Proverbs 11:25, Galatians 6:2, 6:10, Matthew 25:35-40, and 1 John 3:17-18
Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered. Proverbs 11:25
I pause my study of Numbers to focus on text that will be discussed Friday morning with my men's small group. This text is focused on two sets of five texts that will be used to derive Godly wisdom for a personal situation faced by one of my brothers in Christ. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the text about God?: God does want us to be a light like He is - He seeks for us to bless and do good so that others can see Jesus in us. We are encouraged especially in Galatians 6:10 to do good "to those who are of the household of faith." God seeks for us to build up the church as unity and strength of the church is important - this is amplified in 1 John 3:17-18 as John exhorts us to love our brothers and sisters in Christ. God does not like when we see someone in great need - He wants us to attend to the needs who need it the most - the "least of these" (Matthew 25:35-40).
- What do we learn from the text about people?: My brother in Christ is struggling with a situation where He is not sure whether to give outside his family or to give within his family. Both are good and this is indeed a struggle worthy of giving to God to seek His wisdom!
- Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid NOT being a light. We should also avoid NOT abiding in God and His Word which is the source of all truth and wisdom. We should claim the promise (2 Timothy 3:16-17) that all scripture is "is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." We should follow the example of Jesus who gave everything that believers could have life to the full now and for eternity. Do good and be a light.
My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves. Thank You Jesus for saving me and for also giving me Your Word that I might fellowship with You. I am not deserving of such blessings. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
