they had believed.

4 Key Principles to Strengthen Our Spiritual CORE

1. Christ  __________________.

Philippians 3:10 I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,

Philippians 3:8 What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ.

What are the key beliefs of Christianity that, when embraced in the mind and the heart, create true change in our individual lives, in the church, and in the world?  

We will study God, Personal God, Salvation, The Bible, Identity in Christ, Church, Humanity, Compassion, Stewardship, Eternity and Thinking and believing like Jesus did, through the following lenses:

Key Question:  What life question does the belief answer? Key Idea: What is the most unifying concept of this belief that most Christians embrace? 

Key Application:  What difference does it make in the way I live?

2 Corinthians 10:4For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. 5We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ,

Ephesians 6:16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one;

What I believe drives what I become.  The first resides in the head alone but the latter comes from the head and heart.

Think like Jesus

1. Others ________________.  

The difference between believing something as the right answer and believing something as a way of life.  The first resides in the head alone; the latter camps out in the head and the heart. Randy Frazee

Engaging in Biblical Practices:  Worship, Prayer, Bible Study, Single-Mindedness, Total Surrender, Biblical Community, Spiritual Gifts, Offering My Time, Giving My Resources, Sharing My Faith. 

Philippians 2:4 Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.  Philippians 2:5

What I should do?  What practices should fill my life?  

Act like Jesus

1.   Reaching ________________ deeply.

Thinking like Jesus causes us to be acting like Jesus, which then turns further to being like Jesus.  Who am I becoming? 

Ten Key Virtues of who am I becoming:  Love, joy, peace, self-control, hope, patience, kindness/goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and humility.

Galatians 4:19 My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you,

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. I Tim. 4:12, Proverbs 22:6.

1 Peter 4:2 As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.

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

Be like Jesus

1.   Every person a _________________.

1 Peter 4:10 Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms.  11 If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

Galatians 5:6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.

1 Corinthians 12:27 Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.  Acts 17:11

1 Thessalonians 2:13 And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe.

Acts 14:22 strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. "We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God," they said.

Live like Jesus

Spiritual Growth Questions for July 14, 2019

1.  Read Ephesians 6:10-20.  Read two times.  What words and thoughts stand out to you?  What did Paul want the Ephesians to know and do?  Explain the value of believing/faith in our spiritual battle? (vs.16) How could you apply this to your walk right now?

2. Read Acts 14:21-23. Observe what Paul is doing. What principles is he teaching these new disciples?  What is he doing that you could do with someone in your network? Who could you help in this manner?  How will you do it?   

3. Read I Peter 4:10-11.   What is the Apostle Peter telling his readers?  How do these verses speak to you?   

4. Where can I serve that will strengthen the Body of Christ and my spiritual CORE?  Lord who have you placed in my life to share the Gospel of Jesus with this summer?   Consider the BLESS approach.

John Lloyd - Strengthen Your CORE

Introduction: Strengthen Our CORE

July 7, 2019

Pastor John Lloyd

Our physical bodies are made up of several core muscles.  If kept in shape through exercise, they will function properly.  God’s goal for followers is to make us more like Jesus. This happens when we think like Jesus, CORE beliefs, act like Jesus, CORE practices and be like Jesus, CORE virtues.   We need to exercise our CORE in order to glorify God. Today, we will introduce what CORE is all about.
 

Matthew 28:18 Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

Luke 24:46 He told them, "This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

Ephesians 4:11 It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers,4:12 to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up

4 Key Principles to Strengthen Our Spiritual CORE

1. Christ  __________________:

Philippians 3:10 I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,

1 Corinthians 2:2 For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.  Galatians 6:14

Philippians 3:8 What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ.

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 2 Corinthians 10:4-6.

What are the key beliefs of Christianity that, when embraced in the mind and the heart, create true change in our individual lives, in the church, and in the world?  

We will study God, Personal God, Salvation, The Bible, Identity in Christ, Church, Humanity, Compassion, Stewardship, Eternity and Thinking and believing like Jesus did, through the following lenses:

Key Question:  What life question does the belief answer?

Key Idea: What is the most unifying concept of this belief that most Christians embrace? 

Key Application:  What difference does it make in the way I live?

What I believe drives what I become.  The first resides in the head alone but the latter comes from the head and heart.

Think like Jesus

1. Others _________________:  

The difference between believing something as the right answer and believing something as a way of life.  The first resides in the head alone; the latter camps out in the head and the heart. Randy Frazee

Engaging in Biblical Practices:  Worship, Prayer, Bible Study, Single-Mindedness, Total Surrender, Biblical Community, Spiritual Gifts, Offering My Time, Giving My Resources, Sharing My Faith. 

Philippians 2:4 Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.  Philippians 2:5

Romans 12:10 Honor one another above yourselves.

1 Peter 1:22 Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart.

2 Timothy 3:15 and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

What I should do?  What practices should fill my life?  

Act like Jesus

1.   Reaching ______________ deeply:

Thinking like Jesus causes us to be acting like Jesus, which then turns further to being like Jesus.  Who am I becoming? 

Ten Key Virtues of who am I becoming:  Love, joy, peace, self-control, hope, patience, kindness/goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and humility.

Galatians 4:19 My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you,

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. I Tim. 4:12, Proverbs 22:6.

1 Peter 4:2 As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.

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

Be like Jesus

1. Every person a __________________:

1 Peter 4:10 Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms.  11 If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

Galatians 5:6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.

1 Corinthians 12:27 Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.  Acts 17:11

1 Thessalonians 2:13 And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe.

Acts 14:22 strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. "We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God," they said.

Live like Jesus

Spiritual Growth Questions for July 7, 2019

1.  Read Colossians 2:6-10.  Read two times.  What words and thoughts stand out to you?  What did Paul want the Colossians to know and do?  How could you apply this to your walk right now?

2. Read II Corinthians 10:3-6.  What principle is Paul teaching the Corinthians?  What is he telling them to do with their thoughts? Discuss why our thoughts are critical.  What helps you in this area? In what areas am I letting myself, my fleshly desires, or my ways, gain preeminence over God’s ways?  How can I exalt you more in my life? Pick one thing that you will do this week to exalt Christ?

3. Read I Peter 4:10-11.   What is the Apostle Peter telling his readers?  How do these verses speak to you?   

4. Where can I serve that will strengthen the Body of Christ and my spiritual CORE?  Lord who have you placed in my life to share the Gospel of Jesus with this summer?   Consider the BLESS approach.