Knowing God and Knowing God’s Word Is my relationship with God like that of a husband and wife, or is it something greater? Traits of a marital relationship: • Trust, • Teamwork • Affection • Personal intimacy • Common life objectives • Reproduction Compare these traits to your relationship with Jesus Christ. How are these traits similar to a person who has a deep and abiding personal relationship with God? Are those traits part of your life? Trying to know God by keeping his commandments (in other words, just being a good person) fall short of God’s intention. We must first be introduced to Jesus, who will in turn put a passion for God’s law into our hearts. If we live a life of sin against God does that demonstrate that we do not know Him? Why or why not? When we keep God’s law from the heart we are demonstrating that we have come to know Jesus Christ. Write your thoughts about the differences and similarities of knowing God and knowing his law (word). List ways that keeping God’s word demonstrates you know Him personally Jeremiah & Jesus: Knowing God and God’s Law The Prophet Jeremiah was known to Israel as the weeping prophet. Jeremiah’s ministry marks an end to the Kingdom of Judah, and the beginning of Israel’s long exile from their land in punishment for their sins. As Jeremiah called his nation to repent and be faithful to the Lord, he also knew that the people would not listen to him and God’s judgment on their nation would soon come. Later, after Israel and Judah had been destroyed, the king taken away in chains to Babylon, and the people scattered, Jeremiah penned the Old Testament book of Lamentations. Lamentations tells of the great tragedy that befell Israel because of their sin – but also presents a hope for the future that if there is repentance God will forgive. Throughout his ministry, the Prophet Jeremiah preached a message of repentance and forgiveness, warning his nation what would happen if they rejected God’s love. In this study we will see how the prophet Jeremiah, in his writings, demonstrated that the person who sins does not know God, and that truly knowing God is dependent upon living a life of righteousness. We will also see how the person who embraces Jesus Christ has their sin forgiven and even if they lapse into sin again from time-to-time, the full forgiveness of God is readily available. Jeremiah: Know the Law, then Know God Read: Jeremiah 31:31-34 God says the Mosaic Covenant with Israel was like a covenant between a husband and a wife. (Jeremiah 31:32) Under the Old Testament law great honor was given to marital relationships. God considers the bonds between a husband and wife to be sacred. Often, throughout the Old Testament God compared his relationship to Israel as that of a loving husband to a wife. But as Israel become faithless, abandoning God, God revealed that a greater kind of relationship was still to come. List some of the traits of a man who is a good husband, and a woman who is a good wife. Think of your relationship to God in those terms. How would you describe your relationship to God? While the Mosaic Covenant gave Israel God’s law to perform, the New Covenant would give God’s law to keep within the heart. (Jeremiah 31:32, Isaiah 29:13) God considers keeping the law by rote, instead of obedience from deep within our hearts as worthless. Imagine a spouse who performs all the necessary duties at home but offers no loving attention or expressions of love. Such a home would be an unhappy one! What kind of fulfillment do you think Christianity would offer if it was only a religion of outward functions, instead of a religion of transformed hearts and minds? What does this mean to you in your relationship to God? Under the Mosaic Covenant, those who kept God’s law could know God. (Exodus 19:5) Knowing God under the Mosaic Covenant began with keeping his law. Those who rejected God’s law were rejected by God. But the New Covenant God promised in Jeremiah 31:32-34 would let people first come to know God then be empowered to keep His commandments. Knowing God and knowing his law are intimately connected. If a person claims to know God, but doesn’t obey his word, what does that say about that person’s relationship to God? Elaborate. Jesus: Know God, then Know His Law Read: Hebrews 8:7-13, 10:15-18 The New Covenant referred to in Jeremiah is the covenant we know have under Jesus Christ (Luke 22:20). Because the New Covenant is greater than the Old Covenant, the relationship between a believer and God is of a higher order than the relationship between a husband and wife. In what ways do you think your relationship with God is of a higher order than a relationship between a husband and wife? Explain. God holds the husband/wife relationship in the highest esteem. If this is true of marriage, then what do you believe God thinks of your relationship and responsibilities to Him under the New Covenant in Jesus Christ? Israel was commanded to keep God’s law so they could know God, but under Jesus, we first come to know God, then we begin to understand the nature of His law. (II Corinthians 3:13-16) Why do you think it is important to first know God personally in order to fully understand his law? Can you think of an example in daily life where not knowing someone can lead to misunderstanding their words or intentions? Under the New Covenant we have in Christ, we first get to know God then the result is that we begin to keep his law. (John 14:23-24) In this passage the Greek word for “keep” means more than “doing” something, it literally means to “guard,” or “protect” something that is a valuable treasure. We keep God’s word because it has the greatest value to us. God’s word is our treasure. It has the greatest value to us because of what Jesus Christ did for us on the cross, and His resurrection. Would you describe your relationship to God’s word as “guarding” it like a treasured possession? Describe your relationship to God’s word and explain what that says about your personal relationship to Jesus. In this study we will see how the prophet Jeremiah, in his writings, demonstrated that the person who sins does not know God, and that truly knowing God is dependent upon living a life of righteousness. We will also see how the person who embraces Jesus Christ has their sin forgiven and even if they lapse into sin again from time-to-time, the full forgiveness of God is readily available.

Applying God’s Wisdom We become wise, or exercise godly wisdom, when we first acknowledge God’s exclusivity. (Proverbs 9:10-12; James 1:5) Solomon asked God for wisdom to lead His people. That wisdom built a great empire. When Solomon abandoned the exclusive worship of God, his empire began to weaken – he was no longer ruling wisely. Have you made a decision to worship Jesus exclusively? Why or why not? The wisdom that God gives is based upon a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and a moral code of right and wrong. (James 3:13-18; Exodus 20:1-17) Wisdom is more than knowing how to do something, or how to behave in our work or social relationships. Wisdom begins with morality; understanding the difference between right and wrong, and doing what is right. Think of those whom you consider wise – are they moral people? What kind of character do they have? Now look at your own life. What kind of character do you have – are you a moral person as defined by the passages above? Explain.   When we do the right thing we demonstrate we know wisdom. If we maintain exclusive worship of God, and a moral life, the gift of godly wisdom will not fail us. Do you want to attain godly wisdom? The first step is to receive Jesus and worship God alone. God requires exclusivity in worship. He is the author of true wisdom, rooted in a moral lifestyle. Are you ready to make a commitment to worship God exclusively, through His Son Jesus Christ? Pray a prayer to God right now, making that commitment, and ask Him to empower you to fulfill it for the rest of your life. How will you pursue the exclusive worship of God? Solomon & Jesus: Solomon & Jesus: Knowing Wisdom, Doing Right Knowing Wisdom, Doing Right The Bible regards David as Israel’s greatest king. David unified his nation, securing them against their enemies, and advanced the rule of God’s Law. David made Israel a true political power. The reign of David was eventually overshadowed by his son Solomon, who was regarded as the wisest of all kings. He used his wisdom to build a great empire of power and prosperity – without conquest or violence. Israel became so prosperous that the Bible records that Solomon made silver as common as stones. It was Solomon who also built the first great temple for God in Jerusalem. Though Solomon’s empire far exceeded David’s – his father is still regarded as the greatest king. Why? Because David followed the Lord with his whole heart – unlike his son, Solomon. King Solomon began his reign well; his early years were years of wisdom and success, but his later years saw his kingdom begin to splinter as his wisdom failed him. Solomon was the first king to sow the seeds of idolatry that would eventually destroy the kingdom. Why did Solomon’s wisdom fail him? Because he abandoned a single principle that made his great wisdom possible in the first place. In this study we will discover the symbiotic relationship between the exclusive worship of God, wisdom, and morality. Solomon: The Wise King Read: I Kings 3:5-15; 5:29-34 Solomon’s wisdom was based upon the nature of his relationship with God – that God is a God of exclusivity. (I Kings 3:12-14, Proverbs 1:7) King Solomon ascended the throne at a young age. He knew his knowledge and experience was limited, so He asked God for wisdom to lead His people. Solomon did not attain wisdom from his family, or from the false gods of the people around them. God’s promise of wisdom was predicated upon keeping God’s commandments (V.14). Later in his life Solomon worshipped false gods. What effect do you think this would have on his relation with God, and his values (morals)? Solomon’s wisdom was based upon a moral code of right and wrong. (Compare: I Kings 3:6 with verse 7; Psalm 111:10) In I Kings 3:6 Solomon acknowledges that his father, David, walked in “truth and righteousness, and uprightness of heart.” Then he acknowledges in verse 7 that he does not have his father’s wisdom. “I am but a little child.” Solomon equated having wisdom with morality and following God. How do you think wisdom, morality, and following God are related? Solomon knew wisdom, but did not always do the wise thing. Solomon’s wisdom failed him when he abandoned the exclusive worship of God, and acted immorally. (I Kings 11) Solomon’s wisdom brought him great wealth, power, and prestige – but it was also a trap. When Solomon was comfortable and secure in his wisdom, he forgot to acknowledge God exclusively, and eventually turned away from him. In I Kings 11:6-7 we can see Solomon’s morality beginning to slip. Ashtoreth was a goddess of lust, Chemosh was a god of destruction, and Molech was a god that demanded burnt sacrifices of children. When Solomon abandoned God, his wisdom left him and he began living according to the false religions of the nations around him. His kingdom faltered, and never recovered. How could Solomon have saved his kingdom? What wise course of action should he have taken? Jesus: The Wisdom of God Jesus’ wisdom is based upon His exclusive nature as the one and only Son of God. (Matthew 12:42) Jesus is greater than Solomon, not because He has more wisdom, but because He is the wisdom of God in human form. Jesus did not attain simply attain wisdom; He is the author of all true wisdom. Jesus has more wisdom than Solomon, because it was Jesus that gave Solomon his wisdom. Solomon worshipped false gods, but Jesus is the Son of God who Himself deserves our worship. If we will worship Jesus exclusively, what do you think will be the effect on our lives? Jesus’ wisdom was based upon His character as God’s Son. Jesus character may be defined as “All that is morally right, in human form.” (I John 2:29; 3:4-6; I Peter 2:21-23) We sometimes think of sin as wrong things we do, and doing right as avoiding sin. However, doing the right thing is more than simply avoiding sin. Doing right means practicing what is right. Jesus always practiced righteousness. Just as David and Solomon’s wisdom sprang from their uprightness of heart, so too Jesus’ wisdom came from his perfect, sinless nature. Because Jesus is perfect in moral character, His wisdom is also perfect. What kind of character do you think you have? Examine your life. Would you like to have true wisdom and righteousness? Jesus knew wisdom and always did the right thing. As a result, His wisdom never failed, and His reign as the Truly Wise King will last forever. (Matthew 12:42; John 8:29; Colossians 2:3) Solomon’s wisdom brought him great wealth, power, and prestige – but Jesus’ exercised His wisdom without wealth, power, or prestige. Jesus’ wisdom gave Him something far more valuable – people. Because Jesus always does the right thing, and His wisdom never fails, His kingdom cannot be diminished, unlike Solomon’s. Read the passages above and summarize them into a single statement about the nature of Jesus Christ. Solomon was a wise man, but he did not always act wisely. Jesus was the personification of wisdom.

GALATIANS 5:13-26 Introduction At the beginning of creation, man was at one with God, walking in His Spirit. After the fall of Adam and Eve, man’s nature reflected the sin that entered the world. We continue to experience the results of that sin and flesh nature in our society today with divisions of race, culture, gender, class and otherwise. Because we fail to understand the fruit of the Spirit or walk in it, we see widespread bickering, arguing, fighting and other problems. “Flesh” is defined as the desire to please oneself independently from God. The Holy Spirit is the presence of God within believers that seeks to please God. When we walk in the Spirit, we strive to satisfy God while the flesh yearns only to satisfy self without deference to God. However, both natures reside in every believer, causing a constant internal war between our flesh and the Spirit. In Galatians 5:16, Paul gives us the strategy of how these two natures – flesh and Spirit – can co-exist: “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh.” To be clear, Paul does not call us to stop the desires of the flesh so we can walk in the Spirit. Rather, he is saying that walking in the Spirit will cause His will to override the desires of the flesh. To walk in the Spirit, we must first realize that our walking is active and not passive. We are actively headed toward a destination and God wants that destination to be His will. Walking in the Spirit also requires us to depend on the power of the Holy Spirit to do God’s will. Just as we depend on our legs to take us from place to place as we walk, we are to rely on the Holy Spirit to govern our will. As we depend on the Spirit to take us to the destination of God’s will for our lives, we must do so with dedication. We must dedicate our steps to God daily in faith so that we can reach His will. Our job as believers is to develop an intimate relationship with the Spirit, and as a result, we will not be held hostage by our flesh nature. The benefits that God wants to bestow upon you can only be gained by walking by His Spirit. Getting Started 1. If the Spirit is full of fruit, how do you know a fruit tree is growing in your soul? What fruit have you produced in the Spirit or the natural? 2. In what ways do you find yourself being held hostage to the flesh? Do you find yourself constantly trying to get rid of temptations of the flesh? Let's Get Personal 1. When was the last time you actively appealed to the Holy Spirit to guide you toward the right destination? Share with your group your experience in receiving the Holy Spirit’s guidance. 2. Why do believers find it more difficult to depend on the Holy Spirit rather than their own human strength? What desires do you typically lean to in your flesh that you know are not in line with the Holy Spirit’s guidance for your life? 3. What keeps you from consistently activating the Holy Spirit in your life to empower you to walk in His will? What are the fleshly distractions that are getting in the way? 4. What desires of your heart do you need God to shed so that you can make room for the Holy Spirit to fill it with His will? Take the Next Step 1. What steps can you take this week to operate in the power of the Holy Spirit? 2. When you are tempted to devour others with your fleshly Spirit, what Scriptures help redirect you to walking in the Spirit? 3. In what ways are you taking inventory of your life to ensure you are producing spiritual fruit? List the fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22. Create a plan of ways to depend on the Spirit to keep these at the forefront of your mind. 4. Want to dig deeper? Take a look at the following passages: 2 Corinthians 5:7, 17; Philippians 3:21; Romans 7:14, 24; 8:5; Psalm 51:5; Galatians 3:1; and Ephesians 5:17.

There are certain regular practices that every new Christian should get accustomed to if he or she wants to experience all that God has to offer. Those practices include: • Bible Reading • Prayer • Church Attendance • Sharing your Faith, and • Obedience to God’s Word This study explores the basic practice of Bible reading, how to read the Bible, and how through that reading you can experience significant changes in your life. Do you want to experience all that God has in store for you? The gateway to much of that experience is in the scripture. The Bible says of itself: “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work” (II Timothy 3:16-17). I was once asked by a young Christian why he couldn’t hear God speak. He said that he didn’t have time to read the Bible but wanted to hear God speak. I told him, “If you aren’t listening to what God has already said in the Bible then why would He have anything else to say to you?” As you learn to read and love the scripture you will find a treasure of wisdom and help for everything you need in life. READING THE BIBLE EDUCATES US Read: II Timothy 3:16-17; II Peter 1:3-4; Deuteronomy 30:11-14 The Bible presents itself as historical and factual, not a book of philosophy. We should therefore treat it as such. (II Timothy 3:16-17) The writers of the Bible were not philosophers trying to communicate a new way of living. They were average men who God inspired to write accounts of his plan to redeem man from the ravages of sin. The Bible is an historical document, telling the history of God’s relationship with man. Read chapters 3 and 4 in the book of Genesis. What does it tell you about man’s nature? The Bible presents itself as the inspired Word of God. As such, it has authority to instruct you in every area of your life. (II Peter 1:3-4) Because the Bible is inspired by God it carries God’s authority. It is through God’s authority that we are able to live transformed lives. No other book or writing in history has the authority to change us the way the Bible has. How has reading the Bible changed you so far? What ideas or lifestyle habits have you already changed in your first experiences with the Bible? The Bible presents itself as truth. The Bible is accurate and trustworthy for every topic that it addresses, therefore, we should trust it. (Deuteronomy 30:11-14) Since God is the Creator of all things—even us—it stands to reason that God is trustworthy when He has something to say in the Bible about our lives. In your reading of the Bible so far, what do you see in its pages that are relevant to your life? Will you trust it? KNOWING THE BIBLE CHANGES US Read: Romans 4:23-24; 15:4; II Timothy 3:16-17; John 17:17 Because the Bible is historical and factual it has many examples in its pages that we can apply to our lives. (Romans 4:23-24; 15:4) The Bible is not simply a book of philosophy or stories. The objective of the Bible is to provide life changing transformation for the person who trusts its truth. Throughout the Bible there are many examples to follow to help us become all that God wants us to be. You get to know the Bible by reading it! As you read the stories about Jesus in the New Testament, what stands out to you about Jesus’ character that you want to emulate? If we trust the Bible as inspired and authoritative then we can experience personal transformation facilitated by its pages. (II Timothy 3:16-17) When we say the Bible is inspired it means that its words come from God who inspired certain writers to write them down for our benefit. When we say it is authoritative we mean that the Bible carries God’s authority to transform us since it comes from God. How can you express your trust in the Bible to transform you? How can you act upon what you read in the Bible to help change your life? The Bible can help us become people of truth. (John 17:17) The Bible can help us become people of truth because the Bible is truth. When we trust its words as coming from God we can change our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to make our character more in line with God’s truth. Do you want to become a person of truth? Why? What can you do today to express your trust in God’s truth? SHARING THE BIBLE CHANGES OTHERS Read: Matthew 28:19-20; James 1:21-25; I Corinthians 11:1 When we share the Bible with others it can help change their lives. (Matthew 28:19-20) Every Christian is called by God to share his word with others. When we teach others to observe his commands we are sharing his word, his truth. Just as your life is changed by God’s word, so too you can help change others by sharing what you know from the Bible. Have you recently told anyone about your experience with Jesus? Telling others about Jesus can be life changing. Who will you share with today? Our Bible reading is incomplete unless we allow it to work a change in our lives. (James 1:21-25) Imagine if you studied for a career in school but forgot everything you learned. Where would you career be? Your schooling would have been a waste. So too, the Bible has many things to teach us. As our lives change, others see that and it can have an impact on them as well. What do others see in your relationship with Jesus that they would like to have? How can your life transformation be an example to others? By becoming people of truth, guided by the scriptures, we can live as an example to others of how God can change a person’s life. (I Corinthians 11:1) Your life might be the only Bible that some people read. Therefore, how we live our lives in front of others is important to helping them see the light and truth of Jesus. How are you trying to imitate Christ today? Do you know of any other Christians whom you would feel confident in imitating their way of life? Do you want to experience all that God has in store for you? The gateway to much of that experience is in the scripture. The Bible says of itself: “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17

One of my favorite biblical role models is Mary of Nazareth. In her life I have found a wealth of wisdom for my own walk with God. Her story illustrates many of the characteristics of the kind of woman God uses to fulfill His redemptive purposes in our world. An ordinary woman There was nothing particularly unusual about Mary. She was not from a wealthy or illustrious family. When the angel appeared to this young teenage girl, she was engaged to be married and was undoubtedly doing what engaged girls do—dreaming of being married to Joseph, of the home they would live in, of the family they would have. I don’t believe she was expecting her life to be used in any extraordinary way. The significance of Mary’s life was not based on any of the things our world values so highly— background, physical beauty, intelligence, education, natural gifts and abilities. It was Mary’s relationship to Jesus that gave her life significance. “The Lord is with you,” the angel told her. That is what made all the difference in this young woman’s life. And it is what makes all the difference in our lives. An undeserving woman God did not choose this young woman because she was worthy of the honor of being the mother of the Savior. The angel said to Mary, “Greetings, you who are highly favored!” (v. 28, emphasis added). That phrase could be translated, “you who are graciously accepted.” If any of us is to be accepted by God, it will be because of grace—not because of anything we have done. It’s all because of grace. Over and over again in Scripture, we see that God chooses people who are undeserving. God didn’t look down from heaven and say, “I see a woman who has something to offer Me; I think I’ll use her.” Mary did not deserve to be used by God; to the contrary, she marveled at God’s grace in choosing her. The moment we cease to see ourselves as undeserving instruments, chances are we will cease to be useful in the hand of God. A Spirit-filled woman We, too, must be filled with the Spirit if we are to fulfill the purpose for which God has chosen us. When the angel said to Mary, “You’re going to have a child,” Mary responded, “How can this be? I’ve never been intimate with a man!” God had chosen her for a task that was humanly impossible. The task for which God has chosen you and me is no less impossible. We can share the Gospel of Christ with our lost friends, but we cannot give them repentance and faith. You can provide a climate that is conducive to the spiritual growth of your children, but you can’t make them have a heart for God. We are totally dependent on Him to produce any fruit of eternal value. In response to Mary’s expression of weakness and inadequacy, the angel promised her God’s strength and adequacy: “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you” (v. 35). Don’t ever forget that you cannot do what God has called you to do. You cannot parent that child, love that husband, care for that elderly parent, submit to that boss, teach that Sunday school class, or lead that small-group Bible study. God specializes in the impossible, so that when the victory is won and the task is complete, we cannot take any credit. Others know we didn’t do it, and we know we didn’t do it. We must always remember that we can only live the Christian life and serve God through the power of His Holy Spirit. As soon as we think we can handle it on our own, we become useless to Him. We have to be willing to get out of the way, let God take over, and let Him overshadow us. An available woman Equipped with the promises of God, Mary’s response was simply, “I am the Lord’s servant. . . . May it be to me as you have said” (v. 38). In other words, “Lord, I’m available. You are my master; I am Your servant. I’m willing to be used however You choose. My body is Yours; my womb is Yours; my life is Yours.” In that act of surrender, Mary offered herself to God as a living sacrifice. She was willing to be used by God for His purposes—willing to endure the loss of reputation that was certain to follow when people realized she was with child, willing to endure the ridicule and even the possible stoning permitted by the Mosaic law, willing to go through nine months of increasing discomfort and sleeplessness, willing to endure the labor pains of giving birth to the Child. Mary was willing to give up her own plans and agenda so that she might link arms with God in fulfilling His agenda. A praising woman. When God puts challenging circumstances in our lives, we either worship or we whine. I’m ashamed to say I’ve done more than my share of whining—even about ministry. “Oh, Lord, I’m tired of traveling. Do I have to go there? This is so hard! Why do I have to deal with that person?” I am reminded of the children of Israel in the wilderness who murmured incessantly. “If only God had just let us die in the wilderness,” they whined. One day God finally said, in essence, “You want to die in the wilderness? Okay, you’ll die in the wilderness!” (see Num. 14:2, 28–30). Be careful what you say when you murmur—God may take you up on it. But when Mary’s world was turned topsy-turvy, when she was faced with a drastic change in plans, she responded in worship and praise. “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior” (vv. 46–47). So begins her Magnificat—one of the greatest hymns of praise ever lifted up to heaven. She worshiped God for His wonderful acts, for His mercy, and for choosing her to be a part of His great redemptive plan. A woman of the Word Her prayer in Luke 1:46–55 includes at least a dozen quotations from the Old Testament Scriptures. In those days women did not have a formal education; Mary was probably illiterate. But she had listened to the reading of the Word and had hidden it in her heart. Her life and her prayers were filled with Scripture. One of our greatest needs as women is to become women of the Word, so that our prayers, our responses, and our words are saturated with God’s way of thinking. The world does not need to hear our opinions. When friends approach us for advice about dealing with their children, their boss, their finances, their fears, their depression, or other issues, they don’t need to hear what we think. We should be able to take them to the Word and say, “I don’t have the answers you need, but I know Someone who does. Here’s what God’s Word has to say about this situation.” A wounded woman Eight days after Jesus was born, Mary and Joseph took the infant to the temple (Luke 2:21–35). Simeon, who had been waiting for the appearance of the Messiah, took the Christ-Child in his arms and blessed Him. Simeon spoke of how the Child would be a sign that would be spoken against—foreshadowing the cross and the suffering He would undergo. Then Simeon looked at Mary and spoke words that she would not fully understand until she stood beneath the cross of her Son 33 years later. On that day she surely remembered Simeon’s words, “A sword will pierce your own soul too” (v. 35). There at Calvary I believe that sword pierced Mary’s soul in more than one sense. First, as a mother she was losing her Son. She was giving up His life. Even as He laid down His life, she gave up her Son for the salvation and the redemption of the world. Mothers, have you laid down your children for the sake of Christ and His kingdom? How sad it is on occasion to see Christian parents stand in the way of their children laying down their lives for the sake of Christ. And what a joy to see parents who gladly release their children to the will of God. Another wound pierced Mary’s heart—this one even more deeply than the first. You see, she understood that her Son was dying not only for the sins of the world, but for her sins. Even before He was born, she had recognized Him as “God my Savior” (Luke 1:47, emphasis added). As good as she was, Mary was not good enough to get to heaven on her own. As is true with each of us, she had to place her faith in the crucified Son of God, who died in her place. As she stood beneath that cross, perhaps she recalled the words of the prophet Isaiah: “He was pierced for [my] transgressions, he was crushed for [my] iniquities . . . and by his wounds [I am] healed. We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all (Isa. 53:5–6). Mary was a wounded woman–wounded not only by her suffering, but by her sin. As she gazed upon her crucified Son, she realized that He was taking her wounds upon Himself. And as she believed, she was healed—cleansed of her sin. Three days later when she learned that He had conquered death and was alive, knowing she had been made whole by His death, she joined the other disciples in taking the Good News of His atonement to a wounded, sinful world, that they, too, might know His healing salvation. For more than 2,000 years her life has provided a portrait of godliness for women who, like Mary, long to be used of God. 1. What are your faith challenges? Make a list and spend some time bringing them before the Lord. 2. How can you relate to Mary? 3. How does Mary inspire you to hope in God? Mary embodies the faith in God we all need. How did she cope with her challenges? How did she face the future? © Revive Our Hearts. Used with permission. Excerpted from Portrait of a Woman Used by God by Nancy Leigh DeMoss. www.ReviveOurHearts.com

Jesus will come to us three times. He came to us HUMBLY. He will return SECRETLY (in the air) at the Rapture to gather His saints. King Jesus will then come VICTORIOUSLY as King and Judge. Why did a glorious, all-powerful, all-knowing God take on human form at His first coming? Paul the apostle gives us the answer: “Though Jesus was God, He did not demand and cling to his rights as God, but laid aside His mighty power and glory, taking the disguise of a slave and becoming like men. And He humbled himself even further, going so far as actually to die a criminal’s death on a cross. Yet it was because of this that God raised Him up to the heights of heaven and gave Him a name which is above every other name, that at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2: 6-11 ESV HOW did Jesus humble Himself? We know that He became a helpless baby born in a barn. The angels lauded Him, the Star shone brightly, the Kings brought gifts and the Shepherds worshipped. But Jesus required a diaper change. The barn was smelly. He needed Mary to nurse Him. The New Testament is filled with examples of Jesus’ laying aside His divine power and glory while He lived among us. Jesus laid aside His omnipotence. Jesus was tempted. When facing Satan in Luke 4:1-14, He didn’t turn the stones into bread even though He was starving. He didn’t jump off the Temple roof even though doing so would show the Jews His Divine power. He didn’t take the chance to rule the world at Satan’s bidding. He had to ask the Samaritan woman for water (John 4:7). He didn’t have a place to sleep. “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.” (Luke 9:58) He wrapped a towel around His waist and washed His disciples’ dirty feet. (John 13:14) Jesus healed many, but not every person everywhere. He raised the widow of Nain’s son (Luke 7:11), Jairus’ daughter (Luke 8:52-56) and Lazarus. Jesus, speaking to Martha, proclaimed Himself to be the resurrection and the life. (John 11: 25). Various saints in Jerusalem came out of the graves when Jesus arose (Matthew 27:50–53). But Christ left multitudes in the grave. They will only be raised at the Rapture. He calmed the storm, but only for a night. (Luke 8:22-24). He needed rest and time away from crowds, and He was so exhausted that even the battering of the boat did not awaken Him (Matthew 8:24). These truths should help us realize that Jesus was genuinely human with the same basic needs we all have. Christ’s humanity is part of what qualifies Him to be our merciful intercessor between us and God the Father (Hebrews 2:17). He proclaimed that only the Father knew when He would return for the Rapture of the Saints. Jesus said, “No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father” (Matthew 24:36; cf. Mark 13:32). The Bible clearly teaches that Jesus is God (John 1:1, 14), and we know that God is omniscient, but He chose to lay aside His omniscience. He died alone. He didn’t even carry His cross alone. Simon of Cyrene had to help Him walk to Golgotha (Luke 23:26). Women had to bury His mangled corpse. (Mark 16:1). Jesus, at last, was resurrected in glory, defeating death and bringing each of us forgiveness and a forever home. But not all received Christ’s free gift. Many chose to turn away and ignore Him. Jesus’ second coming will be SECRET. No one knows when to expect Him. He will return in the air and “catch away His Saints, both living and dead.” 1 Thessalonians 4:17: "...we will meet the Lord in the air." Christ will come like a thief in the night. (I Thess. 5:2). The Rapture is a time of blessing and hope (Titus 2:13). Believers will join Jesus in heaven, replete with new, resurrected bodies. Jesus’ third coming will be VICTORIOUS. Everyone shall see Him (Revelation 1:7). He will split the Mount of Olives and He will arrive WITH His saints. King Jesus will bring a sharp sword to punish and to judge (2 Thessalonians 1:8-9). The Jews will look upon the King they crucified and will mourn. (Zechariah 12:10). Pastor Skip Heitzig writes: “I have a friend in the ministry who some years ago went and visited a mental institution for children. He said as he was walking down the corridors, he noticed these tiny little handprints on all of the windows. And he asked the director to explain those handprints. And the director said, well, the children here love Jesus. And they are so eager for Him to return they lean against the windows as they look up to the sky. We sing about His first coming. “Away in a manger, no crib for His bed. The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head.” “Joy to the World declares His return and reign. “Joy to the world, the Lord is come! Let earth receive Her King.” As you study these passages, meditate on Jesus’ humility in laying aside His glory for us. Pray about how you will prepare for His return. And finally, sing songs rejoicing in His love and His victory. Hallelujah Chorus, “And He shall reign forever and ever! Hallelujah. Jesus came to the earth three times: He came humbly as a baby, He came secretly at the Rapture and He came victoriously as King and Judge. Examine these three facets of Christ and be blessed!

Listen When God Speaks Ecclesiastes 5:1-7 So many of Solomon’s observations are horizontal musings—the bitter, barren, boring side of life as seen through his disillusioned eyes. But, in chapter five he zeros in on the remarkable vertical perspective that scrapes away the veneer of empty religion and takes us to the bedrock of a meaningful relationship with Christ. Jesus Christ is not some morning mist that dissipates as the day goes on. He is substantial—and real. Since God is speaking continually, we would do well to stop and listen. SOLOMON’S THESIS: God is speaking. Listen carefully and take seriously what He says. FOUR COMMANDS (SUGGESTIONS?) AND THE REASONS FOR THE COMMANDS FLOW THROUGH THE PASSAGE. 1. DRAW NEAR AND LISTEN—BECAUSE GOD IS SPEAKING TO YOU. Ecclesiastes 5:1: Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know they do wrong. The “sacrifice of fools” is the perfunctory, careless observance of religion, unattached to any Godward movement of the soul—enacted out of custom or habit. The “sacrifice of fools” is the human tendency to complain about our lot in life. When we grouse about our circumstances we are actually complaining against the plans God has made for our lives. The Bible mentions other manifestations of the “sacrifices of fools.” Giving God the Leftovers (Malachi 1:10-13) Giving God lip service without changed lives (Ezekiel 33:31-32; Gen. 28:20-26) Making decisions without carefully involving God (Judges 11:29-49) “Dreams” is “fantasizing” which produces much activity but accomplishes nothing. God Speaks In A Variety Of Ways. The Bible (Psalms 119:105) Jesus Christ (Hebrews 1:1-3) Sign and wonders (Acts 3:1-10) Putting out “fleeces” to discern God’s will (Judges 6:36-40) Godly People (Ecclesiastes 4:13). The Creation (Romans 1:18) Preachers and prophets (Acts 11:28-29) In our inner-most-human spirit during quiet moments (1 Kings 19:11-13) In the human mind by sorting out the “pros and cons” of a decision (Isaiah 1:18) Dreams (Joel 2:28-29) Visions (Joel 2:28-29) Failure (Matthew 26:75; John 21) In our inner-most-human spirit when we are consistently seeking God (Jeremiah 29:12- 13) Circumstances 2. BE QUIET AND STAY CALM—BECAUSE GOD HAS THE BEST PERSPECTIVE ON YOUR LIFE. Ecclesiastes 5:2-3: Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few. As a dream comes when there are many cares, so the speech of a fool when there are many words. God is in His heaven and you are on the earth, so please don’t start griping about the lot in life God has handed to you. 3. MAKE A COMMITMENT AND KEEP IT—BECAUSE GOD BELIEVES IN YOU. Ecclesiastes 5:4-5: When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow. It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it. Properly listening to God is always in the context of commitment. We must be willing to do His will before He will speak (James 1; John 7). Don’t play games with God. 4. DON’T DECIDE NOW AND DENY LATER—BECAUSE GOD TAKES YOU SERIOUSLY. Ecclesiastes 5:6-7: Do not let your mouth lead you into sin. And do not protest to the temple messenger, “My vow was a mistake.” Why should God be angry at what you say and destroy the work of your hands? Much dreaming and many words are meaningless. Therefore, stand in awe of God. You’re about to take a risk. Watch out! Be alert! Listen carefully. Truth will be deposited in your head that is designed to change your life. Dealing with Jesus Christ is serious business. Do it right. In other words, “Fear God. Take Him seriously.” Hearing God Speak May Cost Us Our Lives, But It Is Worth It At Any Price (Exodus 20:18). FOCUS ON THE OPEN-ARMED INVITATION FROM JESUS CHRIST TO MOVE INTO AN INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP AND COMMUNICATION WITH GOD. Matthew 11:28-30: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." My heart is not proud, O Lord, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me. But I have stilled and quieted my soul; like a child quieted at its mother breast, like a child that is quieted is my soul. Psalm 131:1-2 So many of Solomon’s observations are horizontal musings—the bitter, barren, boring side of life as seen through his disillusioned eyes. But, in chapter five he zeros in on the remarkable vertical perspective that scrapes away the veneer of empty religion and takes us to the bedrock of a meaningful relationship with Christ. Jesus Christ is not some morning mist that dissipates as the day goes on. He is substantial—and real.

Kingdom Citizenship Dr. Tony Evans If you’ve ever lived in a foreign country, you know that, although you may engage with and be a part of that culture, there are certain things—such as language, customs or beliefs—that may be in stark contrast to the ones you are accustomed to in your homeland. Paul likened our experience on Earth to that of foreigners in a land that is not ours, awaiting our return home. Our citizenship, he argued, was in Heaven and not on Earth (Phil 3:20). There once was a time in the USA when there was a collective frame of reference to Judeo-Christian principles that would inform culture. Still, as secularism, humanism and idolatry crept into the American consciousness, this country drifted further from that point of reference. Rather than being a thermostat setting the cultural climate in our country, Christians have become more like a thermometer reflecting the culture’s extreme temperatures. Our calling is not to mirror the world’s ways and customs but to live unaltered by the push and pull of cultural norms. So how do Christians live in a world that is not their home yet still engage its inhabitants toward making more citizens of Heaven? As believers, we must make radical adjustments to how we live and move if we ever want to see others come to know and trust the one true King of the world. This requires a shift in allegiance— not pledging unwavering devotion to a flag or a political party but focusing our whole devotion on a much higher call. As James says, we must learn not to be double-minded, easily swayed by doubts and the workings of this world (Jas 1:5-8). Instead, we must choose to become wholly focused on serving and living our lives as the Lord prescribes in His Word. While the culture is entrapped in an all-out battle over earthly politics, Kingdom Citizens—those visible, verbal followers of Christ— should be spending all their time and energy bringing heavenly perspectives into the culture’s concerns. As Kingdom Citizens, our devotion is to the Lord alone. We should influence whatever areas of culture to which God has allowed us to be a part. We should be on the frontlines in our local communities, seeking to hold those in office accountable to Kingdom values. Rather than being swept up in the debates and divisions of this place, Christians should be the ones helping to make His Kingdom come on Earth as it is in Heaven. Getting Started 1. Have you ever been to or lived in a foreign country? What is it like to be in a place that is not your home? How did people view you and react to your presence? What differences made it difficult to navigate a land that was not your own? 2. What is the difference between a thermostat and a thermometer? How have you seen Christians reflect the temperature of the culture instead of informing it? Let's Get Personal 1. In what ways do you find yourself being more like an earthly citizen instead of a heavenly one? What keeps you from being entirely devoted to your true homeland? 2. How have you responded to our current cultural climate? Do you feel like you helped to inform your culture, or did you allow the culture to inform your beliefs and ideas? 3. If someone looked at your life through your social media posts, your spending habits, the words you say and how you live in general, would they describe you as a devoted citizen of Heaven or an earthly citizen of this world? 4. What would it look like to live as a Kingdom Citizen in your workplace, home, neighborhood, community and country? What specific actions would a Kingdom Citizen do? Take the Next Step 1. One of the reasons many Christians struggle to live as heavenly citizens is that their knowledge of politics and worldly issues is greater than their understanding of Scripture. Honestly evaluate your time spent in God’s Word. Do you invest as much in your knowledge of the character and story of God as you do in politics or earthly concerns? What is one thing you can do to grow in your understanding of the things of God? 2. How can your prayer life express your faithful citizenship to the Kingdom of Christ? Do you pray about the issues that concern you? Do you ask the Lord for wisdom as you engage culture, or do you merely express your opinions and ideas without consulting God and His Word? 3. Do you need to repent to the Lord? Have you been living as an earthly citizen instead of pledging your allegiance to Christ? If so, confess ways you’ve put your hope in and reliance on systems of this world rather than in Christ alone. 4. What is one way you can inform the culture in your home, workplace, neighborhood, community and country as a Kingdom Citizen? Boldly step out in faith and live out your true citizenship by acting accordingly this week. 5. Want to dig deeper? Take a look at the following passages: Luke 16:16; 22:29; 1 Peter 2:11; Matthew 5:13-16; 28:16-20; Colossians 1:13; Philippians 3:19; James 1:7 8; 3:17; John 18:33, 37; Judges 8:22-23; Ephesians 1:10, 22-23; and Galatians 1:4. Renew Your Mind “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ;” Philippians 3:20 Our kingdom is not of this world. Our calling is not to mirror the world’s ways and customs but to live unaltered by the push and pull of cultural norms.

“The Power” Acts 1:1-8 Introduction Electricity revolutionized how we live because of the power that flows from it. Another source of power that should transform how we live is the Holy Spirit. In Acts 1:1-8, Jesus gathered the apostles to tell them about things regarding the Kingdom of God. In Acts 1:6, when the apostles began asking if this was the time Jesus would restore the Kingdom, Jesus responded that it was not for them to know the time for that, but also told them they would receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon them, and that they would be His witnesses. The church would be Kingdom representatives, modeling and proclaiming the Kingdom‘s presence in the midst of the culture. The power of the Holy Spirit is often the most misunderstood and underused aspect of His nature. As the third person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit is powerful. He makes the power of Heaven available to us while we wait for the Powerful One – Jesus Christ – to return. However, one can have the living Word and the written Word and still need power if not connected to the Holy Spirit. Far too many Christians are not properly linked to the Holy Spirit and wonder why lives are stagnant. We become spiritually stuck and try to work ourselves out of our problems with our own determination instead of depending upon the right power source. We must rely on the Holy Spirit, who is the igniter and is responsible for displaying power. It is the Holy Spirit who helps to bring the truth of God from the Bible into your life experience. If one is unwilling to publicly be known as a follower of Jesus Christ then they are unable to experience this power. Acts 1:5 states, "for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now." To be baptized spiritually is to be identified as a follower of Jesus Christ. Water baptism is simply a physical representation of your spiritual baptism and shows you are willing to publicly identify with Christ. The baptism of Christ is to be worn like clothing (Gal 3:27), and we are clothed with power from on high (Luke 24:49). Just as some professionals wear uniforms that identify them as a military soldier, police officer, doctor, etc., baptism is the uniform Christians ought to wear to be identified as followers of Christ. John 16 tells us how we get this power to work in our life. We receive power from the Spirit because Jesus and His Father are 100 percent in sync, and all things that Jesus gets from His Father, He, in turn, gives to the Spirit. Verse 13 points out that we will receive truth from the Spirit, and the Spirit will only transfer truth. John 17:17 reminds us God’s Word is truth. If you leave Scripture out of your life, you leave out truth, and in leaving out truth, you leave out the Holy Spirit. If you leave out the Holy Spirit, then you leave out His power. The Holy Spirit’s power will always be at work to glorify Jesus Christ. When the Holy Spirit’s power is at work in us, His power revolutionizes how we live so that we can effectively be Kingdom representatives who are witnesses for the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 1:8). Getting Started 1. What does it mean to be a believer in Christ but not a follower? 2. What do you think the culture would look like if every believer lived like a follower of Christ? What impact could we have on the culture? Let's Get Personal 1. Are you currently experiencing the Holy Spirit’s power in your life? How would you rate the amount of time you spend reading and studying God’s Word? Do you see the correlation between the time you spend learning God’s Word and the power you experience in your life? Share your thoughts with your group. 2. The baptism of Christ is to be worn like clothing (Gal 3:27). Are you currently wearing the right clothing? How does it make you feel knowing God wants you to be a Kingdom representative? What can you do or suggest that is helpful to someone wanting to be a Kingdom representative? 3. Share a time where you used your own strength and determination rather than the power of the Holy Spirit to solve a problem. Would you handle that situation differently now? Take the Next Step 1. Are you feeling spiritually stuck? Remembering what you’ve learned and talked about, what can you do or suggest to someone to help get unstuck? Discuss with your group and pray with each other that you move forward into this new year with the power of the Holy Spirit to see positive changes in your lives. 2. Are you still holding on to some old thinking that you know has you confused and living a defeated life? Ask your group for help in identifying some Scripture verses or passages you can read and meditate on to replace that old way of thinking. 3. Want to dig deeper? Take a look at the following passages: Acts 1:1-8; 28:31; 1 Corinthians 1:17; Luke 24:49; Galatians 3:27; John 16:12-15; 15:1-16; 17:17. Renew Your Mind “. . . you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be my witnesses . . . Acts 1:8 The power of the Holy Spirit is unimaginable. He will allow you to carry out God's work around the world.

“The Helper” John 16:5-15 Introduction The Person of the Holy Spirit is the third member of the Trinity (Matt 28:19). It is His job to come alongside believers of Jesus Christ to help in any area there is a need. After Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascension (Luke 24:50-51), the Holy Spirit was given to believers to continue Jesus’ ministry to His people on earth. The Holy Spirit is available to the believer as an intimate companion, confidant, and friend. What Jesus offered to others with His physical presence, the Holy Spirit now provides. The presence of the Holy Spirit is so that we can live today with a full experience of the Savior’s love, grace, and power. Like Jesus, the Spirit helps us pray (Rom 8:26-27) and teaches us all things (John 14:25-26). The Holy Spirit makes available the divine resources that God promises His people based on their need and God’s will. The Spirit activates or makes experiential the encouragement, advocacy, and empowerment that God’s children need. For the believer who needs help shifting their thoughts, calming their emotions or strengthening their resolve, the Holy Spirit is available in direct proportion to the investment made in relationship with Him. Because the Holy Spirit is a person, He should be related to as such and believers should be careful not to reduce Him to a helpful power or force that is called upon in times of need. The full experience of the Holy Spirit to believers requires an intimate personal relationship. His full power and assistance are experienced best in the context of an ongoing close relationship with believers in Jesus Christ. When you are walking with the Holy Spirit, you are also walking with Jesus. It is the Spirit’s job to prioritize the glorification of Christ (John 16:14). So if Christ is not being glorified, you will not see the Holy Spirit at work. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth (John 14:17; 15:26); He cannot operate in error. For the believer to see and experience the fullness of the Holy Spirit as a helper, consistent engagement with the Word of God is crucial. The Holy Spirit is God’s provision to aid believers in experiencing the divine assistance that God offers. Getting Started 1. What is your personal experience relating to the Holy Spirit? Have you ever needed His help or comfort? Share your experience with your group. 2. After listening to today’s sermon, what new information did you learn about the Holy Spirit? What fresh revelation did you receive as it relates to your relationship with Him? Let's Get Personal 1. Do you feel as if you have an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit? Why or why not? 2. What do you do in your walk with God to invest in your relationship with the Holy Spirit? How do you cultivate your relationship with God? 3. Since the Holy Spirit’s job is to prioritize the glorification of Christ, how does your life give Him the opportunity to do that? How do your requests give Him the opportunity to have Christ’s glory illustrated through your life? Take the Next Step 1. The Holy Spirit is available as a helper to believers in Jesus Christ. In what areas do you need the help of the Holy Spirit? 2. Our experience of the Holy Spirit relies much on our investment of time and energy getting to know God through the Word. Putting in the effort to pray and read God’s Word greatly impacts the amount of the Spirit’s help that we experience. What can you begin doing to avail yourself to a deeper experience of the Holy Spirit? 3. Want to go deeper? Take a look at the following passages: John 14:16-18, 25-26; 15:26; 16:13; Acts 5:3-4; 1 John 4:1-6; Matthew 28:19; Romans 8:26-27; and 1 Corinthians 2:9-16. Renew Your Mind “I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever;” John 14:16 One of the ways the Holy Spirit ministers to a child of God is to help and give wisdom in every task God asks him or her to do.

Portraits of Christ in the Old Testament – Lesson 7 Typology – the Bronze Serpent Snakes always terrified Meghan. She blamed this fear on her brother Randy who worked on a ranch in southeastern Arizona. In Arizona, rattlesnakes are common and most cattlemen hate them for their venomous bite. When quizzed about her phobia, Meghan could not say for sure how many times she watched her brother kill a rattlesnake. There was the time he used a hoe to defend her family because one snake had gone into the backyard to reach the dog’s water. And another time he shot one in the carport. She was not sure why the rattler wanted to take up residence in their carport. Numerous times, they were horseback riding through the desert and a snake would spook the horses. It wasn’t watching him protect their family from snakes which passed his fear on to Meghan; it was the attitude that came over her brother when he saw a snake. His adrenaline would start pumping, his countenance would change, and she knew instantly they were in the presence of real danger. Meghan lived forty years knowing she was afraid of snakes and felt no compulsion to conquer her phobia. Then she started working at a cactus nursery where reptiles of all sorts and varieties were common. Some, like the king snakes, were even welcome at the nursery because they would eat the rattlers and the ever-present pack rats on the property. It was the commonness of working in an environment where she could encounter a snake at any time, which first initiated her deliverance from her fear of snakes. The fear of snakes is a common terror and figures strongly in our next portrait of Christ in the Old Testament, the Bronze Serpent. This picture is unique because Jesus, himself, is the person who originally introduces the application of this metaphor in John 3:14. Why does Jesus highlight the Bronze Serpent as a type of Christ? The Bronze Serpent is a prophetic picture from Israel’s past that illustrated the kind of death Jesus would suffer (John 12:32-33). The Old Testament passage Jesus points to is found in Numbers 21:4-9. In this episode, God sent fiery serpents among the people after they made derogatory remarks against God and his servant Moses. These poisonous snakes were unrestrained in their attack on the Israelites. Imagine the confusion and pandemonium which must have erupted in the camp. Two to three million people were camping in close proximity to each other, along with their livestock, and all were struck by the fear and the reality of striking snakes. Snakes normally inhabit arid regions, but in their entire trek across the desert, serpents had never before endangered them. Yet, it was the people’s accusations and complaints against God and his goodness that had opened the door to their suffering (Num. 21:4-6). After many had died from the venomous snakes, the congregation came in repentance to Moses and he intercedes before God on Israel’s behalf. God told Moses, “Make a fiery serpent and set it on a pole, and everyone who is bitten when he sees it shall live.” (Num. 21:8) After God’s instructions, Moses fashioned a bronze snake and placed it on a pole, so that all could see it and those who looked in faith on the serpent were cured and healed. The people specifically asked Moses to pray that God would take away the serpents (Num. 21:7). Instead, God left the snakes and gave the people a remedy for the poisonous bite. Why did God answer their prayers in this way? There were numerous ways God could have delivered the Israelites from snakebite, but this outcome foreshadowed the coming power of Jesus’ cross. Jesus refers to this ancient incident halfway through a chat he has with Nicodemus, a seeker who comes to visit him by night. Why did Nicodemus call on Jesus after dark? Possibly, he wanted to hide his coming from those who would disapprove of him seeking out Jesus? Scripture tells us Nicodemus was a Pharisee, a member of the ruling counsel (John 3:1). Maybe, he was looking for a face-to-face opportunity to meet with Jesus alone. The narrative of John is the only New Testament book to mention Nicodemus by name. He is found three times in this gospel. Firstly, we see him in John 3:1-21; and secondly, he is mentioned defending Jesus in John 7:40-52. In this second passage, the chief priest and Pharisees were angry with the temple guards because they did not arrest Jesus. Lastly, Nicodemus is brought to our attention when, with Joseph of Arimathea, he takes Jesus’ body from the cross for burial in John 19:38-42. It is interesting to note in speaking to Nicodemus, Jesus never condemns him for a clandestine visit after dark. It is as if Jesus understands that Nicodemus is a thinker and it will take him a while to embrace Jesus as the Messiah. Jesus shows great patience here, but he is also direct with Nicodemus about his need to be born again, mentioning it three times in these verses (John 3:3, 5, 7). John 3:14-15 reads this way, “And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.” Why did Jesus choose the picture of the Bronze Serpent at this moment in their conversation? In the entirety of Jesus’ teaching he used many metaphors to reference himself, but here he unveils this one to prophesy the type of death he would die. Jesus’ exaltation on a cross had already been foreshadowed in Israel’s history. And, by the time Nicodemus stands beneath the cross, he is reminded of their discussion on that fateful night, three years earlier. Finally, at this crucial time, Nicodemus is no longer interested in being a secret disciple of Christ, but wants to openly care for Jesus’ burial (John 19:38-42). Therefore, the first principle we need to understand about the picture of the Bronze Serpent is Jesus uses this story to predict the kind of death he would suffer (John 12:32-33). The next truth we want to understand about the “Bronze Serpent” portrait is Jesus became sin for us. The role the serpent played in the Garden of Eden is legendary. The serpent was the character in the Garden who tempted Adam and Eve to sin. One reason God told Moses to lift up a snake was the serpent was a picture of sin and this Old Testament typology indicated the substitutionary work of Jesus at Calvary. Jesus would not just bear our sins on the cross; scriptures teach Jesus became sin for us so that in him, we might become the righteousness of God. Look at 2 Cor. 5:21. “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” Jesus made these statements the last week of his life. While it is true he was speaking of his impending death, he was also pointing to our clear purpose. It is our privilege to exalt Christ upon the earth. We are helpless in our strength to lead anyone to Christ, but God is able. Often times we spend an enormous energy exalting a spiritual book or a dynamic speaker to an unbeliever because we know these spiritual advisers could make a difference. Sometimes, we spend an inordinate amount of time trying to convince a friend to attend a meeting or certain church service. But this passage carries a truth we need to grasp. Solely exalting a book, a person, or a church will not draw people to Christ. What we can do, according to John 12:32, is lift up Christ; and when he is exalted, he will do the “work” of leading people unto himself. We need to brag on the Lord Jesus Christ, and tell others the difference Christ has made in our lives. When we simply share Jesus, he simply attracts unbelievers to himself. As time went on, Nicodemus’ reasoning would flow against the tide of pharisaical opinion (John 7:40-52, John 19:38-42). Meeting Jesus transformed Nicodemus from an educated scholar into a devoted follower. If you want to understand the picture of the bronze serpent, you must see Jesus was prophesying the type of death he would suffer, becoming sin for us and drawing all to himself. Meghan knew she was not going to be able to do the job that she loved at the cactus nursery, and keep her dread of snakes. She made a conscience decision to realize it would always be normal to run into reptiles of any kind at the nursery. Today, while Meghan possesses a healthy respect for snakes, she does not fear them. Before engaging in these questions, stop and ask God to speak to you and then begin. 1) Do you believe the people in Numbers 21 took a passing glance at the bronze serpent or do you think they stared? Why? 2) What was the people’s responsibility when Moses lifted up the serpent? 3) How can you simply brag on Jesus today? The Bronze Serpent was a picture of the sin that Jesus would become for us. Without executing this spiritual exchange, we could never become the righteousness of God (Romans 3:23).

How should we pray for our children? Deborah Haddix provides this thoughtful, thorough guide for Moms and Dads who need practical help for how to pray for their children. Just for Parents Prayer: is a biblical command. (Lamentations 2:19) can stop Satan’s schemes and powers toward my children. (Ephesians 6:12) has an eternal impact on the lives of our children. (2 Timothy 1:5) is my response to God’s invitation. (Revelation 3:20) permits me to release to God what I cannot control myself. (1 Peter 5:6-7) helps equip my children to stand fast in the faith. allows God to accomplish His purpose in and through them. helps me to be more involved in the lives of my children. enables me to play a major part in stabilizing and influencing the lives of my children. closes the generational gap. strengthens my relationship with my children. is the single, greatest thing I can do to express my love for my children. is one of the greatest investments I will ever make into their lives. draws me closer to God and nourishes my spirit. displays the faithfulness, sovereignty, and goodness of God. “God shapes the world by prayer.” E.M. Bounds ------------------ Practical Ways to Maneuver Around Roadblocks in the Path to Prayer ROADBLOCK #1: TIME Examine your schedule, your daily routines, and your obligations. Look for ways to pray as you live life. Driving, shopping, walking the dog, and even brushing your teeth are all opportunities for prayer. Go on a quest. Discover a way to pray that is a natural connection to your unique, God-given wiring. If you love the outdoors, go outside to pray. If things of beauty draw you in, try combining art and prayer. If you come alive when your senses are aroused, light some candles or hold an object while you pray. Schedule it! Yes, I said SCHEDULE prayer. At first, it may seem a little strange, but it works! Write “Pray” on your calendar or set an alarm on your phone. Do whatever it takes! ROADBLOCK #2: CONTENT Ask. If your child is old enough to talk, ask how you can pray for them. Pray scripture. Praying scripture provides specific content. AND… when praying scripture, we never have to wonder if it’s “okay” to pray what we are praying. Use resource sheets. There are many wonderful resource sheets available in books and on the internet. Do a google search for resources. You might try “Ways to Pray for My Child.” BEING INTENTIONAL in Our Prayers Be DELIBERATE about your prayers. • Schedule prayers by writing them on your calendar or setting a phone alarm. • Use physical objects as reminders to pray – a bookmark, a strategically placed post-it note, or a piece of jewelry, perhaps.  Make the COMMITMENT to prayer. • Write out your commitment – as a note in your Bible or on a beautiful sheet of paper. Then sign it. (Go beyond merely “thinking it” in your head.) • Place your written commitment where you will see it – often! • Share your commitment with someone. This simple act of accountability ups the likelihood of follow-through dramatically! Persevere. • Do not give up. New habits take a while to develop. • It might help to schedule your prayers for the same time of day or to connect them with something you are already in the daily habit of doing such as having coffee, eating lunch, or folding the laundry. 9 Creative Ways to Pray for Your Children PICTURE PRAYER JOURNAL Keep a prayer journal for your children. Use a blank journal, composition book, or 3-ring binder and set up your Picture Prayer Journal by child. For each child, create an “info” page by writing their name and birthday in an upper corner. Attach a small photo in the opposite corner. On the remainder of that page and all subsequent pages, record prayer requests, praises, answers to prayer, and any other notes you like. LEGACY PRAYER JOURNAL Another take on prayer journals, the Legacy Prayer Journal is kept by the parents and children of a family working together. This type of journal is sectioned off by categories such as prayer requests, answers to prayer, prayers, etc. The Legacy Prayer Journal promotes communication, builds connection, and encourages modeling/discussion of prayer. (For those who prefer, the Legacy Prayer Journal may be purchased through Amazon.) PRAYER BOX For this creative prayer technique, you need a box, any box. Decorate your box or leave it as is. (On the other hand, if you prefer, simply purchase a box. A quick Google search will turn up many options.) Additionally, you will need a bag of small stones or marbles to represent your prayer requests. Once your materials are collected, simply place your object in the box as you pray. For added impact, you might choose a different small object to represent “answers to your prayers.” Over time, your box will become a “picture” of your prayers for your children. TRIGGERS Does your child have a favorite song? If so, each time you hear the song take a moment to pray for them. How about a favorite food or activity? Use it as a prayer trigger. If your child is crazy about strawberries, pray when you eat strawberries. Is one of your children obsessed with baseball? Then pray when you drive past a baseball game. Photos are another great trigger. Use them as reminders (triggers) to pray. PRAY THE ALPHABET Use the alphabet as a framework for your prayer. Working from A through Z, pray one specific thing for each letter. Pray for your child’s struggles, age-appropriate needs, relationships, or for Godly character traits you would like to see develop in your child. PRAY IN COLOR FOR YOUR CHILDREN A prayer technique combining Sybil MacBeth’s Praying in Color with the use of Prayer Resource Sheets. Praying in Color for Your Children is a unique and engaging method of prayer that invites parents to more specific and consistent times of prayer. (The process is explained in detail on our Praying in Color for Your Grandchildren page.) WRITE Write out your prayer as a poem, Psalm (a sacred song or poem used in worship), or letter. Address it to your Heavenly Father or to the child for whom you are praying. 30-DAY PRAYER CHALLENGE Commit to 30 consecutive days of prayer for your child. Download a free Challenge booklet filled with prayer prompts based on Scripture. (The booklet is called 30-Day Prayer Challenge for Grandparents. However, the prompts and Scriptures are equally appropriate to prayers for children.) PARENTS AT PRAYER GROUPS Tremendous power is released when the body of Christ prays together. Consider praying with other parents whether that is over the phone with one other, via Zoom with five others, or in person with fifteen. If you need ideas, visit Christian Grandparenting Network’s Grandparents at Prayer Page. (Again, an idea originally targeted to grandparents but easily adaptable and appropriate for parents.) 11 Tools for Praying for Your Children TOOLS FOR CONSISTENCY Alarm/Calendar. The first step in overcoming busyness and the resulting inconsistency of prayer is to schedule prayer. Examine your daily schedule and determine the best time of day for your prayers. Then set an alarm as a reminder until the habit is established. Accountability. This is another tool for helping with consistency. Three ways to set up an accountability system: (1) TELL your children that you are praying for them. (2) SHARE your commitment to praying for your children with another adult and give them permission to hold you accountable. (3) GATHER a group of friends together and form a “parent” prayer group. TOOLS FOR PRAYING SPECIFICALLY Ask. One of the best ways to know what to pray for our children is to ASK them. A quick question, “How may I pray for you today?” provides much insight into individual prayer needs. Pad and Pencil. When you talk to your children, learn to be present. Listen intently. Afterward, grab your pad and pencil and make note of things you heard; things you can pray for. Prayer Resource Sheets. This is one of my all-time favorite tools for praying specifically. Often when I enter my prayer time, I find that my mind is either totally, completely, utterly blank or so jammed, packed full that I just am not able to think. Resource sheets are a handy guide to SPECIFICS – and most are available complete with Scripture references. A few are included in this resource. Scripture. You simply cannot go wrong or wonder what to pray if you pray Scripture. If you have never prayed Scripture for your children, here are a few suggestions for getting started: • Number 6:22-27 • Colossians 1:9-12 • Ephesians 1:15-23  • Psalm 91 • Ephesians 3:14-21 • Psalm 139 • Philippians 1:9-11 • The Book of Proverbs Prayer Journal. Keep an ongoing record of your children’s prayer requests in a journal. Many types of prayer journal are available. Choose one that fits you best. The benefits of keeping a prayer journal are many: heightened focus and retention, deepened relationships with our children, recorded specifics for which to pray, increased intimacy with God, and more. Praying in Color. Another of my favorite tools for praying for my children. See more about Praying in Color for Your Children on page 4 of this booklet. TOOLS FOR PRAYER DIALOGUE AND MODELING   Snail Mail Notes. Light up your child’s face (no matter their age) by mailing little notes to them that tell of your prayers. They will be encouraged. So will you! Legacy Journal. A prayer journal contributed to by all members of the family – no matter their age. A Legacy Journal is a mighty tool for modeling prayer and encouraging “prayer” dialogue. Praying with Purpose 30 – Day Prayer Challenge for Parents. A 30- day focus on praying for our children. The FREE booklet contains several ideas and suggestions for engaging in a period of intentional and specific prayer. (This booklet for grandparents works just as well for parents.) Scripture to Pray for Your Children Pray that your children will... Know Christ as Savior - …because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. (Romans 10:9) Recognize Jesus as the Name Above All Names - Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:9-11) Trust in God and Lean Not on Their Own Understanding - Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6) Desire a Close Relationship with Christ - Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. (Psalm 1:1-3) Mature in Christ - until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ… (Ephesians 4:13) Be Surrounded by Godly Adults and Friends Who Will Pour into Them - Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another. (Proverbs 27:17) Hate Sin - O you who love the LORD, hate evil! He preserves the lives of his saints; he delivers them from the hand of the wicked. (Psalm 97:10) Be Caught When Guilty - It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes. (Psalm 119:71) Be Protected from the Enemy in Every Area of Life - I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. (John 17:15) Know God Intimately - … that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death… (Philippians 3:10) Receive the Love of God - See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. (1 John 3:1) Live Unashamed - For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. (Romans 1:16) Know Their Identity in Christ - For this reason I bow my knees before the Father…that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge. (Ephesians 3:14, 17-19) Love God’s Word - Therefore I love your commandments above gold, above fine gold. Therefore I consider all your precepts to be right; I hate every false way. Your testimonies are wonderful; therefore my soul keeps them. The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple. (Psalm 119:127-130) Develop the Discipline of Prayer - …do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7) Praise God - …and they said to him, “Do you hear what these are saying?” And Jesus said to them, “Yes; have you never read, “‘Out of the mouth of infants and nursing babies you have prepared praise’?” (Matthew 21:16) Be Filled with the Knowledge of God’s Will - And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding… (Colossians 1:9) Walk with the Lord, please Him, bear fruit, and grow in knowledge of God - …so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God… (Colossians 1:10) Be Strengthened with All Power and Endure - …being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy… (Colossians 1:11) Give Thanks to God (with Joy – see Colossians 1:11) - …giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. (Colossians 1:12) Discern Good from Evil - For your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil. (Romans 16:19) Be Protected from Stranger Danger -Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men whose words are perverse. (Proverbs 2:12) Pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace - So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. (2 Timothy 2:22) Guard Their Life with God’s Word - How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word. With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments! I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. (Psalm 119:9-11) Not Be Conformed to Culture but Sold Out to God - I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:1-2) Grow in Faith and Develop Christlike Values - I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20) Exhibit the Fruit of the Spirit - But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. (Galatians 5:22-23) Be Favored by God and Man - And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man. (Luke 2:52) Submit Completely to God and Resist Satan - Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. (James 4:7) Have a Responsible Attitude in All Their Relationships - Then this Daniel became distinguished above all the other high officials and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him. And the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom. (Daniel 6:3) Honor Their Parents - Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you. (Exodus 20:12) Respect Those in Authority over Them - Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. (Romans 13:1) Have a Strong, Healthy Relationship with Their Siblings - Concerning brotherly love you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another. (1 Thessalonians 4:9) Choose Their Friends Wisely - My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent. If they say, “Come with us, let us lie in wait for blood; let us ambush the innocent without reason… (Proverbs 1:10-11) Be Guided by the Holy Spirit in Choosing Their Spouse - Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? (2 Corinthians 6:14) Remain Pure Before Marriage - Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin[a] a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own… (1 Corinthians 6:18-19) Develop Discernment and Wisdom - And God said to him, “Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches or the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right, behold, I now do according to your word. Behold, I give you a wise and discerning mind, so that none like you has been before you and none like you shall arise after you. (1 Kings 3:11-12) Grow in Humility - So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. (Philippians 2:1-4) Love Others with the Love of God - Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. (Romans 12:10) Develop an Eternal Perspective - For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. (Philippians 1:21) Sense God’s Calling and Purpose for Their Life - … who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began… (2 Timothy 1:9) Be Alert and Attentive in School - The heart of him who has understanding seeks knowledge, but the mouths of fools feed on folly. (Proverbs 15:14) Resist Negative Peer Pressure - Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm. (Proverbs 13:20) Be an Example Even in Their Youth - Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. (1 Timothy 4:12) Be Thoughtful in Their Screen Time Selections - I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless. (Psalm 101:3a) Use Discretion in Their Choice of Music - It is better for a man to hear the rebuke of the wise than to hear the song of fools. (Ecclesiastes 7:5) Learn to Watch and Pray against Life’s Temptations - Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. (Matthew 26:41) And pray… Thanks for The Child Who Has Received the Gift of Salvation - For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16) Scripture to Pray for Godly Character Character Quality Supporting Scripture Contentedness Philippians 4:11 - Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. Control of the tongue Proverbs 11:13 – Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing covered. Courage Psalm 27:14 – Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage. Dependability Proverbs 16:3 – Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established. Diligence Proverbs 16:3 – Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established. Discernment Ecclesiastes 8:5 – A wise man’s heart discerns both time and judgment. Fearlessness 2 Corinthians 12:9 – But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Forgiveness Ephesians 4:32 – Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Friendship 1 Peter 3:8 – Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Generosity Luke 6:38 – Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you. Gentleness Galatians 6:1 – If anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Gratitude Colossians 3:16 – Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly…singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Hatred for Sin Psalm 97:10 – O you who love the LORD, hate evil! He preserves the lives of his saints; he delivers them from the hand of the wicked. Humility Micah 6:8 – What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? Joy John 16:24 – Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. Kindness Ephesians 4:32 – Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Love 1 John 4:19 – We love because he first loved us. Mercy James 2:13 – There will be no mercy for you if you have not been merciful to others. But if you have been merciful, then God’s mercy toward you will win out over his judgment against you. Obedience Colossians 3:20 – Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Passion for God Psalm 63:8 – My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me. Patience 2 Timothy 2:24 – The Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil. Peace 1 Peter 3:11 – Seek peace and pursue it. Purity 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 – Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body. Respect for Authority Romans 13:1 – There is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Responsibility Galatians 6:5 – For each will have to bear his own load. Self-control Proverbs 25:28 – A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls. Self-discipline Proverbs 20:13 – Love not sleep, lest you come to poverty; open your eyes, and you will have plenty of bread. Selflessness Galatians 5:13 – Do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. Sharing Hebrews 13:16 – Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. Submission to God James 4:7 – Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Unselfishness Colossians 3:12 – Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Wisdom Luke 2:40 – The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him. Worship Matthew 21:16 – They said to him, “Do you hear what these are saying?” And Jesus said to them, “Yes; have you never read, ‘Out of the mouths of infants and nursing babies you have prepared praise’?” Praying for Your Children’s Future 1. Walk with God 2. Care of soul 3. Strength to stand 4. Protection from the enemy 5. Exhibit fruit of the Spirit 6. Live with an eternal perspective 7. Spiritual gifts 8. Talents 9. Purity of heart and mind 10. Find their identity in Christ 11. A passion for the things of God 12. Short-term and long-term goals 13. Godly spouse 14. Marriage based on biblical principles 15. Steady employment 16. Wise stewards of their resources 17. Parent their children with grace and wisdom 18. Children that love the Lord and follow His ways 19. Relationships within their family 20. Commitment to and follow-through of responsibilities 21. Wholesome forms of recreation 22. A heart of service to others 23. Qualities of leadership 24. Encouragement to others 25. Biblical time management 26. Kingdom building ministry 27. Care for aging parents Praying Numbers 6:22-27 for Our Children The LORD spoke to Moses, saying, “Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying, Thus you shall bless the people of Israel: you shall say to them, The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. “So shall they put my name upon the people of Israel, and I will bless them.” Numbers 6:22-27 This passage is often called the Priestly Blessing. It is also sometimes referred to as the Aaronic Benediction. NOTICE: That the word LORD (Yahweh) occurs three times in this prayer. The repetition emphasizes the person and work of God. NOTICE: The seven requests made in this prayer – requests that can be made on behalf of our children. 1. “The LORD bless you . . .” The word “bless” means to “show special favor or extend mercy.” Example Prayer: Father, I pray that you will bless (name of child) . Please pour out your favor and mercy upon them. Help them to see that all good things come from you out of your boundless love and generosity. Your Prayer: ________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ 2. “. . . and keep you . . .” Shamar , the Hebrew word for “keep,” means to “guard, observe, and give heed.” These words are a prayer for protection. Example Prayer: Father, not one of my children is perfect. Each is going to make mistakes, but please watch over them and guard them against the harmful and life altering mistakes of youth. Be their guard and strong defense against temptation. Protect them from Satan who desires to devour them. Your Prayer: ________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ 3. “. . . the LORD make his face to shine upon you . . .” This portion of the prayer is a request for God’s presence. Example Prayer: Father, as a parent I know that I cannot possibly be with (name of child) all the time, but you, can. Just as they experience the warmth of the sun shining on their face, please allow them to experience the power of your presence. Thank you for being with them wherever they go. Your Prayer: ________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ 4. “. . . and be gracious to you . . .” Grace is God’s undeserved favor shown to us. Example Prayer: Father, thank you for the precious and wonderful gift of grace. I pray that this gift would be poured out on my children. Following the received gift of salvation, please show them your kindness and love throughout all seasons of their lives. Always let my children be mindful of your grace. Your Prayer: ________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ 5. “. . . the LORD lift up his countenance upon you . . .” This phrase is a request for fellowship with God. Example Prayer: Father, thank you for the fellowship of the Holy Spirit in my life and in the lives of my children. Please walk with each one in a powerful way. Help them to constantly be aware of the Holy Spirit’s presence. Enable them to submit to His control day-by-day and moment-by-moment. Refresh them with your fellowship and friendship . Your Prayer: ________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ 6. “. . . and give you peace.” The Hebrew word for “peace” used here is shalom which means “completeness, tranquility, and contentment.” Example Prayer: Father, please bring calm to (name of child) . Alleviate their fears and soothe their anxieties. Keep them complete and whole in their thinking, emotions, desires, and actions. Help them to experience the peace and contentment that can only be found in You. Your Prayer: ________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ 7. “So shall they put my name upon . . .” This is a request for identity. Example Prayer: Father, please help my children find their identity in You Alone. Set them apart for your use and help them to represent you well. I pray that with a sense of wonder they will stand in awe of You, the One who loves them with an everlasting love. Your Prayer: ________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ Praying Ephesians 1:15-23 For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him , having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are t he riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all. Ephesians 1:15-23 (emphasis added) Below are a few ideas of things to pray from this passage. Pray them for your children. Pray them for yourself. Give thanks: Thank God for His many and gracious blessings poured out on your children. Thank Him for your children. Thank Him for the privilege of being a parent. Your Prayer: __________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ Spirit of wisdom: Ask God to give your children the spirit of wisdom. Pray that He will help them make godly decisions. Your Prayer: __________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ Knowledge of Him: Ask God to help your children know Him. Plead that He would put within their hearts a hunger and a thirst that can only be satisfied by Him. Ask Him to grow your children in knowledge of and love for Christ. Your Prayer: __________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ Enlightened eyes : Pray that each of your children will have the eyes of their hearts enlightened. Ask God to help them comprehend the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and what this good news means for their eternal salvation. Your Prayer: __________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ The hope to which they have been called: Pray that your children will live today and every day with eternity in mind. Your Prayer: __________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ The riches of his glorious inheritance: Thank God for the eternal inheritance He has in store for each of your children. Pray that you will spend eternity together. Your Prayer: __________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ The immeasurable greatness of his power: Pray that your children who know Christ as their Savior will grow in understanding of the Holy Spirit’s death-to-life power. Pray that they will be empowered to live a life of devotion and obedience. Your Prayer: __________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ His great might: Pray that your believing children would know that they have access to the same mighty power that worked in Christ when He was raised from death to life. Ask God to help them draw on that power in resistance to Satan’s temptations. Your Prayer: __________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ The fullness of him who fills all in all: Pray that your children will grasp the incomprehensible love of Christ. Ask God to help them know and live in the freedom of this great love. Your Prayer: __________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ Scriptures to Pray for Yourself Knowledge of God - And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. (John 17:3) A Sense of Awe - But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain you; how much less this house that I have built! (1 Kings 8:27) Love for God - And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ (Mark 12:30) True Worship - The hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth. (John 4:23) Love for God’s Word - How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! (Psalm 119:103) Study of God’s Word - I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. (Psalm 119:11) A Praying Life - Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. (Phil 4:6) A Cross-Centered Life – Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, 2 and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you—unless you believed in vain. 3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, Trust in the One True God - Let me hear in the morning of your steadfast love, for in you I trust. Make me know the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. (Psalm 143:8) Wisdom - She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. (Prov. 31:26) Pure Heart - Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. (Matthew 5:8) Thoughts - Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (Phil. 4:8) Words - Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. (Ephesians 4:29) Marriage - Has not the LORD made them one? In flesh and spirit they are his. (Malachi 2:15 NIV) Relationship with Children - Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. (Psalm 127:4) Time with Children - I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. (2 Tim. 1:5). Family - For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being. (Eph. 3:14 16) Friends - Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel. (Prov. 27:9) Ministry - The whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. (Eph. 4:16) Rest - He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. (Psalm 23:2) Health - Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers. (3 John 2) The Future - I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for wholeness and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. (Jer. 29:11) Work - Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might. (Eccl. 9:10) Body - Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you. (I Cor. 6:19) Aging - Even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save. (Isaiah 46:4) Resources BOOKS Exploring the Bible Together: A 52-Week Family Worship Plan by David Murray Family Worship by Donald Whitney Gospel-Powered Parenting by William P. Farley Instructing a Child’s Heart by Tedd & Margy Tripp Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family by Paul David Tripp Shepherding a Child’s Heart by Tedd Tripp The Faithful Parent: A Biblical Guide to Raising a Family by Martha Peace & Stuart Scott Visionary Parenting: Capture a God-Sized Vision for Your Family by Rob & Amy Rienow WEBSITES Desiring God - Parenting Family Life - Parenting Focus on the Family - Parenting Gospel Shaped Family