People's Church

HOW TO MAKE MY MARRIAGE BETTER Proverbs 14:1 The WISE woman builds her house, but with her own hands the FOOLISH one TEARS HERS DOWN (NIV) Proverbs 24:3–4 By WISDOM a house is built, and through understanding it is established; 4 through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures (NIV) James 3:13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from WISDOM (NIV) 1. GROWING MARRIAGES CHOOSE HUMILITY OVER PRIDE 2. GROWING MARRIAGES REJECT ENVY AND SELFISHNESS James 3:14–15 But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15 Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic (NIV) 2A. BITTER ENVY TURNS PARTNERS INTO COMPETITORS 2B. BITTER ENVY KILLS CELEBRATION 2C. BITTER ENVY PRODUCES EMOTIONAL DISTANCE 2D. SELFISH AMBITION WILL ALSO RUIN A MARRIAGE 2E. SELFISH AMBITION REPLACES SERVANTHOOD WITH SELF-CENTEREDNESS 2F. SELFISH AMBITION MAKES ONE SPOUSE’S NEEDS MORE IMPORTANT THAN THE OTHER SPOUSE’S 2G. SELFISH AMBITION CAN CREATE RESENTMENT 2H. SELFISH AMBITION CREATES CONTROL AND MANIPULATION 2I. SELFISH AMBITION PUSHES GOD OUT OF THE CENTER 3. BITTER ENVY AND SELFISH AMBITION PRODUCE DISORDER AND EVIL James 3:16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice (NIV) 3A. CONSTANT ARGUING 3B. CONSTANT EMOTIONAL INSTABILITY 3C. COMMUNICATION IS CONDESCENDING 3D. THERE’S DIVISION 3E. IT LEADS TO EVERY EVIL PRACTICE 4. GROWING A BETTER MARRIAGE REQUIRES APPLYING GODLY WISDOM James 3:17 But the wisdom from above is FIRST pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere (ESV) 4A. PURE Psalm 51:10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me (NIV) 4B. PEACEABLE 4C. GENTLE Proverbs 15:1 A GENTLE answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger (NIV) 4D. OPEN TO REASON 4E. FULL OF MERCY 4F. FULL OF GOOD FRUITS 4G. IMPARTIAL 4H. SINCERE

Guard Your Marriage Proverbs 4:23 Above all else, GUARD your heart (NIV) 1 Corinthians 16:13 Be on your GUARD; stand firm in the faith; (NIV) Proverbs 13:3 Whoever GUARDS his mouth preserves his life; (ESV) Luke 12:15 15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your GUARD against all kinds of greed; (NIV)  1 Timothy 6:20 Timothy, GUARD what has been entrusted to your care. (NIV) Malachi 2:15–16 Has not the one God made you? You belong to him in body and spirit. And what does the one God seek? Godly offspring. So be on your GUARD, and do not be unfaithful to the wife of your youth. 16 “The man who hates and divorces his wife,” says the Lord, the God of Israel, “does violence to the one he should protect,” says the Lord Almighty. So be on your GUARD, and do not be unfaithful. (NIV) GUARD YOUR MARRIAGE FROM PETTINESS  Song of Solomon 2:15 Catch all the foxes, those LITTLE FOXES, before they ruin the vineyard of love (NLT) 2. GUARD YOUR MARRIAGE FROM PRIORITY DRIFT  Philippians 4:9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into PRACTICE. (NIV) 1 Timothy 4:15 PRACTICE these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. (ESV) Hebrews 5:14 But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by CONSTANT PRACTICE to distinguish good from evil. (ESV) 2 Peter 1:10 10 Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you PRACTICE these qualities you will NEVER FALL (ESV)  3. GUARD YOUR MARRIAGE FROM PERSONAL STAGNATION 4. GUARD YOUR MARRIAGE IN PAINFUL SEASONS  Malachi 2:15–16 15 Has not the one God made you? You belong to him in body and spirit. And WHAT DOES THE ONE GOD SEEK? GODLY OFFSPRING. So be on your GUARD, and do not be unfaithful to the wife of your youth. (NIV)

DANIEL (Daniel 1:3-5 NIV) Then the king ordered the chief to bring into the king’s service some of the Israelites from the royal family and the nobility— 4 young men without any physical defect, handsome, showing aptitude for every kind of learning, well informed, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king’s palace. He was to teach them the language and literature of the Babylonians. 5 The king assigned them a daily amount of food and wine from the king’s table. They were to be trained for three years, and after that they were to enter the king’s service. Your greatest ministry may happen in a place you never wanted to be. There’s a difference between having a resolve to follow God and merely dabbling in faith. (Daniel 1:8 NIV) But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way. (Daniel 6:10 NIV) Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before. He prayed “before” the crisis. That’s why he knew what to do during the crisis. When prayer is your habit, panic loses its power. (Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV) Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Daniel 1:7 NIV) The chief official gave them new names: to Daniel, the name Belteshazzar; to Hananiah, Shadrach; to Mishael, Meshach; and to Azariah, Abednego. Hananiah – Yahweh has been gracious. Mishael – Who is what God is. Azariah – Yahweh has helped. Shadrach – Inspired of Aku. Meshach – Belonging to Aku. Abendnego – Servant of Nego. (Matthew 16:18 HCSB) And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the forces of Hades will not overpower it. (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV) Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! (2 Corinthians 4:8-9 NIV) We are hard-pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. (Isaiah 43:1 ESV) Fear not, for I have redeemed you, I have called you by name, you are mine.

SIGNS OF BEING FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT Ephesians 5:16–18 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. 18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT (NIV) 1. FILLED PEOPLE OVERFLOW WITH WITNESSING Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (NIV) Acts 4:31After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. (NIV) 2. FILLED PEOPLE OVERFLOW WITH JOY Acts 13:52 “And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.” (NIV)
 3. FILLED PEOPLE OVERFLOW WITH WORSHIP Ephesians 5:18-20 “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (NIV) 4. FILLED PEOPLE OVERFLOW WITH VICTORY Acts 9:17–18 Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized (NIV) 2 Corinthians 3:17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. (NIV) 5. FILLED PEOPLE OVERFLOW WITH PRAYER Ephesians 6:18 And pray in the SPIRIT on all occasions with all KINDS OF PRAYERS and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. (NIV) 5A. THE PRAYER OF PETITION 5B. THEY PRAY THE PRAYER OF SUPPLICATION 5C. THEY PRAY THE PRAYER OF INTERCESSION 5D. THEY PRAY THE PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING 5E. THEY PRAY THE PRAYER OF FAITH 5F. THEY PRAY THE PRAYER OF AGREEMENT 5G. THEY PRAY THE PRAYER OF TONGUES 1 Corinthians 14:18-19 I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. 19 But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 14:4 Anyone who speaks in a tongue edifies themselves, but the one who prophesies edifies the church. (NIV) Acts 19:6 When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied. (NIV) Acts 10:45–46 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles. 46 For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God. Then Peter said, (NIV) 6. FILLED PEOPLE OVERFLOW WITH THE GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT Acts 19:6 When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and PROPHESIED. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 14:1 Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy.  (NIV) 1 Corinthians 12: 8-10 To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, 10 to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues,[a] and to still another the interpretation of tongues. (NIV)

THE KEYS TO STAYING FULL OF THE HOLY SPIRIT Jeremiah 29:13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with ALL your heart. (NIV) Ephesians 5:18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be FILLED with the Spirit, (NIV) SALVATION IS YOUR STARTING POINT Acts 1:15 In those days Peter stood up among the believers (a group numbering about a hundred and twenty) (NIV) Ephesians 1:13 And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit (NIV) John 20:22 And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. (NIV) Ephesians 5:18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit (NIV) 2. YOU NEED TO OBEY JESUS AND HIS WORD Acts 1:4-5 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” (NIV) 3. YOU NEED TO ASK GOD TO FILL YOU Acts 1:14 They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. (NIV) Luke 11:13 If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” (NIV) 4. YOU NEED TO FIGHT FOR UNITY WITH OTHER BELIEVERS  Acts 1:14 They all joined TOGETHER constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. (NIV)   Acts 2:1 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all TOGETHER in one place. (NIV) Ephesians 4:3 - Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (NIV) Ephesians 4:29-32 - Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (NIV)  Psalm 133:1–2 How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! 2 It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robe. (NIV) 5. YOU NEED TO WAIT ON GOD Psalm 27:14 WAIT for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; WAIT for the Lord! (ESV) Lamentations 3:25–26 The Lord is good to those who WAIT for him, to the soul who seeks him. 26 It is good that one should WAIT quietly for the salvation of the Lord. (ESV) Micah 7:7 But as for me, I will look to the Lord; I will WAIT for the God of my salvation; my God will hear me. (ESV) Acts 1:4 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but WAIT for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. (NIV) 6. YOU NEED TO RECEIVE THE FILLING OF THE SPIRIT BY FAITH Acts 2:4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. (NIV) Acts 8:14-17 When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to Samaria. 15 When they arrived, they prayed for the new believers there that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16 because the Holy Spirit had not yet come on any of them; they had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. (NIV)

John 7:37–39 “On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, ‘If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, “Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” 39 Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.” (ESV) 1. ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR THIRST FOR GOD Psalm 42:1 “As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God.” (ESV) 2. YOU CAN’T FILL SPIRITUAL THIRST WITH TEMPORARY FIXES John 7:37 On the last day of the FEAST , the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. (ESV) Isaiah 12:3 With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. (NIV) 3. YOU MUST COME TO JESUS John 7:37 On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, If anyone thirsts, let him COME TO ME AND DRINK. (ESV) 3A. COMING TO JESUS IS ABOUT INTIMACY NOT INFORMATION John 5:39-40 You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, 40 yet you refuse to come to me to have life. (NIV) 3B. COMING TO JESUS IS A PERSONAL PURSUIT 3C. COMING TO JESUS REQUIRES YOUR FAITH John 7:38 Whoever BELIEVES in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water. (ESV) Hebrews 11:6 And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must BELIEVE that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. (NIV) Jeremiah 29:13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. (NIV) James 4:8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. (NIV) 4. SPIRITUAL THIRST PRECEDES SPIRITUAL FILLING John 7:37 Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts...” (ESV) Jeremiah 29:13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with ALL your heart. (NIV) Psalm 107:9 “For he satisfies the LONGING soul, and the HUNGRY soul he fills with good things.” (ESV) Matthew 5:6 “Blessed are those who HUNGER AND THIRST for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” (ESV) Luke 1:53 he has filled the HUNGRY with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. (ESV) Psalm 34:10 The young lions suffer want and hunger; but those who SEEK the Lord lack no good thing. (ESV) Deuteronomy 4:29 But from there you will SEEK the Lord your God and you will find him, if you search after him with ALL your heart and with ALL your soul. (ESV)

Turning Obstacles into Opportunities 1. Your problems are no match for God’s plan Exodus 1:22 - Then Pharaoh gave this order to all his people: “Throw every newborn Hebrew boy into the Nile River. But you may let the girls live.” (NLT) Exodus 2:1-10 - About this time, a man and woman from the tribe of Levi got married.  2 The woman became pregnant and gave birth to a son. She saw that he was a special baby and kept him hidden for three months.  3 But when she could no longer hide him, she got a basket made of papyrus reeds and waterproofed it with tar and pitch. She put the baby in the basket and laid it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile River.  4 The baby’s sister then stood at a distance, watching to see what would happen to him. 5 Soon Pharaoh’s daughter came down to bathe in the river, and her attendants walked along the riverbank. When the princess saw the basket among the reeds, she sent her maid to get it for her. 6 When the princess opened it, she saw the baby. The little boy was crying, and she felt sorry for him. “This must be one of the Hebrew children,” she said. 7 Then the baby’s sister approached the princess. “Should I go and find one of the Hebrew women to nurse the baby for you?” she asked. 8 “Yes, do!” the princess replied. So the girl went and called the baby’s mother. 9 “Take this baby and nurse him for me,” the princess told the baby’s mother. “I will pay you for your help.” So the woman took her baby home and nursed him. 10 Later, when the boy was older, his mother brought him back to Pharaoh’s daughter, who adopted him as her own son. The princess named him Moses,[a] for she explained, “I lifted him out of the water.” (NLT) Exodus 14:10-13 - As Pharaoh approached, the people of Israel looked up and panicked when they saw the Egyptians overtaking them. They cried out to the Lord, 11 and they said to Moses, “Why did you bring us out here to die in the wilderness? Weren’t there enough graves for us in Egypt? What have you done to us? Why did you make us leave Egypt? 12 Didn’t we tell you this would happen while we were still in Egypt? We said, ‘Leave us alone! Let us be slaves to the Egyptians. It’s better to be a slave in Egypt than a corpse in the wilderness!’” 13 But Moses told the people, “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. 14 The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.” (NLT) Exodus 14:21-22 - Then Moses raised his hand over the sea, and the Lord opened up a path through the water with a strong east wind. The wind blew all that night, turning the seabed into dry land. 22 So the people of Israel walked through the middle of the sea on dry ground, with walls of water on each side! (NLT) 1 John 4:4 - You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. (NIV) Psalm 147:5 - Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit. (NIV) 2. Your past doesn’t have to keep you from the future God has for you Exodus 2:11-12 - Many years later, when Moses had grown up, he went out to visit his own people, the Hebrews, and he saw how hard they were forced to work. During his visit, he saw an Egyptian beating one of his fellow Hebrews. 12 After looking in all directions to make sure no one was watching, Moses killed the Egyptian and hid the body in the sand. (NLT) 1 Corinthians 13:11 - When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. (NIV) 2 Peter 3:18 - Rather, you must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. All glory to him, both now and forever! Amen.(NLT) Romans 5:20 - But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, (NIV) Proverbs 24:16 - The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again. But one disaster is enough to overthrow the wicked. (NLT) 3. Your perspective can limit you or launch you Exodus 3:1-4 - One day Moses was tending the flock of his father-in-law, Jethro, the priest of Midian. He led the flock far into the wilderness and came to Sinai, the mountain of God. 2 There the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a blazing fire from the middle of a bush. Moses stared in amazement. Though the bush was engulfed in flames, it didn’t burn up.  3 “This is amazing,” Moses said to himself. “Why isn’t that bush burning up? I must go see it.” 4 When the Lord saw Moses coming to take a closer look, God called to him from the middle of the bush, “Moses! Moses!” “Here I am!” Moses replied. (NLT) Exodus 3:9-12 - Look! The cry of the people of Israel has reached me, and I have seen how harshly the Egyptians abuse them. 10 Now go, for I am sending you to Pharaoh. You must lead my people Israel out of Egypt.” 11 But Moses protested to God, “Who am I to appear before Pharaoh? Who am I to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt?” 12 God answered, “I will be with you.” (NLT) 2 Timothy 1:7 - For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. (NKJV)

1 Thessalonians 5:23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV) Acts 2:41-47 41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. 42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. (NIV) 1. Devoted to Biblical Teaching Acts 2:42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. (NIV) Deuteronomy 5:33 Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess. (NIV) 2. Devoted to Fellowship 3. Devoted to Prayer Acts 2:42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. (NIV) Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:17 Pray continually. (NIV) Luke 18:1 Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. (NIV) 4. Devoted to Generous Living Acts 2:44-45 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. (NIV) Matthew 6:21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (NIV) 5. Devoted to Worship Acts 2:46-47 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. (NIV) 6. Devoted to Evangelism Luke 19:10 For the son of man came to seek and to save the lost (NIV) 7. Devoted to Daily Growth Acts 2:46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts (NIV)

1 Thessalonians 5:23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV) Acts 2:41-47 41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. 42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. (NIV) 1. Devoted to Biblical Teaching Acts 2:42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. (NIV) Deuteronomy 5:33 Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess. (NIV) 2. Devoted to Fellowship 3. Devoted to Prayer Acts 2:42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. (NIV) Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:17 Pray continually. (NIV) Luke 18:1 Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. (NIV) 4. Devoted to Generous Living Acts 2:44-45 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. (NIV) Matthew 6:21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (NIV) 5. Devoted to Worship Acts 2:46-47 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. (NIV) 6. Devoted to Evangelism Luke 19:10 For the son of man came to seek and to save the lost (NIV) 7. Devoted to Daily Growth Acts 2:46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts (NIV)

THE SECRETS TO DAILY FOLLOWING THE HOLY SPIRIT 1 Thessalonians 5:23–24 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 The one who calls you is faithful, and HE WILL DO IT (NIV) Titus 3:5 he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life THROUGH THE HOLY SPIRIT. (NIV) Galatians 3:3 Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh? (NIV) 6 STEPS TO BEING SPIRIT LED INSTEAD OF FLESH LED Romans 8:14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. (ESV) 1. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT STARTS FROM FREEDOM, NOT CONDEMNATION Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. (ESV) 2. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT IS ABOUT SURRENDERING MORE, NOT STRIVING MORE Romans 8:3–4 For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, 4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh BUT ACCORDING TO THE SPIRIT. (ESV) 2 Corinthians 3:18 And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from ONE DEGREE OF GLORY TO ANOTHER. For THIS COMES FROM the Lord who is the Spirit. (ESV) 3. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT INVOLVES RENEWING YOUR MIND Romans 8:5–6 For those who live according to the flesh set their MINDS on the things of the flesh, but those who LIVE ACCORDING TO THE SPIRIT set their MINDS on the things of the Spirit. 6 For to set the MIND on the flesh is death, but to set the MIND on the Spirit is life and peace. (ESV) Ephesians 4:23 Instead, LET THE SPIRIT RENEW YOUR THOUGHTS AND ATTITUDES. (NLT) 4. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT INVOLVES CRUCIFYING YOUR FLESH Romans 8:7–8 For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot. 8 Those who are in the FLESH cannot please God. (ESV) Galatians 5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. (ESV) Romans 8:13 For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. (ESV) 5. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT REQUIRES LEARNING TO FOLLOW THE SPIRIT’S LEADING Romans 8:9–14 You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ. 10 But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the SPIRIT GIVES LIFE because of righteousness. 11 And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also GIVE LIFE to your mortal bodies because of his SPIRIT who lives in you. 12 Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation—but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. 13 For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the SPIRIT you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live. 14 For those who are LED BY THE SPIRIT of God are the children of God. (NIV) Galatians 5:25 If we LIVE BY THE SPIRIT, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. (ESV) 5A. YOU FOLLOW THE SPIRIT BY LEARNING HIS VOICE John 10:27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. (ESV) John 16:13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. (ESV) 5B. YOU FOLLOW THE SPIRIT’S LEADING BY PAYING ATTENTION TO HIS PROMPTINGS 5C. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S VOICE WILL CORRECT YOU Acts 10:13-15 Then a voice said to him, “Get up, Peter; kill and eat them.” 14 “No, Lord,” Peter declared. “I have never eaten anything that our Jewish laws have declared impure and unclean.” 15 But the voice spoke again: “Do not call something unclean if God has made it clean.” (NLT) 5D. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S VOICE WILL RESTRAIN YOU Acts 16:6–7 And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been FORBIDDEN by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. 7 And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus DID NOT allow them. (ESV) 5E. THE HOLY SPIRIT WILL DIRECT YOU ON WHERE TO GO Acts 8:29 And the Spirit said to Philip, “GO over and join this chariot.” (ESV) Acts 10:19–20 And while Peter was pondering the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are looking for you. 20 Rise and GO down and accompany them without hesitation, for I have sent them.” (ESV) 5E. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S VOICE WILL DIRECT YOU ON A DECISION Acts 13:2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” (ESV) Acts 15:28 For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay on you no greater burden than these requirements: (ESV) 5F. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S VOICE WILL SPEAK TO US ABOUT THE FUTURE Acts 20:23 except that the Holy Spirit testifies to me in every city that imprisonment and afflictions await me. (ESV) 6. YOU FOLLOW THE SPIRIT’S LEADING BY OBEYING THE SPIRIT Ephesians 4:30 And do not GRIEVE the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:19 Do not QUENCH the Spirit. (ESV) Hebrews 3:7–8 Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says, “Today, if you hear his voice, 8 do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion, on the day of testing in the wilderness, (ESV)

THE SECRETS TO DAILY FOLLOWING THE HOLY SPIRIT 1 Thessalonians 5:23–24 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 The one who calls you is faithful, and HE WILL DO IT (NIV) Titus 3:5 he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life THROUGH THE HOLY SPIRIT. (NIV) Galatians 3:3 Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh? (NIV) 6 STEPS TO BEING SPIRIT LED INSTEAD OF FLESH LED Romans 8:14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. (ESV) 1. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT STARTS FROM FREEDOM, NOT CONDEMNATION Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. (ESV) 2. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT IS ABOUT SURRENDERING MORE, NOT STRIVING MORE Romans 8:3–4 For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, 4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh BUT ACCORDING TO THE SPIRIT. (ESV) 2 Corinthians 3:18 And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from ONE DEGREE OF GLORY TO ANOTHER. For THIS COMES FROM the Lord who is the Spirit. (ESV) 3. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT INVOLVES RENEWING YOUR MIND Romans 8:5–6 For those who live according to the flesh set their MINDS on the things of the flesh, but those who LIVE ACCORDING TO THE SPIRIT set their MINDS on the things of the Spirit. 6 For to set the MIND on the flesh is death, but to set the MIND on the Spirit is life and peace. (ESV) Ephesians 4:23 Instead, LET THE SPIRIT RENEW YOUR THOUGHTS AND ATTITUDES. (NLT) 4. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT INVOLVES CRUCIFYING YOUR FLESH Romans 8:7–8 For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot. 8 Those who are in the FLESH cannot please God. (ESV) Galatians 5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. (ESV) Romans 8:13 For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. (ESV) 5. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT REQUIRES LEARNING TO FOLLOW THE SPIRIT’S LEADING Romans 8:9–14 You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ. 10 But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the SPIRIT GIVES LIFE because of righteousness. 11 And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also GIVE LIFE to your mortal bodies because of his SPIRIT who lives in you. 12 Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation—but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. 13 For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the SPIRIT you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live. 14 For those who are LED BY THE SPIRIT of God are the children of God. (NIV) Galatians 5:25 If we LIVE BY THE SPIRIT, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. (ESV) 5A. YOU FOLLOW THE SPIRIT BY LEARNING HIS VOICE John 10:27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. (ESV) John 16:13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. (ESV) 5B. YOU FOLLOW THE SPIRIT’S LEADING BY PAYING ATTENTION TO HIS PROMPTINGS 5C. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S VOICE WILL CORRECT YOU Acts 10:13-15 Then a voice said to him, “Get up, Peter; kill and eat them.” 14 “No, Lord,” Peter declared. “I have never eaten anything that our Jewish laws have declared impure and unclean.” 15 But the voice spoke again: “Do not call something unclean if God has made it clean.” (NLT) 5D. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S VOICE WILL RESTRAIN YOU Acts 16:6–7 And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been FORBIDDEN by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. 7 And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus DID NOT allow them. (ESV) 5E. THE HOLY SPIRIT WILL DIRECT YOU ON WHERE TO GO Acts 8:29 And the Spirit said to Philip, “GO over and join this chariot.” (ESV) Acts 10:19–20 And while Peter was pondering the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are looking for you. 20 Rise and GO down and accompany them without hesitation, for I have sent them.” (ESV) 5E. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S VOICE WILL DIRECT YOU ON A DECISION Acts 13:2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” (ESV) Acts 15:28 For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay on you no greater burden than these requirements: (ESV) 5F. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S VOICE WILL SPEAK TO US ABOUT THE FUTURE Acts 20:23 except that the Holy Spirit testifies to me in every city that imprisonment and afflictions await me. (ESV) 6. YOU FOLLOW THE SPIRIT’S LEADING BY OBEYING THE SPIRIT Ephesians 4:30 And do not GRIEVE the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:19 Do not QUENCH the Spirit. (ESV) Hebrews 3:7–8 Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says, “Today, if you hear his voice, 8 do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion, on the day of testing in the wilderness, (ESV)

MY BODY IS NOT MY BOSS Colossians 3:5–7 So put to death the sinful, earthly things LURKING WITHIN YOU. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. 6 Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming. 7 YOU USED TO DO THESE THINGS when your life was still part of this world. (NLT) 4 STEPS TO GET VICTORY OVER YOUR FLESH 1. RECOGNIZE YOUR FLESH SHOULD NOT LEAD YOUR LIFE Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. (NIV) 2. IDENTIFY SINFUL PATTERNS Colossians 3:5 So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. (NLT) Colossians 3:8-9 But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. 9 Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. (NLT) James 1:14 but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their OWN evil desire and enticed. (NIV) James 5:16 Therefore confess YOUR SINS to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. (NIV) Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off EVERYTHING that hinders and THE SIN that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, (NIV) 3. RECOGNIZE THE CONSEQUENCES OF FLESH-LED LIVING Colossians 3:6 Because of these sins, the ANGER of God is coming. (NLT) Galatians 6:7–8 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap DESTRUCTION; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. (NIV) James 1:15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to DEATH. (NIV) Romans 8:6 The mind governed by the flesh is DEATH, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. (NIV) Proverbs 14:12 There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death. (ESV) 4 PUT YOUR FLESH IN ITS RIGHTFUL PLACE 4A. CRUCIFY YOUR FLESH Romans 8:13 For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to DEATH the misdeeds of the body, you will live. (NIV) Galatians 5:24 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have CRUCIFIED the flesh with its passions and desires. (NIV) Matthew 5:30 And if your right hand causes you to stumble, CUT IT OFF and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell. (NIV) 1 Peter 2:11 Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, TO ABSTAIN from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. (NIV) Romans 13:14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make NO PROVISION FOR THE FLESH, to gratify its desires. (ESV) Luke 9:23 Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must DENY themselves and take up THEIR CROSS DAILY and follow me. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 9:27 But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. (ESV) MOST CHRISTIANS ARE NOT DEFEATED BY DEMONS. THEY’RE DEFEATED BY THE UNDISCIPLINED DESIRES. John 8:34 Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. (ESV) 4B. START PRACTICING SPIRITUAL HABITS Colossians 3:9-10 Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. 10 PUT ON YOUR NEW NATURE, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him. (NLT) 2 Corinthians 10:4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have DIVINE power to destroy strongholds. (ESV) 1. FASTING 2. DAILY PRAYER, WORSHIP, AND BIBLE READING Psalm 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. (NIV) 3. CHURCH 4. SERVING 5. SMALL GROUP 6. SABBATH 4C. START FOLLOWING THE HOLY SPIRIT’S LEADING Galatians 5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. (ESV)

MY BODY IS NOT MY BOSS Colossians 3:5–7 So put to death the sinful, earthly things LURKING WITHIN YOU. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. 6 Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming. 7 YOU USED TO DO THESE THINGS when your life was still part of this world. (NLT) 4 STEPS TO GET VICTORY OVER YOUR FLESH 1. RECOGNIZE YOUR FLESH SHOULD NOT LEAD YOUR LIFE Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. (NIV) 2. IDENTIFY SINFUL PATTERNS Colossians 3:5 So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. (NLT) Colossians 3:8-9 But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. 9 Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. (NLT) James 1:14 but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their OWN evil desire and enticed. (NIV) James 5:16 Therefore confess YOUR SINS to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. (NIV) Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off EVERYTHING that hinders and THE SIN that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, (NIV) 3. RECOGNIZE THE CONSEQUENCES OF FLESH-LED LIVING Colossians 3:6 Because of these sins, the ANGER of God is coming. (NLT) Galatians 6:7–8 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap DESTRUCTION; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. (NIV) James 1:15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to DEATH. (NIV) Romans 8:6 The mind governed by the flesh is DEATH, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. (NIV) Proverbs 14:12 There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death. (ESV) 4 PUT YOUR FLESH IN ITS RIGHTFUL PLACE 4A. CRUCIFY YOUR FLESH Romans 8:13 For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to DEATH the misdeeds of the body, you will live. (NIV) Galatians 5:24 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have CRUCIFIED the flesh with its passions and desires. (NIV) Matthew 5:30 And if your right hand causes you to stumble, CUT IT OFF and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell. (NIV) 1 Peter 2:11 Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, TO ABSTAIN from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. (NIV) Romans 13:14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make NO PROVISION FOR THE FLESH, to gratify its desires. (ESV) Luke 9:23 Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must DENY themselves and take up THEIR CROSS DAILY and follow me. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 9:27 But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. (ESV) MOST CHRISTIANS ARE NOT DEFEATED BY DEMONS. THEY’RE DEFEATED BY THE UNDISCIPLINED DESIRES. John 8:34 Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. (ESV) 4B. START PRACTICING SPIRITUAL HABITS Colossians 3:9-10 Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. 10 PUT ON YOUR NEW NATURE, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him. (NLT) 2 Corinthians 10:4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have DIVINE power to destroy strongholds. (ESV) 1. FASTING 2. DAILY PRAYER, WORSHIP, AND BIBLE READING Psalm 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. (NIV) 3. CHURCH 4. SERVING 5. SMALL GROUP 6. SABBATH 4C. START FOLLOWING THE HOLY SPIRIT’S LEADING Galatians 5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. (ESV)

I’M ABOUT TO LOSE MY MIND UP IN HERE Romans 7:22-23 For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; 23 but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my MIND and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. (NIV) Romans 8:5–7 Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 6 The MIND governed by the FLESH is DEATH, but the MIND governed by the SPIRIT is LIFE AND PEACE. 7 The MIND governed by the FLESH IS HOSTILE TO GOD; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 2:16 “For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But WE HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST. (ESV) Ephesians 4:23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; (NIV) 4 PRACTICAL STEPS TO BE MADE NEW IN YOUR MIND 2 Corinthians 10:3–5 For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. 4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. (NIV) 1. WE MUST FIGHT MENTAL BATTLES WITH SPIRITUAL WEAPONS Ephesians 6:17 Take the helmet of salvation and the SWORD of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (NIV) Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged SWORD, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. (NIV) 2. WE MUST DEMOLISH MENTAL STRONGHOLDS WITH SPIRITUAL WEAPONS Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. (NIV) 3. WE DEMOLISH MENTAL STRONGHOLDS BY TAKING EVERY THOUGHT CAPTIVE 4. WE MUST DEMOLISH MENTAL STRONGHOLDS BY REPLACING LIES WITH TRUTH 2 Corinthians 10:5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to MAKE IT OBEDIENT TO CHRIST. (NIV) 4A. WE REPLACE LIES BY READING AND MEMORIZING GOD’S WORD 4B. WE REPLACE LIES BY SPEAKING GOD’S TRUTH Proverbs 18:21 The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. (NIV) 4C. WE REPLACE LIES AND DEMOLISH MENTAL STRONGHOLDS BY REPEATING THE STEPS 1 Chronicles 4:10 And Jabez called on the God of Israel saying, “Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!” So God granted him what he requested. (NKJV) Psalm 27:13 I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. (NIV) Jude 24 24 Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, (ESV)

I’M ABOUT TO LOSE MY MIND UP IN HERE Romans 7:22-23 For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; 23 but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my MIND and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. (NIV) Romans 8:5–7 Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 6 The MIND governed by the FLESH is DEATH, but the MIND governed by the SPIRIT is LIFE AND PEACE. 7 The MIND governed by the FLESH IS HOSTILE TO GOD; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 2:16 “For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But WE HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST. (ESV) Ephesians 4:23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; (NIV) 4 PRACTICAL STEPS TO BE MADE NEW IN YOUR MIND 2 Corinthians 10:3–5 For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. 4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. (NIV) 1. WE MUST FIGHT MENTAL BATTLES WITH SPIRITUAL WEAPONS Ephesians 6:17 Take the helmet of salvation and the SWORD of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (NIV) Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged SWORD, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. (NIV) 2. WE MUST DEMOLISH MENTAL STRONGHOLDS WITH SPIRITUAL WEAPONS Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. (NIV) 3. WE DEMOLISH MENTAL STRONGHOLDS BY TAKING EVERY THOUGHT CAPTIVE 4. WE MUST DEMOLISH MENTAL STRONGHOLDS BY REPLACING LIES WITH TRUTH 2 Corinthians 10:5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to MAKE IT OBEDIENT TO CHRIST. (NIV) 4A. WE REPLACE LIES BY READING AND MEMORIZING GOD’S WORD 4B. WE REPLACE LIES BY SPEAKING GOD’S TRUTH Proverbs 18:21 The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. (NIV) 4C. WE REPLACE LIES AND DEMOLISH MENTAL STRONGHOLDS BY REPEATING THE STEPS 1 Chronicles 4:10 And Jabez called on the God of Israel saying, “Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!” So God granted him what he requested. (NKJV) Psalm 27:13 I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. (NIV) Jude 24 24 Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, (ESV)

Don’t Let Your Emotions Drive Your Life 1. Who created emotions? Genesis 1:27 So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. (NIV) John 11:35 Jesus wept. (NIV) Luke 10:21 At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit. (NIV) 
Ecclesiastes 3:1 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens (NIV) 2. What are emotions?
 3. When should we manage emotions?
 Proverbs 29:11 Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end. (NIV)  Ephesians 4:26 Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger. (ESV) 4. Where should we position emotions in our lives? Hebrews 12:15 See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. (NIV) James 1:19-20 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. (NIV)

4A. Pause to identify the emotion
Psalm 139:23-24 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (NIV) 4B. Process why we’re feeling the emotion Psalm 42:5 Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? (NIV) Psalm 34:5 Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.  2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! (NIV) 4C. Respond to the emotion with godliness James 1:20 human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. (NIV) 5. Why do emotions exist? Psalm 22:1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me? (NIV) Psalm 56:3 When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV)

Don’t Let Your Emotions Drive Your Life 1. Who created emotions? Genesis 1:27 So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. (NIV) John 11:35 Jesus wept. (NIV) Luke 10:21 At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit. (NIV) 
Ecclesiastes 3:1 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens (NIV) 2. What are emotions?
 3. When should we manage emotions?
 Proverbs 29:11 Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end. (NIV)  Ephesians 4:26 Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger. (ESV) 4. Where should we position emotions in our lives? Hebrews 12:15 See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. (NIV) James 1:19-20 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. (NIV)

4A. Pause to identify the emotion
Psalm 139:23-24 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (NIV) 4B. Process why we’re feeling the emotion Psalm 42:5 Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? (NIV) Psalm 34:5 Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.  2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! (NIV) 4C. Respond to the emotion with godliness James 1:20 human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. (NIV) 5. Why do emotions exist? Psalm 22:1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me? (NIV) Psalm 56:3 When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV)

WHY AM I SAVED BUT STRUGGLING WITH HURTS, HABITS & HANGUPS? 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (ESV) 1 Thessalonians 5:23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV) Romans 7:14–24 14 We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. 15 I do not understand what I do. FOR WHAT I WANT TO DO I DO NOT DO, BUT WHAT I HATE I DO.  16 And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17 As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, BUT IT IS SIN LIVING IN ME. 18 For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature.  For I have the desire to do what is good, BUT I CANNOT CARRY IT OUT. 19 For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—THIS I KEEP ON DOING. 20 Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. 21 So I find this law at work: Although I want to do good, EVIL IS RIGHT THERE WITH ME. 22 For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; 23 but I see another law at work in me, WAGING WAR AGAINST THE LAW OF MY MIND and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. 24 What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this BODY that is subject to death? (NIV) Colossians 3:5 5 So put to death the sinful, earthly things LURKING within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. (NLT) 1. THERE’S A WAR IN YOUR MIND 1A. YOUR OLD THINKING PATTERNS REMAIN   A. YOUR THINKING IS SHAPED BY THE ENVIRONMENT YOU GREW UP IN   B. YOUR THINKING IS SHAPED BY YOUR EXPERIENCES IN LIFE   C. YOUR THINKING IS SHAPED BY CULTURE  D. YOUR THINKING IS SHAPED BY THE WORDS SPOKEN OVER YOU  Ephesians 4:23 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; (NIV) Romans 12:2 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. (NIV)  1B. YOU’RE SAVED BUT MENTAL STRONGHOLDS STILL EXIST  2 Corinthians 10:4–5 4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish STRONGHOLDS.  5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. (NIV) 2. THERE’S A WAR IN YOUR EMOTIONS 2A. YOU’RE SAVED BUT YOU STILL CARRY OLD EMOTIONAL PATTERNS  2B. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE CONTROLLING YOUR EMOTIONS  2C. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE WITH EMOTIONAL ATTACHMENTS  2D. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE WITH EMOTIONAL STRONGHOLDS  2E. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE WITH EMOTIONAL TRAUMA AND WOUNDS 2F. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE WITH EMOTIONAL TRIGGERS  3. THERE’S A WAR IN YOUR WILL AND YOUR FLESH 3A. YOUR FLESH AND WILL HAVE BEEN TRAINED FOR YEARS  3B. YOU’RE SAVED BUT YOUR FLESH CRAVES IMMEDIATE GRATIFICATION   3C. YOU’RE SAVED BUT YOUR FLESH STRUGGLES WITH GENERATIONAL PATTERNS  Exodus 34:7 7 I lavish unfailing love to a thousand generations. I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin. But I do not excuse the guilty. I lay the sins of the parents upon their children and grandchildren; the entire family is affected— even children in the third and fourth generations.” (NLT) 3D. YOU’RE SAVED BUT YOUR FLESH RESISTS SURRENDERING TO GOD  Galatians 5:17 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. (NIV) Romans 7:25 25 Thanks be to God, who DELIVERS ME through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in my sinful nature a slave to the law of sin. (NIV)

WHY AM I SAVED BUT STRUGGLING WITH HURTS, HABITS & HANGUPS? 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (ESV) 1 Thessalonians 5:23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV) Romans 7:14–24 14 We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. 15 I do not understand what I do. FOR WHAT I WANT TO DO I DO NOT DO, BUT WHAT I HATE I DO.  16 And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17 As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, BUT IT IS SIN LIVING IN ME. 18 For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature.  For I have the desire to do what is good, BUT I CANNOT CARRY IT OUT. 19 For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—THIS I KEEP ON DOING. 20 Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. 21 So I find this law at work: Although I want to do good, EVIL IS RIGHT THERE WITH ME. 22 For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; 23 but I see another law at work in me, WAGING WAR AGAINST THE LAW OF MY MIND and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. 24 What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this BODY that is subject to death? (NIV) Colossians 3:5 5 So put to death the sinful, earthly things LURKING within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. (NLT) 1. THERE’S A WAR IN YOUR MIND 1A. YOUR OLD THINKING PATTERNS REMAIN   A. YOUR THINKING IS SHAPED BY THE ENVIRONMENT YOU GREW UP IN   B. YOUR THINKING IS SHAPED BY YOUR EXPERIENCES IN LIFE   C. YOUR THINKING IS SHAPED BY CULTURE  D. YOUR THINKING IS SHAPED BY THE WORDS SPOKEN OVER YOU  Ephesians 4:23 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; (NIV) Romans 12:2 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. (NIV)  1B. YOU’RE SAVED BUT MENTAL STRONGHOLDS STILL EXIST  2 Corinthians 10:4–5 4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish STRONGHOLDS.  5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. (NIV) 2. THERE’S A WAR IN YOUR EMOTIONS 2A. YOU’RE SAVED BUT YOU STILL CARRY OLD EMOTIONAL PATTERNS  2B. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE CONTROLLING YOUR EMOTIONS  2C. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE WITH EMOTIONAL ATTACHMENTS  2D. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE WITH EMOTIONAL STRONGHOLDS  2E. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE WITH EMOTIONAL TRAUMA AND WOUNDS 2F. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE WITH EMOTIONAL TRIGGERS  3. THERE’S A WAR IN YOUR WILL AND YOUR FLESH 3A. YOUR FLESH AND WILL HAVE BEEN TRAINED FOR YEARS  3B. YOU’RE SAVED BUT YOUR FLESH CRAVES IMMEDIATE GRATIFICATION   3C. YOU’RE SAVED BUT YOUR FLESH STRUGGLES WITH GENERATIONAL PATTERNS  Exodus 34:7 7 I lavish unfailing love to a thousand generations. I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin. But I do not excuse the guilty. I lay the sins of the parents upon their children and grandchildren; the entire family is affected— even children in the third and fourth generations.” (NLT) 3D. YOU’RE SAVED BUT YOUR FLESH RESISTS SURRENDERING TO GOD  Galatians 5:17 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. (NIV) Romans 7:25 25 Thanks be to God, who DELIVERS ME through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in my sinful nature a slave to the law of sin. (NIV)

ONLY MY SPIRIT IS SAVED 
 1. BEFORE SALVATION OUR SPIRIT IS DEAD Ephesians 2:1–3 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 In which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole SPIRIT, SOUL, BODY be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV) Ephesians 4:18 They are darkened in their understanding and SEPARATED from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 2:14 The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because THEY ARE DISCERNED ONLY THROUGH THE SPIRIT. (NIV) 2. AT SALVATION YOUR SPIRIT IS MADE ALIVE Ephesians 2:4-6 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, (NIV) Colossians 2:13 When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you ALIVE with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, (NIV) 3. AT SALVATION YOUR SPIRIT IS BORN AGAIN John 3:3 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” (NIV) 4. AT SALVATION YOU GO FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT Ephesians 5:8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (NIV) 5. AT SALVATION YOU GO FROM BLIND TO SEEING Acts 26:18 to open their EYES and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’ (NIV) 6. AT SALVATION YOU BECOME A CHILD OF GOD Romans 8:16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. (NIV) 7. AT SALVATION YOU GAIN ACCESS TO GOD THE FATHER Ephesians 2:18 For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. (NIV) Hebrews 4:16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. (NIV) 8. AT SALVATION YOU ARE A NEW CREATION 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (ESV) 1 Thessalonians 5:23 May God himself, the God of peace, SANCTIFY you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV) John 3:6 Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. (NIV) Romans 6:3–4 Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. (ESV)

ONLY MY SPIRIT IS SAVED 
 1. BEFORE SALVATION OUR SPIRIT IS DEAD Ephesians 2:1–3 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 In which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole SPIRIT, SOUL, BODY be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV) Ephesians 4:18 They are darkened in their understanding and SEPARATED from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 2:14 The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because THEY ARE DISCERNED ONLY THROUGH THE SPIRIT. (NIV) 2. AT SALVATION YOUR SPIRIT IS MADE ALIVE Ephesians 2:4-6 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, (NIV) Colossians 2:13 When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you ALIVE with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, (NIV) 3. AT SALVATION YOUR SPIRIT IS BORN AGAIN John 3:3 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” (NIV) 4. AT SALVATION YOU GO FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT Ephesians 5:8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (NIV) 5. AT SALVATION YOU GO FROM BLIND TO SEEING Acts 26:18 to open their EYES and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’ (NIV) 6. AT SALVATION YOU BECOME A CHILD OF GOD Romans 8:16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. (NIV) 7. AT SALVATION YOU GAIN ACCESS TO GOD THE FATHER Ephesians 2:18 For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. (NIV) Hebrews 4:16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. (NIV) 8. AT SALVATION YOU ARE A NEW CREATION 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (ESV) 1 Thessalonians 5:23 May God himself, the God of peace, SANCTIFY you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV) John 3:6 Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. (NIV) Romans 6:3–4 Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. (ESV)

WHY ARE YOU LOOKING FOR LIFE IN DEAD PLACES? Luke 24:1–5 “On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. 2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3 but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. 5 In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead?’” (NIV) 3 WAYS TO FIND LIFE THIS EASTER 1. FIND LIFE IN THE RESURRECTION, NOT YOUR ROUTINE Luke 24:6  He IS NOT HERE; HE HAS RISEN! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: (NIV) 2. FIND LIFE IN GOD’S LOVE, NOT YOUR LABOR John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (NIV) 1 John 4:19 We love because he first loved us. (NIV) 3. FIND LIFE IN BELIEF, NOT DOUBT Luke 24:11 But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense. (NIV) 3A. THE EYEWITNESS TESTIMONY 3B. THE WOMEN AS PRIMARY WITNESSES 3C. THE EMPTY TOMB 3D. THE RADICAL TRANSFORMATION OF THE DISCIPLES 3E. THE BROTHER OF JESUS John 7:5 For even his own brothers did not believe in him. (NIV)

WHY ARE YOU LOOKING FOR LIFE IN DEAD PLACES? Luke 24:1–5 “On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. 2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3 but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. 5 In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead?’” (NIV) 3 WAYS TO FIND LIFE THIS EASTER 1. FIND LIFE IN THE RESURRECTION, NOT YOUR ROUTINE Luke 24:6  He IS NOT HERE; HE HAS RISEN! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: (NIV) 2. FIND LIFE IN GOD’S LOVE, NOT YOUR LABOR John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (NIV) 1 John 4:19 We love because he first loved us. (NIV) 3. FIND LIFE IN BELIEF, NOT DOUBT Luke 24:11 But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense. (NIV) 3A. THE EYEWITNESS TESTIMONY 3B. THE WOMEN AS PRIMARY WITNESSES 3C. THE EMPTY TOMB 3D. THE RADICAL TRANSFORMATION OF THE DISCIPLES 3E. THE BROTHER OF JESUS John 7:5 For even his own brothers did not believe in him. (NIV)

How To Bring People To Jesus John 1:35–42 The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. 36 When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, “Look, the Lamb of God!” 37 When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus. 38 Turning around, Jesus saw them following and asked, “What do you want?” They said, “Rabbi” (which means “Teacher”), “where are you staying?” 39 “Come,” he replied, “and you will see.” So they went and saw where he was staying, and they spent that day with him. It was about four in the afternoon. 40 Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. 41 The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ) 42 And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter). (NIV)   1. BRINGING PEOPLE TO JESUS BEGINS WITH AN ENCOUNTER WITH JESUS John 1:41 The FIRST thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ) (NIV)
 James 5:16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:17 Never stop praying. (NLT)    2. BRINGING PEOPLE TO JESUS BEGINS WITH RELATIONSHIP 4 TIPS TO BRING PEOPLE TO JESUS 1. SERVE PEOPLE WITH ACTS OF KINDNESS Proverbs 18:16 Giving a gift can open doors; it gives access to important people! (NLT)   2. SERVE PEOPLE IN THEIR MOMENT OF NEED 3. SERVE PEOPLE WITH YOUR TESTIMONY 2 Timothy 2:24-26 - A servant of the Lord MUST NOT QUARREL but must be KIND to everyone, be able to teach, and BE PATIENT WITH DIFFICULT PEOPLE. 25 GENTLY instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth.  26 Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants. (NLT) 4. SERVE PEOPLE BY INVITING THEM TO CHURCH 3. BRINGING PEOPLE TO JESUS IS OUR RESPONSIBILITY John 1:42 And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter). (NIV)

How To Bring People To Jesus John 1:35–42 The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. 36 When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, “Look, the Lamb of God!” 37 When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus. 38 Turning around, Jesus saw them following and asked, “What do you want?” They said, “Rabbi” (which means “Teacher”), “where are you staying?” 39 “Come,” he replied, “and you will see.” So they went and saw where he was staying, and they spent that day with him. It was about four in the afternoon. 40 Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. 41 The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ) 42 And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter). (NIV)   1. BRINGING PEOPLE TO JESUS BEGINS WITH AN ENCOUNTER WITH JESUS John 1:41 The FIRST thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ) (NIV)
 James 5:16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:17 Never stop praying. (NLT)    2. BRINGING PEOPLE TO JESUS BEGINS WITH RELATIONSHIP 4 TIPS TO BRING PEOPLE TO JESUS 1. SERVE PEOPLE WITH ACTS OF KINDNESS Proverbs 18:16 Giving a gift can open doors; it gives access to important people! (NLT)   2. SERVE PEOPLE IN THEIR MOMENT OF NEED 3. SERVE PEOPLE WITH YOUR TESTIMONY 2 Timothy 2:24-26 - A servant of the Lord MUST NOT QUARREL but must be KIND to everyone, be able to teach, and BE PATIENT WITH DIFFICULT PEOPLE. 25 GENTLY instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth.  26 Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants. (NLT) 4. SERVE PEOPLE BY INVITING THEM TO CHURCH 3. BRINGING PEOPLE TO JESUS IS OUR RESPONSIBILITY John 1:42 And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter). (NIV)

HE WAS BORN BLIND JESUS HEALED HIM AND HE WALKED AROUND HEALED  EVERYONE HAD QUESTIONS   John 9:8 His neighbors and those who had formerly seen him begging asked, “Isn’t this the same man who used to sit and beg?”  John 9:10 “How then were your eyes opened?” they asked. (NIV) WHEN THE COMMUNITY COULDN’T FIGURE IT OUT, THEY WENT TO THE PHARISEES TO TRY AND FIGURE IT OUT  John 9:15 Therefore the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. “He put mud on my eyes,” the man replied, “and I washed, and now I see.” (NIV) John 9:16 Some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath.” But others asked, “How can a sinner perform such signs?” So they were divided. (NIV) THE PHARISEES COULDN’T FIGURE IT OUT SO THEY WENT TO THE MAN’S PARENTS  John 9:20 “We know he is our son,” the parents answered, “and we know he was born blind. (NIV) John 9: 21 But how he can see now, or who opened his eyes, we don’t know. Ask him. He is of age; he will speak for himself.” 25 He replied, “Whether he is a sinner or not, I don’t know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” (NIV)  “SHOW AND TELL”   1.  SHOW THEM WITH YOUR LIFE   Matthew 5:16 Jesus said, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (NIV)   1 Peter 2:12 Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world. (NLT)   2.  TELL THEM WITH YOUR STORY Psalm 66:2 Tell the world how glorious he is. (NLT)   John 9:25 He replied, “…. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” (NIV)

HE WAS BORN BLIND JESUS HEALED HIM AND HE WALKED AROUND HEALED  EVERYONE HAD QUESTIONS   John 9:8 His neighbors and those who had formerly seen him begging asked, “Isn’t this the same man who used to sit and beg?”  John 9:10 “How then were your eyes opened?” they asked. (NIV) WHEN THE COMMUNITY COULDN’T FIGURE IT OUT, THEY WENT TO THE PHARISEES TO TRY AND FIGURE IT OUT  John 9:15 Therefore the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. “He put mud on my eyes,” the man replied, “and I washed, and now I see.” (NIV) John 9:16 Some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath.” But others asked, “How can a sinner perform such signs?” So they were divided. (NIV) THE PHARISEES COULDN’T FIGURE IT OUT SO THEY WENT TO THE MAN’S PARENTS  John 9:20 “We know he is our son,” the parents answered, “and we know he was born blind. (NIV) John 9: 21 But how he can see now, or who opened his eyes, we don’t know. Ask him. He is of age; he will speak for himself.” 25 He replied, “Whether he is a sinner or not, I don’t know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” (NIV)  “SHOW AND TELL”   1.  SHOW THEM WITH YOUR LIFE   Matthew 5:16 Jesus said, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (NIV)   1 Peter 2:12 Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world. (NLT)   2.  TELL THEM WITH YOUR STORY Psalm 66:2 Tell the world how glorious he is. (NLT)   John 9:25 He replied, “…. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” (NIV)

How to NOT Miss a God Moment John 1:35-36 The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. 36 When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, “Look, the Lamb of God!” (NIV) John 1:40 Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus (NIV) John 1:41-42 The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ). 42 And he brought him to Jesus (NIV) John 1:43-46 The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, “Follow me.” 44 Philip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida. 45 Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” 46 Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” Nathanael asked. “Come and see,” said Philip (NIV) Found People Find People 1. Live with an urgency. John 1:41 The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ) (NIV) Luke 19:10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost (NIV) Matthew 28:19-20 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (NIV) John 9:4 We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work (NLT) 2. Go to who you know. John 1:41 The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ) (NIV) 3. Watch for divine appointments. Matthew 9:35-38 Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. 36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38 Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” (NIV) 2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the Word of God urgently at all times, whenever you get the chance, in season and out, when it is convenient and when it is not (TLB) 1 Peter 3:15 Be ready to speak up and tell anyone who asks why you’re living the way you are, and always with the utmost courtesy (MSG)

How to NOT Miss a God Moment John 1:35-36 The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. 36 When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, “Look, the Lamb of God!” (NIV) John 1:40 Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus (NIV) John 1:41-42 The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ). 42 And he brought him to Jesus (NIV) John 1:43-46 The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, “Follow me.” 44 Philip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida. 45 Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” 46 Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” Nathanael asked. “Come and see,” said Philip (NIV) Found People Find People 1. Live with an urgency. John 1:41 The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ) (NIV) Luke 19:10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost (NIV) Matthew 28:19-20 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (NIV) John 9:4 We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work (NLT) 2. Go to who you know. John 1:41 The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ) (NIV) 3. Watch for divine appointments. Matthew 9:35-38 Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. 36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38 Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” (NIV) 2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the Word of God urgently at all times, whenever you get the chance, in season and out, when it is convenient and when it is not (TLB) 1 Peter 3:15 Be ready to speak up and tell anyone who asks why you’re living the way you are, and always with the utmost courtesy (MSG)

How to Go from Not Enough to More than Enough 2 Kings 4:1–7 Now the wife of one of the sons of the prophets cried to Elisha, “Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that your servant feared the Lord, but the creditor has come to take my two children to be his slaves.” 2 And Elisha said to her, “What shall I do for you? Tell me; what have you in the house?” And she said, “Your servant has nothing in the house except a jar of oil.” 3 Then he said, “Go outside, borrow vessels from all your neighbors, empty vessels and not too few. 4 Then go in and shut the door behind yourself and your sons and pour into all these vessels. And when one is full, set it aside.” 5 So she went from him and shut the door behind herself and her sons. And as she poured they brought the vessels to her. 6 When the vessels were full, she said to her son, “Bring me another vessel.” And he said to her, “There is not another.” Then the oil stopped flowing. 7 She came and told the man of God, and he said, “Go, sell the oil and pay your debts, and you and your sons can live on the rest.” (ESV) 1. Margin is what I have beyond what I need Proverbs 21:20 The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down (NIV) 2. When margin goes down, stress goes up Ephesians 5:15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise (NIV) Proverbs 6:6–8 Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! 7 It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, 8 yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest (NIV) Ecclesiastes 4:6 Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil (NIV) 3. Margin has more to do with my mindset than my money Proverbs 21:20 The wise have wealth and luxury, but fools spend whatever they get (NLT) Proverbs 23:5 Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle (NIV) Proverbs 13:11 Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow (NIV) 4. Margin allows you and I to live on mission Proverbs 22:7 The borrower is slave to the lender (NIV) 2 Corinthians 9:8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work (NIV) 2 Corinthians 9:10-11 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God (NIV)

How to Go from Not Enough to More than Enough 2 Kings 4:1–7 Now the wife of one of the sons of the prophets cried to Elisha, “Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that your servant feared the Lord, but the creditor has come to take my two children to be his slaves.” 2 And Elisha said to her, “What shall I do for you? Tell me; what have you in the house?” And she said, “Your servant has nothing in the house except a jar of oil.” 3 Then he said, “Go outside, borrow vessels from all your neighbors, empty vessels and not too few. 4 Then go in and shut the door behind yourself and your sons and pour into all these vessels. And when one is full, set it aside.” 5 So she went from him and shut the door behind herself and her sons. And as she poured they brought the vessels to her. 6 When the vessels were full, she said to her son, “Bring me another vessel.” And he said to her, “There is not another.” Then the oil stopped flowing. 7 She came and told the man of God, and he said, “Go, sell the oil and pay your debts, and you and your sons can live on the rest.” (ESV) 1. Margin is what I have beyond what I need Proverbs 21:20 The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down (NIV) 2. When margin goes down, stress goes up Ephesians 5:15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise (NIV) Proverbs 6:6–8 Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! 7 It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, 8 yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest (NIV) Ecclesiastes 4:6 Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil (NIV) 3. Margin has more to do with my mindset than my money Proverbs 21:20 The wise have wealth and luxury, but fools spend whatever they get (NLT) Proverbs 23:5 Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle (NIV) Proverbs 13:11 Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow (NIV) 4. Margin allows you and I to live on mission Proverbs 22:7 The borrower is slave to the lender (NIV) 2 Corinthians 9:8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work (NIV) 2 Corinthians 9:10-11 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God (NIV)

From New Thinking to New Doing

From New Thinking to New Doing

Breaking The Mindset That’s Blocking Your Breakthrough Matthew 6:31–34 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (NIV) 2 Kings 4:1–2 The wife of a man from the company of the prophets cried out to Elisha, “Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that he revered the Lord. But now his creditor is coming to take my two boys as his slaves.” 2 Elisha replied to her, “How can I help you? Tell me, what do you have in your house?” “Your servant has nothing there at all,” she said, “except a small jar of olive oil.” (NIV) 1. The Overwhelmed Mindset 2. The Self-worth Mindset Luke 12:15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” (NIV) Psalm 34:19 The RIGHTEOUS person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all; (NIV) 3. The Poverty Mindset 3 John 1:2 Beloved, I pray that you may PROSPER in all things and be in health, just as your soul PROSPERS. (NKJV) Proverbs 10:22 The blessing of the Lord makes rich, and he adds no sorrow with it. (ESV) Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to PROSPER you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (NIV) Psalm 1:1–3 Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, 2 but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. 3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do PROSPERS. (NIV) Joshua 1:8 Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be PROSPEROUS and successful. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 9:8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. (NLT)

Breaking The Mindset That’s Blocking Your Breakthrough Matthew 6:31–34 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (NIV) 2 Kings 4:1–2 The wife of a man from the company of the prophets cried out to Elisha, “Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that he revered the Lord. But now his creditor is coming to take my two boys as his slaves.” 2 Elisha replied to her, “How can I help you? Tell me, what do you have in your house?” “Your servant has nothing there at all,” she said, “except a small jar of olive oil.” (NIV) 1. The Overwhelmed Mindset 2. The Self-worth Mindset Luke 12:15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” (NIV) Psalm 34:19 The RIGHTEOUS person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all; (NIV) 3. The Poverty Mindset 3 John 1:2 Beloved, I pray that you may PROSPER in all things and be in health, just as your soul PROSPERS. (NKJV) Proverbs 10:22 The blessing of the Lord makes rich, and he adds no sorrow with it. (ESV) Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to PROSPER you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (NIV) Psalm 1:1–3 Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, 2 but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. 3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do PROSPERS. (NIV) Joshua 1:8 Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be PROSPEROUS and successful. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 9:8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. (NLT)

BABY CHRISTIAN OR MATURE CHRISTIAN? Hebrews 5:12–14 In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word ALL OVER AGAIN. You need milk, not solid food! 13 Anyone who LIVES ON MILK, BEING STILL AN INFANT, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. 14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. (NIV) 1. MISUNDERSTANDING MATURITY 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may GROW UP in your salvation, (NIV) SIGNS OF BEING SPIRITUALLY STUCK 1A. INFANTS DEPEND ON OTHERS TO FEED THEM 1B. INFANTS DON’T LISTEN AND APPLY WELL 1C. INFANTS ARE SELF-CENTERED 2. MISPLACED PRIORITIES Matthew 6:33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. (NIV) 3. MISGUIDED MOTIVATION 4. MISMANAGE SIN 1 Timothy 6:11 But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. (NIV) 5. MISREAD SITUATIONS Hebrews 5:14 1But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of DISCERNMENT trained by constant practice to DISTINGUISH good from evil. (ESV) 5A. THEY STRUGGLE DISCERNING SATAN’S SCHEMES 2 Corinthians 2:11 in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 11:14 And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. (NIV) 1 Timothy 4:1 The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. (NIV) 5B. THEY STRUGGLE DISCERNING THE VOICE OF GOD John 10:27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. (NIV) John 10:14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep KNOW ME (NIV) 6. MISS MATURING 6A. MATURITY REQUIRES PRACTICE Hebrews 5:14 But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment TRAINED BY CONSTANT PRACTICE to distinguish good from evil. (ESV) James 1:22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. (NIV) 6B. MATURITY REQUIRES CORRECTION 1. THE READING OF THE WORD OF GOD CORRECTS THE MATURE 2 Timothy 3:16–17 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, REBUKING, CORRECTING, TRAINING in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God  may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (NIV) 2. THE PREACHING OF THE WORD OF GOD CORRECTS THE MATURE 2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. (NIV) 3. THE PEOPLE OF GOD CORRECT THE MATURE Proverbs 15:31–32 If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise. 32 If you reject discipline, you only HARM YOURSELF; but if you listen to CORRECTION, you GROW in understanding. (NLT) Proverbs 12:1 Whoever LOVES discipline LOVES knowledge, but whoever hates correction is STUPID. (NIV)

BABY CHRISTIAN OR MATURE CHRISTIAN? Hebrews 5:12–14 In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word ALL OVER AGAIN. You need milk, not solid food! 13 Anyone who LIVES ON MILK, BEING STILL AN INFANT, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. 14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. (NIV) 1. MISUNDERSTANDING MATURITY 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may GROW UP in your salvation, (NIV) SIGNS OF BEING SPIRITUALLY STUCK 1A. INFANTS DEPEND ON OTHERS TO FEED THEM 1B. INFANTS DON’T LISTEN AND APPLY WELL 1C. INFANTS ARE SELF-CENTERED 2. MISPLACED PRIORITIES Matthew 6:33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. (NIV) 3. MISGUIDED MOTIVATION 4. MISMANAGE SIN 1 Timothy 6:11 But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. (NIV) 5. MISREAD SITUATIONS Hebrews 5:14 1But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of DISCERNMENT trained by constant practice to DISTINGUISH good from evil. (ESV) 5A. THEY STRUGGLE DISCERNING SATAN’S SCHEMES 2 Corinthians 2:11 in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 11:14 And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. (NIV) 1 Timothy 4:1 The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. (NIV) 5B. THEY STRUGGLE DISCERNING THE VOICE OF GOD John 10:27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. (NIV) John 10:14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep KNOW ME (NIV) 6. MISS MATURING 6A. MATURITY REQUIRES PRACTICE Hebrews 5:14 But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment TRAINED BY CONSTANT PRACTICE to distinguish good from evil. (ESV) James 1:22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. (NIV) 6B. MATURITY REQUIRES CORRECTION 1. THE READING OF THE WORD OF GOD CORRECTS THE MATURE 2 Timothy 3:16–17 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, REBUKING, CORRECTING, TRAINING in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God  may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (NIV) 2. THE PREACHING OF THE WORD OF GOD CORRECTS THE MATURE 2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. (NIV) 3. THE PEOPLE OF GOD CORRECT THE MATURE Proverbs 15:31–32 If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise. 32 If you reject discipline, you only HARM YOURSELF; but if you listen to CORRECTION, you GROW in understanding. (NLT) Proverbs 12:1 Whoever LOVES discipline LOVES knowledge, but whoever hates correction is STUPID. (NIV)

MY RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS IS NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS Matthew 7:16 By their FRUIT you will RECOGNIZE THEM. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? (NIV) Matthew 7:20 Thus, by their FRUIT you will RECOGINE THEM. (NIV) Matthew 12:33 “Make a tree good and its FRUIT will be good, or make a tree bad and its  fruit will be bad, for a tree is RECOGNIZED by its FRUIT. (NIV) 1 Timothy 4:15 Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that EVERYONE MAY SEE YOUR PROGRESS. (NIV) 1. GROW IN LIVING BY THE TRUTH  1 Timothy 4:1 The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. (NIV)  1A. GROW IN TRUTH BY RECOGNIZING FALSE TEACHERS 1 Timothy 4:2 Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. (NIV)  2 Timothy 4:3–4 For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. (NIV)   2 Corinthians 11:13–15 For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 15 It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve. (NIV) Jude 4 For certain individuals whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord. (NIV)  1 Timothy 6:3–5 If anyone teaches otherwise and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, 4 they are conceited and understand nothing. They have an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions 5 and constant friction between people of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain. (NIV)  1B. TEST THEIR DOCTRINE AGAINST SCRIPTURE  Acts 17:11 Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and EXAMINED the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. (NIV)   1C. GROW IN TRUTH BY LIVING BY GOD’s WORD 1 Timothy 4:3 They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth. (NIV)  Mark 7:13 Thus you nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And you do many things like that. (NIV)  1 Timothy 4:16 Watch your life and DOCTRINE closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers. (NIV)  A. WORK-BASED SALVATION B. HYPER-GRACE C. UNIVERSALISM D. DENIAL OF CHRIST’S DIVINITY OR HUMANITY E. SPEAKING IN TONGUES AS A REQUIREMENT FOR SALVATION F. EXTRA-BIBLICAL REVELATION G. FOLLOW YOUR HEART  H. CHRISTIANS DON’T SUFFER  I. THERE’S NO SPIRITUAL ENEMY  2. GROW IN GODLINESS  2A. GROWING IN THANKSGIVING  1 Timothy 4:4 For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, (NIV)  2B. GROWING IN THE WORD OF GOD AND PRAYER 1 Timothy 4:5-6 because it is consecrated by the WORD OF GOD AND PRAYER. 6 If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, NOURISHED on the truths of the faith and of THE GOOD TEACHING THAT YOU HAVE FOLLOWED. (NIV)  2C. GROWING IN TRAINING YOURSELF TO BE GODLY  1 Timothy 4:7-8 Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. 8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. (NIV) 3. GROW IN MAKING DISCIPLES  1 Timothy 4:6 If you POINT THESE THINGS OUT to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. (NIV) 1 Timothy 4:11Command and teach these things. (NIV)  4. GROW IN BEING A LEADER BY SETTING AN EXAMPLE  1 Timothy 4:12 Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but SET AN EXAMPLE for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. (NIV)  5. GROW IN YOUR DEVOTION TO CHURCH 1 Timothy 4:13 Until I come, DEVOTE yourself to the PUBLIC reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. (NIV). 6. GROW IN YOUR GIFTS 1 Timothy 4:14 Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you. (NIV)  7. GROW IN YOUR FAITHFULNESS 1 Timothy 4:15 Be DILIGENT in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. (NIV) 

MY RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS IS NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS Matthew 7:16 By their FRUIT you will RECOGNIZE THEM. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? (NIV) Matthew 7:20 Thus, by their FRUIT you will RECOGINE THEM. (NIV) Matthew 12:33 “Make a tree good and its FRUIT will be good, or make a tree bad and its  fruit will be bad, for a tree is RECOGNIZED by its FRUIT. (NIV) 1 Timothy 4:15 Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that EVERYONE MAY SEE YOUR PROGRESS. (NIV) 1. GROW IN LIVING BY THE TRUTH  1 Timothy 4:1 The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. (NIV)  1A. GROW IN TRUTH BY RECOGNIZING FALSE TEACHERS 1 Timothy 4:2 Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. (NIV)  2 Timothy 4:3–4 For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. (NIV)   2 Corinthians 11:13–15 For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 15 It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve. (NIV) Jude 4 For certain individuals whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord. (NIV)  1 Timothy 6:3–5 If anyone teaches otherwise and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, 4 they are conceited and understand nothing. They have an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions 5 and constant friction between people of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain. (NIV)  1B. TEST THEIR DOCTRINE AGAINST SCRIPTURE  Acts 17:11 Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and EXAMINED the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. (NIV)   1C. GROW IN TRUTH BY LIVING BY GOD’s WORD 1 Timothy 4:3 They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth. (NIV)  Mark 7:13 Thus you nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And you do many things like that. (NIV)  1 Timothy 4:16 Watch your life and DOCTRINE closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers. (NIV)  A. WORK-BASED SALVATION B. HYPER-GRACE C. UNIVERSALISM D. DENIAL OF CHRIST’S DIVINITY OR HUMANITY E. SPEAKING IN TONGUES AS A REQUIREMENT FOR SALVATION F. EXTRA-BIBLICAL REVELATION G. FOLLOW YOUR HEART  H. CHRISTIANS DON’T SUFFER  I. THERE’S NO SPIRITUAL ENEMY  2. GROW IN GODLINESS  2A. GROWING IN THANKSGIVING  1 Timothy 4:4 For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, (NIV)  2B. GROWING IN THE WORD OF GOD AND PRAYER 1 Timothy 4:5-6 because it is consecrated by the WORD OF GOD AND PRAYER. 6 If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, NOURISHED on the truths of the faith and of THE GOOD TEACHING THAT YOU HAVE FOLLOWED. (NIV)  2C. GROWING IN TRAINING YOURSELF TO BE GODLY  1 Timothy 4:7-8 Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. 8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. (NIV) 3. GROW IN MAKING DISCIPLES  1 Timothy 4:6 If you POINT THESE THINGS OUT to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. (NIV) 1 Timothy 4:11Command and teach these things. (NIV)  4. GROW IN BEING A LEADER BY SETTING AN EXAMPLE  1 Timothy 4:12 Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but SET AN EXAMPLE for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. (NIV)  5. GROW IN YOUR DEVOTION TO CHURCH 1 Timothy 4:13 Until I come, DEVOTE yourself to the PUBLIC reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. (NIV). 6. GROW IN YOUR GIFTS 1 Timothy 4:14 Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you. (NIV)  7. GROW IN YOUR FAITHFULNESS 1 Timothy 4:15 Be DILIGENT in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. (NIV) 

God’s Plan for Your Growth 2 Peter 1:3-4 By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. 4 And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires. (NLT) 2 Peter 1:5 In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith… (NLT) 2 Peter 1:5 In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence… (NLT) 1. Moral Excellence Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. (NLT) Colossians 3:23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. (NIV) 2. Knowledge 2 Peter 1:5 Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge. (NLT) 2 Peter 3:18 Rather, you must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  (NLT) 3. Self-control 2 Peter 1:5-6 Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control. (NLT) Proverbs 25:28 A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls. (NLT) Titus 2:11-12 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age. (NIV) 4. Patient endurance 2 Peter 1:5-6 Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance. (NLT) Hebrews 6:19 We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. (NIV) 5. Godliness 2 Peter 1:5-7 Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness. (NLT) 2 Peter 2:3 His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life. (NIV) 6. Brotherly affection 2 Peter 1:5-7 Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, 7 and godliness with brotherly affection. (NLT) 1 John 4:20 If someone says, “I love God,” but hates a fellow believer, that person is a liar; for if we don’t love people we can see, how can we love God, whom we cannot see? (NLT) Hebrews 13:1 Keep on loving each other as brothers. (NIV) 7. Love for everyone. 2 Peter 1:5-7 Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, 7 and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone. (NLT) 1 Corinthians 13:13 Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love. (NLT) 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails. (NIV) 1 John 3:16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. (NIV) 2 Peter 1:8 For IF you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV) 2 Peter 1:8 The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.  (NLT)

God’s Plan for Your Growth 2 Peter 1:3-4 By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. 4 And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires. (NLT) 2 Peter 1:5 In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith… (NLT) 2 Peter 1:5 In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence… (NLT) 1. Moral Excellence Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. (NLT) Colossians 3:23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. (NIV) 2. Knowledge 2 Peter 1:5 Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge. (NLT) 2 Peter 3:18 Rather, you must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  (NLT) 3. Self-control 2 Peter 1:5-6 Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control. (NLT) Proverbs 25:28 A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls. (NLT) Titus 2:11-12 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age. (NIV) 4. Patient endurance 2 Peter 1:5-6 Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance. (NLT) Hebrews 6:19 We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. (NIV) 5. Godliness 2 Peter 1:5-7 Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness. (NLT) 2 Peter 2:3 His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life. (NIV) 6. Brotherly affection 2 Peter 1:5-7 Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, 7 and godliness with brotherly affection. (NLT) 1 John 4:20 If someone says, “I love God,” but hates a fellow believer, that person is a liar; for if we don’t love people we can see, how can we love God, whom we cannot see? (NLT) Hebrews 13:1 Keep on loving each other as brothers. (NIV) 7. Love for everyone. 2 Peter 1:5-7 Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, 7 and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone. (NLT) 1 Corinthians 13:13 Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love. (NLT) 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails. (NIV) 1 John 3:16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. (NIV) 2 Peter 1:8 For IF you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV) 2 Peter 1:8 The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.  (NLT)

Change Your Relationship With Pain 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may GROW UP in your salvation, (NIV) 1. PAIN NEVER STOPS James 1:2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, WHENEVER you face trials of MANY KINDS, (NIV) 2. PAIN AND THE RIGHT PERSPECTIVE James 1:2 “CONSIDER IT PURE JOY, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, (NIV) 3. PAIN IS A TEST James 1:3 “because you know that the TESTING of your faith produces perseverance. (NIV) 4. PAIN ALWAYS PRODUCES SOMETHING IN YOU James 1:3 “because you know that the testing of your faith PRODUCES perseverance. (NIV) 5. PAIN IS THE VEHICLE THAT TAKES YOU TO YOUR NEXT LEVEL James 1:4 LET perseverance finish its work so that you may be MATURE and COMPLETE, NOT LACKING ANYTHING.” (NIV) Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we wlill reap a harvest if we DO NOT GIVE UP. (NIV) Job 42:12 The Lord BLESSED THE LATTER part of Job’s life MORE than the former part. He had fourteen thousand sheep, six thousand camels, a thousand yoke of oxen and a thousand donkeys. (NIV)

Change Your Relationship With Pain 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may GROW UP in your salvation, (NIV) 1. PAIN NEVER STOPS James 1:2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, WHENEVER you face trials of MANY KINDS, (NIV) 2. PAIN AND THE RIGHT PERSPECTIVE James 1:2 “CONSIDER IT PURE JOY, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, (NIV) 3. PAIN IS A TEST James 1:3 “because you know that the TESTING of your faith produces perseverance. (NIV) 4. PAIN ALWAYS PRODUCES SOMETHING IN YOU James 1:3 “because you know that the testing of your faith PRODUCES perseverance. (NIV) 5. PAIN IS THE VEHICLE THAT TAKES YOU TO YOUR NEXT LEVEL James 1:4 LET perseverance finish its work so that you may be MATURE and COMPLETE, NOT LACKING ANYTHING.” (NIV) Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we wlill reap a harvest if we DO NOT GIVE UP. (NIV) Job 42:12 The Lord BLESSED THE LATTER part of Job’s life MORE than the former part. He had fourteen thousand sheep, six thousand camels, a thousand yoke of oxen and a thousand donkeys. (NIV)

Overcoming Excuses 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may GROW UP in your salvation, (NIV) Matthew 25:24–29 “Then the servant with the one bag of silver came and said, ‘Master, I knew you were a harsh man, harvesting crops you didn’t plant and gathering crops you didn’t cultivate. 25 I was afraid I would lose your money, so I HID it in the earth. Look, here is your money back.’ 26 “But the master replied, ‘You wicked and lazy servant! If you knew I harvested crops I didn’t plant and gathered crops I didn’t cultivate, 27 why didn’t you deposit my money in the bank? At least I could have gotten some interest on it.’ 28 “Then he ordered, ‘Take the money from this servant, and give it to the one with the ten bags of silver. 29 To those WHO USE WELL WHAT THEY ARE GIVEN, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. But from those who DO NOTHING, even what little they have will be taken away. (NLT) 4 EXCUSES YOU NEED TO BURY 1. BURY THE BLAME GAME 2. BURY THE VICTIM MENTALITY 1 Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (ESV) 3. BURY THE COMPARISON TRAP 4. BURY THE FEAR OF FAILURE 2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. (NKJV) 5 DIGGING PRINCIPLES TO FULFILL YOUR POTENTIAL 1. DIG UP TAKING OWNERSHIP OF YOUR LIFE Galatians 6:5 For each will have to bear his own load. (ESV) 2. DIG UP IDENTIFYING THE EXCUSES THAT ARE HOLDING YOU BACK Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” 24 Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. (NLT) 3. DIG UP CLARIFYING YOUR WHY Habakkuk 2:2 Then the Lord answered me and said: “Write the vision And make it plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it. (NKJV) 4. DIG UP THE RIGHT RELATIONSHIPS Hebrews 10:24–25 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (NIV) 5. DIG UP TAKING STEPS TOWARD YOUR VISION James 1:22 Do not merely listen to the word and so deceive yourselves. DO what it says. (NIV) James 2:17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by ACTION, IS DEAD. (NIV) Ecclesiastes 11:4 Farmers who wait for perfect weather never plant. If they watch every cloud, they never harvest. (NLT) Psalm 37:23 The STEPS of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way; (ESV) Proverbs 16:3 COMMIT to the Lord whatever you DO, and he will establish your plans. (NIV)

Overcoming Excuses 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may GROW UP in your salvation, (NIV) Matthew 25:24–29 “Then the servant with the one bag of silver came and said, ‘Master, I knew you were a harsh man, harvesting crops you didn’t plant and gathering crops you didn’t cultivate. 25 I was afraid I would lose your money, so I HID it in the earth. Look, here is your money back.’ 26 “But the master replied, ‘You wicked and lazy servant! If you knew I harvested crops I didn’t plant and gathered crops I didn’t cultivate, 27 why didn’t you deposit my money in the bank? At least I could have gotten some interest on it.’ 28 “Then he ordered, ‘Take the money from this servant, and give it to the one with the ten bags of silver. 29 To those WHO USE WELL WHAT THEY ARE GIVEN, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. But from those who DO NOTHING, even what little they have will be taken away. (NLT) 4 EXCUSES YOU NEED TO BURY 1. BURY THE BLAME GAME 2. BURY THE VICTIM MENTALITY 1 Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (ESV) 3. BURY THE COMPARISON TRAP 4. BURY THE FEAR OF FAILURE 2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. (NKJV) 5 DIGGING PRINCIPLES TO FULFILL YOUR POTENTIAL 1. DIG UP TAKING OWNERSHIP OF YOUR LIFE Galatians 6:5 For each will have to bear his own load. (ESV) 2. DIG UP IDENTIFYING THE EXCUSES THAT ARE HOLDING YOU BACK Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” 24 Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. (NLT) 3. DIG UP CLARIFYING YOUR WHY Habakkuk 2:2 Then the Lord answered me and said: “Write the vision And make it plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it. (NKJV) 4. DIG UP THE RIGHT RELATIONSHIPS Hebrews 10:24–25 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (NIV) 5. DIG UP TAKING STEPS TOWARD YOUR VISION James 1:22 Do not merely listen to the word and so deceive yourselves. DO what it says. (NIV) James 2:17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by ACTION, IS DEAD. (NIV) Ecclesiastes 11:4 Farmers who wait for perfect weather never plant. If they watch every cloud, they never harvest. (NLT) Psalm 37:23 The STEPS of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way; (ESV) Proverbs 16:3 COMMIT to the Lord whatever you DO, and he will establish your plans. (NIV)

GROWTH IS GOD’S WILL SAMUEL GREW 1 Samuel 2:21 And the Lord was gracious to Hannah; she gave birth to three sons and two daughters. Meanwhile, the boy Samuel GREW up in the presence of the Lord. (NIV) 1 Samuel 2:26 And the boy Samuel CONTINUED TO GROW in stature and in favor with the Lord and with people. (NIV) KING DAVID GREW 2 Samuel 3:1 The war between the house of Saul and the house of David lasted a long time. David GREW STRONGER AND STRONGER, while the house of Saul grew weaker and weaker. (NIV) SAMSON GREW Judges 13:24 The woman gave birth to a boy and named him Samson. He GREW and the Lord blessed him, (NIV) JOHN THE BAPTIST GREW Luke 1:80 And the child GREW and became strong in spirit; and he lived in the wilderness until he appeared publicly to Israel. (NIV) JESUS GREW Luke 2:52 And Jesus GREW in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. (NIV) 2 Peter 1:8 The more you GROW like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NLT) Colossians 1:9–10 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, 10 so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, GROWING in the knowledge of God, (NIV) Philippians 1:6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion UNTIL the day of Christ Jesus. (NIV) 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may GROW UP in your salvation, (NIV) 1. THE HANGUP OF DESIRE 2. THE HANGUP OF GRACE Ephesians 2:8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God (NIV) 2 Peter 3:18 But GROW in the GRACE and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. (NIV) 3. THE HANGUP OF AN OVER DEPENDENCE ON PEOPLE Philippians 2:12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, WORK OUT YOUR OWN SALVATION with fear and trembling, (ESV) Colossians 2:6–7 And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, YOU must CONTINUE to follow him. 7 Let your roots GROW down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will GROW strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness. (NLT) SPIRITUAL GROWTH PLAN 3A. Yearly pray and fast 3B. Monthly tithe 3C. Weekly attend and serve at church 3D. Weekly attend a small group 3E. Daily spend time with God (First 15) 4. THE HANGUP OF AN UNDER DEPENDENCE ON PEOPLE 1 Corinthians 8:1 Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that “We all possess knowledge.” But knowledge puffs up while love builds up. (NIV) 5. THE HANGUP OF SELF-CENTERED LIVING Matthew 23:11 The greatest among you will be your servant. (NIV) 6. THE HANGUP OF DISTRACTED LIVING Luke 8:11 “This is the meaning of the parable: The SEED is the word of God. (NIV) 6A. DISTRACTED BY THE DEVIL Luke 8:12 Those along the path are the ones who hear, and then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. (NIV) 6B. DISTRACTED BY TRIALS Luke 8:13 Those on the rocky ground are the ones who receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root. They believe for a while, but in the time of testing they fall away. (NIV) 6C. DISTRACTED BY WORRIES Luke 8:14 The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not MATURE. (NIV) 6D. DETERMINED TO GROW Luke 8:15 But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by PERSEVERING produce a crop. (NIV)

GROWTH IS GOD’S WILL SAMUEL GREW 1 Samuel 2:21 And the Lord was gracious to Hannah; she gave birth to three sons and two daughters. Meanwhile, the boy Samuel GREW up in the presence of the Lord. (NIV) 1 Samuel 2:26 And the boy Samuel CONTINUED TO GROW in stature and in favor with the Lord and with people. (NIV) KING DAVID GREW 2 Samuel 3:1 The war between the house of Saul and the house of David lasted a long time. David GREW STRONGER AND STRONGER, while the house of Saul grew weaker and weaker. (NIV) SAMSON GREW Judges 13:24 The woman gave birth to a boy and named him Samson. He GREW and the Lord blessed him, (NIV) JOHN THE BAPTIST GREW Luke 1:80 And the child GREW and became strong in spirit; and he lived in the wilderness until he appeared publicly to Israel. (NIV) JESUS GREW Luke 2:52 And Jesus GREW in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. (NIV) 2 Peter 1:8 The more you GROW like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NLT) Colossians 1:9–10 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, 10 so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, GROWING in the knowledge of God, (NIV) Philippians 1:6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion UNTIL the day of Christ Jesus. (NIV) 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may GROW UP in your salvation, (NIV) 1. THE HANGUP OF DESIRE 2. THE HANGUP OF GRACE Ephesians 2:8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God (NIV) 2 Peter 3:18 But GROW in the GRACE and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. (NIV) 3. THE HANGUP OF AN OVER DEPENDENCE ON PEOPLE Philippians 2:12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, WORK OUT YOUR OWN SALVATION with fear and trembling, (ESV) Colossians 2:6–7 And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, YOU must CONTINUE to follow him. 7 Let your roots GROW down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will GROW strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness. (NLT) SPIRITUAL GROWTH PLAN 3A. Yearly pray and fast 3B. Monthly tithe 3C. Weekly attend and serve at church 3D. Weekly attend a small group 3E. Daily spend time with God (First 15) 4. THE HANGUP OF AN UNDER DEPENDENCE ON PEOPLE 1 Corinthians 8:1 Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that “We all possess knowledge.” But knowledge puffs up while love builds up. (NIV) 5. THE HANGUP OF SELF-CENTERED LIVING Matthew 23:11 The greatest among you will be your servant. (NIV) 6. THE HANGUP OF DISTRACTED LIVING Luke 8:11 “This is the meaning of the parable: The SEED is the word of God. (NIV) 6A. DISTRACTED BY THE DEVIL Luke 8:12 Those along the path are the ones who hear, and then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. (NIV) 6B. DISTRACTED BY TRIALS Luke 8:13 Those on the rocky ground are the ones who receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root. They believe for a while, but in the time of testing they fall away. (NIV) 6C. DISTRACTED BY WORRIES Luke 8:14 The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not MATURE. (NIV) 6D. DETERMINED TO GROW Luke 8:15 But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by PERSEVERING produce a crop. (NIV)

Luke 11:1 Once Jesus was in a certain place praying. As he finished, one of his disciples came to him and said, “Lord, teach us to pray.” (NLT) Matthew 6:9-13 “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’. (NIV) 1. Prayer begins with worship Matthew 6:9 “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, (NIV) Psalm 100:4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. (NIV) 2. Prayer helps us keep our priorities straight Matthew 6:9-10 “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. (NIV) Romans 12:1-2 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. (NIV) 3. Prayer reminds us that God is our source Matthew 6:9-11 “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. (NIV) 1 Peter 5:7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. (NLT) Philippians 4:6-7 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. (NLT) 4. Prayer allows God to do a deep work in our hearts Matthew 6:9-12 “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. (NIV) Psalm 139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. (NLT) 5. Prayer provides protection Matthew 6:9-13 “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’ (NIV) Ephesians 6:12 For we[d] are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. (NLT) Matthew 6:16-18 “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. (NIV)

Luke 11:1 Once Jesus was in a certain place praying. As he finished, one of his disciples came to him and said, “Lord, teach us to pray.” (NLT) Matthew 6:9-13 “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’. (NIV) 1. Prayer begins with worship Matthew 6:9 “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, (NIV) Psalm 100:4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. (NIV) 2. Prayer helps us keep our priorities straight Matthew 6:9-10 “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. (NIV) Romans 12:1-2 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. (NIV) 3. Prayer reminds us that God is our source Matthew 6:9-11 “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. (NIV) 1 Peter 5:7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. (NLT) Philippians 4:6-7 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. (NLT) 4. Prayer allows God to do a deep work in our hearts Matthew 6:9-12 “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. (NIV) Psalm 139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. (NLT) 5. Prayer provides protection Matthew 6:9-13 “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’ (NIV) Ephesians 6:12 For we[d] are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. (NLT) Matthew 6:16-18 “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. (NIV)

Luke 11:1 Once Jesus was in a certain place praying. As he finished, one of his disciples came to him and said, “Lord, teach us to pray.” (NLT) Matthew 6:9-13 “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’. (NIV) 1. Prayer begins with worship Matthew 6:9 “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, (NIV) Psalm 100:4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. (NIV) 2. Prayer helps us keep our priorities straight Matthew 6:9-10 “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. (NIV) Romans 12:1-2 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. (NIV) 3. Prayer reminds us that God is our source Matthew 6:9-11 “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. (NIV) 1 Peter 5:7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. (NLT) Philippians 4:6-7 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. (NLT) 4. Prayer allows God to do a deep work in our hearts Matthew 6:9-12 “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. (NIV) Psalm 139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. (NLT) 5. Prayer provides protection Matthew 6:9-13 “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’ (NIV) Ephesians 6:12 For we[d] are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. (NLT) Matthew 6:16-18 “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. (NIV)

GOD USES SMALL PEOPLE FOR BIG PURPOSES PT. 2 1. GOD USES THE HUMBLE OVER THE HIGH AND MIGHTY Luke 1:48, Mary sings, “For He has been mindful of the HUMBLE state of His servant.” (NIV) 2. GOD USES CHARACTER OVER CREDENTIALS Luke 1:26–27 “In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. (NIV) 3. GOD USES A SERVANT OVER A SUPERSTAR Luke 1:38   “I am the Lord’s SERVANT,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. (NIV) Luke 1:48, Mary sings, “For He has been mindful of the humble state of His SERVANT.” (NIV) Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timothy, SERVANTS of Christ Jesus, To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons: (NIV) 1 Corinthians 4:1 So look at Apollos and me as mere SERVANTS of Christ who have been put in charge of explaining God’s mysteries. (NLT) Romans 1:1 Paul, a BONDSERVANT of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God (NKJV) 2 Peter 1:1 Simon Peter, a SERVANT and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have received a faith as precious as ours: (NIV) Matthew 23:11 “The greatest among you will be your SERVANT.” (NIV) 3A. SERVANTS OF JESUS SERVE PEOPLE 2 Corinthians 4:5 “We preach that Jesus Christ is Lord, and we ourselves are YOUR SERVANTS for Jesus’ sake.” (NLT) 2 Galatians 5:13 “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, SERVE ONE ANOTHER humbly in love.” (NIV) 4. GOD USES HIS PRESENCE OVER YOUR PRESENCE Luke 1:28, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! THE LORD IS WITH YOU” (NIV) Luke 1:34 “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” (NIV) Luke 1:35 The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will COME ON YOU, and the power of the MOST HIGH WILL OVERSHADOW YOU. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. (NIV) Luke 1:37 For with God NOTHING will be impossible. (NKJV)