November 2022

Self-Control

Self-control is both stopping ourselves from engaging in negative behaviors and being intentional about doing good. We look at one example from the life of Daniel and two from the life of Jesus to learn more about the importance of self-control.  



Walking in Wisdom

The Christian who walks in wisdom does more than just choose wisdom over foolishness. That follower of Jesus is led by the Spirit toward positivity, thankfulness and humility.  



Deference

It can be a struggle to set aside our own wants or cultural expectations and consider others first. We see that kind of deference in the life of David in 2 Samuel 9 and in the life of Paul in Romans 14.  



Imitators of God

As children of a good Father, we want to imitate Him in our lives. As we do, we will walk in love and in light.  



Honesty

God values honesty, and it is a trait that is clear in the life of Jesus. His followers should live honest lives. In Acts 5 and Luke 19, we see examples of dishonesty and honesty.  



Renewed

As Christians we leave the old selves behind and walk with purpose in our new lives. In the last half of Ephesians 4, Paul contrasts those two ways of living and how they affect all of us.  



October 2022

Growing

“And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” – Luke 2:52   Jesus is our example when it comes to growth. We should constantly be growing in our faith.



Gentleness

In our culture, gentleness is often equated with weakness. The gentleness God calls us to is not weakness at all. In the gospels, we read about many examples of the gentleness of Jesus. He is not weak in those instances where He treats people with gentleness.  



Unity in the Body

Our God has always existed in a unified community. He designed us to live in unity, too. Paul explains at the beginning of Ephesians 4 what it looks like to walk in unity.  



Empathy

Empathy is a trait shown by God, lived by Jesus and expected of Christians. To have empathy, it is helpful to understand the experiences of others and to be honest with ourselves about our blind spots. Who do we assume to be the hero or the villain of the stories we hear?