Apicontent – Page 108

33202 5 Steps to Overcome Irresponsibility

Are you struggling with being irresponsible? We have outlined a five-step process to help you change and heal in this area of your life. Take all the time you need with each of the steps below.

Step 1: Adopt a Correct View of God

A poor conception of God may well lie behind your problem with irresponsibility. For example, if you see God as an uncaring and detached deity, you will likely have the same attitude toward life. Are the following points ones you need to take to heart?

God is absolutely concerned about every aspect of our lives.

What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? (Romans 8:31)

God uses His power on our behalf.

The eyes of the LORD search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him. (2 Chronicles 16:9)

In your Bible, read a sampling of some of the key events in salvation history, such as creation, the call of Abram, the exodus, and so on. Examine these events from the perspective of God’s activity in the world. Begin to develop a picture of God as a deity who is far from apathetic or irresponsible toward His creation.

Step 2: Revise Your False Beliefs

Irresponsibility is fed by erroneous beliefs about life and one’s place in it. How might your false views have helped to make you irresponsible? Ask yourself the following questions:

Do you believe you cannot make any real changes in your world?

I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:13)

Do you believe that the needs of others are none of your concern?

Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, and you say, “Goodbye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do? (James 2:15–16)

Use a concordance to help you trace the themes of laziness and diligence through the Scriptures. Seek God’s help to correct your unbiblical views of life as they apply to irresponsibility.

Step 3: Repent of Your Sin

What type of irresponsibility is your downfall? Name it and disclaim it. Pray a simple prayer of repentance, and ask God to supernaturally motivate you into action.

God, I have been guilty of __________. I know it is sinful, and I am sorry for the way I have let You down. Forgive me now, I pray. Wash away the stain of this sin. Make me over into a person who uses Your power to reject irresponsibility and embrace a diligent lifestyle—one that pleases You. I ask these things in Christ’s name, amen.

If you have harmed others with your sin, apologize to them. Seek reconciliation and offer restitution where appropriate.

Step 4: Defend against Spiritual Attacks

Now that you have repented, watch out for demotivating spiritual attacks. They are certain to occur.

In the world system, responsibility is not a high value in itself. The world would tell you to only do what you need to in order to get by—everything else is a waste. But God’s values in this area are quite different. He wants diligence to be a regular part of your nature. You can overcome the world by rejecting its values and embracing God’s values instead.
Laziness and other types of irresponsibility are pleasurable to your flesh (sinful nature)—they are easy and comfortable. The flesh will desire to get that kind of pleasure back. But you must recall that your flesh is really dead now, because of Christ. You are a new person and are to obey the Spirit and not the flesh.
The Devil is scheming to draw you back to your old ways of irresponsibility. Put on all the armor of God to defend against him (Ephesians 6:10–18). If you will resist the Devil in God’s power, you can defeat him.

The quickest way to become irresponsible in life again is to be irresponsible about defending against spiritual attacks. Such attacks will come, and you should be ready for them. But remember that God will be empowering you and helping you be successful every time.

Step 5: Flee Temptation

The best way to avoid being tempted to lie on the couch and watch the world go by is to just do something. Take these active steps to be a more active person.

Focus on your relationship with God.

Begin your new, more disciplined life by maintaining your spiritual disciplines with God. He has something for you to do; ask Him what it is.

Latch on to God’s promises.

Find Bible verses that speak encouragement to you in your struggle against irresponsibility. Commit the verses to memory and use them when temptation arises. Here is one you may find valuable:

He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. (Isaiah 40:29)

Establish safeguards.

What inspires you to be irresponsible? Do whatever it takes to block such influences from your life. These are examples of the kinds of things you can do:

If you are lazy, make a “to-do” list of the things you ought to accomplish.
If you tend to procrastinate, create a calendar with all the deadlines for the things you are supposed to do.
If you typically leave your bedroom a mess, set your alarm a few minutes earlier so you can straighten it up every morning.
Ask a trusted Christian friend to hold you accountable in your commitment to not be irresponsible any longer.

Expect victory.

The Holy Spirit will motivate you into action if you will yield your heart to Him. Trust Him to make you a diligent person. Look forward to the victory He will give.

33205 Finding Freedom from Irresponsibility – A True Story

It takes diligence and perseverance to be a parent! Dr. Brandt relates this story from his childhood:

I can remember how when I was a teenager I tried to talk my mother into letting me go out after she said I could not go. I approached her with something like this, “Awe, come on Mom, won’t you please let me go out? Please, Mom?”

I tried to make myself look and sound as pathetic as possible, appealing to her sympathy and her motherly instinct. Surely she would concede to someone who was pleading as much as I was.

What do you do with a child who is playing the martyr, one who tries to put on a sincere act and tries to cajole something out of you that is against the limits?

She said no.

“Please, Mom, please let me go out?” I asked again.

She said no.

I decided there was no use being decent. It was necessary for me to try something else.

“So you say you love me, huh? How could any mother who loved her child treat me the way you are treating me? Can I go?”

She said no.

“But, Mom, everyone else but me is going. You wouldn’t want to make a freak out of me, would you? Can I go?”

Once more, the same answer.

What else could I think of? You see, my objective was to get out of the house any way possible – whether through lying, flattery, or whatever.

But my best line was always playing the role of the victim. I figured my trump card was always this line, “So you call yourself a Christian. How could any Christian mother treat her child like this? Can’t I please go?”

She did not burst into self-defense. She had respect for my attempts to resist her plan. All she said was no.

That used to make me so angry! I would retaliate by using all the ingenuity and creativity I could come up with to make life miserable for my mother until I went to bed.

When I was defeated, I would go to bed thinking, “How does a guy get saddled with a parent like that? Boy, if only I would die, then she’d be sorry.” I pictured myself in a coffin, my mother looking down at my dead body. In my imagination, I fired this thought off to my grieving mother: Serves you right!

There was no point in appealing to Dad. He would just back Mom up. Yet in my better moments, I was aware that they loved me. I sense that they had an attitude of approval and a real affection for me.

Children sometimes fervently want something they should not have. Yes, parents must respect their children and take their wants into consideration, but the decisions must finally be based on what is in the best interests of their children.

After I grew up, married, and had children of my own, I was amazed when I heard some of the same reasoning come out of the mouths of my kids!

Are you willing to parent your children, really parent them? Seek God and ask for his guidance in helping you to diligently discipline your children in a loving way. Repent of the times you have not been the parent you know you should have been. Focus on God’s plan for your life as a parent and for the development of your children. He will help you to experience joy!

[Dr. Henry Brandt shares insights from his counseling sessions. The names and certain details in these true case histories have been changed to protect each person’s identity and privacy.]

33196 Bible Verses Related to Rebellion

Rebellion

Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft. (1 Samuel 15:23, NLT2)

Evil people are eager for rebellion. (Proverbs 17:11, NLT2)

If you will only obey me, you will have plenty to eat. But if you turn away and refuse to listen, you will be devoured by the sword of your enemies. I, the LORD, have spoken! (Isaiah 1:19-20, NLT2)

Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. (Romans 13:1-2, NIV)

Disobedience

Don’t be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the anger of God will fall on all who disobey him. (Ephesians 5:6, NLT2)

To obey is better than sacrifice. (1 Samuel 15:22, NIV)

“What sorrow awaits my rebellious children,” says the LORD. “You make plans that are contrary to mine. You make alliances not directed by my Spirit, thus piling up your sins.” (Isaiah 30:1, NLT2)

Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord, for this is the right thing to do. Honor your father and mother. This is the first commandment with a promise: If you honor your father and mother, things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth. (Ephesians 6:1-3, NLT2)

Obey your spiritual leaders, and do what they say. Their work is to watch over your souls, and they are accountable to God. Give them reason to do this with joy and not with sorrow. That would certainly not be for your benefit. (Hebrews 13:17, NLT2)

Authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you. The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good. But if you are doing wrong, of course you should be afraid, for they have the power to punish you. They are God’s servants, sent for the very purpose of punishing those who do what is wrong. So you must submit to them, not only to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clear conscience. Pay your taxes, too, for these same reasons. For government workers need to be paid. They are serving God in what they do. Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honor to those who are in authority. (Romans 13:3-7, NLT2)

Don’t be misled–you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. (Galatians 6:7-9, NLT2)

We can be sure that we know him if we obey his commandments. If someone claims, “I know God,” but doesn’t obey God’s commandments, that person is a liar and is not living in the truth. But those who obey God’s word truly show how completely they love him. That is how we know we are living in him. Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did. (1 John 2:3-6, NLT2)

We must obey God rather than any human authority. (Acts 5:29, NLT2)

Look, today I am giving you the choice between a blessing and a curse! You will be blessed if you obey the commands of the LORD your God that I am giving you today. But you will be cursed if you reject the commands of the LORD your God and turn away from him and worship gods you have not known before. (Deuteronomy 11:26-28, NLT2)

If only you had paid attention to my commands, your peace would have been like a river, your righteousness like the waves of the sea. (Isaiah 48:18, NIV)

Insubordination

Obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but like slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men, because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free. (Ephesians 6:5-8, NIV)

Now I make one more appeal, my dear brothers and sisters. Watch out for people who cause divisions and upset people’s faith by teaching things contrary to what you have been taught. Stay away from them. (Romans 16:17, NLT2)

Insolence

Stop acting so proud and haughty! Don’t speak with such arrogance! For the LORD is a God who knows what you have done; he will judge your actions. (1 Samuel 2:3, NLT2)

I will put an end to the arrogance of the haughty and will humble the pride of the ruthless. (Isaiah 13:11, NIV)

I hate pride and arrogance, corruption and perverse speech. (Proverbs 8:13, NLT2)

To the arrogant I say, “Boast no more.” (Psalm 75:4, NIV)

Betrayal

Many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other. (Matthew 24:10, NIV)

Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child. Children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. (Mark 13:12, NIV)

Disrespect

Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. (Ephesians 5:21, NIV)

Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. (Romans 13:1, NLT2)

Each of you must respect his mother and father. (Leviticus 19:3, NIV)

Stand up in the presence of the elderly, and show respect for the aged. Fear your God. I am the LORD. (Leviticus 19:32, NLT2)

Respect everyone, and love your Christian brothers and sisters. (1 Peter 2:17, NLT2)

Obedience

Don’t you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey? You can be a slave to sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God, which leads to righteous living. (Romans 6:16, NLT2)

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. (2 Corinthians 10:5, NIV)

Look, today I am giving you the choice between a blessing and a curse! You will be blessed if you obey the commands of the LORD your God that I am giving you today. (Deuteronomy 11:26-27, NLT2)

This is what I told them: “Obey me, and I will be your God, and you will be my people. Do everything as I say, and all will be well!” (Jeremiah 7:23, NLT2)

If you love me, obey my commandments. (John 14:15, NLT2)

Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them. (John 14:21, NLT2)

And we can be sure that we know him if we obey his commandments. If someone claims, “I know God,” but doesn’t obey God’s commandments, that person is a liar and is not living in the truth. But those who obey God’s word truly show how completely they love him. That is how we know we are living in him. Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did. (1 John 2:3-6, NLT2)

Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing. (Psalm 143:10, NLT2)

You must be careful to obey all the commands of the LORD your God, following his instructions in every detail. Stay on the path that the LORD your God has commanded you to follow. Then you will live long and prosperous lives in the land you are about to enter and occupy. (Deuteronomy 5:32-33, NLT2)

Obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to win their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. (Colossians 3:22-24, NIV)

Children, always obey your parents, for this pleases the Lord.(Colossians 3:20, NLT2)

I command you today to love the LORD your God, to walk in his ways, and to keep his commands, decrees and laws; then you will live and increase, and the LORD your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess. (Deuteronomy 30:16, NIV)

If you listen to these regulations and faithfully obey them, the LORD your God will keep his covenant of unfailing love with you, as he promised with an oath to your ancestors. (Deuteronomy 7:12, NLT2)

Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. (Matthew 7:24-25, NIV)

Carefully follow the terms of this covenant, so that you may prosper in everything you do. (Deuteronomy 29:9, NIV)

Anyone who obeys God’s laws and teaches them will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven. (Matthew 5:19, NLT2)

If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s commands and remain in his love. (John 15:10, NIV)

The man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does. (James 1:25, NIV)

Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God and receive from him anything we ask, because we obey his commands and do what pleases him. (1 John 3:21-22, NIV)

For it is not those who hear the law who are righteous in God’s sight, but it is those who obey the law who will be declared righteous. (Romans 2:13, NIV)

33206 Bible Verses Related to Irresponsibility

Irresponsibility

Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, and you say, “Good–bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”–but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do? (James 2:15-16, NLT2)

If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion––how can God’s love be in that person? (1 John 3:17, NLT2)

God detests the prayers of a person who ignores the law. (Proverbs 28:9, NLT2)

If there is a poor man among your brothers in any of the towns of the land that the LORD your God is giving you, do not be hard-hearted or tight-fisted towards your poor brother. (Deuteronomy 15:7, NIV)

Laziness

Work hard and become a leader; be lazy and become a slave. (Proverbs 12:24, NLT2)

Lazy people sleep soundly, but idleness leaves them hungry. (Proverbs 19:15, NLT2)

Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. (Romans 12:11, NLT2)

Lazy people want much but get little, but those who work hard will prosper.(Proverbs 13:4, NLT2)

Lazy people are soon poor; hard workers get rich. A wise youth harvests in the summer, but one who sleeps during harvest is a disgrace. (Proverbs 10:4-5, NLT2)

“Those unwilling to work will not get to eat.” Yet we hear that some of you are living idle lives, refusing to work and meddling in other people’s business. We command such people and urge them in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and work to earn their own living. (2 Thessalonians 3:10-12, NLT2)

He who works his land will have abundant food, but the one who chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty. (Proverbs 28:19, NIV)

The hard-working farmer ought to be the first to receive his share of the crops. (2 Timothy 2:6, NASB95)

I went past the field of the sluggard, past the vineyard of the man who lacks judgment; thorns had come up everywhere, the ground was covered with weeds, and the stone wall was in ruins. I applied my heart to what I observed and learned a lesson from what I saw: A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest— and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man. (Proverbs 24:30-34, NIV)

If you love sleep, you will end in poverty. Keep your eyes open, and there will be plenty to eat! (Proverbs 20:13, NLT2)

A lazy person’s way is blocked with briers, but the path of the upright is an open highway. (Proverbs 15:19, NLT2)

Work hard and become a leader; be lazy and become a slave. (Proverbs 12:24, NLT2)

Lazy people don’t even cook the game they catch, but the diligent make use of everything they find. (Proverbs 12:27, NLT2)

A lazy person is as bad as someone who destroys things. (Proverbs 18:9, NLT2)

The lazy man is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who can answer sensibly. (Proverbs 26:16, NKJV)

Despite their desires, the lazy will come to ruin, for their hands refuse to work. (Proverbs 21:25, NLT2)

Lazy people irritate their employers, like vinegar to the teeth or smoke in the eyes. (Proverbs 10:26, NLT2)

Those too lazy to plow in the right season will have no food at the harvest. (Proverbs 20:4, NLT2)

Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones. Learn from their ways and become wise! Though they have no prince or governor or ruler to make them work, they labor hard all summer, gathering food for the winter. But you, lazybones, how long will you sleep? When will you wake up? A little extra sleep, a little more slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest–then poverty will pounce on you like a bandit; scarcity will attack you like an armed robber. (Proverbs 6:6-11, NLT2)

Apathy

Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. (Romans 12:11, NLT2)

“I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth!” (Revelations 3:15-16, NLT2)

Procrastination

He said to another, “Follow Me.” But he said, “Lord, permit me first to go and bury my father.” But He said to him, “Allow the dead to bury their own dead; but as for you, go and proclaim everywhere the kingdom of God.” Another also said, “I will follow You, Lord; but first permit me to say good-bye to those at home.” But Jesus said to him, “No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” (Luke 9:59-62, NASB95)

For you know quite well that the day of the Lord’s return will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. When people are saying, “Everything is peaceful and secure,” then disaster will fall on them as suddenly as a pregnant woman’s labor pains begin. And there will be no escape. (1 Thessalonians 5:2-3, NLT2)

As the Holy Spirit says: “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” (Hebrews 3:7-8, NIV)

Since the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it. For we also have had the gospel preached to us, just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, because those who heard did not combine it with faith. (Hebrews 4:1-2, NIV)

So God set another time for entering his rest, and that time is today. God announced this through David much later in the words already quoted: “Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts.” (Hebrews 4:7, NLT2)

Negligence

My sons, do not neglect your duties any longer! The LORD has chosen you to stand in his presence, to minister to him.” (2 Chronicles 29:11, NLT2)

I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word. (Psalm 119:16, NIV)

How will we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? After it was at the first spoken through the Lord, it was confirmed to us by those who heard. (Hebrews 2:3, NASB95)

We will not neglect the house of our God. (Nehemiah 10:39, NKJV)

Disorderliness

For God is not a God of disorder but of peace. (1 Corinthians 14:33, NIV)

For I am afraid that when I come I may not find you as I want you to be, and you may not find me as you want me to be. I fear that there may be quarrelling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, factions, slander, gossip, arrogance and disorder. (2 Corinthians 12:20, NIV)

For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing. (James 3:16, NASB95)

In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers, to keep away from every brother who is idle and does not live according to the teaching you received from us. (2 Thessalonians 3:6, NIV)

We command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition which he received from us. (2 Thessalonians 3:6, NKJV)

We hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies. (2 Thessalonians 3:11, NKJV)

Diligence

Do not neglect your gift … Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. (1 Timothy 4:14-15, NIV)

God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have shown your love to him by caring for other believers, as you still do. Our great desire is that you will keep on loving others as long as life lasts, in order to make certain that what you hope for will come true. (Hebrews 6:10-11, NLT2)

Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life. (Proverbs 4:23, NASB95)

As you abound in everything–in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us–see that you abound in this grace also. (2 Corinthians 8:7, NKJV)

Applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge. (2 Peter 1:5, NASB95)

So, dear brothers and sisters, work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen. Do these things, and you will never fall away. (2 Peter 1:10, NLT2)

Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might. (Ecclesiastes 9:10, NASB95)

Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. (Romans 12:11, NLT2)

The sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied. (Proverbs 13:4, NIV)

The hand of the diligent will rule, but the slack hand will be put to forced labor. (Proverbs 12:24, NASB95)

For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him. (2 Chronicles 16:9, NIV)

32520 God’s Word

Many Christians say they love God and want to know Him better, but they don’t do anything to actually learn more about Him. They say they want to serve God, but they don’t take the time to read His Word to find out just how to do that. Take time to read the Bible—it will encourage you every day and strengthen your relationship with God!

Q. At this point in your life, how much of the Bible have you read?

Q. What thoughts do you have of trying to spend more time reading and studying the Bible?

The Bible is the primary way that God communicates his desires for His people to His people! It is the Word of God for us to live on! The Bible is God’s “Road Map” for our life. The Bible is the guide to righteousness, peace and stability.

The Bible is not just one big book, but actually a collection of 66 smaller books written over a period of at least 1600 years by about 40 different authors. Everything the authors wrote was inspired by God.

God will not love you more because you read the Bible, but the Bible is His way of helping you to grow in your relationship with Him. Your relationship with God has been sealed by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ … now it’s time to learn more about God! By taking time to be in God’s Word on a regular basis, you will grow spiritually and be able to stand firm when difficulties and deceptions come into your life.

If you received a special letter or email from God … telling you how much He loves you … giving you guidance and direction for your daily issues … would you read it? Would you keep it, treasure it, memorize it, and continually think about it … like a letter you from one of your cherished friends?

That’s exactly what the Bible is … it’s God’s letter to you!

Colossians 3:16 says, “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” (NASB)

Q. As you look at this verse, what is it saying to you today?

2 Peter 1:20-2: “But you need to realize that no one alone can understand any of the prophecies in the Scriptures. The prophets did not think these things up on their own, but they were guided by the Spirit of God.” ( CEV)

Q. What do the following verses reveal about God’s Word?

Hebrews 4:12: “For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.” (NLT)

If you received a special letter or email from God… telling you how much He loves you… giving you guidance and direction for your daily issues… would you read it?

Literally hundreds of times in the Old Testament it says “And the Lord said …” The Bible is nothing less than the words God Himself chose for us to hear! He preserved them for us so that we can know how much He loves us, what He has done for us, and how we can live to please Him.

In the early 1700s (!) author Matthew Henry said: “If you want to get close to God, you must study his Word.” The Bible is the primary means that you have to know God and what He wants for your life.

The whole Bible can be summed up in five words: Preparation, Presentation, Propagation, Explanation, and Consummation. As we look at all of the scripture, we find that the whole Bible is about the Lord Jesus Christ.

Preparation—-The entire Old Testament

Presentation to the world—-The Gospels

Propagation to the world—-Acts

Explanation–how to live for Him—-The Epistles

Consummation of everything, in Him—-Revelation

Q. From what you know about the Bible right now, what one word would you use to describe it?

The Bible is God’s “Road Map” for Your Life

If you were trying to drive to a distant small town you had never been to before … would you drive by your emotions and instincts … or would you look at a road map? While the road map won’t tell you what’s just around the curve, or how bumpy the road is … it will keep you from heading in the wrong direction, giving you guidance for your trip.

The Bible provides the “road map” for your journey with God. It gives you God’s wonderful promises for each step of the way. “The road of life can be a baffling route indeed: smooth at times, but sometimes full of potholes…one day a well-marked expressway, the next a maze of detours. But your heavenly Father has provided a road map—the Bible—to keep you moving in the right direction.” (Closer Walk New Testament)

Every day you do things out of habit. You get up, eat breakfast, shower, get dressed, go to school, go to work, etc. In order to make God’s Word part of your life—you need to make it one of your daily habits. Pick a time, then pick a quiet spot and spend time reading the Bible and thinking about how it applies to your life. Once you have done it for thirty days, you will have established a habit that will change your life!

Q. As you think about the routine of your day, when would be a time that you could spend some time with God by reading and studying His Word?

God’s Viewpoint

The Bible gives you God’s answers to all of life’s most important questions:

God’s Nature

Your Purpose

How To Grow In Christ

Moral Decisions

Relationships / Sex

Emotions / Comfort

Trials / Death

Henry Brandt and Kerry Skinner once wrote:

Additional Study: You may find it helpful to obtain a copy of What the Bible Is All About by Henrietta Mears. Dr. Mears was one of the great Bible teachers of the 20th Century. As Christian Education Director at First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood, she built one of the largest Sunday Schools in the world and wrote curriculum that was in such high demand that to publish it she founded her own publishing company! Such notable Christian leaders as Richard C. Halverson, Luis Evans, Jr. and Bill Bright were among her students. Dr. Billy Graham has said, “She is certainly one of the greatest Christians I have ever known.”

Your love for God is demonstrated by the place that His commandments occupy in your life. You must study His Word to learn what His commandments are.

To follow God’s Word as life’s guidebook requires a familiarity with the commandments and a keen sense of the place that they have in God’s order. A serious study of the Bible will give you an understanding of what God requires of you and what you can expect from God … for it is the Bible that is the guide to righteousness, peace, and stability.

32521 Renewing Your Mind

“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” —Romans 12:2, NLT

Jeremiah 29:11 tells us, “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). God wants us to know him and the plans he has for us. He wants us to discover the great depth of his love for us and commitment for us. The Bible contains his words of love and direction.

God has given us his Word in the Bible and his indwelling Spirit to help us look at life and our current situation from his perspective. The Bible contains the truths that are vital to experiencing God’s best in life and eternity. It is God’s instruction manual to us for successful and supernatural living. As you read the Bible and pray, the Holy Spirit will bring God’s best for you into focus.

“The Scriptures were not given for our information, but for our transformation.”
– D. L. Moody

As Christians, we are disciples of Christ. We should be committed to learning his truth and following his directions. Use the following steps and questions periodically as you pray and seek to apply God’s truth in your life.

The Process of Renewing Your Mind

1. Receptivity—Check your attitude.

Do I really believe that God’s truth can transform me?
Am I willing to let God’s truth change me and my life?
Has God already revealed truth to me I am unwilling to obey?
Am I cultivating a submissive and obedient attitude?

2. Comprehension—Check your level of understanding.

What new truth have I become aware of by reading my Bible, paying attention to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, and going to church or listening to other Christians?
What does this truth mean with regard to what I think, say, and do?
What are the consequences of not applying this truth to my life?

3. Conviction—Check your level of belief.

Am I convinced that it is important to apply this new revealed truth to my life as God shows me how?
Do I truly believe that God is working in and through his Holy Spirit to lead me?

4. Transformation—Check your commitment.

Am I willing to embrace what God has revealed to me and allow it to change my perception and actions?
What is the next thing I should do to cooperate with the Holy Spirit in my transformation?

James 1:22 tells us, “Do not merely listen to the Word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” NLT. God has given us the Bible to help us in our journey of discovery. Allow the Holy Spirit to use it in your life and enjoy the adventure.

32522 Filling Your Mind with God’s Truth

Have you ever thought about why you do the things you do? Where does your behavior come from? These questions may seem somewhat unimportant to you, but … the answers to these questions really are important!

Science research tells us that everything a person puts into their mind, sticks–every word, every image, every idea that someone allows into their mind, stays there. The Bible tells us that what we believe (what is in our minds) determines what we do. Proverbs 23:7 says, “For as he (a person) thinks within himself, so he is” (NASB, emphasis added). So think about it—what is in your mind comes out in your behavior! Consider the enormous growing pool of information in your mind, most of which is subconscious. You have information coming to you from all kinds of sources. That subconscious information is influencing your behavior.

In the field of computer science they use the phrase, “Garbage in, garbage out.” This phrase is used primarily to call attention to the fact that computers will unquestioningly process the most nonsensical of input data (“garbage in”) and produce nonsensical output (“garbage out”). It was most popular in the early days of computing, but applies even more today, when powerful computers can spew out mountains of erroneous information in a short time. In other words, what you put in is what you are going to get out!

What you put into your mind influences your behavior! Everything a person puts into their mind, sticks – every word, every image, every idea.

What is in your mind comes out in your behavior!

Picture your mind as a huge “Vat” with two big faucets pouring everything you hear, see, smell, read, and experience into that “Vat.” One pipe is pumping in the world’s point of view, and the other pipe is pumping in God’s truths. You determine how much of each kind of information is coming into your Vat!

Your thoughts, values, decisions, beliefs, fears, joys, emotions and attitudes are all by-products of what is in your Vat!

The great theologian A. W. Tozer once said, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.”

Consider that truth for a moment: The most important thing about you is what you think when you think about God! What do you think about God? Is your information accurate? Is it based on the Bible … or on what you’ve simply “heard” about God? It’s important that you have correct information about God coming into your Vat—and the most reliable source for that information is the Bible.

Your thoughts, values, decisions, fears, joys, emotions and attitudes are all by-products of what is in your mind!

Unfortunately, all of us “contaminate” our Vat, which is similar to putting dirt in a glass of water! If you let the glass of water stand, the dirt might sink to the bottom … but it is still there! And it can still be stirred up to make the glass of water cloudy (and gross!). When it comes to your Vat—and the information that is in your mind—you may have lots of good information in your mind about God and truth, and then someone tells you a dirty joke or you see something on the internet that is immoral. Now you have both kinds of information in your mind. You can let the ungodly “stuff” sink to the bottom, or you can “stir” it up and let it cloud your thinking. In any case, the “dirt” is still there.

If we fill our mind with God’s word and instruction, our decisions and behaviorwill reflect that.

God’s Word is the place to go to get the right information about God. What does God reveal about himself in the Bible? He is eternal; He had no beginning, and He has no end. Nothing existed before Him. No one created Him. Nothing is hard for Him. God created all of the universe with all its electrons, elements, and the laws that control it. He is everywhere all at once. He does not change, grow, develop, or learn; He is the same yesterday, today, and forever—not because He is arrogant or small minded, but because He already knows all that can be known.

He hates sin, and loves righteousness. He is never surprised, never asks questions, never discovers anything, does not seek information—because He already knows all there is to know … about the world and about each one of us.

He has total knowledge, and infinite wisdom to apply it. He is absolutely holy. And in addition to all that, He is infinitely loving, kind, patient, and gracious! How’s that for some good stuff for your Vat?!

Consider someone who is becoming a doctor. It is critical that this person have accurate data in their Vat. How do they accomplish this? Primarily by reading books about medicine and listening to experienced doctors. The practice of medicine is a matter of making many decisions, many of which are critical. These decisions are made on the basis of what one knows, what is in the Vat. A doctor facing a medical decision cannot use what is not there! The more accurate information the medical student puts into the Vat, the more resources they will have at their disposal when critical decisions needed to be made.

A distorted, inaccurate view of God will result in a distorted, inaccurate response to Him!

When we are faced with important decisions—personal, moral, ethical, spiritual, relational—we can only draw on the information that is currently in the Vat. If we fill our Vat with God’s Word and instruction, our decisions and behavior will reflect that.

As you study God’s word, your Vat will influence you to live in a way that not only glorifies God, but also points others to Him.

Here are some principles from the Bible to get you started on having your Vat filled with God:

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” —Philippians 4:8, NIV

“Jesus said, ‘You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God.’” —Matthew 22:29, NIV

“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” —2 Timothy 3:16-17, NLT

Christianity is a relationship with Jesus Christ. It is a living faith in a living person, God Himself. A distorted, inaccurate view of God will result in a distorted, inaccurate response to Him! What you think about God really does make a difference in how you act! Every day you will be faced with choices on what to allow into your Vat … and what you are going to allow to influence your behavior. Choose wisely! Fill your mind with the things of God so that your life will reflect Him!

32523 Applying God’s Insights

“So listen to the parable of the sower: When anyone hears the word about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches what was sown in his heart; this is the seed sown along the path. The seed sown on rocky ground is the person who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy. But he has no root in himself and does not endure; when trouble or persecution comes because of the word, immediately he falls away. The seed sown among thorns is the person who hears the word, but worldly cares and the seductiveness of wealth choke the word, so it produces nothing. But as for the seed sown on good soil, this is the person who hears the word and understands. He bears fruit, yielding a hundred, sixty, or thirty times what was sown.” – Matthew 13:18-23

Understanding God’s Word Is Critical

In one situation God’s word was not understood. If there is no understanding then apparently Satan is able to remove that truth from a person’s heart so that it can not take root in the future. Let’s look at how each of these soils responded to God’s truth and what happened.

The Seed on the Path

“I don’t understand how this relates to me.”

They hear the Word.
They do not understand how it relates to their life.
Satan takes away the truth so it will never take root.
There is no change in their lifestyle.

The Seed on Rocky Places

“It’s too hard to keep doing it.”

They hear the Word.
They understand it’s relevance to their life (implied).
Satan uses trouble or persecution to make it difficult to continue applying the truth.
The change in lifestyle is short-lived because they became discouraged by difficulties.

The Seed Among the Thorns

“I’m too busy to keep doing it.”

They hear the Word.
They understand it’s relevance to their life (implied).
Satan uses the deceitfulness of wealth, life’s worries and pleasures to crowd out time and desire (Lk 8:14).
The change in lifestyle is short-lived because they became distracted by competing influences.

The Seed on the Good Soil

“It’s too important not to keep doing it.”

They hear the Word.
They understand it.
Satan is unable to use a lack of understanding, the difficulties, or distractions of life to prevent on-going life application.
Their life is permanently changed and produces the fruit which God desires.

32524 Reading God’s Word

Reading God’s Word can make a big impact on your life.

What we are talking about here is not simply reading for the sake of reading. You want to read so that you might experience the “priceless privilege (the overwhelming preciousness, the surpassing worth, and supreme advantage) of knowing Christ Jesus My Lord, and of becoming more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him” (Philippians 3:8, Amplified).

The purpose for reading God’s Word is to change your life!

The Scriptures were not given to increase our knowledge, but to change our lives.
D. L. Moody

How To Get Started

With that in mind, it is important to remember that when you are reading the Bible, it’s best to read it slowly and thoughtfully. Highlight key verses. Reading is more than “just reading” … you need to think as well! “Reading” is not as intense as “studying”, but you are doing it with the intention of gaining something from it!

“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right. It is God’s way of preparing us in every way, fully equipping for every good thing God wants us to do” —2 Timothy 3:16-17, NLT

Make your reading enjoyable! Go on a “hunt” to find promises God has for you. This is especially easy if you are using an online resource like this App. You can simply type in a key word and off you go! Record the references so you can refer back to them later.

Many people find it helpful to keep a journal. You can record what you are reading and learning from the Bible as well as any other insights God gives you about your relationship with Him, how He is working in your life, and what He is doing in and through you. A journal can be a great reminder of God’s blessings and strength!

If this is your first adventure in reading the Bible, it can be easier to start in the New Testament, reading at least one of the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John). Many teachers recommend starting with John. The book of Acts tells about the actions of the early Christians. Acts is a “must read” for all Christians. After Acts, you’ll find the letters to the first Christian churches, which give instructions and guidance for daily living. And finally, in the book of Revelation, you will see how Christ is going to end all things in this world and begin ruling as “King of kings and Lord of lords.”

One way to read the Bible is to simply open it and read whatever is in front of you. You can definitely gain from this approach. But being a little more systematic will be more beneficial to you in the long run. If you can actually write down some of what you are reading and thinking, that can also be valuable.

Start your reading time with two sheets of paper. On one you write down the things God is teaching you as you read, and on the second you jot down the inevitable things that come to mind that you need to attend to. That will allow you to stay focused.

There is no pressure. Simply read until God shows you something, then stop and think.

Ask Yourself Questions

As you read, ask yourself questions, and answer them!

What does this mean?
What caused this situation?
Why did God include this?
Why is this important?
Is this really true?
What difference does knowing this make?
What action should I take?
What am I missing?
What can I claim for myself?
Am I really trusting God?

Use the R.E.C.A.P. Bible study method to ask key questions while reading a Bible passage:

R— Is there revelation about God that I should embrace?

E — Is there an example I should follow or avoid?

C— Is there a command I should obey?

A— Is there something I need to apply to my life?

P— Is there a promise I should claim?

Highlight Bible passages and code them with a R.E.C.A.P. letter for future review in Bible notes

Talk To God

Talk to the Lord about what you read and make some notes. When you start to read God’s Word on a regular basis, you will find yourself growing in your relationship with your Heavenly Father!

As you read, talk to God about everything you are thinking. Cultivate the sense of His presence and His love. Worship Him. Thank Him for what you are reading and learning and thinking and experiencing. Give Him your intense attention and concentration Praise Him.

Decide On A Daily Plan

Many people find it helpful to have a daily reading program helps them read steadily through the entire Bible in a systematic way. There are many plans available!

Instead of starting in Genesis and reading straight through all the other books, some people find it more interesting to read in different places each day. Read as much or as little as you wish each time. Remember, you are reading for understanding and with the intent of getting to know God better.

There is no pressure. Simply read until God shows you something, then stop and think. Talk to the Lord about it and make some notes. Each day jot down the chapters that you read and then you will know where to start the next time. Modify the plan to suit your needs.

You can use the daily reading plan in Today’s Inspiration. Every day it selects a chapter from the Old Testament, one from the Gospels, and one from the Epistles.

Whatever method you choose to use, get started! When you start to read God’s Word on a regular basis, you will find yourself growing in your relationship with your Heavenly Father!

32525 Hearing God’s Word

Hearing God’s Word is the simplest way to get God’s Word into your life … and it involves listening.

There are many ways you can hear God’s Word: At your Church, in a Bible Study, from a teacher in a Bible school, on Bible tapes and CDs and DVDs, by attending Christian Seminars, through a friend, listening to Christian radio, reading Christian books … non-fiction as well as fiction, and by searching online Bible based web pages. (See “Listen to the Audio Bible“)

It is important that when you are listening to anything that is not scripture, such as a Christian speaker, that you make sure that person is a reliable source of God’s truth. Acts 17:11 says, “And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul’s message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth” (NLT).

Whenever you hear God’s Word, attempt to learn what the Holy Spirit is trying to teach you personally writing down your thoughts when possible.

“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the Word of Christ” —Romans 10:17, NIV

As Christians, we are disciples of Christ who are committed to learning His truth and following His directions.

“As a follower of the Lord, I order you to stop living like stupid, godless people. Their minds are in the dark, and they are stubborn and ignorant and have missed out on the life that comes from God. They no longer have any feelings about what is right, but are to become Christlike in our character by renewing our mind with the truth of God’s Word” —Ephesians 4:17-18, CEV

Those are pretty bold words!

Romans 12:2 challenges us with a more positive approach with these words, “Do not conform any longer 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).

Listening is the easiest way to get God’s Word into your mind, but it isn’t a totally passive endeavor! As you listen to God’s Word, ask questions to apply God’s truth in your life. (See “Renewing Your Mind” and “The R.E.C.A.P. Bible Study Method”)