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

Introductory Lesson

The Priority of Personal Integrity

“The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.”

Proverbs 20:7 KJV 1900

The just man walketh in his integrity: His children are blessed after him.

I. Welcome to a New Study Series on “Character”!

A. For the next few months, our Wednesday evenings will be spent looking at sixteen characteristics of the godly Christian.

These are drawn directly from the life of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, but are demonstrated in the lives of so many believers in the Scriptures.

B. Unfortunately, these characteristics are lacking in our modern Christian way of living.

This Study Series is designed to teach us, and to equip us all with the tools to live lives of integrity and character!

II. The Meaning of Integrity and Christian Character.

A. Integrity is a very unusual word! It means, “A moral framework of __________________ of what you will allow yourself to do.” It is a pureness in your heart towards others.

B. Character, in simple terms, is the foundation of a person’s life that holds them up under pressure, and during the “storms” of life.

C. Some Quotes on Character and Integrity

1. The Bible is not given to increase our knowledge, but to __________________ our lives (i.e., to give us character). — D.L. Moody

2. Be more concerned about your character than your

______________________________. Your character is who you really are. Your reputation is who others think you are. — John Wooden

3. If we value comfort more than character, the trials will always

__________________ us.

4. The test of a man’s character is what it takes to ____________ him. Bob Jones Sr.

5. The conversion of a soul is the miracle of a moment. The manufacture of a saint is the task of a ________________________. — Alan Redpath

6. Integrity is keeping my commitment even when the circumstances surrounding my commitment have changed. — David Jeremiah

D. 📷Contrary to the opinions of many women, there is such a thing as a perfect man! A “perfect” man is someone whose life is governed by integrity!

E. God tells us that there are “perfect men” that are not sinless, but are perfect in their character and integrity (; ). Jesus was such a Man. All of us should be such people.

Psalm 37:37 KJV 1900

Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: For the end of that man is peace.

Job 1:1 KJV 1900

There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil.

III. Two Examples of Integrity

A. __________________ in Potiphar’s House ()

Genesis 39:1–12 KJV 1900

And Joseph was brought down to Egypt; and Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, captain of the guard, an Egyptian, bought him of the hands of the Ishmeelites, which had brought him down thither. And the Lord was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. And his master saw that the Lord was with him, and that the Lord made all that he did to prosper in his hand. And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him: and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand. And it came to pass from the time that he had made him overseer in his house, and over all that he had, that the Lord blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake; and the blessing of the Lord was upon all that he had in the house, and in the field. And he left all that he had in Joseph’s hand; and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly person, and well favoured. And it came to pass after these things, that his master’s wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said, Lie with me. But he refused, and said unto his master’s wife, Behold, my master wotteth not what is with me in the house, and he hath committed all that he hath to my hand; There is none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? And it came to pass, as she spake to Joseph day by day, that he hearkened not unto her, to lie by her, or to be with her. And it came to pass about this time, that Joseph went into the house to do his business; and there was none of the men of the house there within. And she caught him by his garment, saying, Lie with me: and he left his garment in her hand, and fled, and got him out.

B. _________ under Trial ()

Job 2:3 KJV 1900

And the Lord said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? and still he holdeth fast his integrity, although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause.

There are other good examples of Integrity:

1. _______________

2. __________________ ()

1 Kings 21:1–4 KJV 1900

And it came to pass after these things, that Naboth the Jezreelite had a vineyard, which was in Jezreel, hard by the palace of Ahab king of Samaria. And Ahab spake unto Naboth, saying, Give me thy vineyard, that I may have it for a garden of herbs, because it is near unto my house: and I will give thee for it a better vineyard than it; or, if it seem good to thee, I will give thee the worth of it in money. And Naboth said to Ahab, The Lord forbid it me, that I should give the inheritance of my fathers unto thee. And Ahab came into his house heavy and displeased because of the word which Naboth the Jezreelite had spoken to him: for he had said, I will not give thee the inheritance of my fathers. And he laid him down upon his bed, and turned away his face, and would eat no bread.

IV. The Lack of Integrity. This is what we have today – total lack of moral restraint

A. Everyone simply does what they want, what they think is good in their

_____________ ___________ ()

Judges 17:6 KJV 1900

In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes.

B. When there is no integrity in marriage…

C. When there is no integrity at work…

D. When there is no integrity in government…

E. When there is no integrity in a Church…

V. The Development of Integrity – How to develop Integrity in your life

A. It Takes the _______________!

B. It Takes ________________________ (Discipleship)

C. It takes ____________ ____________ (Diligence). Diligence means “given priority; zealous; focused, decisive, careful.” The opposite of diligence is casual, haphazardness, careless, sloppy.

D. It Takes ________________________ - Troubles Develop Character ()

1 Peter 5:8–10 KJV 1900

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.

VI. Ingredients of Christian Integrity.

The following character traits will de discussed, and applied to our lives over the next four months… Do you think you are not in need of developing and being stronger in any of them?

1. Holiness

2. Faithfulness

3. Honesty

4. Stewardship

5. Vision

6. Temperance

7. Courage

8. Humility

9. Honour and Respect

10. Compassion

11. Servanthood

12. Long-Suffering

13. Loyalty

14. Hospitality

15. Gratefulness

16. Perseverance

VII. Summary

A. Character is like the foundation of a house—most of it is below the surface. It’s not what you can see.

The strength of a house is not the vinyl siding or the glass shutters they put on the outside. It’s not the fancy trim or the frills. These things may improve the appearance, but the strength lies underneath.

B. Christian character is the superstructure of the Christian life.

It is what’s below the surface. It’s not a person’s good looks, talent and ability that make him/her a good Christian. It is the character that they have built into their life.

Holiness

Pure in heart, temper or attitudes

"Pure religion and unde this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their af

and to keep himself unspotted from the world."

I. Introduction

A. In general, today’s Christians lack personal ________________________!

B. Our religion according to the Bible is a holy religion. It wages a war against all _________

C. Take a few of the precepts of our religion as it is, in the oracles of God.

"Without ________________________, no man shall see the Lord." "Be ye ____________, for I am holy."

D. See how holiness was personi

His people should aim at and show. His manner of life corrects all in us that is wrong, whether of defect or excess.

says, “[He] did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth." He was "holy, harmless, unde

sinners." He re-entered heaven with His moral character as pure as it was when He came into the world!

E. How far short do the mass of professing Christians fall, of living like Christ did in their own personal holiness!

How unscriptural and un-Christ-like are the millions who name the name of Christ!

F. Here is the cause of our failure. UNHOLINESS!

G. Throughout all churches there must be a radical improvement in holiness, or the stumbling-blocks in the way of the world's conversion will never be removed.

Habitual sinning must be abandoned. We shall never impress the unsaved with the importance of Christ until throughout the rank and membership there is a hunger for holiness and a determination to become holy, as HE is holy ()!

1 Peter 1:16 KJV 1900

Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

II. De

A. Perfect, in a moral sense. Hence, pure in heart, temper or dispositions; free from sin and sinful affections.

Applied to the Supreme Being, holy signs pure, immaculate and complete in moral character; and man is more or less holy, as his heart is more or less sanctify

We call a man holy, when his heart is conformed in some degree to the image of God, and his life is regulated by the divine precepts. Hence, holy is used as nearly synonymous with good, pious, godly.

B. Hallowed; consecrated or set apart to a sacred use, or to the service or worship of God; a sense frequent in Scripture; as the holy Sabbath; holy oil; holy vessels; a holy nation; the holy temple; a holy priesthood.

C. Proceeding from pious principles, or directed to pious purposes; as holy zeal.

D. Perfectly just and good; as the holy law of God.

III. Some Questions

A. What do you think of when you hear the word Holiness?

B. How Holy is God? (; )

Exodus 31:14–15 KJV 1900

Ye shall keep the sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death.

Matthew 18:8–9 KJV 1900

Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire.

C. Do Christians need to have holiness?

1. The root word of holiness is holy

2. What is the opposite of holiness?

3. What comes to mind when you hear the word Unholy?

D. The question to ask ourselves is, “What does God see when He looks into your life?”

IV. Bible examples of people who had holiness

A. _______________ (; ) As our example, Christ lived an unspotted sinless life, by walking in the spirit, praying and he used Scripture to defeat the devil when he tempted him

Hebrews 4:14–15 KJV 1900

Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

2 Corinthians 5:20–21 KJV 1900

Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

B. Who else would you consider living clean enough lives in the Bible to have been called “holy”?

V. Biblical Examples of people who had unholiness

A. The Strange Woman in Proverbs ()

Proverbs 7:4–27 KJV 1900

Say unto wisdom, Thou art my sister; And call understanding thy kinswoman: That they may keep thee from the strange woman, From the stranger which flattereth with her words. For at the window of my house I looked through my casement, And beheld among the simple ones, I discerned among the youths, A young man void of understanding, Passing through the street near her corner; And he went the way to her house, In the twilight, in the evening, In the black and dark night: And, behold, there met him a woman With the attire of an harlot, and subtil of heart. (She is loud and stubborn; Her feet abide not in her house: Now is she without, now in the streets, And lieth in wait at every corner.) So she caught him, and kissed him, And with an impudent face said unto him, I have peace offerings with me; This day have I payed my vows. Therefore came I forth to meet thee, Diligently to seek thy face, and I have found thee. I have decked my bed with coverings of tapestry, With carved works, with fine linen of Egypt. I have perfumed my bed With myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon. Come, let us take our fill of love until the morning: Let us solace ourselves with loves. For the goodman is not at home, He is gone a long journey: He hath taken a bag of money with him, And will come home at the day appointed. With her much fair speech she caused him to yield, With the flattering of her lips she forced him. He goeth after her straightway, As an ox goeth to the slaughter, Or as a fool to the correction of the stocks; Till a dart strike through his liver; As a bird hasteth to the snare, And knoweth not that it is for his life. Hearken unto me now therefore, O ye children, And attend to the words of my mouth. Let not thine heart decline to her ways, Go not astray in her paths. For she hath cast down many wounded: Yea, many strong men have been slain by her. Her house is the way to hell, Going down to the chambers of death.

B. The Corinthian Christians ()

1 Corinthians 5:1–6 KJV 1900

It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father’s wife. And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from among you. For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed, In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump?

C. The ___________________________ ()

Matthew 23:13–33 KJV 1900

But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows’ houses, and for a pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves. Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor! Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold? And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty. Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift? Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon. And whoso shall swear by the temple, sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth therein. And he that shall swear by heaven, sweareth by the throne of God, and by him that sitteth thereon. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess. Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous, And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets. Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets. Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers. Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?

VI. How can we be more holy Christians toward God? ()

1 Peter 5:8 KJV 1900

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

A. Be ____________________ in your life. Satan is out to destroy our homes and lives

B. Guard our _______________ - God sees our hearts and knows our thoughts and intents (; ).

Genesis 6:5 KJV 1900

And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.

2 Corinthians 7:1 KJV 1900

Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

We must be sure our hearts are kept holy by controlling our thoughts () and confessing our sins (). This needs to be constant.

Philippians 2:5 KJV 1900

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

1 John 1:9 KJV 1900

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

C. Guard our ____________ - We need to be in control and in constant watch of what enters our homes.

Things like magazines, TV, videos, newspapers, radio, computer, etc., all of which are considered communication () By themselves they can be harmless, but the devil uses these to cause us to become unholy and to hinder our walk with God.

1 Corinthians 15:33 KJV 1900

Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.

A place to start is in ( vs. ) Use this verse and ask yourself, should I or my children be looking at this lady/man dressed this way? Does this children's book/movie teach my kids, obedience or disobedience, love for God or love for self? Ask your husband/father what kind of clothes he prefers you to wear in public? Men see things differently than women do.

Philippians 4:8 KJV 1900

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Philippians 4:8 KJV 1900

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

2 Timothy 3:1–5 KJV 1900

This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

D. Guard our _____________________ - Keep our marriage holy by keeping ourselves for our wives only.

By reading the Bible and praying together. ()

Ephesians 5:25–26 KJV 1900

Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,

Guard our actions towards __________________ - We must have holy lives for those we come in contact with () We have liberty as Christians and the fact that we will not go to hell, but freedom from sin does not mean we have the freedom to sin.

1 Corinthians 8:8–1 Corinthians 15 KJV 1900

But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse. But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak. For if any man see thee which hast knowledge sit at meat in the idol’s temple, shall not the conscience of him which is weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols; And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died? But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ. Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend. Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? are not ye my work in the Lord? If I be not an apostle unto others, yet doubtless I am to you: for the seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord. Mine answer to them that do examine me is this, Have we not power to eat and to drink? Have we not power to lead about a sister, a wife, as well as other apostles, and as the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas? Or I only and Barnabas, have not we power to forbear working? Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock? Say I these things as a man? or saith not the law the same also? For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen? Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope. If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things? If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ. Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar? Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel. But I have used none of these things: neither have I written these things, that it should be so done unto me: for it were better for me to die, than that any man should make my glorying void. For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me. What is my reward then? Verily that, when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without charge, that I abuse not my power in the gospel. For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more. And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. And this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you. Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; And did all eat the same spiritual meat; And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness. Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play. Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand. Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents. Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer. Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry. I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread. Behold Israel after the flesh: are not they which eat of the sacrifices partakers of the altar? What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing? But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils. Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord’s table, and of the table of devils. Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? are we stronger than he? All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not. Let no man seek his own, but every man another’s wealth. Whatsoever is sold in the shambles, that eat, asking no question for conscience sake: For the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof. If any of them that believe not bid you to a feast, and ye be disposed to go; whatsoever is set before you, eat, asking no question for conscience sake. But if any man say unto you, This is offered in sacrifice unto idols, eat not for his sake that shewed it, and for conscience sake: for the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof: Conscience, I say, not thine own, but of the other: for why is my liberty judged of another man’s conscience? For if I by grace be a partaker, why am I evil spoken of for that for which I give thanks? Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God: Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved. Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ. Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you. But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God. Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonoureth his head. But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven. For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered. For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory of the man. For the man is not of the woman; but the woman of the man. Neither was the man created for the woman; but the woman for the man. For this cause ought the woman to have power on her head because of the angels. Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord. For as the woman is of the man, even so is the man also by the woman; but all things of God. Judge in yourselves: is it comely that a woman pray unto God uncovered? Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him? But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering. But if any man seem to be contentious, we have no such custom, neither the churches of God. Now in this that I declare unto you I praise you not, that ye come together not for the better, but for the worse. For first of all, when ye come together in the church, I hear that there be divisions among you; and I partly believe it. For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you. When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lord’s supper. For in eating every one taketh before other his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is drunken. What? have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the church of God, and shame them that have not? What shall I say to you? shall I praise you in this? I praise you not. For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come. Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world. Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, tarry one for another. And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together unto condemnation. And the rest will I set in order when I come. Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led. Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many. If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. And if they were all one member, where were the body? But now are they many members, yet but one body. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: 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. For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked: That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way. Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity. Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy. For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries. But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church. I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying. Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine? And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped? For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air. There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification. Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me. Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church. Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret. For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful. What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also. Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest? For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified. I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all: Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord. Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe. If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad? But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all: And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth. How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God. Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge. If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted. And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church. What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only? If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord. But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant. Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues. Let all things be done decently and in order. Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles. And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time. For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. Therefore whether it were I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed. Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming. Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith, all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all. Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why are they then baptized for the dead? And why stand we in jeopardy every hour? I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die. Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame. But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come? Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die: And that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain: But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body. All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds. There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

() The unsaved see us commit sin or live unholy and their heart knows how. (; )

Romans 2:21–25 KJV 1900

Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal? Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege? Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law dishonourest thou God? For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written. For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision.

Romans 2:14–15 KJV 1900

For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;)

Romans 6:18–19 KJV 1900

Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.

Faithfulness

Consistently dependable to do what I ought to do.

“Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness but a

__________________ man who can ”

Proverbs 20:6 KJV 1900

Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: But a faithful man who can find?

I. Introduction

A. A prevalent and hurtful defect in the Christian character of this day is

______________________________.

B. The kind of life that is required of us in the Scriptures, and displayed by Christ, is a steady, uniform, life-long habit of faithfulness.

C. The command is, "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, __________________ abounding in the work of the Lord"

D. God said that one of the sons of Jacob named Reuben was, "________________________ as water, thou shalt not excel." ()

Genesis 49:4 KJV 1900

Unstable as water, thou shalt not excel; Because thou wentest up to thy father’s bed; Then defiledst thou it: he went up to my couch.

E. All good things in nature are brought about by works that are ceaseless and uniform (not choppy and sporadic).

Destruction is the work of in are impulsive and sudden. A crop may in a moment be destroyed by a storm, but it cannot be raised unless the laws of vegetation operate regularly, and the sun shines on steadily from spring until autumn. What would be the effect on the natural world if the sun, moon, and stars should suddenly cease to shine in mid-summer? Or only just suddenly shine from time to time? Life requires stability and faithfulness in nature.

F. Many Christians are half-hearted, transient, and

They change with the times, vary with circumstances, and always conform to the company they are in. With the worldly they are worldly, and with the pious they are saints. Like

and dry up in droughts; they are all life and zeal in one season, and then in dry seasons they are as sporadic and inconsistent as if they had never known Christ.

II. De

A. Full of faith; determined to believe and act without reservations, especially in the declarations and promises of God.

B. Firm in adherence to promises, oaths, contracts, treaties, or other engagements.

C. True and constant in affection or allegiance to a person to whom one is bound by a vow, by ties of love, gratitude, or honour, as to a husband, a friend; the observance of duty; loyal; of true

D. Worthy of con as, a faithful narrative or representation.

E. Synonyms include: Trusting; honest; upright; sincere; veracious; trustworthy.

III. Some Questions

A. What do we think of when we hear the word faithful?

Faithfulness

B. Do Christians need Faithfulness as part of their Character?

1. The root word of Faithful is _______________ ()

Hebrews 11:6 KJV 1900

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

2. What is the opposite of faithful? ______________________________ ()

Proverbs 25:19 KJV 1900

Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble Is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint.

3. What do we think of when we hear the word unfaithful

C. The question to ask ourselves is “Do we make God feel that any of US are

faithful, or unfaithful?”

IV. Bible examples of people who were Faithful

A. _____________________ ()

Genesis 22:2–13 KJV 1900

And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of. And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and saddled his ass, and took two of his young men with him, and Isaac his son, and clave the wood for the burnt offering, and rose up, and went unto the place of which God had told him. Then on the third day Abraham lifted up his eyes, and saw the place afar off. And Abraham said unto his young men, Abide ye here with the ass; and I and the lad will go yonder and worship, and come again to you. And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering, and laid it upon Isaac his son; and he took the fire in his hand, and a knife; and they went both of them together. And Isaac spake unto Abraham his father, and said, My father: and he said, Here am I, my son. And he said, Behold the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt offering? And Abraham said, My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering: so they went both of them together. And they came to the place which God had told him of; and Abraham built an altar there, and laid the wood in order, and bound Isaac his son, and laid him on the altar upon the wood. And Abraham stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son. And the angel of the Lord called unto him out of heaven, and said, Abraham, Abraham: and he said, Here am I. And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me. And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son.

B. _________ (-10)

Job 2:2–4 KJV 1900

And the Lord said unto Satan, From whence comest thou? And Satan answered the Lord, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it. And the Lord said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? and still he holdeth fast his integrity, although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause. And Satan answered the Lord, and said, Skin for skin, yea, all that a man hath will he give for his life.

C. ____________ ()

2 Corinthians 11:22–31 KJV 1900

Are they Hebrews? so am I. Are they Israelites? so am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? so am I. Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft. Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches. Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not? If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities. The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not.

V. Biblical Examples of people who were Unfaithful (Fickle - changing all the time)

A. ____________ (). Cain was suppose to kill an unspotted lamb as he was instructed, but refused and wanted to do things his own way.

Genesis 4:2–7 KJV 1900

And she again bare his brother Abel. And Abel was a keeper of sheep, but Cain was a tiller of the ground. And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the Lord. And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the Lord had respect unto Abel and to his offering: But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. And the Lord said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.

B. ____________ (; ).

1 Samuel 13:9–14 KJV 1900

And Saul said, Bring hither a burnt offering to me, and peace offerings. And he offered the burnt offering. And it came to pass, that as soon as he had made an end of offering the burnt offering, behold, Samuel came; and Saul went out to meet him, that he might salute him. And Samuel said, What hast thou done? And Saul said, Because I saw that the people were scattered from me, and that thou camest not within the days appointed, and that the Philistines gathered themselves together at Michmash; Therefore said I, The Philistines will come down now upon me to Gilgal, and I have not made supplication unto the Lord: I forced myself therefore, and offered a burnt offering. And Samuel said to Saul, Thou hast done foolishly: thou hast not kept the commandment of the Lord thy God, which he commanded thee: for now would the Lord have established thy kingdom upon Israel for ever. But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the Lord hath sought him a man after his own heart, and the Lord hath commanded him to be captain over his people, because thou hast not kept that which the Lord commanded thee.

1 Samuel 15:12–26 KJV 1900

And when Samuel rose early to meet Saul in the morning, it was told Samuel, saying, Saul came to Carmel, and, behold, he set him up a place, and is gone about, and passed on, and gone down to Gilgal. And Samuel came to Saul: and Saul said unto him, Blessed be thou of the Lord: I have performed the commandment of the Lord. And Samuel said, What meaneth then this bleating of the sheep in mine ears, and the lowing of the oxen which I hear? And Saul said, They have brought them from the Amalekites: for the people spared the best of the sheep and of the oxen, to sacrifice unto the Lord thy God; and the rest we have utterly destroyed. Then Samuel said unto Saul, Stay, and I will tell thee what the Lord hath said to me this night. And he said unto him, Say on. And Samuel said, When thou wast little in thine own sight, wast thou not made the head of the tribes of Israel, and the Lord anointed thee king over Israel? And the Lord sent thee on a journey, and said, Go and utterly destroy the sinners the Amalekites, and fight against them until they be consumed. Wherefore then didst thou not obey the voice of the Lord, but didst fly upon the spoil, and didst evil in the sight of the Lord? And Saul said unto Samuel, Yea, I have obeyed the voice of the Lord, and have gone the way which the Lord sent me, and have brought Agag the king of Amalek, and have utterly destroyed the Amalekites. But the people took of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the chief of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice unto the Lord thy God in Gilgal. And Samuel said, Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, As in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, And to hearken than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, And stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, He hath also rejected thee from being king. And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned: for I have transgressed the commandment of the Lord, and thy words: because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice. Now therefore, I pray thee, pardon my sin, and turn again with me, that I may worship the Lord. And Samuel said unto Saul, I will not return with thee: for thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, and the Lord hath rejected thee from being king over Israel.

C. We hate it when others are unfaithful, undependable, unreliable

D. In what ways are Christians unfaithful?

VI. Here are Bible Characteristics of a faithful man

A. He doesn’t tell others secrets or faults ().

Proverbs 11:13 KJV 1900

A talebearer revealeth secrets: But he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.

B. He is faithful to his friends

C. When he hears or is told something private, he keeps it to himself. "We need to pray for so & so .... " (reveals secrets)

D. Refrains from lying ()

Proverbs 14:5 KJV 1900

A faithful witness will not lie: But a false witness will utter lies.

E. Is true to his word – keeps his promises. What he says he does, and therefore is careful what he says

F. You can trust them to do what they are suppose to ()

Proverbs 25:13 KJV 1900

As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, So is a faithful messenger to them that send him: For he refresheth the soul of his masters.

VII. How can we be more faithful Christians toward God?

A. Become full of faith – HOW?

B. Just Do what God tells you to do – be obedient

C. Finish our tasks – be a the Christian FINISHES what he or she starts. Get into the following habits D. Get into the following habits: (force yourself to do the following)

1. Faithfully tell your family you love them.

2. Faithfully spend alone time with your wife.

3. Become faithful in praying about everything!

4. Go soul-winning, EVERY WEEK! Did you start, only to allow excuses keep you from witnessing to the lost regularly?

5. Be in church EVERY TIME the doors are open () – every Christian must be faithful to church, or the church limps along and is unable to minister to itself and the lost world around it

Hebrews 10:25 KJV 1900

Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

6. In Tithes and offerings - are we faithful in giving God 10% of what he has given us. When things get tough

Honesty

The ability to speak the truth at all times

“Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things

honest in the sight of all men.”

I. Introduction

A. Half-truths are worse than outright lies! A half-truth has just enough fact in it to make it plausible and just enough deception to make it dangerous.

B. says, “Let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.”

James 5:12 KJV 1900

But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.

C. God commands us to be ______________________________ __________________.

D. What is needed today is for believers to have a reputation for honesty.

E. Christianity has very little effect in the world today because the world sees no _______________ in men and women that name the name of Christ. , than those of the world.

2 Timothy 2:19 KJV 1900

Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.

F. In order for believers to be honest, they will have to examine _________ area of their lives.

G. As Christians we seldom see sin as God sees it. We think of sin as some outward act of disobedience. We seldom extend it to the very thoughts and __________ of the heart. .

Hebrews 4:12 KJV 1900

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

1. Every thought is to be brought to the _______________ of Christ ().

2 Corinthians 10:5 KJV 1900

Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

H. Every thought is to be brought to the ________________ of Christ ().

2 Corinthians 10:5 KJV 1900

Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

I. Yet the Bible says, Just a little ____________ and the whole lump is spoiled. (). So, a small lie can de more lies!

Galatians 5:9 KJV 1900

A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.

J. God hates lying (; ). He actually made one of the Ten Commandments to NOT tell lies ()

Revelation 21:8 KJV 1900

But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

Revelation 22:15 KJV 1900

For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.

Exodus 20:16 KJV 1900

Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.

K. It all begins on a daily basis when our minds are _______ in His WORD ()

Romans 12:2 KJV 1900

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

1. So that we would judge ourselves. . “for if we would judge ourselves we _____________ ______ be judged”

1 Corinthians 11:31 KJV 1900

For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.

2. So that I face every decision during the course of the day with the _________ of Christ. (, )

Philippians 2:5 KJV 1900

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

Romans 13:12–14 KJV 1900

The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.

3. So that we would have the strength to ___ right.

4. Being a doer of the word and not a hearer only. ()

James 1:23–25 KJV 1900

For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

II. Synonyms of the word honesty

A. Truthfulness:

1. The ability to speak the truth at ____ times.

2. But what about..... “white lies”, exaggerations, and “Situation Ethics”?

3. The _______________ never determines if it is right to lie.

4. When we lie we are making provision for our ____ ____________ to get back on the throne of our heart, instead of the Lord Jesus. (, )

Honesty

5. Question: who are we TRUSTING when we lie instead of telling the truth???

6. Question: Who are we honouring when we lie? ()

John 8:44 KJV 1900

Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.

7. Was Peter right to lie about knowing and following Jesus when accused at the it hard to just tell the truth?

B. Integrity (, )

Proverbs 19:1 KJV 1900

Better is the poor that walketh in his integrity, Than he that is perverse in his lips, and is a fool.

Proverbs 20:7 KJV 1900

The just man walketh in his integrity: His children are blessed after him.

1. Webster de the mind; moral soundness or purity; incorruptness; uprightness. It is

_________ conduct towards the _________

a. This encompasses every area of life. From the moment we get up in the morning until we lay our heads upon our pillows, and every decision in between. You better have the _________ of __________ or you will make a

MESS of it !! (, )

Philippians 2:5 KJV 1900

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

Romans 13:14 KJV 1900

But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.

b. Many times in the Bible it shows us examples of believers who make life changing decisions and end up in trouble because they never prayed about it. (, )

Genesis 12:10–20 KJV 1900

And there was a famine in the land: and Abram went down into Egypt to sojourn there; for the famine was grievous in the land. And it came to pass, when he was come near to enter into Egypt, that he said unto Sarai his wife, Behold now, I know that thou art a fair woman to look upon: Therefore it shall come to pass, when the Egyptians shall see thee, that they shall say, This is his wife: and they will kill me, but they will save thee alive. Say, I pray thee, thou art my sister: that it may be well with me for thy sake; and my soul shall live because of thee. And it came to pass, that, when Abram was come into Egypt, the Egyptians beheld the woman that she was very fair. The princes also of Pharaoh saw her, and commended her before Pharaoh: and the woman was taken into Pharaoh’s house. And he entreated Abram well for her sake: and he had sheep, and oxen, and he asses, and menservants, and maidservants, and she asses, and camels. And the Lord plagued Pharaoh and his house with great plagues because of Sarai Abram’s wife. And Pharaoh called Abram, and said, What is this that thou hast done unto me? why didst thou not tell me that she was thy wife? Why saidst thou, She is my sister? so I might have taken her to me to wife: now therefore behold thy wife, take her, and go thy way. And Pharaoh commanded his men concerning him: and they sent him away, and his wife, and all that he had.

Joshua 7:2–5 KJV 1900

And Joshua sent men from Jericho to Ai, which is beside Beth-aven, on the east side of Beth-el, and spake unto them, saying, Go up and view the country. And the men went up and viewed Ai. And they returned to Joshua, and said unto him, Let not all the people go up; but let about two or three thousand men go up and smite Ai; and make not all the people to labour thither; for they are but few. So there went up thither of the people about three thousand men: and they fled before the men of Ai. And the men of Ai smote of them about thirty and six men: for they chased them from before the gate even unto Shebarim, and smote them in the going down: wherefore the hearts of the people melted, and became as water.

c. Just think, one wrong decision can _______ your life! III. Christians are to be Honest in all areas of life

A. To tell the truth, and be completely honest is my responsibility to my employer. Many times there is a trust relationship between employee and employer. As

Christians we need to be careful to be ________________ in everything we do (, ,)

Proverbs 11:1 KJV 1900

A false balance is abomination to the Lord: But a just weight is his delight.

Colossians 2:22 KJV 1900

Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?

Colossians 2:23 KJV 1900

Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body; not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh.

B. It is my responsibilities to everyone around me – to “______” no man anything (i.e., to be honest, and never have to have to repair damage in the relationship because you lied). ()

Romans 13:8 KJV 1900

Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.

C. It is my responsibility to the government and those in __________________ ()

Romans 13:1–4 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.

D. It is my responsibility to my family. Building up a trust relationship between you and your wife and kids.

E. It is my responsibility to my _____________ family. To pray for them () and have _____________ love for them at all times. (, )

1 Samuel 12:23 KJV 1900

Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way:

1 Peter 1:22 KJV 1900

Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:

Proverbs 17:17 KJV 1900

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

IV. When is it Hard to be Honest?

A. When the truth may reveal sin in our lives

B. When the truth may cost us our reputation

C. When the truth may get us into trouble

D. When the truth can easily be twisted to our bane

V. How to Tell the Truth – Always

A. By hating ____________ ()

Psalm 119:163 KJV 1900

I hate and abhor lying: But thy law do I love.

B. By hating (running from) the people around you who easily tell lies

C. By loving the truth – loving it like God loves it

D. By staying humble – when people are praising you, give all the praise to God

E. By taking responsibility for your wrongdoing

F. Become accountable to someone who checks up on you and helps you always tell the truth – like your parents, and your pastor.

Stewardship

An overseer, managing the affairs of what God has given me upon this earth

“Moreover it is required in stewards,

that a man be found faithful.”

1 Corinthians 4:2 KJV 1900

Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.

I. Introduction:

A. A spiritual Christian realises that everything they have is from the Lord ().

James 1:17 KJV 1900

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

B. That is, every ____________, every euro, every blessing, and every sorrow is from the Lord ()

Job 1:10 KJV 1900

Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land.

C. As a steward, God has put me as an overseer, to manage the affairs of what He has given me upon this earth.

It belongs to our Lord, but He has put us in charge of _____________ it in this brief period upon this pilgrim journey. (, )

1 Peter 1:17 KJV 1900

And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:

James 1:14 KJV 1900

But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.

D. So, the de has given me upon this earth.”

E. When you come with the mindset that it all belongs to God in the becomes so necessary for us to become so dependent on Him. ()

John 15:4 KJV 1900

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.

That’s what it means to want more and more Jesus. Jesus is the giver of life. He is the sustainer, and He is the only one that we are accountable to at the end of our days, (,)

Psalm 90:12 KJV 1900

So teach us to number our days, That we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.

Hebrews 9:27 KJV 1900

And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:

F. Stewardship is desperately lacking in most Christian lives in the day we live in. We are _____________ by this world, into thinking that, “it is yours”, “you worked hard for it”, and “you deserve it”.

This comes from our western culture of self grati salesman that has tried to ____ you something.

G. If we got what we deserved we would be burning in Hell for all eternity.() We need to be _______________ by the Word of God, and by a daily walk with Him, to see ourselves as God sees us. (, )

Lamentations 3:21–26 KJV 1900

This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord.

Romans 12:2 KJV 1900

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

James 1:23–25 KJV 1900

For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

H. This in a very sober message for the time we live in, because Jesus said, in His last recorded words in , “And, behold, I come _________; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be”. He repeats it in verse 20 in a similar manner.

Revelation 22:12 KJV 1900

And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.

I. The goal of this study of stewardship is to hear what the Bible says about managing God’s possessions, so that our priorities would be properly aligned with the WORD OF GOD, and that we may be faithful.

II. Taking Stewardship Over God’s Heritage

A. Over Our Families

1. The Lord has entrusted me with taking care of my own family ______ and foremost. ()

1 Timothy 5:8 KJV 1900

But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.

2. My wife is my ____________, given to me by the Lord, so that I could serve the Lord to the best of my ability. ().

Proverbs 19:14 KJV 1900

House and riches are the inheritance of fathers: And a prudent wife is from the Lord.

3. My children are the Lord’s ____________, which is His reward. ().

Psalm 127:3–5 KJV 1900

Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: And the fruit of the womb is his reward. As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; So are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: They shall not be ashamed, But they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.

Children are meant to be a blessing upon a couple. As parents, we have a responsibility to raise them godly. The Lord has entrusted them to us for the purpose of glorifying His Name. The Bible compares them to “__________”, as arrows, they have to be pointed in the right direction and released out into the world for the purpose of bringing glory and honour to the Lord.

B. Over the Gospel

1. As Christians, we have been ____________ with the life changing message of the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.

As such, We have a responsibility and a command to preach the gospel to every creature. () This is no small task. It is great commission of the New Testament. (,). To preach the gospel to all Nations; so that the Good News could be proclaimed throughout the whole world.

Mark 16:15 KJV 1900

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

Matthew 28:19 KJV 1900

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

Matthew 28:20 KJV 1900

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

2. The Lord has given each one of us a unique testimony; on how He saved us, and on what He has done in our lives.

How our Lord has taken us up out of the horrible pit and put our feet upon a solid Rock and established our goings. (). It is our love and duty to share that message with a lost and dying world.

Psalm 40:1–3 KJV 1900

I waited patiently for the Lord; And he inclined unto me, and heard my cry. He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, And set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: Many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord.

3. It is our responsibility as Christians to help spread the message of the gospel.

C. Over the Local Church

1. As Christians, we are bound to one another as a local body called the church.

The ( )

Pet. 5:3)

1 Peter 5:3 KJV 1900

Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.

2. As a steward, God puts me in the body of the local church for the purpose of carrying out some work for our Lord. Each person is vital for the effectiveness of that church. ()

1 Corinthians 12:12–22 KJV 1900

For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many. If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. And if they were all one member, where were the body? But now are they many members, yet but one body. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:

3. Churches are made up of different ministries. As it grows, more ministries are developed, and more of a need of __________ is required. For instance, there is a need of a different variety of Sunday schools teachers. The Lord expects that teacher, as a steward of God’s heritage () to be faithful. To live a clean life, to exemplify moral purity, and to have a strong testimony before those that he preaches to. (,)

1 Peter 5:3 KJV 1900

Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.

1 Corinthians 9:26 KJV 1900

I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:

1 Corinthians 9:27 KJV 1900

But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

4. As a steward, I need to be faithful to whatever position in the body that I myself in. Whether the Lord has given me one. ()

Matthew 25:14–29 KJV 1900

For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey. Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents. And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two. But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord’s money. After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them. And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more. His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them. His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed: And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine. His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed: Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury. Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath.

5. The key message of this parable is that we are to be _________ over whatever the Lord gives us. So that in His return, he will reward us according to our faithfulness

III. Some Examples of Stewardship

A. Eliezer. Even though he was only a _________ of Abrahams, he was entrusted with so much more. () He was faithful about his masters business (, ) A faithful steward will always pray before going about the business of his master. And will be led of the Lord, not their own intuition. (, )

Proverbs 29:21 KJV 1900

He that delicately bringeth up his servant from a child Shall have him become his son at the length.

Genesis 15:2 KJV 1900

And Abram said, Lord God, what wilt thou give me, seeing I go childless, and the steward of my house is this Eliezer of Damascus?

Genesis 24:12–15 KJV 1900

And he said, O Lord God of my master Abraham, I pray thee, send me good speed this day, and shew kindness unto my master Abraham. Behold, I stand here by the well of water; and the daughters of the men of the city come out to draw water: And let it come to pass, that the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: let the same be she that thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast shewed kindness unto my master. And it came to pass, before he had done speaking, that, behold, Rebekah came out, who was born to Bethuel, son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor, Abraham’s brother, with her pitcher upon her shoulder.

Genesis 24:27 KJV 1900

And he said, Blessed be the Lord God of my master Abraham, who hath not left destitute my master of his mercy and his truth: I being in the way, the Lord led me to the house of my master’s brethren.

Jeremiah 10:23 KJV 1900

O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself: It is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.

B. Joseph. The Lord used Joseph to be the man of the hour to preserve the posterity of Jacob and his family and in turn the Jewish Nation. Joseph realised that the seven years of plenty was going to be followed by seven years of famine. As such, He was a wise _________ over the land, and allowed Egypt to survive through this time. (, )

Genesis 41:39–42 KJV 1900

And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Forasmuch as God hath shewed thee all this, there is none so discreet and wise as thou art: Thou shalt be over my house, and according unto thy word shall all my people be ruled: only in the throne will I be greater than thou. And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, See, I have set thee over all the land of Egypt. And Pharaoh took off his ring from his hand, and put it upon Joseph’s hand, and arrayed him in vestures of fine linen, and put a gold chain about his neck;

Genesis 41:47–57 KJV 1900

And in the seven plenteous years the earth brought forth by handfuls. And he gathered up all the food of the seven years, which were in the land of Egypt, and laid up the food in the cities: the food of the field, which was round about every city, laid he up in the same. And Joseph gathered corn as the sand of the sea, very much, until he left numbering; for it was without number. And unto Joseph were born two sons before the years of famine came, which Asenath the daughter of Poti-pherah priest of On bare unto him. And Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh: For God, said he, hath made me forget all my toil, and all my father’s house. And the name of the second called he Ephraim: For God hath caused me to be fruitful in the land of my affliction. And the seven years of plenteousness, that was in the land of Egypt, were ended. And the seven years of dearth began to come, according as Joseph had said: and the dearth was in all lands; but in all the land of Egypt there was bread. And when all the land of Egypt was famished, the people cried to Pharaoh for bread: and Pharaoh said unto all the Egyptians, Go unto Joseph; what he saith to you, do. And the famine was over all the face of the earth: And Joseph opened all the storehouses, and sold unto the Egyptians; and the famine waxed sore in the land of Egypt. And all countries came into Egypt to Joseph for to buy corn; because that the famine was so sore in all lands.

IV. How To be a Faithful Steward

A. Learn from the examples of the characters of Scripture () B. __________that everything that you have is from the Lord (, )

Romans 15:4 KJV 1900

For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

Psalm 100:3 KJV 1900

Know ye that the Lord he is God: It is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; We are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

Psalm 95:6 KJV 1900

O come, let us worship and bow down: Let us kneel before the Lord our maker.

C. You cannot please the lord in your own

D. As a steward, realise that he sees you at all times (, )

Philippians 4:5 KJV 1900

Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.

Psalm 139:1–8 KJV 1900

O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, Thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, And art acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word in my tongue, But, lo, O Lord, thou knowest it altogether. Thou hast beset me behind and before, And laid thine hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is high, I cannot attain unto it. Whither shall I go from thy spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: If I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.

E. Each day that goes by, look for His __________, as having to give account to the master when he returns. ()

2 Timothy 4:8 KJV 1900

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

A Christian’s Vision

Seeing things as God sees them

“Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.”

Proverbs 29:18 KJV 1900

Where there is no vision, the people perish: But he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

I. Let’s Define

A. We often think of a “vision” as an apparition – the seeing of an angel, or of the future, etc. But it is simply seeing things as God sees them, according to His word (His Law).

B. Here are a few Scriptures that express the thought about a Christian’s vision – i.e., “God’s view on things”

1. Christians need to be able to see God working in their lives. “they shall __________ God”

Matthew 5:8 KJV 1900

Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

2. Christians are too often like blind physicians, trying to lives, when their life is a mess. “then shalt thou see __________ to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye”

Matthew 7:5 KJV 1900

Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.

3. You need to be able to see God’s ____________ for your life (,)

Acts 16:9 KJV 1900

And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us.

Acts 16:10 KJV 1900

And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them.

C. Simply put, a Christian needs to see his or her circumstances from God’s viewpoint, and by faith believe that everything will work out for good! D. Not many people can truly “see” life like they should. Why?

1. Because our sin and ____________ blinds us to spiritual things ()

2 Corinthians 4:4 KJV 1900

In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

2. Religion, and our self-righteousness blinds us (, )

Matthew 23:26 KJV 1900

Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also.

Matthew 15:14 KJV 1900

Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.

3. Only salvation ____________ our eyes ()

Acts 26:18 KJV 1900

To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.

4. Jesus spent a lot of time healing blind men to show our need to have OUR own spiritual sight (vision) restored (; )

Matthew 11:5 KJV 1900

The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them.

Mark 10:46–52 KJV 1900

And they came to Jericho: and as he went out of Jericho with his disciples and a great number of people, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the highway side begging. And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out, and say, Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me. And many charged him that he should hold his peace: but he cried the more a great deal, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me. And Jesus stood still, and commanded him to be called. And they call the blind man, saying unto him, Be of good comfort, rise; he calleth thee. And he, casting away his garment, rose, and came to Jesus. And Jesus answered and said unto him, What wilt thou that I should do unto thee? The blind man said unto him, Lord, that I might receive my sight. And Jesus said unto him, Go thy way; thy faith hath made thee whole. And immediately he received his sight, and followed Jesus in the way.

II. Why having Good Spiritual VISION is Important in a Christian’s Life

A. Without proper vision / without a good view of your circumstances, you will give up. Vision is important for you to be able to trust God and live by faith, instead of only by physical sight!

B. Without asking God to show you His hand at work in your life, and believing that God is working all things together for good, you will start to blame God, and start to become bitter at the troubles you face

C. Without a right vision/view, you will believe what your heart tells you instead of what God tells you

1. For example, that the girl that likes you MUST be right for you (you had better get GOD’S view on the relationship, not your heart’s view)

2. For example, that you being probably is God directing your future

III. Examples of People in the Bible that had Biblical Vision

A. Joseph and his childhood dream ()

Genesis 37:5–11 KJV 1900

And Joseph dreamed a dream, and he told it his brethren: and they hated him yet the more. And he said unto them, Hear, I pray you, this dream which I have dreamed: For, behold, we were binding sheaves in the field, and, lo, my sheaf arose, and also stood upright; and, behold, your sheaves stood round about, and made obeisance to my sheaf. And his brethren said to him, Shalt thou indeed reign over us? or shalt thou indeed have dominion over us? And they hated him yet the more for his dreams, and for his words. And he dreamed yet another dream, and told it his brethren, and said, Behold, I have dreamed a dream more; and, behold, the sun and the moon and the eleven stars made obeisance to me. And he told it to his father, and to his brethren: and his father rebuked him, and said unto him, What is this dream that thou hast dreamed? Shall I and thy mother and thy brethren indeed come to bow down ourselves to thee to the earth? And his brethren envied him; but his father observed the saying.

1. What did Joseph feel God was showing him about his future?

2. Did Joseph understand his dreams?

3. How did those dreams affect his view on his troubles (,,)? He knew that the ____________ was with him.

Genesis 39:2 KJV 1900

And the Lord was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian.

Genesis 39:3 KJV 1900

And his master saw that the Lord was with him, and that the Lord made all that he did to prosper in his hand.

Genesis 39:21 KJV 1900

But the Lord was with Joseph, and shewed him mercy, and gave him favour in the sight of the keeper of the prison.

4. What is the hardest thing to do with a dream/vision?

B. Samuel was given a distinct calling/vision about his life from his youth ()

1 Samuel 3:1–10 KJV 1900

And the child Samuel ministered unto the Lord before Eli. And the word of the Lord was precious in those days; there was no open vision. And it came to pass at that time, when Eli was laid down in his place, and his eyes began to wax dim, that he could not see; And ere the lamp of God went out in the temple of the Lord, where the ark of God was, and Samuel was laid down to sleep; That the Lord called Samuel: and he answered, Here am I. And he ran unto Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou calledst me. And he said, I called not; lie down again. And he went and lay down. And the Lord called yet again, Samuel. And Samuel arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And he answered, I called not, my son; lie down again. Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord, neither was the word of the Lord yet revealed unto him. And the Lord called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And Eli perceived that the Lord had called the child. Therefore Eli said unto Samuel, Go, lie down: and it shall be, if he call thee, that thou shalt say, Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth. So Samuel went and lay down in his place. And the Lord came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth.

1. Did Samuel know that his vision was from God at

2. How did God help con

3. How did this vision help shape Samuel’s life and view of his circumstances?

a) Saw the nation of Israel as needing God

b) Saw people for what they were – as wicked and self-centred

c) Saw God as rejected by the people

d) Saw God’s right choice for king in a young shepherd boy named

____________

IV. There are LIMITS on a Christian’s Vision

A. God does not ask you or direct you to do anything against Scripture, so a “vision” is not new revelation (i.e., God would not tell you to divorce your wife and go live on a mountaintop in a commune).

B. God always shows you His will in stages, steps. In other words, God shows you what to do today, and gives you clear vision of what to do.

C. The “big” will of God cannot be reached until we are faithful in doing the little things He has already showed us in His word. Like…

V. This is Why a Biblical Vision is so important to have…

A. Biblical Vision sees this world as dying without Christ! Most often we just see people, customers, patients, clients, crowds, while a Christian with Biblical Vision sees SOULS (see where Paul sees all the prisoners, and soldiers as _____________)!

B. Biblical Vision sees your children as adults one day, making decisions that you want to be Biblical based - so you have to train them now!

C. Biblical Vision sees your life as part of the will of God, doing something that has an impact on this generation, instead of as someone that does not matter, or is a failure!

D. Every Christian must ask God for a different view on life than they currently have! Every Christian must beg God for HIS view on your life and circumstances!

VI. How to Get a Bible-based Vision from God

A. First, it comes from a _______________________________________________. God talks to us not through dreaming, but through the reading of the Scriptures.

B. Secondly, it comes from _________________ to the instructions and commands of Scripture, carefully adding Christian character to your life ()

2 Peter 1:4–9 KJV 1900

Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.

C. Thirdly, it comes ________________, where you start to just force yourself to believe that God is working everything out in your life, and that nothing is left to chance D. Lastly, it comes by ______________, asking God to show you…

1. The way to escape from all temptations ()

1 Corinthians 10:13 KJV 1900

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

2. The will of God for your life

3. The value of a soul near you

4. Where everything in your life is leading

Temperance

Self-Denial

“And every man that striveth for the mastery (wants to win) is _______________________ in all things. Now they do it

to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.”

1 Corinthians 9:25 KJV 1900

And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.

I. Introduction

A. There is a major defect in modern Christians – it is the problem with SELFINDULGENCE.

B. The Christian life is a self-denying, cross-bearing life.

C. Hear the teaching of Christ:

1. "Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him ____________ _____________________, and take up his cross, and follow me."

Matthew 16:24 KJV 1900

Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

2. "So likewise, whosoever he be of you that ___________________________ not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple."

Luke 14:33 KJV 1900

So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.

3. "And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple."

Luke 14:27 KJV 1900

And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.

D. Jesus lived strictly by this principle.

E. Today, too many modern Christians live utterly unlike that of Christ and His followers. The mass of “professors” (they profess following Jesus, but will not obey Him) live for self-indulgence and self-advancement. They seem determined to live as little of the Christian life as possible.

F. The faith that many have today, costs them nothing. This type of religion is as easy as it is fashionable. It consists in belonging to some fashionable church, and in showing a zeal for its peculiarities, in taking a part in the leading controversies of the day, in buying, popular religious books as fast as they come out, joining religious societies, attending church on Sunday, and in discussing the merits of preachers. All this is easy. Such accomplishments do not make one different.

II. Let’s define

A. It is not merely “____________ _____________________”. Some of the new bibles refer to it as self control. This cannot be the case because it is “self” that got me into trouble in the

B. In simple words, it is self-denial. It is the limiting of our actions, wants, desires, reactions to what the Lord will allow.

C. It is remaining calm when someone is trying to provoke you.

D. It is a supernatural ability to be under the control of the Holy Spirit in _______ circumstance. (,)

Psalm 119:92 KJV 1900

Unless thy law had been my delights, I should then have perished in mine affliction.

Psalm 119:165 KJV 1900

Great peace have they which love thy law: And nothing shall offend them.

E. It is where every word, every action, and every thought is brought under the control of the Holy Spirit. (,)

Ephesians 5:17 KJV 1900

Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.

Ephesians 5:18 KJV 1900

And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

F. It is the result of being bitterness, or depression, or worry.

G. To be “ hostile environment.

H. It is not dif unto God, and having fellowshipping with believers. It is hard however, to remain under the Holy Spirit control when tested or provoked.

I. Temperance allows you to be in __________ of your own spirit. By allowing the Holy Spirit to be in control of your heart. ;

Proverbs 14:29 KJV 1900

He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: But he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.

Proverbs 16:32 KJV 1900

He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; And he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

J. Temperance is only evident in _______________ situations. How much do we trust Him to bring us through troubling circumstances? Rom.8:37:39/

John 16:33 KJV 1900

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

III. Where Does Temperance Come From?

A. It is not naturally “in” us!

B. Temperance is produced in a believer when we are _______________ with the Lord (, , )

Galatians 5:16 KJV 1900

This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

Galatians 5:22 KJV 1900

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

Galatians 5:23 KJV 1900

Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

C. Notice that fruit of the Spirit is singular. All nine of the fruits of the Spirit grow as ONE fruit in your life, all at the same time, if you allow it to!

D. If you want to temper a metal there must be a combination of pressure being applied, and the metal must be subjected to high temperature.

E. It is exactly the same when it comes to producing temperance in a _______________

F. Most of us trust in the arm of the having a ____________ walk with the Lord. But when we are put in a pressure situation, then our

G. The old man produces eighteen _______ of what I do naturally when left to my own devices

IV. The Application and Value of Temperance

A. Temperance is so important because it allows you to _________ walking in the

Spirit.

B. When we are Spirit controlled, walking ___ the Spirit, we can love them as Christ loves them. This is where temperance is so important! It is so easy to respond in the endure persecution, for the sake of Christ and for His _______________

endure persecution, for the sake of Christ and for His _______________

V. Some Biblical Examples of Temperance

A. Job – How?

B. The Apostle Paul

1. Paul was a man of great faith and yet had suffered the loss of all ____________. (, , ) Yet he could say,

Philippians 3:7 KJV 1900

But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.

Philippians 3:8 KJV 1900

Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,

2 Corinthians 11:24–28 KJV 1900

Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches.

a. “He is__________ ”

2 Timothy 1:12 KJV 1900

For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.

b. “I am Con

c. “ in ___________________ state I am” (,)

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.

Philippians 4:12 KJV 1900

I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.

d. He had learned temperance by being totally dependent on the Lord. .

Philippians 4:13 KJV 1900

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

2. The Lord Jesus

a. The greatest example of temperance is the Lord Jesus Christ. What an example He has left for us. ; .

Hebrews 2:18 KJV 1900

For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.

Hebrews 4:15 KJV 1900

For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

b. He was Temperate In His testing’s ()

Matthew 4:3–10 KJV 1900

And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

c. He was Temperate In His dealings with others (, ,)

Matthew 21:12 KJV 1900

And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves,

Matthew 23:13 KJV 1900

But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in.

Matthew 23:15 KJV 1900

Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.

d. He was Temperate In His death () Even though His body was racked with pain he still was in control everything that he said. ()

John 10:18 KJV 1900

No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.

John 19:30 KJV 1900

When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.

VI. How a Believer Develops Temperance

A. Walk in the Spirit . (It naturally grows as we yield to God’s in our life as we obey His commands in His word) This is simply submitting your actions to God.

Galatians 5:16 KJV 1900

This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

B. When the pressure is applied, don’t give into sin! Now you can resist the devil and he will

C. Believe the promises of His WORD over _____________

D. Look to the end ____________ of being temperate in all areas. ()

1 Corinthians 9:25 KJV 1900

And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.

Courage

The state of mind that enables someone to face danger with confidence

Proverbs 28:1 KJV 1900

The wicked flee when no man pursueth: But the righteous are bold as a lion.

I. Introduction

A. The world does not look for the same kinds of character strengths in a person that God does.

B. There is at least one exception. There is at least one quality of character that both the world and the Word hold in high esteem. It is that quality called COURAGE. In fact, one of the greatest exclamation marks secular history places by the names of men and women whose lives are etched in its Hall of Fame is the seal of valour… the badge of courage.

C. “Courage is fear that has said its _____________________.” — Dorothy Bernard

D. History's heroes are, for the most part, men and women, who when faced with incredible odds, even the threat of death actually increased in boldness; and their courage became the hallmark of their life. In like manner, in the pages of biblical biographies, the lives of God's Living Legends, tend to surface when viewed under the lens of true spirituality, again and again and again, that seemingly supernatural quality called courage as the evidence of God's seal of greatness.

E. Examples would include:

1. __________________ in a lion's den

2. Moses in the presence of Pharaoh commanding him to let God’s people go!

3. __________________ on Mt. Carmel facing 850 false prophets

4. _______________ and ____________ before the Sanhedrin in

Acts 4:13 KJV 1900

Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.

F. When the oven of life's crisis reached the temperature of certain defeat, these men and women rose to the occasion by demonstrating supernatural courage. The "quality called courage" is the theme of this study. The central young man destined for the throne. His name is David.

G. The incident that causes his courage to surface like a glistening diamond is the impending defeat of the nation Israel at the hands of God's enemies, the Philistines, who have in their possession the best the world has to offer, an overgrown warrior named Goliath.

II. Lesson

A. Courage Defintion

1. Webster says this: "courage = the quality of being _______________; valour." 2. If courage is the act of being brave, what is brave? brave = _________ __________________.

__________________.

3. Expanded, the de enables someone to face danger with confidence of moral strength on which one may draw upon in time of emergency.”

of moral strength on which one may draw upon in time of emergency.”

4. Courage, then, is some kind of inner strength that seems to emerge in the face of danger or during seemingly impossible circumstances.

5. Biblically, we see courage with almost the identical meaning except that the strength can only come from one source to be valid. Biblical courage is not the result of self-reliance or self-confidence two powers: Surrender and Sovereignty. Our surrender to God's sovereignty, and our trust in God's strength, not in our own.

two powers: Surrender and Sovereignty. Our surrender to God's sovereignty, and our trust in God's strength, not in our own.

B. Some Scriptures on Courage, Boldness, and Bravery

1. “Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.”

Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV 1900

Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

2. “Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest.”

Joshua 1:7 KJV 1900

Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest.

3. “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”

Joshua 1:9 KJV 1900

Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.

4. “And David said to Solomon his son, Be strong and of good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed: for the LORD God, even my God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast

1 Chronicles 28:20 KJV 1900

And David said to Solomon his son, Be strong and of good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed: for the Lord God, even my God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work for the service of the house of the Lord.

God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast

5. “Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.”

Psalm 27:14 KJV 1900

Wait on the Lord: Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: Wait, I say, on the Lord.

6. “Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.”

Psalm 31:24 KJV 1900

Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, All ye that hope in the Lord.

7. “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”

Psalm 27:1 KJV 1900

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

C. An Example of Courage – __________________ ()

Joshua 1 KJV 1900

Now after the death of Moses the servant of the Lord it came to pass, that the Lord spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ minister, saying, Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel. Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses. From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast. There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them. Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest. This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people, saying, Pass through the host, and command the people, saying, Prepare you victuals; for within three days ye shall pass over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land, which the Lord your God giveth you to possess it. And to the Reubenites, and to the Gadites, and to half the tribe of Manasseh, spake Joshua, saying, Remember the word which Moses the servant of the Lord commanded you, saying, The Lord your God hath given you rest, and hath given you this land. Your wives, your little ones, and your cattle, shall remain in the land which Moses gave you on this side Jordan; but ye shall pass before your brethren armed, all the mighty men of valour, and help them; Until the Lord have given your brethren rest, as he hath given you, and they also have possessed the land which the Lord your God giveth them: then ye shall return unto the land of your possession, and enjoy it, which Moses the Lord’s servant gave you on this side Jordan toward the sunrising. And they answered Joshua, saying, All that thou commandest us we will do, and whithersoever thou sendest us, we will go. According as we hearkened unto Moses in all things, so will we hearken unto thee: only the Lord thy God be with thee, as he was with Moses. Whosoever he be that doth rebel against thy commandment, and will not hearken unto thy words in all that thou commandest him, he shall be put to death: only be strong and of a good courage.

1. There are many places in Scripture where you can see courage at work, but none shines so brightly as Joshua, chapter one. There you have all the ingredients of the impossible.

2. Joshua never feared his task, or his enemies from that moment on.

3. For the next 20 years, Joshua led the nation of Israel to settle in the Promised Land – what an immense effort. And he did it in courage!

D. Another Example of Courage – Young _______________ ()

1 Samuel 17 KJV 1900

Now the Philistines gathered together their armies to battle, and were gathered together at Shochoh, which belongeth to Judah, and pitched between Shochoh and Azekah, in Ephes-dammim. And Saul and the men of Israel were gathered together, and pitched by the valley of Elah, and set the battle in array against the Philistines. And the Philistines stood on a mountain on the one side, and Israel stood on a mountain on the other side: and there was a valley between them. And there went out a champion out of the camp of the Philistines, named Goliath, of Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span. And he had an helmet of brass upon his head, and he was armed with a coat of mail; and the weight of the coat was five thousand shekels of brass. And he had greaves of brass upon his legs, and a target of brass between his shoulders. And the staff of his spear was like a weaver’s beam; and his spear’s head weighed six hundred shekels of iron: and one bearing a shield went before him. And he stood and cried unto the armies of Israel, and said unto them, Why are ye come out to set your battle in array? am not I a Philistine, and ye servants to Saul? choose you a man for you, and let him come down to me. If he be able to fight with me, and to kill me, then will we be your servants: but if I prevail against him, and kill him, then shall ye be our servants, and serve us. And the Philistine said, I defy the armies of Israel this day; give me a man, that we may fight together. When Saul and all Israel heard those words of the Philistine, they were dismayed, and greatly afraid. Now David was the son of that Ephrathite of Beth-lehem-judah, whose name was Jesse; and he had eight sons: and the man went among men for an old man in the days of Saul. And the three eldest sons of Jesse went and followed Saul to the battle: and the names of his three sons that went to the battle were Eliab the firstborn, and next unto him Abinadab, and the third Shammah. And David was the youngest: and the three eldest followed Saul. But David went and returned from Saul to feed his father’s sheep at Beth-lehem. And the Philistine drew near morning and evening, and presented himself forty days. And Jesse said unto David his son, Take now for thy brethren an ephah of this parched corn, and these ten loaves, and run to the camp to thy brethren; And carry these ten cheeses unto the captain of their thousand, and look how thy brethren fare, and take their pledge. Now Saul, and they, and all the men of Israel, were in the valley of Elah, fighting with the Philistines. And David rose up early in the morning, and left the sheep with a keeper, and took, and went, as Jesse had commanded him; and he came to the trench, as the host was going forth to the fight, and shouted for the battle. For Israel and the Philistines had put the battle in array, army against army. And David left his carriage in the hand of the keeper of the carriage, and ran into the army, and came and saluted his brethren. And as he talked with them, behold, there came up the champion, the Philistine of Gath, Goliath by name, out of the armies of the Philistines, and spake according to the same words: and David heard them. And all the men of Israel, when they saw the man, fled from him, and were sore afraid. And the men of Israel said, Have ye seen this man that is come up? surely to defy Israel is he come up: and it shall be, that the man who killeth him, the king will enrich him with great riches, and will give him his daughter, and make his father’s house free in Israel. And David spake to the men that stood by him, saying, What shall be done to the man that killeth this Philistine, and taketh away the reproach from Israel? for who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God? And the people answered him after this manner, saying, So shall it be done to the man that killeth him. And Eliab his eldest brother heard when he spake unto the men; and Eliab’s anger was kindled against David, and he said, Why camest thou down hither? and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know thy pride, and the naughtiness of thine heart; for thou art come down that thou mightest see the battle. And David said, What have I now done? Is there not a cause? And he turned from him toward another, and spake after the same manner: and the people answered him again after the former manner. And when the words were heard which David spake, they rehearsed them before Saul: and he sent for him. And David said to Saul, Let no man’s heart fail because of him; thy servant will go and fight with this Philistine. And Saul said to David, Thou art not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him: for thou art but a youth, and he a man of war from his youth. And David said unto Saul, Thy servant kept his father’s sheep, and there came a lion, and a bear, and took a lamb out of the flock: And I went out after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his mouth: and when he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and slew him. Thy servant slew both the lion and the bear: and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be as one of them, seeing he hath defied the armies of the living God. David said moreover, The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said unto David, Go, and the Lord be with thee. And Saul armed David with his armour, and he put an helmet of brass upon his head; also he armed him with a coat of mail. And David girded his sword upon his armour, and he assayed to go; for he had not proved it. And David said unto Saul, I cannot go with these; for I have not proved them. And David put them off him. And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in a shepherd’s bag which he had, even in a scrip; and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to the Philistine. And the Philistine came on and drew near unto David; and the man that bare the shield went before him. And when the Philistine looked about, and saw David, he disdained him: for he was but a youth, and ruddy, and of a fair countenance. And the Philistine said unto David, Am I a dog, that thou comest to me with staves? And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. And the Philistine said to David, Come to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air, and to the beasts of the field. Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. And all this assembly shall know that the Lord saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you into our hands. And it came to pass, when the Philistine arose, and came and drew nigh to meet David, that David hasted, and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine. And David put his hand in his bag, and took thence a stone, and slang it, and smote the Philistine in his forehead, that the stone sunk into his forehead; and he fell upon his face to the earth. So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and smote the Philistine, and slew him; but there was no sword in the hand of David. Therefore David ran, and stood upon the Philistine, and took his sword, and drew it out of the sheath thereof, and slew him, and cut off his head therewith. And when the Philistines saw their champion was dead, they fled. And the men of Israel and of Judah arose, and shouted, and pursued the Philistines, until thou come to the valley, and to the gates of Ekron. And the wounded of the Philistines fell down by the way to Shaaraim, even unto Gath, and unto Ekron. And the children of Israel returned from chasing after the Philistines, and they spoiled their tents. And David took the head of the Philistine, and brought it to Jerusalem; but he put his armour in his tent. And when Saul saw David go forth against the Philistine, he said unto Abner, the captain of the host, Abner, whose son is this youth? And Abner said, As thy soul liveth, O king, I cannot tell. And the king said, Inquire thou whose son the stripling is. And as David returned from the slaughter of the Philistine, Abner took him, and brought him before Saul with the head of the Philistine in his hand. And Saul said to him, Whose son art thou, thou young man? And David answered, I am the son of thy servant Jesse the Beth-lehemite.

1. Let's now turn to the Living Legend of the hour and one of the most dramatic evidences of courage ever recorded. Turn to 1 Samuel, chapter seventeen.

2. Remember, in order for courage to be demonstrated, there must be the presence of danger or dif believe this situation qualified

3. It is Everything is on the line. Try to picture the scenario in your mind, so you can fully appreciate the decision David made.

Everything is on the line. Try to picture the scenario in your mind, so you can fully appreciate the decision David made.

4. Notice the “Cowardice” – the opposite of Courage ()

1 Samuel 17:11 KJV 1900

When Saul and all Israel heard those words of the Philistine, they were dismayed, and greatly afraid.

5. David’s Courage

a. Built upon past experience ()

1 Samuel 17:34–37 KJV 1900

And David said unto Saul, Thy servant kept his father’s sheep, and there came a lion, and a bear, and took a lamb out of the flock: And I went out after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his mouth: and when he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and slew him. Thy servant slew both the lion and the bear: and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be as one of them, seeing he hath defied the armies of the living God. David said moreover, The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said unto David, Go, and the Lord be with thee.

b. Always believing in God’s power

c. Always ready to for a heartedly in the Lord!

d. He had full-throttle faith – he RAN to the enemy ()

1 Samuel 17:48 KJV 1900

And it came to pass, when the Philistine arose, and came and drew nigh to meet David, that David hasted, and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine.

III. Final Thoughts on Courage

A. Christian Courage comes from _______________ in God.

1. Either trust God or don’t. It doesn’t change the enemy. All you should do is decide whether or not to be strong. Either be courageous, or miss the blessing.

2. To be courageous, you must be aware that God is the one who is responsible for the outcome. "Be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed." The battle isn't yours, it's MINE says God. No wonder you can be strong! The results aren't up to you.

3. Courage is like a very weak man driving in an army tank up to their enemy. The man can have great courage because of the TANK – so also, a Christian can have great courage because of the Lord ()

1 Samuel 17:45 KJV 1900

Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied.

B. Courage comes from _____________________ God. To be courageous as a Christian is an order from God. Therefore, it is a choice of the will to obey God. Remember, God only orders us to do what he empowers us to do.

1. We are commanded to NOT be afraid of how people look at us, or treat us or threaten us ()

Jeremiah 1:6–8 KJV 1900

Then said I, Ah, Lord God! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child. But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord.

2. We are commanded to have courage as witnesses

3. We are commanded to always press forward, not retreat

C. No one develops courage while __________________. They HAVE to get into “the

D. Biblical courage, then, is "___ ________________________________________________________

______________________________ ______ _________ _________________________________ ______

_________ ______ _________ ____________ ______ __________________ ______ ______________________________." It results in an awareness that God has become responsible for both the battle and the outcome.

E. When has it been hard for you to have courage?

F. What are some other ways to develop courage?

Humility

A modest or low view of one's own importance

"... Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God ____________ the proud, and giveth grace to the humble."

I. Introduction

A. A big defect in the majority of Christians of this age, is their lack of

________________________.

B. How fully and urgently do the Scriptures express this virtue as an essential part of the life of the Christian! God resists the proud, and gives grace ONLY to the humble. "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time."

C. How clearly was this grace displayed in our Saviour’s life. Though no one more that Jesus ever had the same reasons to have high opinions of Himself, yet no one was ever equally humble.

D. He voluntarily chose the humblest life, the humblest associates, the humblest food, the humblest clothes, the humblest manners, and died the most humiliating death. Jesus Himself said, "I am meek and lowly in hear."

E. Humility is the very core act of the Christian’s life. "Be clothed with humility" ().

1 Peter 5:5 KJV 1900

Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

F. But today, many Christians pride themselves in their status, their wealth, their abilities, their high social position, and their distinction in the church—all are puffed up with pride! How ambitious and haughty are many, who claim to be the servants of Christ! How this sin has impaired the unity, marred the beauty, and weakened the Church of God! Will the world adopt Christianity with this type of sin before them? They know that such Christians contradict their profession and misrepresent their Master. In the estimation of sinner as well as of saint, the most awful of all things is a proud Christian!

G. Here there must be a transformation. The proud must be humbled. The meek and lowly attitude which was in Christ, and characterized all His early saints, must also be in and be exhibited by the disciples of Christ now, or they will never effectually carry out their high mission.

H. Humility was the greatest virtue of our Lord Jesus Christ apart from His love for this world. Our Lord, left the glories of heaven and the continual praise of the angels to be born in He created. He humbled himself. He lowered himself. He became a servant. And He died!

He created. He humbled himself. He lowered himself. He became a servant. And He died!

I. Humility should be our easiest character trait if we could just see ourselves as the worms that we are. That is why humility isn't something worked for that would be just a work of the really are, a weak, corrupted, dying piece of clay.

really are, a weak, corrupted, dying piece of clay. It is Christ that redeemed us,

It is Christ that redeemed us, gives us life, feeds us, clothes us, and gives us every good gift. Humility should be easy for the Christian and it would be if we looked at Him instead of self. The Christian that takes one glance at the world and self must take two glances at Jesus Christ to be reminded that "what is man that thou art mindful of him." Our God looks at us with love and pity and we look at ourselves as if there is something in us to be proud of. We are nothing but dirt with His image stamped upon us, a big zero with the ring rubbed out. So, if there is anything good in us as Christians it is only the Lord Jesus Christ that lives in us. Take a real good look in the mirror and try to see what God sees and knows and still loves.

gives us life, feeds us, clothes us, and gives us every good gift. Humility should be easy for the Christian and it would be if we looked at Him instead of self. The Christian that takes one glance at the world and self must take two glances at Jesus Christ to be reminded that "what is man that thou art mindful of him." Our God looks at us with love and pity and we look at ourselves as if there is something in us to be proud of. We are nothing but dirt with His image stamped upon us, a big zero with the ring rubbed out. So, if there is anything good in us as Christians it is only the Lord Jesus Christ that lives in us. Take a real good look in the mirror and try to see what God sees and knows and still loves.

II. Definition

A. A modest or low view of one's own importance; humbleness.

B. Having or showing a modest or low estimate of one's own importance :

C. The state or quality of being humble; freedom from pride and arrogance; lowliness of mind; a modest estimate of one's own worth; a sense of one's own unworthiness through imperfection and sinfulness; self-abasement; humbleness

D. Not high or lofty; not pretentious or magni

Thinking lowly of one's self; claiming little for one's self; not proud, arrogant, or assuming; thinking one's self ill-deserving or unworthy, when judged by the demands of God; lowly; weak; modest.

E. To make humble or lowly in mind; to abase the pride or arrogance of; to reduce the self-sufficient.

F. Synonyms include -- ___________________________; ________________________;

_____________________.

G. Humility vs. Humiliation. Although they possess the same root word, humility is not humiliation. Humiliation is what another does to you against your will and pride. Humility is what we do to ourselves. It is the difference between being humbled, humiliation, and being humble, humility.

H. The opposite of humility is _______________

I. What is Pride? _________________

III. Christians are to possess the characteristic of humility

A. If we are looking for honour we will never or by telling others how great we are. We must

will be honoured. If we do think highly of ourselves and pride enters our heart a haughty spirit will result and we will fall. (; ; ; ; )

Proverbs 15:33 KJV 1900

The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom; And before honour is humility.

Proverbs 16:18–19 KJV 1900

Pride goeth before destruction, And an haughty spirit before a fall. Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, Than to divide the spoil with the proud.

Proverbs 18:12 KJV 1900

Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, And before honour is humility.

Proverbs 22:4 KJV 1900

By humility and the fear of the Lord Are riches, and honour, and life.

Matthew 23:10–12 KJV 1900

Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.

B. Young people need to submit, humble themselves to older people. One of the problems in society is the pride and arrogance in Children who will be bold with their parents or other adults. ()

1 Peter 5:5 KJV 1900

Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

C. The Bible admonishes us all to be "clothed" with humility. That infers that everyday we are to "put on" humility, like a garment, not in a false way, but in sincerity be looking for others needs and wants and yielding to them without thinking about ourselves. Humble ourselves to others, not because they deserve it, because neither do we, but as unto God. (; ) Instead trusting God for the things we need ().

Philippians 2:4–8 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: 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.

1 Peter 5:6 KJV 1900

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

1 Peter 5:7 KJV 1900

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

D. In the disciples were concerned with which one of them was going to be the greatest when they got to heaven Jesus told them if they do not humble themselves, they will not be honored even when they get to heaven. (; )

Matthew 18 KJV 1900

At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish. Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.

Matthew 18:1–5 KJV 1900

At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.

Mark 9:33–35 KJV 1900

And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way? But they held their peace: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest. And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.

E. There is no salvation without humility. We had to humble ourselves to repent and come to God on His terms. ()

Matthew 18:3 KJV 1900

And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.

F. Many times we put the blame of problems on others, government, teachers, businesses, etc Bible says that the reason for problems within a country many times is because Christians refuse to humble themselves. () We must Humble ourselves, Call on Gods name, seek His face and turn from our wicked ways if God is to heal our land. This doesn't give any amount of Christians, it may be just two.

2 Chronicles 7:13–14 KJV 1900

If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people; If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

IV. When is it Hard to be Humble?

A. When we are not acknowledged for hard work we did.

B. When someone else gets credit for our work

C. When you do something wrong and you need to ___________________________

D. When God convicts your heart of sin

V. How do we get humility?

A. ___________________________ Humble yourself toward God

1. Humble yourself in the Word of God - ask God to reveal some area you need to change

2. Humble yourself in prayer - exalt His name, Praise Him, by lifting Him up, you humble yourself

3. Do what the Bible tells us to do ()

James 1:22 KJV 1900

But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.

4. Repent when convicted - When God speaks to your heart about an area in your life where you are wrong, turn from the wrong you are doing

B. Realize how much _______________ had to humble himself ()

C. Humble yourself ______ your family

1. Husband - yield to his decisions and preferences.

2. Wife - yield to her preferences and needs

3. Parents - yield to their requests, rules,

4. Children - play with them, teach them things you know, let them know you have problems

D. Humble yourself to __________________

1. Your Boss - do whatever he asks, let yourself be available to him

2. Your Pastor - do whatever he asks, let yourself be available to him

3. Other Christians - If there is a disagreement

4. Lost People - If there is a disagreement