Friday, September 19th

 

This Sunday we conclude our Series by looking at Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-Control.

 

Question From Week One: What Does It Mean To Be Saved?

We answered this question by saying that it means more than simply the forgiveness of sin, though it certainly does include that. But it also includes a life that has been changed, and continues to change. The source of this change must be God's Spirit, Who occupies our hearts the moment we turn to Jesus for Him to be our Savior AND Lord.

Question From Weeks 2-4: What Kinds of Changes Should We Be Looking For?

We've been looking at characteristics known as "The Fruit of the Spirit." There are nine characteristics listed in Galatians 5:22 and 23, and we've looked at six so far. These are the areas where every Believer should be experiencing change.

Is there any circumstance that we come up with where Jesus would not be interested in transforming our lives in one of these nine areas?

This Sunday we'll look at the final three characteristics: faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

To Think About Before Sunday: Faithfulness is about trust, and following through with actions based on that trust. One of the most difficult areas to truly trust God is when it comes to our finances. What do your actions indicate about your level of faithfulness, and what changes has God's Spirit brought in this area through the years?

Gentleness is about remaining courteous, gracious and humble when we are in a position of strength. Sometimes we "get it" when those around us don't. Sometimes people get worked up over something we don't think is that big a deal. How gentle are you when these situations arise, and what changes has God's Spirit brought about in this area of your life?

Self-Control...the "fruit" that is said to strike terror in the hearts of every chocolate lover, coffee lover, shoppaholic and sports fan(atic). Can you think of anything that used to control you, and that God's Spirit has allowed you to master? Is there anything today that continues to enslave you?

Experiencing change and growth in all of these areas starts with Jesus, and the extent that we are willing to get Him involved in our lives. Be sure to join us this Sunday as we take a look at these three characteristics, and look to Jesus to meet with us and speak to us in order for change and growth to occur.