Colossians 1:24-2:5 Paul's Work for the Church = August 2

Paul's Work for the Church
Colossians 1:24-2:5

Intro Questions

Text Graphic

• God is ... What do we learn about God in this passage?
• We are ... What do we learn about people in this passage?
• 
  
• I will ... What has the Holy Spirit revealed to us in this passage? How can I apply it to my life this week?
• 
  
• You can ... Who do you know who needs to hear this? Feel free to share with others by social media links at the bottom of this.

https://www.youtube.com/c/edmondchurchofchrist

Other Resources:
Seven Christian Virtues Colossians 1 https://virtualbiblestudy.com/lessons/colossians/1/

The Authority of Jesus Colossians 2 https://virtualbiblestudy.com/lessons/colossians/2/

Prison Epistles

Jesus: Share Him

Colossians 1:24-2:5

WHO IS JESUS TO YOU? — How would you answer the question?

Most likely, I would hope, is that he is Savior. If He is not this to you, then anything else He might be is of no real consequence. But in addition to that He might be thought of as teacher, friend, High Priest, Shepherd, sustainer, creator, and so on. All are true, and all are important.

Prophesied concerning the coming Messiah are the various roles He would fill. Isaiah said, “...his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).

All of us struggle at times and some more often than others with what we should do. Jesus is the possessor of “all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:3). Is He to me my Wonderful Counselor?

Unquestioned is the place of Jesus of Nazareth as the most influential man to ever walk this earth. But owing to that fact is the truth that He was not merely man. Jesus was God in the flesh. Is He to me, Mighty God?

Among the numerous limitations that define each of us as human is that of time. Our existence is in the present. We have memory the past and anticipation of the future, but reality is in the here and now. No such deficiency hinders Jesus. As deity He is eternal. That not only means He is without beginning or end, but He, like God, is not bound by time. He is the Father of Eternity. Is He to me, Everlasting Father?

Very great among the truths we must know is that of our sin placing us in an adversarial roll with God. He loves us, but our sin He hates. Sin, by its very nature, demands the wrath of God, by His very nature. Jesus, by the blood of His cross makes possible peace with God (Colossians 1:20). Is He to me my Prince of Peace?

What, we ask again, is Jesus to you?

Opening Questions — Get Us Thinking:

• Are you someone who enjoys a mystery?

Paul’s Labor for the Church — Colossians 1:24-2:5

24 Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church. 25 I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness—26 the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. 27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

28 He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. 29 To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me.

1 I want you to know how hard I am contending for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally. 2 My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments. 5 For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how disciplined you are and how firm your faith in Christ is.

Research Questions — “Dig Deeper” to find God’s Will

1. God is ... What do we learn about God?
2. We are ... What do we learn about people?
3. Why is Paul rejoicing in verse 24? For whom is he doing it?
4. In what sense are Paul’s sufferings a continuation of Jesus’ sufferings? Why would this lead him to rejoice (see 2 Corinthians 12:9-10)?
5. When Paul "presents" the Word of God, what is his goal (v. 24)?
6. What is the "fullness" as used in verse 25?
7. How does Paul use the term "mystery" in verse 26? Compared to other uses from the same time period?
8. Who are the “Lord’s people” (saints) in verse 26?
9. What is significant in Paul's inclusion of the "Gentiles" (v. 27) “everyone” (v. 28)? What to "riches" and "glory" indicate for the believer?
10. Where does Paul's source of strength come from (v. 29)?
11. In verse 1 what does Paul intend for us to understand when he says he is "struggling" (contending hard)? Why would Paul strain for a people he had never met?
12. In verse 2 how is "heart" employed by Paul?
13. In 2:3-4, Paul contrasts clever speech and true wisdom. What does this indicate about false teaching infecting the church?
14. Why are these treasures from verse 3 no longer considered "hidden"?
15. What does the expression "in spirit" (v. 5) indicate?
16. What is the good news indicated by Paul's "delight" with the Colossians in verse 5?

Reflective Questions — Live it today.

17. Is Paul’s stated purpose (1:28; 2:2) a reality in your life? Or are you still somewhere along the way?
18. What “fine sounding arguments” hinder you in following only Jesus? How does Paul speak to your concerns?
19. How has finding Christ been like uncovering long-lost buried treasure?
20. I will ... What has the Holy Spirit revealed to you in this passage? How will you apply it to your life this week?
21. You can ... Who do you know who needs to hear this?
22. How does this equip us be a better disciple and help empower us to “make disciples”?

The church must be reminded that it is not the master or the servant of the state, but rather the conscience of the state.

https://youtu.be/dBJ6kklDNa0

Proverbs 29:1-27 Understanding Wisdom and Justice = Week 31 - Saturday

Understanding Wisdom and Justice

Proverbs 29:1-27

Reminder: Pray to God to set your heart right as you engage His word. The text you are about to study was not written to you but is written for you. So, before applying we must ask the following questions:

• What did it mean to the original reader or original audience?

READ THE SCRIPTURE (Multiple times & translations and notice the words that standout)

Biblegateway (NIV) (My choice of all-round site. It is a Great app, better on computers or on smartphones)

StepBible (ESV) (Great on phone or computer with good resources.)

Literal Word  (New American Standard Bible) (Works well on a smartphone or computer + for searching for words like a printed concordance)

Biblia.com (New Century Version) (Great on a computer especially if you have a logos account)

Themes

Righteous Leadership and Governance

The Importance of Discipline

The Power of Wisdom

The Dangers of Pride and Ignorance

Consequences of Wickedness

Justice and Social Stability

Topics

Leadership

Wisdom

Discipline

Pride

Justice

Wickedness

Hashtags:

#Wisdom

#Justice

#Abomination

#Bad company

#Destruction

#Established

#Fool

#Jehovah

#Parenthood

#Rejoice

#Righteous

#Ruler

#Speech

#Trap

#Wicked

#Wise

Topical Bible

Kevin's Teaching Blog About Proverbs 29

Potential Sermon Titles: ??

Intro Questions to get us thinking:

• When do you break into melody to yourself: (a) With the radio? (b) In the shower? (c) After church? (d) Never? 
• As for your ability to sing, are you a Johnny one-note, a joyful noise, or a one-man barbershop quartet? 
• What song is part of your bedtime ritual or teaching method with your children? 

ESV Text with Highlights

#God = 
#People = 

• The Wise
• The Fool
• The Righteous
• The Wicked
• The Ruler
• The Servant

#Time = 
#Place = 
#Obedient faith = 
#Sin = 
#Key Idea = 

Proverbs 29 ESV

1He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck,
will suddenly be broken beyond healing.
2When the righteous increase, the people rejoice,
but when the wicked rule, the people groan.
3He who loves wisdom makes his father glad,
but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth.
4By justice a king builds up the land,
but he who exacts gifts^a tears it down.
5A man who flatters his neighbor
spreads a net for his feet.
6An evil man is ensnared in his transgression,
but a righteous man sings and rejoices.
7A righteous man knows the rights of the poor;
a wicked man does not understand such knowledge.
8Scoffers set a city aflame,
but the wise turn away wrath.
9If a wise man has an argument with a fool,
the fool only rages and laughs, and there is no quiet.
10Bloodthirsty men hate one who is blameless
and seek the life of the upright.^b
11A fool gives full vent to his spirit,
but a wise man quietly holds it back.
12If a ruler listens to falsehood,
all his officials will be wicked.
13The poor man and the oppressor meet together;
the Lord gives light to the eyes of both.
14If a king faithfully judges the poor,
his throne will be established forever.
15The rod and reproof give wisdom,
but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.
16When the wicked increase, transgression increases,
but the righteous will look upon their downfall.
17Discipline your son, and he will give you rest;
he will give delight to your heart.
18Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint,^c
but blessed is he who keeps the law.
19By mere words a servant is not disciplined,
for though he understands, he will not respond.
20Do you see a man who is hasty in his words?
There is more hope for a fool than for him.
21Whoever pampers his servant from childhood
will in the end find him his heir.^d
22A man of wrath stirs up strife,
and one given to anger causes much transgression.
23One’s pride will bring him low,
but he who is lowly in spirit will obtain honor.
24The partner of a thief hates his own life;
he hears the curse, but discloses nothing.
25The fear of man lays a snare,
but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe.
26Many seek the face of a ruler,
but it is from the Lord that a man gets justice.
27An unjust man is an abomination to the righteous,
but one whose way is straight is an abomination to the wicked.

OBSERVATIONS (Reflect on the topic and build the concept the writer is trying to communicate to the original audience)

ebible (NLT) (Best for having Bible sections divided by "pericope" or sections by thought)

Bible Project (NLT) (Helpful videos and instructions for the bigger picture)

Thematic Bible (Books and Chapters Structure)

Bible Hub = Outline, Themes, Topics, People, Locations, and Questions

Wisdom instructs against stubbornness and insubordination.

Accepting Criticism (29:1): If you refuse to accept criticism, you will be broken.
Wisdom and Wickedness (29:2–8): “The man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father.… Evil people are trapped by sin.”
Facts about a Fool (29:9–11): A fool has no restraint on his emotions.
Potentates and the Poor (29:12–14): If a king honors liars, all his advisers will be wicked. He will have a long reign if he is fair to the poor.
Spanking, Not Spoiling (29:15–17): Discipline produces wisdom, but spoiling a child brings a mother disgrace.
No Revelation, No Restraint (29:18–19): If people are not wise and accept guidance, they run wild.
Thoughtless Speech (29:20–26): There is more hope for a fool than for one who speaks without thinking.
The Godly and the Ungodly (29:27): They detest each other.

Proverbs Chapter 29 discusses various moral and social principles, emphasizing the consequences of actions and the importance of righteousness. It states that stubbornness leads to destruction, while the righteous bring joy and stability. Wisdom is valued, contrasting with the folly of squandering wealth. Justice is crucial for a king's stability, and flattery can ensnare individuals. The righteous care for the poor, while the wicked do not. Discipline is essential for children, and pride leads to downfall. Trusting in the Lord provides safety, and true justice comes from Him. Ultimately, the righteous and wicked are depicted as opposites, with their actions leading to distinct outcomes.

Proverbs Chapter 29 offers a collection of wise sayings that emphasize the importance of righteous leadership, self-discipline, and humility. The chapter highlights the consequences of foolishness, stubbornness, and wickedness, while promoting justice, humility, and the fear of the Lord as the foundation of a prosperous life. Here are the key themes:

Proverbs 29 offers timeless wisdom on leadership, justice, discipline, and personal conduct. Here's a summary of its key themes and teachings:

Leadership and Governance
The chapter emphasizes the importance of righteous leadership and its impact on society:

•     When the righteous are in authority, people rejoice; when the wicked rule, people groan
•     A just ruler brings stability, while the wicked bring turmoil
•     Leaders who listen to lies will have corrupt officials
•     Kings who judge the poor fairly will have their thrones established forever

Discipline and Correction
Proverbs 29 stresses the value of discipline and heeding correction:

•     Those who repeatedly ignore rebuke will face sudden, irreversible destruction
•     A rod of correction imparts wisdom, while a child left to themselves brings shame
•     Disciplining children brings peace and delight to parents

Wisdom vs. Folly
The chapter contrasts the actions and outcomes of the wise and foolish:

•     A wise person brings joy to their father, while one who consorts with prostitutes squanders wealth
•     The wise calm heated situations, while mockers inflame cities
•     Fools vent all their feelings, but the wise hold them back

Justice and Social Responsibility
Solomon emphasizes the importance of justice and caring for the vulnerable:

•     The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern
•     Both the poor and the oppressor receive light (understanding) from the Lord

Personal Character
The chapter offers insights on personal integrity and behavior:

•     Flattery is described as setting a trap for one's neighbor
•     The fear of human opinion leads to a snare, but trusting in the Lord keeps one safe
•     There's more hope for a fool than for someone who speaks hastily

Righteousness vs. Wickedness
Proverbs 29 repeatedly contrasts the outcomes of righteous and wicked behavior:

•     The righteous will see the downfall of the wicked
•     An unjust person is detestable to the righteous, and the upright are detestable to the wicked

Proverbs 29 presents a comprehensive view of wisdom, emphasizing the importance of righteous leadership, justice, compassion, self-control, and parental discipline. It contrasts these virtues with wickedness, folly, pride, and rebellion against God's ways. The chapter offers guidance on personal conduct, interpersonal relationships, and societal structures, providing timeless wisdom for ethical living and moral decision-making.

STUDY RESOURCES (This takes some work and here are more resources than you can go through completely)

Rhys N. Thomas @ Thomas Theology Hub is a great resource.

NETBible (New English Translation) (Great for original text information)

BlueLetter  (King James Version) (A variety of resources and good on Phones / better on Computers)

BibleHub (HCSB) (Good on computer or app/phone with lots of well-organized information.)

BibleHub (BSB) (Good on computer or app/phone with lots of well-organized information.)

BibleRef.com (New King James Version) Basic able to compare core translations.

StudyLight (Amplified Bible) (Great site with commentaries by Burton Coffman)

KnowingJesus (Phone / Computer and great for comparing translations)

Bible.com (Lexham English Bible)

One Rabbi's Look at the Old Testament.

https://www.openbible.info/

• God is ... What do we learn about God in this passage?
• We are ... What do we learn about people in this passage?
• If you were to put mood music to the reading of this chapter, would it be classical, up-beat or just old-fashioned? In a major or a minor key? 
• What might the righteous person of Proverbs 29:6 choose to sing about? 
• What else marks the righteous (Proverbs 29:2, 7, 16, 27)? What notes would they be singing? 
• Proverbs 29:8-9, 11, 20, 22 again raise the twin issues of anger and fools. How do you deal with the temperament of a fool? What hope does Solomon offer here? 
• Who are "stiff-necked" folk (Proverbs 29:1)? How and when do you think such irrevocable destruction occurs? 
• What is the result of dishonesty in leadership (Proverbs 29:12)? Are "lies" (Proverbs 29:12) more powerful than "rebukes" (Proverbs 29:1) or "mere words" (Proverbs 29:19)? Why might that be? 
• How might "discipline" give meaning to "words" (Proverbs 29:19)? 
• Of what value is a "revelation" (Proverbs 29:18)? Why is that? What incident in Israel's early history might be in mind here? What is significant about this convergence of law, the prophets and wisdom literature in one verse?

Link to More Questions

APPLICATION (God wants us all to arrive at action, life-changing faith)

ESV (English Standard Version) Good translation with some helpful resources.

Biblegateway (Christian Standard Bible) has some application resources.

The Message (MSG) (An easy-to-read paraphrase that helps some with application)

Heartlight (Great for practical application of scripture)

Precept Austin Devotionals

Verse of the Day

Scripture Graphics

Bible.org search site

https://www.openbible.info

• Which proverb here penetrates an area of your life? 
• If "mere words" (Proverbs 29:19) or "rebukes" (Proverbs 29:1) are not enough to correct someone, but only make one "stiff-necked" (Proverbs 29:2), what else is needed? What does this say about nagging mates? Stem-winding preachers? Self-help books? The Bible itself? Why are flesh and blood examples and multi-image shows more forceful than mere words? 
• These proverbs seem to suggest that lasting change is not externally imposed but internally motivated. When is "leaving a child to himself" (Proverbs 29:15) a healthy corrective? And when is that too permissive? 
• If "from the Lord we get justice" (Proverbs 29:26), what does this say about courts of appeal (civil and church)? Does one judicial process exclude the other? Or reflect the other? How will you handle your next disagreement with someone concerning this truth? 
• What threats do righteous people face (Proverbs 29:10)? What threats do you fear most?
• I will ... What has the Holy Spirit revealed to us in this passage? How can I apply it to my life this week?
• What transformative move needs to be made?
• You can ... Who do you know who needs to hear this? Feel free to share with others via social media links at this bottom.

Take Away Challenges

• What has the Holy Spirit revealed to you in this passage? How will you apply it to your life this week?
• Whom do you know who needs to hear this?
• What is God bringing to your attention in this discussion? What beliefs, thoughts, or actions need to be addressed or changed?

PRAYER: Dear God, may I never lose sight of what is right, and help me to always do what is good in your eyes. In the Name of Jesus.

NOTICEABLE GROUPINGS IN CHAPTER 29

“Ruler”—
“When a wicked man beareth rule, the people sigh” (Proverbs 29:2).
“The king by justice established the land; But he that exacteth gifts overthroweth it” (Proverbs 29:4).
“If a ruler hearkeneth to falsehood, all his servants are wicked” (Proverbs 29:12).
“The king that faithfully judgeth the poor, His throne shall be established for ever” (Proverbs 29:14).
“Many seek the ruler’s favor” (Proverbs 29:26).

“Righteous”—
“When the righteous are increased, the people rejoice” (Proverbs 29:2).
“The righteous doth sing and rejoice” (Proverbs 29:6).
“The righteous take knowledge of the cause of the poor” (Proverbs 29:7).
“The righteous shall look upon their fall” (Proverbs 29:16).
“An unjust man is an abomination to the righteous” (Proverbs 29:27).
“He that is upright in the way is an abomination to the wicked” (Proverbs 29:27).

“Trap”—
“A man that flattereth his neighbor Spreadeth a net for his steps” (Proverbs 29:5).
“In the transgression of an evil man there is a snare” (Proverbs 29:6).

“Wise”—
“Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father” (Proverbs 29:3).
“Wise men turn away wrath” (Proverbs 29:8).
“If a wise man hath a controversy with a foolish man, Whether he be angry or laugh, there will be no rest” (Proverbs 29:9).
“A wise man keepeth it back and stilleth it” (Proverbs 29:11).
“The rod and reproof give wisdom” (Proverbs 29:15).

“Parenthood”—
“Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father; But he that keepeth company with harlots wasteth his substance” (Proverbs 29:3).
“The rod and reproof give wisdom; But a child left to himself causeth shame to his mother” (Proverbs 29:15).
“Correct thy son, and he will give thee rest; Yea, he will give delight unto thy soul” (Proverbs 29:17).
“He that delicately bringeth up his servant from a child Shall have him become a son at the last” (Proverbs 29:21).

“Destruction”—
“He that being often reproved hardeneth his neck shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy” (Proverbs 29:1).
“He that exacteth gifts overthroweth it” (Proverbs 29:4).
“A man that flattereth his neighbor spreadeth a net for his steps” (Proverbs 29:5).
“Scoffers set a city in a flame” (Proverbs 29:8).
“The righteous look upon their fall” (Proverbs 29:16).

“Wicked”—
“In the transgression of an evil man there is a snare” (Proverbs 29:6).
“The wicked hath not understanding to know it” (Proverbs 29:7).
“The bloodthirsty hate him that is perfect; And as for the upright, they seek his life” (Proverbs 29:10).
“If a ruler hearkeneth to falsehood, all his servants are wicked” (Proverbs 29:12).
“When the wicked are increased, transgression increaseth” (Proverbs 29:16).

“Abomination”—
“The bloodthirsty hate him that is perfect” (Proverbs 29:10).
“An unjust man is an abomination to the righteous; And he that is upright in the way is an abomination to the wicked” (Proverbs 29:27).
“Poor”—
“The righteous taketh knowledge of the cause of the poor; The wicked hath not understanding to know it” (Proverbs 29:7).
“The poor and the oppressor meet together; Jehovah lighteneth the eyes of them both” (Proverbs 29:13).
“The king that faithfully judgeth the poor; His throne shall be established for ever” (Proverbs 29:14).

“Fool”—
“If a wise man hath a controversy with a foolish man; Whether he be angry or laugh, there will be no rest” (Proverbs 29:9).
“A fool uttereth all his anger” (Proverbs 29:11).
“Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words: There is more hope of a fool than of him” (Proverbs 29:20).

“Speech”—
“A man that flattereth his neighbor spreadeth a net for his steps” (Proverbs 29:5).
“Scoffers set a city in a flame” (Proverbs 29:5).
“The rod and reproof give wisdom” (Proverbs 29:15).
“A servant will not be corrected by words” (Proverbs 29:19).
“Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him” (Proverbs 29:20).

“Bad company”—
“He that keepeth company with harlots wasteth his substance” (Proverbs 29:3).
“Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul” (Proverbs 29:24).
“Anger”—
“Wise men turneth away wrath” (Proverbs 29:8).
“If a wise man that a controversy with a foolish man, Whether he be angry or laugh, there will be no rest” (Proverbs 29:9).
“A fool uttereth all his anger; But a wise man keepeth it back and stilleth it” (Proverbs 29:11).

“Established”—
“The king by justice establisheth the land” (Proverbs 29:4).
“The king that faithfully judgeth the poor, His throne shall be established for ever” (Proverbs 29:14).

“Jehovah”—
“The poor man and the oppressor meet together; Jehovah lighteneth the eyes of them both” (Proverbs 29:13).
“Whoso putteth his trust in Jehovah shall be safe” (Proverbs 29:25).
“A man’s judgment cometh from Jehovah” (Proverbs 29:26).

“Rejoice”—
“When the righteous are increased, the people rejoice” (Proverbs 29:2).
“Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father” (Proverbs 29:3).
“The righteous doth sing and rejoice” (Proverbs 29:6).
“Correct thy son, and he will give thee rest; Yea, he will give delight unto thy soul” (Proverbs 29:17).
“He that keepeth the law, happy is he” (Proverbs 29:18).

THOUGHTS OF THE WICKED
“The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord: but the words of the pure are pleasant words” (Proverbs 15:26).
The wicked have thoughts. They are usually expressing them too. You talk to them about Jesus, and you will see that they have thoughts. But, they are not the kind of thoughts that God would have. They are thoughts that do not agree with God’s thoughts. They are thoughts that lead away from God rather than to Him. They are thoughts that degrade instead of inspire. They are thoughts that oppose God rather than submit to Him.
Because of the way that wicked people think, it is hard to help them, it is hard to deal with them for God. God knows this. The just deplore the way of the wicked, and the feeling is mutual—the wicked deplore the way of the righteous (Proverbs 29:27). God deplores the way of the wicked and would have them turn from it immediately.
 

https://www.youtube.com/c/edmondchurchofchrist

Other Resources:

• My YouTube Channel
• Links to Edmond Videos

• Other YouTube Videos

SearchTV

• Audio Recordings
  
Through the Word = Audio
Proverbs 29 - https://app.throughtheword.org/proverbs-get-wisdom

• Discovery Bible Study

• Articles

• Devotions

Daily Hope Devotionals

Our Daily Bread

We were out on the lake and the fish were biting. Suddenly we heard a rumble in the distance. Looking up, we saw a mass of dark clouds in the west. The sound of thunder warned of a coming storm. It was a long way off, I thought, so I didn't heed the suggestion of my fishing partner that we start back to the cottage. I hoped the bad weather would move to the north or south of us. But then it happened! A fresh breeze sprang up, and the clouds mounted quickly overhead. We tried starting the motor—but no response. I cranked while my partner rowed frantically. The waves became whitecaps; the rain came in sheets; and the gale tossed our aluminum boat like an autumn leaf. That experience taught me a valuable lesson. Never wait when a storm is brewing!

It also preached a powerful sermon. Judgment is coming! It may seem far off to those who are in good health, but our motor can "conk out" at any time. To heed the foreboding signals of death is true wisdom. Look in the mirror before you go to work and observe some of its warnings. Notice those gray hairs and wrinkles. Remember your stiffening joints, shortness of breath, that dizzy spell—it's all "thunder in the distance." Why not hasten to find shelter in Christ before it is too late? Don't depend on your motor or the oars of self-effort. You will have no excuse, for you have been warned! —M. R. De Haan, M.D.

We are not truly ready to live until we are prepared to die.

==========

Do you C.A.R.E?

―Darrick Shepherd

We are just a little over a month away from 2014. It is hard to believe that 2013 is almost over. As we begin to look forward to 2014, what are your goals or what is your vision for your family, for the church at Southwest? I strongly believe that God intended for us to have a vision of where we want to go as His people. I am reminded of what was written in Proverbs 29:18, “Where there is no vision, the people perish….” I believe that as the people of God we need vision, what do us as His people want to do in 2014?

I think the first thing we need to ask ourselves is, what are we doing here? Jesus told us His vision and His purpose for His ministry. He said in Luke 19:10, “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” This was the mission, the vision that Jesus had for his ministry. Let’s look at some things that I believe we as the church at Southwest can accomplish in 2014.

First, Carry Christ to the Lost. This should be the goal of everyone. I believe that as God’s people we have responsible to carry Christ to the lost people that are all around us. The second thing we can accomplish is to Appreciate and love all people. I love what Paul said in Galatians 6: 9-10, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” What a beautiful thought. I believe we all can appreciate and love everyone. Even though it is hard, I believe we can find good in everyone. The Third thing we can accomplish is to Respect the word of God and His Purpose for us. God’s word is to be respected by every one of us. It has the power to save us and to set us free it must be respected. The Fourth and final thing I believe we can do in 2014 is to, Exalt Christ in all things. The word exalt means to hold in very high regard. Notice what Paul said about God exalting Christ. Philippians 2:9, "Therefore God exalted Him (Christ) to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name,”

What is your vision and goals for 2014? Do you C.A.R.E enough to carry Christ to the lost, Appreciate and love all people, Respect the word of God, and Exalt Christ in all things? I am really looking forward to 2014.

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September 8, 2009

Anger: Reflect Before You Respond

by Rick Warren"A rebel shouts in anger; a wise man holds his temper in and cools it" (Proverbs 29:11 TLB).

When you're angry, don't respond impulsively. Delay is a great tool in controlling anger. I'm not saying delay indefinitely, or even beyond a day; the Bible says don't go to sleep when you're angry. I'm talking about delaying it for five minutes.

When you start to get ticked off, you take 'time out' for a few minutes. Give yourself some time to stop, reflect and think it through. If you don't stop and think, you are likely to do the wrong thing. You need to reflect before you respond.

When we get angry, we need to get in the habit of stepping back, waiting a few minutes, and looking at the situation from God's point of view. Notice the Bible says a wise man lets his anger cool down (Proverbs 29:11). So 'cool it' is a Biblical term! A modern translation might be: "The wise man waits and chills out." Thomas Jefferson, the author of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, said, "When angry, count to ten before you speak. If very angry, count to one hundred."

While you're cooling down, ask yourself three questions to help you understand why you are angry:

• - Why am I angry?
• - What do I really want?
• - How can I get it?

Understanding the reason for your anger will give you greater patience and, perhaps, even the ability to overlook an offense (Proverbs 19:11).

 

• Links 

Thomas Theology Hub

THINK Before You Speak in Anger

Please let me know if you find any broken links or corrections that need to be made. Thank you for helping to make this useful.