Service God using us Series 8 new (b) Month June Character of the Spirit

Honour and Respect

To Esteem Someone Else Highly

“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each __________________ other better than themselves.”

Philippians 2:3 KJV 1900

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

I. Introduction

A. Today the world honours, thieves, thugs, music and movie stars and other ungodly people. The honour due to God and others has been all but wasted on

something to be laughed at in our society, but the bible commands us to honour our father and mother.

B. We give honour and respect to others because their character demands it not them, but in the world the vilest of people demand respect. The thugs say "you dissed me" meaning you showed them no respect. The wicked want respect without earning it. For the world, "being" respected is the same as "earning" honour and respect but they are as far away from each other as night and day. It used to be a man received respect and honour because of his virtuous character. Today as with everything else they want something for nothing.

C. For the Christian, honour and respect should be reserved the Lord, and then also for those that the Scriptures tell us to honour.

Romans 13:7 KJV 1900

Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

II. De

To hold or look to someone with high esteem, and to revere or regard highly. The opposite of honour and respect is when we “despise” someone.

III. Lesson

A. Honour belongs in the ____________ – respect everyone in your home!

1. Parents _____________________ honour from their children (). God makes promises for the children who honour Father and Mother

Ephesians 6:1–3 KJV 1900

Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;) That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.

2. Parents have a responsibility to ____________ this honour as well!

a. By not being full of wrath and anger in your home ()

Ephesians 6:4 KJV 1900

And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

b. By taking the time to teach your children right and wrong – don’t just demand respect (; )

Proverbs 1:8 KJV 1900

My son, hear the instruction of thy father, And forsake not the law of thy mother:

Proverbs 23:22 KJV 1900

Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, And despise not thy mother when she is old.

c. Make rules, and be just expect your children to honour and obey you when you are not clear in your expectations and rules (; )

Proverbs 1:8 KJV 1900

My son, hear the instruction of thy father, And forsake not the law of thy mother:

Proverbs 6:20 KJV 1900

My son, keep thy father’s commandment, And forsake not the law of thy mother:

d. Both Fathers and Mothers have a duty to instruct their children in the ways of the Lord. The children are to honour and obey their parents instruction. Both have an obligation in the honour bestowed upon parents.

3. The alternative to honouring and obeying is found in

Proverbs 30:17 KJV 1900

The eye that mocketh at his father, And despiseth to obey his mother, The ravens of the valley shall pick it out, And the young eagles shall eat it.

Honour and Respect

4. Wives Must honour and respect Their ________________________ (). The key word there is ___________________________.

Ephesians 5:33 KJV 1900

Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

5. Wives Should __________________ be greatly honoured from their husbands ()

1 Peter 3:7 KJV 1900

Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.

B. There should be Honour in the __________________

1. Honour your Pastor (). You honour your pastor by:

a. Being in church with your family every time the doors are open

b. Being ready to help in anything that he says needs to be done

c. Paying him as a church to pastor you all – don’t expect a pastor to do everything at his own expense, because he will run out of money very fast!

d. Call him “Pastor” – it is an earned title. Don’t call him by his

e. Pray for him every day. He is wrestling with the darkness of this world on your behalf and needs prayer support.

2. Have Personal Honour Towards Yourself (; ,)

1 Thessalonians 4:4 KJV 1900

That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;

2 Timothy 2:20 KJV 1900

But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.

2 Timothy 2:21 KJV 1900

If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, and prepared unto every good work.

3. Toward each Other (,)

1 Corinthians 12:23 KJV 1900

And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.

1 Corinthians 12:24 KJV 1900

For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked:

C. Christians MUST Show Respect of Others in the World

1. Have a good ______________________________ in the world () 2. The Bible says to honour all men and the king ()

Proverbs 22:1 KJV 1900

A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, And loving favour rather than silver and gold.

1 Peter 2:17 KJV 1900

Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.

a. Never speak disrespectfully of your authorities, whether they are saved

or lost.

b. If they are in authority, they are GOD’S ministers ()

Romans 13:1–7 KJV 1900

Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

c. So, pay your taxes, say “Yes Sir” and “Yes Ma’am” to the police and Garda.

IV. Application

A. As Christians we should seek to give honour unto whom honour is due ( ). It honours God to obey His word so let be doers of the word and not hearers only.

Romans 13:7 KJV 1900

Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

B. As Christians we should live so as to deserve honour but not demand it. This kind of life will not only bring us the respect we should seek after but honour the Lord because of the life we are living. To live an honourable life not only honours God but puts forth the right picture of Jesus Christ our Saviour to a lost and dark world.

C. Quote: It is better to deserve honours and not have them than to have them and not deserve them. --Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens)

V. Conclusion

A. A Warning from the Lord ()

1 Samuel 2:30 KJV 1900

Wherefore the Lord God of Israel saith, I said indeed that thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever: but now the Lord saith, Be it far from me; for them that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.

B. A Blessing to the Lord ()

Revelation 4:11 KJV 1900

Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.

C. Let's seek to honour God

Compassion

Suffering with another person

“But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he

was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him”

Luke 10:33 KJV 1900

But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him,

I. Introduction

1. Behind acts of kindness is the driving force of compassion. Compassion is not just feeling moved by another’s condition - but moved to _____ something.

B. The Bible says in the last days that, “men will be lovers of their own selves” (). That is a generation that is only interested in giving if they are sure of getting something in return. ()

1 Timothy 3:1–4 KJV 1900

This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;

Proverbs 30:12–14 KJV 1900

There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, And yet is not washed from their filthiness. There is a generation, O how lofty are their eyes! And their eyelids are lifted up. There is a generation, whose teeth are as swords, And their jaw teeth as knives, To devour the poor from off the earth, And the needy from among men.

C. Compassion and kindness is thinking of others before ourselves. It used to be a simple act of courtesy to give an elderly person your seat on a crowded bus. That is because you knew that it was the right thing to do.

D. We must think with the mind of Christ in every situation that we in. Just a simple act of kindness in His name (), is pleasing to our Lord.

Philippians 2:4–5 KJV 1900

Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

II. Let’s De

A. What do YOU think compassion is? It simply means “___________________________

____________ _____________________.”

B. Compassion is NOT the same as ____________. The difference between compassion and pity is pity feels bad about a situation but compassion does something to change it.

C. Many times we think compassion is sympathy. Feeling bad about the hurt or misfortune of another. Compassion is that sympathy, but it is a sympathy that stirs your heart to do something about the hurt or misfortune of another D. Examples of compassion are when people suffer with another person (“____________ with them that weep”, ).

Romans 12:15 KJV 1900

Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.

E. A Christian needs to stop looking at their own circumstances (no matter how troubled) and look at the circumstances of others, and see themselves in their place, and set out to help them!

F. Jesus had in judgment only) on others! We are too quick to judge others, and see all their meeting those needs – even though they do not deserve it!

III. Bible examples of people who had compassion

A. _______________ ()

Mark 1:41 KJV 1900

And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean.

B. The ____________ ___________________________ (-25-37) C. ________________________ daughter ()

Luke 10 KJV 1900

After these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself would come. Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest. Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves. Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes: and salute no man by the way. And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house. And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it: if not, it shall turn to you again. And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house. And into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you: And heal the sick that are therein, and say unto them, The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you. But into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you not, go your ways out into the streets of the same, and say, Even the very dust of your city, which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off against you: notwithstanding be ye sure of this, that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you. But I say unto you, that it shall be more tolerable in that day for Sodom, than for that city. Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. But it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment, than for you. And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted to heaven, shalt be thrust down to hell. He that heareth you heareth me; and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me. And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name. And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven. Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven. In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight. All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him. And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see: For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them. And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou? And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself. And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live. But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour? And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee. Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves? And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise. Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.

Exodus 2:5–7 KJV 1900

And the daughter of Pharaoh came down to wash herself at the river; and her maidens walked along by the river’s side; and when she saw the ark among the flags, she sent her maid to fetch it. And when she had opened it, she saw the child: and, behold, the babe wept. And she had compassion on him, and said, This is one of the Hebrews’ children. Then said his sister to Pharaoh’s daughter, Shall I go and call to thee a nurse of the Hebrew women, that she may nurse the child for thee?

Compassion

IV. Why is Compassion Important in a Christians life

A. What your life would be like without Compassion?

B. What would your life be like WITH Compassion?

V. Where should Christians Show Compassion Today? Where would Compassion be important in our lives?

A. In our homes

B. In our church ()

Galatians 6:10 KJV 1900

As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

C. All around us – we just have to have our eyes OPEN, and we will see SO MANY NEEDS FOR COMPASSION!

VI. How Do We Get Godly Compassion?

A. By repentance from _________________________________

B. By humbling ourselves and doing __________________ things for others (as Christ washed the disciple’s feet)

C. By forgetting about ourselves and setting out to be a blessing to the needs around us

D. By being thankful for God’s goodness to you, and how the Lord has comforted you in your troubles, so that YOU could be a comfort to others in THEIR troubles (,)

2 Corinthians 1:3 KJV 1900

Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;

2 Corinthians 1:4 KJV 1900

Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

VII. Conclusion

A. How can compassion change the world we live in?

Compassion is what moves us to act! Jesus acted in that He preached the gospel. We may not be able to heal the sick like He did but we can tell the world about Jesus Christ and the life-saving gospel. The greatest act of compassion would be to see the world as Jesus sees it – LOST, weak, scattered and needing the Great Shepherd.

Servanthood

Someone who voluntarily serves another

“But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.”

Matthew 23:11 KJV 1900

But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.

I. Introduction

A. God never intended any servant of His, in any kingdom or rank, to be ____________. Jesus Christ, our great role model, did not sit down in Jerusalem and require those who needed His salvation to

effort He went about doing good—teaching the ignorant, soothing the sorrowing, pardoning the guilty, and saving the lost, teaching the Sermon on the Mount, giving sight to a blind Bartimaeus; then restoring the mind of a poor maniac, and sending him home to bless his family; then, raising the dead, casting out devils and healing the diseased; afterwards, mingling His tears with the af

opposition could turn aside, and with a singleness of purpose that neither men nor devils could frustrate or discourage, He continued to preach, pray, and travel—to reclaim the depraved, to deliver the oppressed, elevate the downtrodden, and comfort the distressed—until He

B. And how closely did the respect! From the day of Pentecost they committed themselves to the work of Christ, and bore the burden and heat of the day until life's sun went down. They attempted to do, and did for Christ what Alexander, Caesar, and Napoleon Bonaparte attempted to do in war—conquer the world! How rightly is a Book the Bible called, the "acts of the apostles!" The ACTIONS, EFFORTS of those century Christians that were so united, self-denying, daring, and persevering, that in a few years they salvation.

C. Oh that we as believer would begin once again to serve! To serve our worthy Lord, and to serve unworthy man! So that Christ may be Lord of all!

II. De

A. The characteristic of one who _________________________________ serves, or does services for another. A servant is not a slave because a slave has no choice, but a servant does!

B. A person who labours or exerts himself for the bene employer; a servant is a subordinate helper.

C. “For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the _______________ _________

Galatians 5:13 KJV 1900

For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.

_____________________. “

D. “For though I be ____________ from all men, yet have I ____________ __________________ servant unto all, that I might gain the more.”

1 Corinthians 9:19 KJV 1900

For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.

Servanthood

E. , “If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an _____________________, that ye should ______ as I have done to you. “

John 13:14 KJV 1900

If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet.

John 13:15 KJV 1900

For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.

F. , “But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be _____________________ ______ _________.”

Mark 10:43 KJV 1900

But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister:

Mark 10:44 KJV 1900

And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all.

III. Servants in the Bible

A. _______________ () “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of ______ ______________________________, and took upon him the form of a _____________________, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he _____________________ himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

Philippians 2:5–8 KJV 1900

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

B. The ________________________ (; ; ) they introduced themselves as ________________________.

2 Peter 1:1 KJV 1900

Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ:

James 1:1 KJV 1900

James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.

Titus 1:1 KJV 1900

Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God’s elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness;

C. The Good Samaritan ()

Luke 10:31–35 KJV 1900

And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.

IV. The Characteristics of a Servant

A. As servants we must not strive,

B. As servants we must be _____________________ to all men () even if they are against us.

2 Timothy 2:23 KJV 1900

But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.

C. As servants we must be apt to teach (), serving the bread of life to hungry hearts and souls!

2 Timothy 2:23 KJV 1900

But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.

D. As servants we must be _____________________ (), serving, not demanding!

2 Timothy 2:23 KJV 1900

But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.

E. As servants we must in meekness, instruct those who oppose themselves - in a meek, serving kind of spirit we are to instruct those who are Christians yet are

not acting like one to repent and do right ()

2 Timothy 2:24–26 KJV 1900

And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

F. They are NOT to act like God over others, but under them! ()

John 13:16 KJV 1900

Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.

G. As servants we can expect persecution as Jesus did () H. Other characteristics include…

John 15:19–21 KJV 1900

If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do unto you for my name’s sake, because they know not him that sent me.

V. How to be a Christian Servant

A. Do everything you do as _____________________ _________ ____________, out of love for HIM ()!

Colossians 3:23 KJV 1900

And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

B. Look for needs in people’s lives and start

C. Be enthusiastic about getting to serve others – this will take some surrendered prayer

D. Never refuse an opportunity to serve

E. Don't expect recognition - a servant is almost never honoured for his work

F. Serve the unsaved as if they were the Lord Jesus, and use it as an opportunity to witness

G. Serve others when things are going well and also when not going well

H. Serve God in all He tells us to do - Soul-Winning, Teaching others, join a ministry, pray for others.

Long-Suffering

Putting up with injuries against you for a long time

“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is ____________ to us-ward, not willing

that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”

2 Peter 3:9 KJV 1900

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

I. Introduction

A. The world desperately needs to see Christians who will not give up on people, the way the world does. There needs to be the sense that we care, and that we will not STOP caring no matter what.

B. The heroes of today's culture, portrayed in the media as angry, aggressive defenders of democracy, destroy without patience or forethought all opposing forces regardless of their personal qualities. In our impatient, self-centered world, one quality of character has all but perished: longsuffering. Similar to patience and forbearance, longsuffering is the quality of self-restraint in the face of provocation. A person who is longsuffering is not quick to retaliate or promptly punish someone who has insulted, offended, or harmed him. The opposite of anger, it is intimately associated with mercy. Longsuffering is an attribute of God and thus a fruit of His Holy Spirit.

C. Let us consider two things: The longsuffering of God and the Christian.

D. This important trait in the Christian's character needs to be seen before a lost world. They will never know of the longsuffering of God unless we tell them. They will never see the longsuffering of God unless we show them. This trait is from God and can only be displayed to a lost world through a broken, spirit

then give God complete control over our lives.

E. Notice God's Longsuffering ()

2 Peter 3:9 KJV 1900

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

F. Christian Longsuffering ()

Galatians 5:22 KJV 1900

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

II. De

A. What it does NOT mean? It does NOT mean moping around with no joy and that “poor me” look on our faces? Waiting in the face of utter hopelessness? No! Not at all.

B. What it DOES mean. Putting up with injuries or provocation against you for a long time. Not ever with anger; enduring even in the face animosity for the bene

C. Longsuffering is more than just __________________. We can be patient in a queue at a store or in heavy traf

D. Longsuffering on the other hand is embedded in the very character of God. We cannot reveal it in ourselves but the Holy Spirit can. It is a fruit of the Spirit

Galatians 5:22 KJV 1900

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

Long-Suffering

III. Example of longsuffering in the Bible.

A. God the Father – towards the nation of Israel

B. The Lord Jesus (; )

1 Peter 3:20 KJV 1900

Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water.

2 Peter 3:9 KJV 1900

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

1. Jesus Christ suffered long in the face of mockings, ridicule, hatred,

2. How is longsuffering exempli

)

2 Peter 3:14–15 KJV 1900

Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;

3. Christ's patient and enduring handling of sinners demonstrates His longsuffering. God promises that He will be long-tempered with us as we repent and dedicate ourselves to the obedience and service of God. As in everything else, Jesus Christ sets the standard of longsuffering.

C. Paul the Apostle in his ministry (; ; ; ;)

2 Corinthians 6:1–10 KJV 1900

We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed: But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings; By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true; As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.

Galatians 2:21 KJV 1900

I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

1 Timothy 1:16 KJV 1900

Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.

2 Timothy 3:10 KJV 1900

But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,

2 Timothy 4:2 KJV 1900

Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

1. Why did Paul exhibit longsuffering in his Christian life?

2 Corinthians 6:1–10 KJV 1900

We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed: But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings; By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true; As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.

a. Vs.1. He would not frustrate the ____________of God. ()

Galatians 2:21 KJV 1900

I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

b. Vs.3 He did not want to bring an _____________ to the ministry.

c. Vs.4. He wanted to be __________________ of God.

2. One of the reasons the Lord saved Paul ()

1 Timothy 1:16 KJV 1900

Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.

a. Paul said he was a ____________ for all to see of the mercy and

___________________ of Christ Jesus.

b. We should desire to be an example of the work of Jesus Christ in us.

3. How did Paul exhibit longsuffering?

2 Timothy 4:2 KJV 1900

Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

4. Paul showed longsuffering in his _______________ ministry and dealings with others.

IV. How can each Christian show forth Longsuffering? (; ,)

Ephesians 4:1–3 KJV 1900

I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Colossians 3:12 KJV 1900

Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

Colossians 3:13 KJV 1900

Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

A. In our ________________. – Be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath –

James 1:19 KJV 1900

Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

B. In our ________________ - People will be saved as we show the same longsuffering God hast toward this world

2 Peter 3:9 KJV 1900

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

C. In our ______________ as a Christian. - We can be more fruitful as we learn patience. We add this virtue to our character as we grow in the Lord.

1 Peter 1:4–8 KJV 1900

To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:

D. In our ________, and _______________ toward each other. () E. In our ___________ those away from God

Ephesians 4:32 KJV 1900

And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

(1 Tim.2:24,25 )

V. How to have longsuffering as a virtue in our lives. (; )

Psalm 86:15 KJV 1900

But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, Longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth.

Galatians 5:22 KJV 1900

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

A. Remember Who God is. “But thou, O, Lord, art God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth.”

B. Yield to the Spirit and be longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,”

Loyalty

Committed dependability to a person or goal

“…there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.”

Proverbs 18:24 KJV 1900

A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: And there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

I. De

A. The word Loyal means “unswerving in allegiance” as in, “Fidelity to a prince or sovereign, or to a husband or wife.”

B. It means being ____________ to someone or something. Never thinking of what could break the relationship. Committed to being dependable and trustworthy to your God, spouse, friends, church and pastor.

II. Introduction

A. When you think of loyalty, doesn’t your mind immediately think about a dog? There are few things as dependable as a good family dog! We associate this trait with our canine friends because they are just that: Loyal! True blue!

B. The example of Heidi, a Jack Russell Terrier from Scotland. In 2001, a Jack Russell terrier named Heidi scrambled down a 500-foot drop to get to her owner, Graham Snell. Snell had fallen off the cliff while hiking and died instantly. Heidi stayed by her master's side for two days until rescue teams them.

C. That is loyalty and we could learn from Heidi, but, we want to see biblical loyalty in this lesson. The loyalty that we need is a commitment towards our God and towards each other. The scriptures give us some great examples of Christian friendship.

D. Oh, that there was loyalty to each other amongst the Lord's people. That we would esteem others better than ourselves and from that would come an intense loyalty toward one another.

E. To love one another is the Lord's command (,; ,); If we but just obeyed the Lord wholly and completely in this one command we would have true loyalty to each other. ____________ for another person (not love OF them, but love FOR them) is the root of loyalty!

John 13:34 KJV 1900

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

John 13:35 KJV 1900

By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

John 15:12 KJV 1900

This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.

John 15:17 KJV 1900

These things I command you, that ye love one another.

F. This command to love in the Bible is given to the husband directly and is a great truth taught to the young girls seeking to marry (). Men are to love their wives as Christ loved the church (). Out of this fruit of the Spirit springs loyalty toward each other in the marital relationship.

Titus 2:4 KJV 1900

That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,

Ephesians 5:25 KJV 1900

Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

G. Let's learn about Biblical Loyalty that needs to be the backbone of every relationship that we as Christians enter into.

III. Lesson

A. Why do we need to be Loyal?

1. The Bible teaches all believers to become loyal, faithful, dependable, committed to important things and people in our lives!

2. The world needs to see what real loyalty, and dependability is. Most every person is committed only to themselves. Jesus taught us to be faithful and loyal to God!

3. _______________ should be setting the example

4. The strength of a _________, like the strength of an army, is in its loyalty to each other.

B. A Biblical Example of Loyalty - _______________ _________ ________________________

1. Who were these men, and why did they become so loyal/faithful to each other?

2. How was their loyalty tested?

3. How are they examples to us?

4. If you want to be loyal like Jonathan, you must:

a. A loyal friend will give you his best to __________________ ;

1 Samuel 18:1–4 KJV 1900

And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking unto Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. And Saul took him that day, and would let him go no more home to his father’s house. Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul. And Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that was upon him, and gave it to David, and his garments, even to his sword, and to his bow, and to his girdle.

b. Jonathan gave to David his garments and sword in honouring their friendship and covenant. It showed Jonathan’s outward act of his inward love and loyalty toward David. Jonathan was saying I am behind you and I will show you.

c. EX. Should we not show our loyalty in our homes and in our churches and amongst our friends the same way. Show our loyalty to our wives by outward acts of love and commitment to them. Nothing can come between a man and wife when that man is loyal to his wife.

d. A loyal friend will defend you with _____________. ;

1 Samuel 19:1–7 KJV 1900

And Saul spake to Jonathan his son, and to all his servants, that they should kill David. But Jonathan Saul’s son delighted much in David: and Jonathan told David, saying, Saul my father seeketh to kill thee: now therefore, I pray thee, take heed to thyself until the morning, and abide in a secret place, and hide thyself: And I will go out and stand beside my father in the field where thou art, and I will commune with my father of thee; and what I see, that I will tell thee. And Jonathan spake good of David unto Saul his father, and said unto him, Let not the king sin against his servant, against David; because he hath not sinned against thee, and because his works have been to thee-ward very good: For he did put his life in his hand, and slew the Philistine, and the Lord wrought a great salvation for all Israel: thou sawest it, and didst rejoice: wherefore then wilt thou sin against innocent blood, to slay David without a cause? And Saul hearkened unto the voice of Jonathan: and Saul sware, As the Lord liveth, he shall not be slain. And Jonathan called David, and Jonathan shewed him all those things. And Jonathan brought David to Saul, and he was in his presence, as in times past.

e. Jonathan spoke well of David and on David's behalf even before his father because the truth stands on its own.

f. We should always stand on the truth wherever that takes us. Loyalty is

in our relationships. Our homes should be havens of truth, between husbands and wives and parents and children. The truth will strengthen our loyalty to each other

g. A loyal friend will not think of his own _______ but what is ________ 1Sam.

20:16-42

h. Jonathan’s commitment to David did not stop when his own life was threatened. Jonathan was able to stay loyal because he

what was the right thing to do. We must seek to follow after right and we will always be loyal to what is right, even in the face of severe trial and trouble.

i. Choose to be loyal over being

j. A loyal friend will want what God wants for your life. A loyal friend will step back from his own personal gain to assure your place in God's will

C. A Biblical Example of Disloyalty - _______________ towards His Saviour (Ex , )

Matthew 26:33–35 KJV 1900

Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended. Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples.

Matthew 26:69–75 KJV 1900

Now Peter sat without in the palace: and a damsel came unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee. But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest. And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth. And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the man. And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech bewrayeth thee. Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew. And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly.

1. Good intentions aren’t enough – Peter, though purposing to follow the Lord no matter what, fell away in time of testing. Loyalty requires faithfulness to a

friend even at the cost of your own comfort, happiness and maybe your life! We could set out on a course to be loyal and fail miserably like Peter did in time of trial. Loyalty looks past personal safety and needs, to the needs of the one we intend to be loyal to.

IV. Application Thoughts

A. There are many People and Ideals we must be loyal to:

1. To our __________________

2. To our ________________________ - to our parents, grandparents

3. To our _____________________

4. To our _____________________ - the will of God for your life

5. To real _________________________________

6. To our _________ _________ ________________________!

B. There are some Limits to our Loyalty:

1. When parents try and pull us back from our loyalty to God ()

Luke 14:26 KJV 1900

If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.

2. When friends try and be more important to us that our family, and our relationship with God

3. When temptations try and pull us off course from doing God’s will

C. What is the main purpose of Loyalty?

1. To help others serve and honour God even in the midst of a dark and troubled world.

2. Be a loyal husband and honour your wife because it honours God

3. Be a loyal wife because your husband needs your loyalty to him to help him serve God.

4. Be a loyal friend because we need each other in these trying times.

5. Be loyal to our church because it must be a place of rest in a troubled world.

6. Be a loyal child to parents because it honours them and especially the Lord.

D. The Focus must always be on helping others serve God

1. Aaron and Hur help Moses to help Joshua and the armies of Israel defeat the Amalekites. Loyalty to the goal of serving the Lord and honouring His cause will help us to be loyal to one another.

2. Joshua's loyalty - The Israelites depended on Joshua to lead them into battle.

V. Final Thoughts

A. A Friend (someone who is loyal) is someone who loves at all times () – one who is there when needed, and available. He will trust the bible to help you, he will not give opinions but truth –

Proverbs 17:17 KJV 1900

A friend loveth at all times, And a brother is born for adversity.

B. A Loyal friend is more valuable than Gold (), The iron must contact the iron. The loyal friend will strengthen your character - not dull it.

Proverbs 27:17 KJV 1900

Iron sharpeneth iron; So a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

C. Be faithful so that people can depend upon you! (,,) This loyal friend has a real love, a restoring love and an open love. The loyal friend will be there to help with biblical counsel

Proverbs 27:5 KJV 1900

Open rebuke is better than secret love.

Proverbs 27:6 KJV 1900

Faithful are the wounds of a friend; But the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.

Proverbs 27:9 KJV 1900

Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: So doth the sweetness of a man’s friend by hearty counsel.

Hospitality

Extending friendship to others

“Use hospitality one to another ______________

___________________.”

1 Peter 4:9 KJV 1900

Use hospitality one to another without grudging.

I. Introduction

A. All Christians should be hospitable.

B. Why? Because of the grace of God that has been extended to each and every one of us. God should be very angry at us, but is very patient, and giving towards us, and never complains at how we take advantage of Him and of His gifts!

C. Notice our main Scripture says that we are to be gracious and kind and open to meeting the needs of others “_____________________ ________________________!”

D. Obviously, when you try to help people, and open up your home to them, they will take advantage of your kindness, but that is a lesson to learn well because we all have done the same towards God!

E. Jesus Christ changes us into HIS likeness, and asks us to be hospitable toward others

II. What is Hospitality?

A. The attitude of extending friendship to others, entertaining guests, to be friendly or neighbourly

B. The _____________________ ______ ____________ ____________ to others

C. We are to be kind, loving, patient, prayerful and many other things toward one another, but also meeting the needs of each other and "given to hospitality” (). This is very important. It will keep you humble when you look after the needs of others. It shows kindness and friendship to the body of Christ. It binds us together like super glue.

Romans 12:13 KJV 1900

Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.

D. But being hospitable is not an act towards __________________ people, or towards those who can pay your back – it is the act of being a blessing to someone even though they are unworthy.

E. This is where we get our word “________________________” from. Our homes, and our attitudes ought to be like a hospital – we take in anyone into our lives, and try to help them, and minister to them, even when they may turn around and not appreciate it at all!

F. The world knows nothing of true hospitality. Real hospitality gives – it does not look to GET. If anyone should be hospitable it should be the Christian. There were no Hospitals until Jesus came and taught us about true hospitality!

G. Think of this… Do you realize God is going to let a sinner like you into His heaven? If that is not hospitality I don't know what is. You know why God can let you an me into His heaven? Because He changed the relationship we had with each other. When we got saved He made those who used to be His enemies into His family. See . He not only has invited us to His heaven, but

Romans 5:6–10 KJV 1900

For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.

Hospitality

He is actually building us a Mansion to live in up in heaven. THAT’S a welcoming kind of hospitality!

III. Other Examples of Hospitality

A. ____________ _________ __________________ ()

Luke 10:38–42 KJV 1900

Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.

B. __________________ __________________ _________ _________________________________ towards the Jews () When you take in, and clothe, and help the least, you are doing it to the Lord Jesus!

Matthew 25:34–40 KJV 1900

Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

C. The __________________ _________ _________ __________________ _____________________ should be hospitable (; )

1 Timothy 3:2 KJV 1900

A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;

Titus 1:8 KJV 1900

But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate;

D. All Christians should be very hospitable towards others (). It is a commandment!

1 Peter 4:9 KJV 1900

Use hospitality one to another without grudging.

IV. How To Become Hospitable as a Christian

A. Pray and ask God to take away your _________________________________

1. We are all-too-often sel our homes and our cars, so that we don’t allow anyone to “mess” them up, or accidently spill anything anywhere near our furniture or carpets!

2. If you only have the “best” of guests in your home, Jesus rebukes you, and commands you to invite the lame, the cripple, the poor right into your home ()

Luke 14:12–14 KJV 1900

Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee. But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind: And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.

B. Force yourself to be a ________________________ to someone you of your kindness

C. ____________ your home to a church-wide time of fellowship, dedicating your home and everything that happens in it to the Lord!

D. Give of your time and your money to just be a blessing to someone who is lonely, or even lost!

E. Can you think of any more ways to be hospitable?

Gratefulness

The ability to look at what someone does for you, no matter how insigni “Thank you!”

“Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be _____________.”

Philippians 4:11 KJV 1900

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.

I. Introduction

A. There is a terrible defect in the present type of Christian character today, and it is the lack of a CALM, SATISFIED, CHEERFUL SPIRIT. B. The religion of Christ is a joyful religion.

C. "Happy is that people whose God is the Lord." "Rejoice in the Lord alway, and again I say, rejoice." In whatever state the early saints were—they were content. In everything they gave thanks. If sorrowful, they were always rejoicing (). They were cheerful in the house of their pilgrimage. They charmed the ear of a godless world by their songs of joy, as they walked on to the grave.

2 Corinthians 6:10 KJV 1900

As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.

D. But how have modern Christians deteriorated in this respect! Has Christianity changed? Its grounds of joy are the same, Jesus Christ is the same, the promises are the same, the grace of God is the same, and the hope of heaven is the same.

E. "Some professors have long and demure faces, and are always sighing and groaning as if they were at a _____________________."

F. It is time, then, that such mistaken views of Christianity should be corrected. We owe it to lost souls around us to be satisfied

is the world's great pursuit, and they should see Christians who are experiencing it because we are grateful.

II. Lesson

A. Definition

1. Gratefulness is the ability to look at what someone does for you, no matter how insigni _______________ _________! ____________ ______

____________ ____________ ___ __________________!”

2. To be grateful is to be constantly appreciative of what others, and especially GOD does for us!

3. Thankful for absolutely everything (; )

Ephesians 5:20 KJV 1900

Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;

1 Thessalonians 5:20 KJV 1900

Despise not prophesyings.

B. Definition

1. Contentment is the ability to look at what you have and say, “___ ____________ __________________. If the Lord didn’t bless me any more than what I currently have as a Christian, then I am eternally blessed”

2. The opposite of Contentment is Contention. “It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a _________________________________ and an angry woman.” See also ; and 27:15.

Proverbs 21:19 KJV 1900

It is better to dwell in the wilderness, Than with a contentious and an angry woman.

Proverbs 22:10 KJV 1900

Cast out the scorner, and contention shall go out; Yea, strife and reproach shall cease.

3. When you are contentious, it means you are not willing to be content with what you have, with whatever outcome you are left with, and therefore would rather

C. These two words are interlinked and depend upon each other to exist. You cannot have gratefulness without contentment, and you will never be content without also being grateful!

D. Examples of Contentment

1. ____________ – both out of prison, and especially IN prison

2. _______________ (). Jesus never minded not having his own house, or horse, or anything at all. Jesus made Himself poor for our sakes ()

Matthew 8:20 KJV 1900

And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.

2 Corinthians 8:9 KJV 1900

For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

E. An Example of Gratefulness. The _______________ who wiped Jesus’ feet with her tears (). She was VERY grateful for being forgiven!

Luke 7:36–50 KJV 1900

And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee’s house, and sat down to meat. And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner. And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on. There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most? Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged. And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also? And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.

F. Dangers of Discontentment - it will become an open door for the devil to show you “better” things out in the world

1. In a church – you will become critical of everything, and everyone but yourself, and you will end up leaving Church, and then only living for yourself once again!

2. In a family – you will have a home full of grumpy people who never want to be home, even though it is full of toys and entertainment, but everyone is spoiled!

3. In a marriage – if a spouse is not content with their mate, they have taken the

III. How to Develop Gratefulness and Contentment

A. Repent of your ____________ _____________________, and the harm you have thereby done—and cheer up! Has not your God done enough and promised enough to shame you out of your gloomy fears, and induce you to take down your harp and commence the transporting song? Jesus Christ atoned for your sins, and through Him you have a hope of forgiveness. For you, death has been abolished, hell conquered, and heaven purchased. For your good, God has pledged that all things shall work together.

B. Get back to _______________ ________________________ God for your needs – quit complaining and murmuring about things like the world around you. To be content, and grateful for what you already have is a command! “And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages.”

Luke 3:14 KJV 1900

And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages.

C. Get rid of any _______________ that you might have about your self, or your rightness in an argument. “Only by pride cometh contention.”

Proverbs 13:10 KJV 1900

Only by pride cometh contention: But with the well advised is wisdom.

D. Learn how to be grateful by ______________________________ – it does not happen overnight, or automatically. “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have _____________________, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.”

Philippians 4:11 KJV 1900

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.

E. Develop GODLINESS godliness with contentment is great gain.”

F. Develop your relationship with the Lord Jesus as your HIGHEST

________________________ because everything else will come and go, but He won’t! Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

Hebrews 13:5 KJV 1900

Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

G. Seek _____________________, and His righteousness, and His honour by your life, and everything you ever need and more will be added to you ()

Matthew 6:33 KJV 1900

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Force yourself to __________________ _________ for what you already have because it probably is MUCH more than the basics that the Bible says we should be grateful for! “And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.”

1 Timothy 6:8 KJV 1900

And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.

Perseverance/Steadfastness

Patient endurance in trials

"This one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which

are before, I _______________ __________________ the mark for

the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus"

Philippians 3:14 KJV 1900

I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

I. Definition

A. Perseverance is being able to put up with dif commitment and hard work, calmly and without complaint. Perseverance is patiently enduring. It is also persistence in any thing undertaken; continued pursuit or prosecution of any business or enterprise begun.

B. This is expressed in someone who just ____________ _________ ____________ ______. You just keep going, keep working, keep pressing on. Paul did, Thankfully Jesus did, and we can and should.

C. The Bible tells in "...that a just man falleth seven times and riseth up again..." Real perseverance is the Christian never stopping, backing down, quitting, or giving up doing God’s will!

Proverbs 24:16 KJV 1900

For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: But the wicked shall fall into mischief.

II. Introduction

A. What do we really understand about perseverance? Like Paul in prison we must be so committed to our goal that nothing can stop us. No matter the hardship or roadblocks in our way, we must persevere. Also like the tree above we must seek to grow even when the severest of circumstances are presented.

B. In order to accomplish something most often we must continue to press on after others have given up. Franklin Roosevelt said "Perseverance is when coming to the end of your rope, you tie a knot in it and hold on.

C. Perseverance for the Christian is “The continued pursuit of a goal or command until accomplished. It often involves coming to the end of our patience, and still trusting God to wait a little longer. It is coming to end of our forgiving spirit toward others and to look to God Who forgave us and forgive others (). Peter asked how many time in a day we should forgive others, and the reply was 7 x 70. Just persevere. It is living for the Lord every day and not backsliding. Just press on.

Ephesians 4:32 KJV 1900

And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

D. The world sees their heroes as sports

Michael Phelps, marathon runners, iron man triathlon etc. What the world really needs to see are Christians who are persevering in the walk with Jesus Christ. Christians who haven't stopped believing the Bible, telling the "Old, Old Story", living holy lives, raising godly children, and believing in a Christian home.

Perseverance/Steadfastness

III. Why do we need Perseverance? to ful

)

Galatians 6:9–10 KJV 1900

And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

A. To __________________ _________ __________________. Patience and perseverance overcome the greatest dif

will help you get through the troublesome times, the dif

serious or grave the circumstances. Paul had faith in the Lord and he kept moving forward (persevering) to the end.

B. Our perseverance is for __________________. Our perseverance in doing good works is toward others. "And let us not be weary in well doing:..." We will reap the rewards of faithfully persevering in serving others. IE; salvations, seeing Christians growing, maturing in the Lord, families restored.

IV. How do we Persevere?

A. By _______________ " ...I have kept the faith…"

2 Timothy 4:7 KJV 1900

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:

B. By trusting in the Lord and His promises, we run by persevering as as in a marathon not a sprint.

C. By recognizing the ____________

perseverance ____________ _________ in the end. Our families will be won to the Lord if we do not quit. Our nation will be turned back to God, if we stay faithful to the Lord.

V. The Fruit of Perseverance ()

Romans 2:7 KJV 1900

To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:

A God honouring home and church in the face of troubles

A. Marriages that last and homes that are heaven on earth. Places where Jesus Christ is honoured. How?

B. By doing what is right all the time, _______________ time. This is persevering which honours the Lord. The fruit then is glory in our homes and churches. Where dignity and righteousness prevail. Where honour is upheld in spite of the world and its troubles. Just keep doing right in spite of the world's in troubles.

1. Perseverance keeps our character strong - Just keep doing right! It will help us to replace our bad habits with good habits. Habits are just that, things that we continue in, "... patient continuance..." The fruit then is the diligent seeking to do right till doing right becomes a natural act or habit for us.

2. Perseverance of righteousness will honour the Lord

C. Question: What will go a long way in changing our world?

D. Answer: _________________________, who won’t give up, shut up, or quit!

VI. Conclusion

A. We all need to press on like Paul.

B. Perseverance is for the honour and glory of God. We do not persevere to be saved but BECAUSE WE ARE SAVED.

C. God has done so much for us, we should press on (persevere) to do so much for Him. Let us not stop short of the mark. We are to then stop. It was the turtle not the hare that is not to the swift but to those that endure, so, persevere to the end.