Singing Mountains and Clapping Trees

March 26, 2014 by Kathy Howard 1 Comment

I would not have wanted Isaiah’s job. For 60 years he went to work every day to warn God’s people of His coming judgment on their unrepentant sin. The job must have had great benefits, because he stuck with it until the end.

Even though Isaiah’s message and contained a lot of “gloom and doom,” life-giving portions of it promised God’s restoration and ultimate salvation. All this month, we’ve focused on chapter 55, one of those hope-filled sections of Isaiah’s prophecy.

Today, we’ll finish the chapter with verses 12 and 13. But let’s get a running start. Here is Isaiah 55:10-13 from the NLT:

¹⁰“The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry. ¹¹It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it.

¹²You will live in joy and peace. The mountains and hills will burst into song, and the trees of the field will clap their hands! ¹³Where once there were thorns, cypress trees will grow. Where nettles grew, myrtles will sprout up. These events will bring great honor to the Lord’s name; they will be an everlasting sign of his power and love.”

God’s Word will fulfill God’s purposes. I love that we can trust this promise!

I also love that God intends for His Word to bring His people joy and peace. When we receive and accept His Word in our lives it will fill us with His joy and peace. God’s Word will restore and refresh.

Where grief and sadness once grew, His abundant love will take root and a song will burst forth from our lips. Where sadness once ruled, God’s power will reign and our feet will begin to dance to the Father’s heart beat.

Is your life overgrown with thorns and briers? Immerse yourself in God’s Word today. The mountains will begin to sing and the trees will clap their hands!

Use Your Words

February 11, 2014 by Kathy Howard 4 Comments

Over the years, I’ve heard many believers say something like this:

“My life is my witness.”

And while it is true that our lives should testify to Christ and bring glory to God (Matthew 5:16, 1 Peter 2:12), this kind of statement is often used as an excuse to not open our mouths and speak words out loud about Jesus. People may indeed look at our lives and think we are great, kind, loving people. But if we don’t tell them Who makes the difference in our lives, it would just be sheer dumb luck for them to connect our good character with Jesus.

The New Testament is packed full of examples of believers “telling” the Good News of Jesus. The Gospel didn’t spread from Jerusalem to Judea to Samaria to Asia and to Rome because the first century believers led good lives. They “showed,” “went,” and “told!”

I love Peter’s encouragement to tell in 1 Peter 3:15:

Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.

Are you prepared to tell others? The rest of this post is filled with some practical helps and links to resources to help you be prepared to give the reason for your hope!

Prepare Your “Story”

Your personal testimony about Jesus’ work in your life is really your life “story.” And “story” is a lot less threatening word to many people than “testimony.” Can I share my story with you?

4 components of your Jesus story:

Background – What was your life like before you came to know Christ? You may not have a “dramatic” story and that’s okay!
Transition – What caused you to begin thinking about spiritual things? Even if you were raised in church, there still had to be point where you realized you were a sinner and needed a Savior.
First Step – What was your first step toward God? How did God bring you to salvation? (Be sure to include the primary components about why we need a Savior and how only Jesus is able to save.)
Now – They will be encouraged if you let them know that you are growing in your relationship with Jesus but you have not fully “arrived.” It’s important that people see that salvation is just the beginning and not the “end.” Share what God is doing in your life right now, what are you learning about God right now.

4 Tips for Helping Your Story Connect:

Use everyday language instead of “churchy” words.
Emphasize an active, dynamic relationship with a person instead of a plan.
Show how your faith is a growing, changing, and fulfilling relationship with a person instead of a one-time decision in the past.
Consider what you can use that will connect with the person you are sharing with. For example, do you both have young children? Maybe you’ve both recently lost a loved one.

Free Prayer Resource: The most important thing we can do to “prepare” is to pray. Pray for your heart, for God to give you not only opportunity to share, but also to break your heart for the lost. Pray for those in your life that don’t yet know Jesus. The “Sharing Jesus” Prayer Guide is a downloadable resource that lists Scriptures to pray for yourself and for those who need to know Jesus. Feel free to print it and share it!

When we take time to pray and prepare, we will be ready when God gives the opportunity. Are you ready? Let’s preach it, sister!

When was the last time you shared Jesus with your words? Do you find that hard?

Tweetables:

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It’s Time for Show, Go, & Tell

February 4, 2014 by Kathy Howard 2 Comments

Maybe my confession will shock you and maybe it won’t:

Telling others about Jesus does not come naturally or easy for me.

In contrast, my friend Kim turns every encounter into a conversation about Jesus with what seems like no effort at all. It simply oozes out of her pours. And another friend, Susan, purposefully and joyfully builds relationships with hurting people who need to know Jesus.

I could just forget about it and say I’m not “gifted” in evangelism and while true, that’s just an excuse. In reality, I haven’t had enough practice. That’s my fault.

God calls every believer to share Jesus with those who need Him. He wants us to show them what a life of faith looks like, go to places that need Jesus, and tell everyone about the eternal life found in Him.

Jesus’ last words to us before He ascended to heaven reminds us of this divine directive:

¹⁸Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. ¹⁹Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, ²⁰and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20, NIV

Our February theme at Do Not Depart is “Show, Go, and Tell.” We’ll talk about the biblical basis of living “missional” lives, tell about some of the ways we share Jesus with others, and give you some tips and resources to “show, go, and tell!”

Right now, I’m preparing for a short-term mission trip to Bangladesh. Honestly, I’m a bit nervous, but I know God called me to go. One of my biggest prayers over the last few months is that God would give me a heart for the girls and women we will be ministering to. I want my heart to break for them. I want it to be burdened for their physical and their spiritual need.

God loves them. Jesus died for them. But unless they hear, unless they come to know Jesus, they’ll remain lost, condemned (John 3:16-18). This is true for every soul in the world. In Bangladesh. In Africa. In America. Next door. So Jesus sends us. Will we go?

What would you like to hear or learn during this month that could help you foster a “missional” life?

So, What’s New?

January 14, 2014 by Kathy Howard 4 Comments

I got several “new” things for Christmas. Duck Commander pajama pants. A bag of flavored coffee. A Tupperware container. These nice gifts replaced things that were worn out or used up, but they weren’t really different than anything I’ve had before. These “new” items were merely unused, unworn, recently made.

But “new” can have a deeper meaning. Consider 2 Corinthians 5:17. Here it is in the New King James:

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

The Greek word translated as “new” in this verse doesn’t simply refer to something recently made. It also means a new kind, a change in substance, form, or quality. When we become “new” in Christ, we aren’t simply a new person. We are a different kind of person, with a different kind of nature.

It’s Not Just You that’s New!

I love what else pops out in the NKJV and the KJV. When we come to Christ, this “newness” doesn’t stop with us. It changes everything in our lives. “All things become new.”

Yes, because of my saving relationship with Jesus, I am new. I am spiritually reborn. I am a new creature with a new spiritual nature. Praise God! But because I am new in Christ that newness also transforms everything in my life.

Because I am a new creation, my relationships are “new.” Because I am new in Christ, my work is “new.” Because I am a new kind of person, my motivations, desires, and goals are different. I approach life with a “new” attitude. I interact with people in a “new” way. I meet life’s circumstances with a “new” outlook.

Therefore, nothing is the same. Everything is changed. Christ has made all things new.

Discard the Old, Embrace the New

Do you ever feel like you’re lost in a sea of sameness? That your life is common, boring, or dull? Do you ever wish you could do something different, be someone different?

If you have fallen into a tired slump of bland routine, remind yourself of this truth: God has made you into something radical. Believer, you are different, unusual, and unique.

Look at yourself and your life through Jesus’ “new” lenses. See the world with His eyes and embrace the “new” life in Him. Allow His newness to transform everything around you.

Have you forgotten that Jesus makes all things new? In what areas of your life do you need to be reminded of this truth?

Christmas Praise Cards

December 10, 2013 by Kathy Howard 3 Comments

One thing I love about Christmas is the music. We sing a lot of songs in December that we don’t hear at any other time of year. Some, like “Silent Night” and “Oh, Little Town of Bethlehem” point to Jesus. But many popular ones like “Jingle Bells” and “Deck the Halls” don’t mention Jesus at all.

Those secular songs are fun, but they completely ignore the reason for the season. We celebrate Christmas because God came to earth as a man in order to provide salvation for mankind. That is definitely something not only to celebrate, but to also praise God for – in song and in word.

Praise packs the biblical Christmas story. We see it again and again in Matthew and Luke. Sometimes the praise took the form of a song and sometimes a prayer. But all these examples show us that praise is the appropriate response to the birth of our Savior.

How often during the Christmas season do we take the time to purposefully praise God?

Today’s printable contains four praise prompts based on the songs and prayers of praise in the biblical Christmas story. Print it out and cut into four cards. You can stick these four praise reminders in your Bible, on your fridge, or anywhere you will see them. Use these cards to prompt your own praise to God for sending our Savior.

Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come and has redeemed his people! Luke 1:68

He Knows Your Name

October 31, 2013 by Kathy Howard 4 Comments

Have you ever felt alone? Vulnerable? Just one woman lost in a crowd of faces. Unknown and nameless.

The month of October we’ve explored six women in the Gospels that the writers left unnamed. Six women in need. Seven women who encountered Jesus and would never be the same.

Their stories give us hope. We’re reminded that no matter how small we feel Jesus sees us and knows us. No matter how great – or small – our need, Jesus cares and is able and willing to provide.

Maybe like the woman who had been crippled for 18 years you need freedom from some physical prison.
Maybe like the widow from Nain you are overwhelmed with grief and loss.
Maybe like the poor widow you’re down to your last penny.
Maybe like the Canaanite woman you have a desperately sick child.
Maybe like the woman caught in adultery you need forgiveness and restoration.
Maybe like the woman at the well you’re an outcast in need of redemption.
Maybe like the woman with the issue of blood you’re desperate, without hope.

Jesus showed unconditional love to all these women. He miraculously met their needs beyond their wildest expectations.

He is able to do the same in your life. Come to Him today. Reach out in faith.

He knows your name.

A Divine Appointment

October 24, 2013 by Kathy Howard 9 Comments

Please welcome our guest blogger Mary Boswell. Mary blogs regularly at The Calm of His Presence. Look for Mary’s bio at the end of the post.

Slowly, with her shoulders slumped from the weight of her reputation and the words of those who shunned her – the woman walked to the well. She was lonely, an outcast with no friends. The only ones who welcomed her company were men who wanted to use her then discard her.

But that day, as she sought relief from thirst, she met a man who didn’t care what kind of reputation she had – he was a man who wanted to meet her deepest need.

As the Samaritan woman walked up to the well Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?”

I wonder, does she think, “Is this man really talking to me?”

She responded, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” In those days Jews didn’t associate with Samaritans.

But Jesus persisted, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water. … Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”

How wonderful, she thought. “He will give me water and I won’t have to come to this well in the heat of the day trying to avoid the stares and whispers of others.”

But Jesus desired to meet her on a deeper level. He asked personal questions – letting her know that he knew of her multiple husbands and present adulterous relationship.

Squirming, she changed the subject as Jesus revealed the most painful parts of her life. Her hope was to distract him with other questions.

Through this conversation the woman revealed that she knew the Messiah was coming – not realizing that this man was Jesus. But, she soon learned that she was in a divine appointment with the Messiah.

Then Jesus declared, “I who speak to you am he.”

Just like Jesus wanted to know and fill the deepest needs of the Samaritan woman (John 4:1-26), He also wants to know and fill your deepest needs.

Are you like the Samaritan woman, lonely and an outcast? Do you struggle with feelings of insecurity and doubt? Do you seek acceptance and reassurance from the world? Have you made mistakes but have a hard time forgiving yourself?

Jesus desires to give you His source of living water. He knows your deepest needs. Through him you will never be alone. Through Him you will always be accepted. He will give you security and confidence in Him. And He will give you true forgiveness found only in the Cross.

So sweet friend will you come to the well? Your divine appointment with Jesus is waiting.

Mary Boswell is a wife, mom & daughter of her Heavenly Father. As a former Critical Care Nurse & mom to 2 lively, active children she knows what its like to be in a chaotic, unpredictable environment. God has carried her through several difficult, life changing trials but through each one she as leaned on the arms of God. You can find Mary at her blog The Calm of His Presence where she seeks to live in God’s calming presence.

A Mom on a Mission

October 17, 2013 by Kathy Howard 6 Comments

A great big welcome to today’s guest blogger, Lori Wildenberg, co-founder of Corinthians 13 Parenting. Look for her bio at the end of the post!

The Canaanite woman knew what she wanted. She knew only he could answer her prayer. She was determined to have her request granted. She was persistent.

She was a mom on a mission.

Her name isn’t given, but it doesn’t need to be because…she is every mother. She is you. She is me.

“Lord, son of David, have mercy on me!” She cried out.

She was in agony. Like any mama, she was physically experiencing her child’s misery. “My daughter is suffering terribly from demon-possession.” Or… “My child is suffering terribly from a broken relationship, an illness, an injury….”

She would not be discouraged or dissuaded, even though the disciples urged The Lord to send her away. At the very least, this Gentile woman was distracting, annoying. The men whined, “She keeps crying after us.” (That motley crew of twelve was not going to get in her way. Never mess with a determined mother.) She knew who and what she needed. This mom persisted in her humble and honest cries that come from a broken heart.

But Jesus…he was quiet.

Isn’t that the hardest part? We cry out, beg, chase after him on behalf of our children…and he is quiet.

But…Jesus was also near.

The woman knew she needed what only Jesus could provide. She was not about to leave his presence empty-handed.

Even when Jesus said, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel” she didn’t give up. Instead of tossing her arms in the air and stomping off, she came closer and knelt before him.

“Lord, help me!” She knew with him, nothing was impossible.

“It is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to their dogs.” He continued to test her faith.

“Yes, Lord, but even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.” She responded with tenacity and in spite of the circumstances…even a little spunk!

“Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.” The Lord healed her daughter that very hour.

Having faith when things are difficult is …well…difficult.

I’ve been there. I suspect I’ll be there again. When my children hurt, I hurt. Like the Canaanite mother, I pursue Jesus. I want to be near him when I petition on my kids’ behalf. And… like the Canaanite mom, I know he will hear me.

He works all things to the good for those who love him.

Like her, I will persistently seek Jesus for the sake of my kids. I may need to wait and trust his perfect timing. (I must say I do like the phrase, “That very hour.”) And when I do, I know my faith will deepen in the waiting and persevering space.

He will answer.

I am the Canaanite woman… a mom on a mission. (Matthew 15:21-29, Mark 7:24-30)

Have you ever been a “mom on a mission,” asking God to meet the needs of your child?

Lori Wildenberg, co-founder of Corinthians 13 Parenting, has more than twenty-five years’ experience working with children and parents. She’s an author, national speaker, a licensed Parent and Family Educator, and co-columnist for Parenting Prose found in MARRIAGE Magazine. Lori weaves warmth, transparency, and gentle humor into her realistic approach to raising kids today. Mostly, Lori is a mom of four and has been married to Tom for thirty-one years. The Wildenbergs (and their labradoodle) live in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

For more information go to www.loriwildenberg.com or www.1Corinthians13Parenting.com

Do You Ever Feel Like a Nameless Face in a Crowd?

October 15, 2013 by Kathy Howard 4 Comments

Do you ever feel insignificant? I imagine this woman did. She was just one poor, lonely widow in the crowd that day. She probably felt invisible among the happy families and important religious leaders and rich people in their fancy clothes.

The Bible doesn’t even tell us her name. The Gospel of Mark only takes five verses to tell us her story:

⁴¹Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. ⁴²But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. ⁴³Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. ⁴⁴They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.” Mark 12:41-44, NIV

Jesus didn’t take note of the many rich or powerful or well-dressed or important people who gave an offering that day. It wasn’t even a man He called to the attention of His disciples. Instead, He noticed the poor widow.

How many others do you think noticed her that day in the Temple court? Probably not very many. Instead, the crowds noticed the rich people who threw large amounts into the offering boxes. Their silver coins would have made a loud clanking noise as they hit the other coins in the box. Can you hear it?

The widow lovingly tossed two small copper coins into the box. It was nothing by the world’s standards, but it was everything she had. No one else heard the sound they made. No one else, but Jesus. To Jesus, it was the sound of faith. Out of all the worshipers that day in the temple, Jesus noticed her. He even called His disciples over so He could point her out to them. And He praised her for giving all she had.

Those two copper coins was everything the widow had to her name. This one act tells us so much about her. She treasured God more than she treasured her next meal. She had complete trust in God’s faithfulness to provide. And she was willing to place her very life in God’s hands.

Tiny by the world’s standards, her offering was huge to God. Her demonstration of faith was what mattered. Jesus saw her faith. Jesus felt her heart. And Jesus knew her name.

Do you sometimes feel insignificant? Do you ever wonder what you have to offer Jesus? Do you feel like your efforts for the Kingdom are meager?

Sister, be encouraged! You are significant to Jesus. He sees your heart. He knows your name. Whatever you have to give impacts His Kingdom. And all He wants from you is you!

On what occasions do you feel insignificant, lost in the crowd? How does this story remind you of God’s truth?

Nameless Women in the Gospels

October 3, 2013 by Kathy Howard 5 Comments

We’ve read their stories many times. Their pain and grief jump off the pages of God’s Word. Their desperate need and raw emotion still flow down through the centuries. But the Gospel writers left out one detail. We don’t know their names.

Everywhere Jesus went He met need with power and compassion. The Gospels tell countless stories of healing, deliverance, provision, and freedom.

Sometimes Jesus met the needs of a multitude, like when he multiplied the loaves and fishes to feed 5,000 plus hungry people. Sometimes Jesus met the need of a group. For instance, He provided wine for a wedding feast and calmed the dangerous storm on the Sea of Galilee to save the twelve.

But most often, Jesus met the need of the one. Up close, personal, intimate. Sometimes the name of the one is included in the story and sometimes it is not.

Throughout October here at Do Not Depart, we will be exploring the nameless women Jesus encountered. Unnamed by the Gospel writers, these women were valuable to Jesus. In compassion and power, He reached out and met their need.

And He knew their names.

Do you ever feel “unnamed?” Just one insignificant person lost in an endless stream of needy people? Jesus knows your name. He knows your need. His power and compassion are sufficient for you today.

Join us through this series. Allow Jesus’ encounters with the “nameless” ones of the Gospels to encourage your heart today.

Have you ever felt “nameless?” How can recognizing that Jesus knows your name and need encourage you today?

3 Tips for Understanding Proverbs

September 10, 2013 by Kathy Howard 3 Comments

Wisdom literature comes in a variety of forms, but the best know is probably the “proverb.” Proverbs are easy to remember and often fun to say. For instance, men love to quote Proverbs 21:9: “Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.” (Ladies, unfortunately this is sad, but true!)

However, believers today often misunderstand or misuse this ancient form of wisdom writing. In today’s post, we will briefly define a proverb and then consider 3 interpretive tips that will help us understand this practical advice for living.

What is a proverb?

A proverb is an observation of life stated in a memorable way. It is a “persuasive saying proven true by experience” (“Encountering the Old Testament” by Arnold and Beyer, page 314). Proverbs are not unique to the Bible. Many ancient cultures made us of this literary device.

However, for the ancient Israelite, the purpose of a proverb was to “apply the principles of Israel’s covenant faith to everyday attitudes, activities, and relationships” (“Old Testament Survey” by Lasor, Hubbard, and Bush, page 460). Biblical proverbs are also an observation of life, but they also acknowledge that true wisdom comes from God (Proverbs 1:7).

How can we understand the Proverbs?

Like the rest of Scripture, the Proverbs must be understood in light of their purpose, literary genre, context, and original meaning. Proverbs are a unique literary style and cannot be interpreted in the same way we do a historical book or an epistle.

Although the tips below are just a tip of the hermeneutical iceberg, they will get us off to a great start in understanding the Proverbs and applying their wisdom to our lives.

3 Tips to understanding Proverbs

1. Principles, Not Promises

A biblical proverb seeks to apply God’s wisdom to the situations of life. They are guidelines for living, general principles, not promises from God. While generally accurate, they do not take into account every possible scenario or individual circumstance. Therefore, they are not guarantees of a certain outcome, but rather point hearers to the best chance for success. One well-know example is Proverbs 22:6:

“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”

Many of us have known Christian parents who claimed this verse as a promise and then were disillusioned when a child turned away from God and never returned. This demonstrates how important it is to understand the nature of a proverb.

2. Pithy Poetry

A proverb is a saying that encapsulates a broad observation about life. Its primary goal is to state an important, simple truth about life in easy-to-remember terms. Consider Proverbs 27:6:

“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”

Brief and memorable, this proverb is about something much deeper than flesh wounds and kisses. True friends tell us the truth for our good, even when it hurts. “Enemies” simply tell us what we want to hear or butter us up to get something they want.

Let’s look beyond the surface and past the simple, catchy words of a proverb to find the deeper truth. Then let’s apply that godly wisdom to our lives.

3. Proper Perspective

These ancient proverbs are based on ancient standards. They usually speak of simple desires and basic needs. Yet, often we subconsciously impose our modern, Western mindset and values.

“Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord” (Proverbs 16:20).

Just imagine how the influence of our affluent culture can affect our understanding of “prospers” and “blessed.” The typical ancient Israelite considered himself blessed if he had shelter and enough food.

We could talk a lot more about proverbs. However, if we remember these 3 tips, we will be well on our way to wise living!

Did any of these 3 surprise you? In light of these 3 tips, have been misunderstanding a particular proverb?

21 Spiritual Things to Pray for Other Christians

August 13, 2013 by Kathy Howard 5 Comments

I can easily think of concrete, physical things to pray for the people in my life. Things like physical healing, a needed job, and help in school. But how often do we pray for spiritual things?

We Christians often spend far more time praying for issues that are fleeting and temporary and far less time praying about things that are eternal. Why is that?

I believe one of the biggest reasons is that we simply don’t know how to pray this way or what to pray for. At least that’s been my top reason. So, a couple of years ago I scoured Scripture looking for ways I could pray for others that would have eternal, lasting impact.

The list below is just a sampling from Scripture, but it’s a great start! I’ve also provided a pdf version (21 Spiritual Things to Pray for Other Christians )you can print and keep in your Bible or journal. I would also love to hear what spiritual things you pray for others.

Thank God for them – Romans 1:8, 1 Corinthians 1:4, Philippians 1:3
God’s mercy – 1 Timothy 1:2
Protection from evil people – Romans 15:31, 2 Thessalonians 3:2
Protection from Satan – John 17:5, 2 Thessalonians 3:3
Opportunity to witness – Colossians 4:3
Courage in witnessing – Ephesians 6:19-20
Right words and clarity in witnessing – Ephesians 6:19; Colossians 4:4
Spiritual strength/growth – 2 Corinthians 13:7-9, Colossians 1:11, 2 Thessalonians 2:17
Increased love & unity – John 17:21, Philippians 1:9, 1 Thessalonians 3:12
Better understanding of God’s love – Ephesians 3:17-19, 2 Thessalonians 3:5
Joy, peace, comfort, and encouragement – Colossians 1:11, 2 Thessalonians 1:2; 2:16-17
To know God better – Colossians 1:10, Ephesians 1:17
Increased spiritual wisdom & discernment – Ephesians 1:17, Philippians 1:9-10, Colossians 1:9
Knowledge and understanding of God’s will for their life – Colossians 1:9
To be holy, pure, and blameless – John 17:17, Philippians 1:10, 1 Thessalonians 5:23
To live a life that pleases God and honors Him – Colossians 1:10
To obediently follow God’s will – Colossians 4:12
To grow in righteousness and Christ-like character – Philippians 1:11
Live a life of good works that produces spiritual fruit – Colossians 1:10
Full understanding of their eternal inheritance – Ephesians 1:18
Stand firm in God’s truth – Ephesians 4:15

Let’s share! What Scriptures or spiritual prayers do you lift up for others?

Beautiful, Bountiful Harvest – “Fruit of the Spirit” Lesson 5

July 30, 2013 by Kathy Howard Leave a Comment

This is the 5th – and last – lesson in a month-long series on “The Fruit of the Spirit.” You can also download today’s lesson as a PDF. You can access previous lessons here: First, Second, Third, and Fourth.

When we began this study, I mentioned my lemon tree. How it budded and bloomed. How the little lemons began to grow. Six weeks later the lemons aren’t ready to harvest. The fruit is still growing; the lemons still green. Fruit production takes time. But I will drink lemonade!

Like physical fruit needs time to grow, the fruit of the Spirit will not ripen in our lives overnight. We must work consistently to crucify the old nature. We must continually refuse to give in to our fleshly desires and yield our will to the Spirit’s. We can say “no” to our sinful nature, accept the “way out” God provides, and follow the Holy Spirit’s leading.

As we grow, the characteristics of Christ – fruit of the Spirit – will be manifested in our lives. As the Spirit transforms us more and more into the image of Christ, we will produce a beautiful, bountiful fruit harvest!

Plant: Knowing the Fruit

In Week Two, we discussed the meaning of “fruit.” The Greek word “karpos” refers to the natural product of the Holy Spirit, who lives inside every believer. The word is singular, signifying that “fruit” is a unified whole. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary suggests we think of the fruit as a “bunch of grapes instead of separate pieces of fruit.” As we grow in Christ-likeness we will produce all the characteristics of His nature.

Read Galatians 5:22-23. List the 9 characteristics of the Spirit’s fruit.

Let’s consider the meaning of each characteristic. Place the letter of a definition in the blank before the correct characteristic. (To double-check, the answer key is at the end of the lesson!)

___1. Love a. Enduring circumstances & other people, even when tried

___2. Joy

b. Generosity springing from kindness; can include “sterner” good acts

___3. Peace c. Attitude expressing itself in loving ways & seeks others’ welfare

___4. Patience d. Trustworthiness; describes someone willing to die for Christ

___5. Kindness e. Strength to control sinful desires, to say “no” to the flesh

___ 6. Goodness

f. “Happiness” that doesn’t depend on physical circumstances

___ 7. Faithfulness g. Acting in a good and gentle way toward another

___8. Gentleness/Meekness

h. Tranquility; harmony with people & God; rest, contentment

___9. Self-Control i. Linked to humility; not weakness; opposite of self-interest

Cultivate: Find out More

Let’s take a quick look at an example of each characteristic in action. Read the following Scripture passages. Make observations on the operation of these characteristics.

Galatians 5:13-14 (love):

John 16:22 (joy):

Romans 5:1 (peace):

2 Timothy 4:2 (patience):

Titus 3:4 (kindness):

Romans 15:14 (goodness):

2 Thessalonians 1:4 (faithfulness/faith):

2 Timothy 2:24-25 (gentleness/gentle):

2 Peter 1:5-6 (self-control):

Grow: Ready for a Harvest

We’ve talked facts and definitions. Now, let’s get personal. It’s time to do a fruit check. This is between each of us and God. Spend some quiet time with Him now and reflect on each characteristic of the fruit of the Spirit.

Ask God to show you the quality of the Spirit’s fruit in your life. Think about some recent circumstances. In the space below, jot down times you feel the Spirit’s character was manifested and times you allowed your natural, sinful character to take over.

Although we will battle our fleshly nature for the rest of our lives, we become more sensitive to the Spirit’s leading as we mature and learn to recognize His voice. As we end our study together, I pray God will encourage, strengthen, and grow you in the days ahead!

Let’s talk: What did you learn in this study that has encouraged or challenged you the most?

Fruit of the Spirit definition answer key. 1c, 2f, 3h, 4a, 5g, 6b, 7d, 8i, 9e

The Walking Dead – “Fruit of the Spirit” Lesson 4

July 23, 2013 by Kathy Howard Leave a Comment

This is the fourth lesson in a month-long series on “The Fruit of the Spirit. Download the PDF version of today’s lesson. See previous lessons: first, second, third.

I know what you’re thinking. Images of horror movies and the undead have probably crept into your mind. Just for fun, I Googled “The Walking Dead,” the title of today’s lesson. Did you know there’s a TV series with the same name? This drama on AMC tells the story of a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a zombie epidemic.

Thankfully, our fourth lesson in the “Fruit of the Spirit” has nothing to do with zombies. But we do need to talk about death – our own, in fact.

Here’s the truth of it: We cannot produce the fruit of the Spirit. We cannot – with any consistency – live a life characterized by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, or self-control.

Plant: We Can’t Do it!

You may be able to muster up a loving act now and again. I might work up enough will-power to control my fleshly desires in one instance today. But our lives will never abundantly exhibit the characteristics of Christ by our own strength and works. In today’s lesson we will explore how a life full of the Spirit’s fruit is possible.

Read Galatians 5:22-25. Are we told to produce the Fruit of the Spirit? (Circle one) Yes No

In lesson two, “What is Fruit?” we learned that “fruit” is the natural by-product of the Holy Spirit. Only the Spirit can produce these characteristics in our lives. As we allow Him to take control, His life will be manifested in ours.

Identify two things in the passage we should be doing.

Cultivate: Die to Self

Paul used the “active” voice in verse 24 when he wrote “have crucified the sinful nature.” This signifies an act that a believer has done and must continue to do to herself.

What do you think “crucifying our sinful nature” looks like in everyday life?

Remember, this is something we can do. We can choose to turn away from our sinful desires. Because of the presence of the Holy Spirit, we have the power to resist temptation and choose the way out God provides (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Before we take a closer look at the second thing we should be doing, read Romans 8:11-14. According to this passage, what “obligation” do we have as believers? Check all that apply.

___ To follow our sinful nature and submit to its desires

___ To turn away from the deeds of our sinful nature

___ To submit to the leading of the Holy Spirit

According to Romans 8:11, why do we have this obligation?

Grow: Follow the Holy Spirit

Paul reinforces this reasoning in Galatians 5:25. Since the Holy Spirit has given new life to our sin-dead souls, we are obligated to follow His lead. This is the second thing we should be doing. Depending on your translation, you may read “keep in step with,” “follow the Spirit’s leading,” or “let us walk by.” Here’s how Strong’s Greek and Hebrew Dictionary defines the Greek word stoicheo, that is translated in these various ways:

To proceed in a row as the march of a soldier, go in order; metaph. to go on prosperously, to turn out well
To walk; to direct one’s life, to live

Considering the definition of “walk,” what does it mean to “walk by” or “keep in step with” the Spirit?

Read Galatians 2:20 below from the New Living Translation:

My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

How does this verse help us understand what it means to “walk by the Spirit.”

On my own, I would produce nothing but sinful works. Even my “good fruit” would be rotten. My flesh is too weak and sinful and to produce the characteristics of Christ. Kathy must “die.” I have to get out of the way and let the Holy Spirit live Christ’s life through me. It’s the appropriate response to the One who saved my life. And my eternal hope.

Let’s talk: What is the hardest thing for you about following the Spirit? What helps you submit to His leadership?

Throw Out the Bad Fruit – Fruit of the Spirit, Lesson 3

July 16, 2013 by Kathy Howard 2 Comments

This is the 3rd lesson in a study on “The Fruit of the Spirit.” Access the first and second lessons. Download today’s lesson in a PDF.

If you’ve had any experience with a GPS or use a navigation system for driving directions then you are familiar with the following phrases:

Recalculating
Make a legal u-turn as soon as possible

My anxiety level rises dramatically when I hear that little computerized voice. In layman’s terms, “recalculating” means “You aren’t following my directions!” And the command to make a u-turn means, “You’re going the wrong way! Turn around immediately and go the other way!”

Plant: What does fleshly fruit look like?

Like these GPS warnings to drivers, certain things should raise a red flag in our faith if they are present in our lives. In Galatians, Paul refers to these signs as “acts of the sinful nature.” These attitudes and behaviors are contrary to the Spirit and what He wants to produce in our lives.

Read Galatians 5:19-21 from the New Living Translation below.

¹⁹When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, ²⁰idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, ²¹envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God. Galatians 5:19-21, NLT

Cultivate: Is our life growing any fruit of the flesh?

Circle any fruit of the sinful nature in the passage above that sometimes pop up in your life.

This list in Galatians is not exhaustive. Paul merely gave the believers in Galatia a sample of the fruit of the flesh. And everyone will struggle with different things. Let’s read two more passages from Paul’s letters to broaden our understanding of “the acts of the sinful nature.”

Read the following passages (maybe in more than one translation) and list any attitudes or behaviors that your sinful nature tends to produce.

Ephesians 4:22-32 and 5:1-7:

Colossians 3:5-10:

The presence of these attitudes and behaviors reveal that sometimes we allow our sinful nature to win a spiritual battle. If you’re like most Christians – including me – your life does produce some fleshly fruit from time to time. We still occasionally choose our own way over God’s and reject the “way out” He promises to provide when we’re tempted (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Grow: What can we do to get rid of the bad fruit?

Believer, whether our lives have produced a handful of fleshly fruit or an abundant crop, God’s desire for us is less “acts of the sinful nature” and more “fruit of the Spirit.” In the remainder of this lesson we are going to prepare our lives for the Spirit’s harvest by weeding out the bad fruit and tilling our heart for the Spirit’s work.

Read James 4:1-10.

Jesus’ brother James wrote to Christians caught in a cycle of sin. They had proudly rejected the leadership of the Spirit and chosen their own way. Distance from God, difficult relationships with God’s people, and a harvest of fleshly fruit were the result. But James commanded a remedy. I can hear him saying, “Make a legal u-turn as soon as possible!”

List phrases and words (vs 1-4) that describe their relationship with God and other believers.

Look back through verses 6-10 and list all the verbs you can spot that describe the actions a Christian should take when we’ve chosen our own way over God’s (I spotted 10).

These actions characterize true repentance. Sometimes Christians merely give lip service to repentance. But until we humble ourselves before God, grieve over our sin, and turn away from it we have not experienced real repentance. We must make a u-turn!

Read 1 John 1:9. How does God promise to respond to our repentance?

Today’s lesson has been very personal – and maybe even painful. We all have bad fruit in our lives. But, praise God, He does indeed allow u-turns! Take some time this week to sit quietly with God and work through getting rid of the fleshly fruit.

Let’s talk more about the process of repentance. Was there anything in James 4:6-10 about repentance that surprised you? Maybe an attitude God calls us to adopt or an action you previously have not considered part of repentance.

What is “Fruit?” – Fruit of the Spirit, Lesson 2

July 9, 2013 by Kathy Howard 1 Comment

This is the second lesson in our Summer Study, “The Fruit of the Spirit: Plant, Culivate, & Grow.” You can see the introductory/first lesson here. You can also download today’s lesson as a PDF to print!

When my kids were little they loved watching Veggie Tales. Their favorite Veggie Tale characters were Bob and Larry – a tomato and cucumber, respectively. If you are also a Veggie Tales fan, you might want to sit down because I am about to shake things up. Larry and Bob aren’t vegetables! To be botanically correct, tomatoes and cucumbers are fruits!It doesn’t matter if we consider a tomato to be a fruit or a vegetable. But we do need a good understanding of the “fruit of the Spirit.” Over the next few weeks we will plant God’s truth about spiritual fruit in our hearts, cultivate our lives to receive it, and take action to help it grow! Today we’ll take a closer look at what the “fruit of the Spirit” is and consider our spiritual battle.

Read our focal passage, Galatians 5:16-26.

The word “fruit” used in Galatians 5:22 is the Greek word “karpos.” According to Mounces Complete Expository Dictionary, “karpos” refers to the natural product of something that is alive. Literally, it’s used of the product of trees, vines, and crops. But it’s also used metaphorically to refer to the natural product of a spiritual being. Paul uses it to contrast what our sinful natures naturally produce with what the Holy Spirit naturally produces.

Plant: Prerequisite to Growing Spiritual Fruit

The obvious prerequisite to producing the “fruit of the Spirit” is the presence of the Spirit. Let’s see what the Bible says about the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit and His work in us.

Read Ephesians 1:13-14. Check all the statements that apply.

___ We receive the Holy Spirit through faith in Christ.
___ The Holy Spirit “marks” us as belonging to God.
___ The Spirit is our “guarantee” that we will receive all God’s promises.

When we place our faith in Jesus as Savior and Lord, God guarantees our salvation by placing His Spirit within us. Every Christian is indwelled by the Holy Spirit (See Romans 8:9-11).

Cultivate: Two Key Facts about the Fruit of the Spirit

Let’s get a better understanding of the Fruit of the Spirit by exploring two key facts.

Fact #1: “Fruit” is the natural by-product of the Spirit in a Christian’s life.

Read 2 Cor 3:17-18. According to verse 18, what is the work of the Spirit in a believer’s life?

From the moment of salvation until the end of our lives on this earth, the Spirit of God works in believers to transform our nature and character into that of Christ’s. Therefore, the Holy Spirit is constantly working to rid our lives of the “acts of the sinful nature” (Gal 5:19) and conform us into the image of Christ. “Fruit of the Spirit” is evidence that our character is becoming like Christ’s.

Fact #2: “Fruit of the Spirit” is not the same as “spiritual gifts.”

Although the Spirit is the source of both His “gifts” and “fruit”, they are not the same. There are a multitude of various gifts but an individual only receives what the Holy Spirit determines to give (1 Cor 12:4-11). However the “fruit” of the Spirit should be common to all Christians. The word “karpos” is singular signifying that “fruit” is a unified whole. As we grow in Christ- likeness we will produce all the characteristics of His nature.

Grow: Prepare for Battle

If we want our lives to be filled with the fruit of the Spirit, we must realize there’s a spiritual battle going on inside every Christian. Our sinful human nature wants to satisfy our selfish desires. The indwelling Holy Spirit calls us to follow Him. Who will win?

Read Galatians 5:16-18. Describe this spiritual battle in your own words.

Read Eph 1:18-21. List words and phrases that describe the power of the Holy Spirit within you?

Read the following verses and record God’s promises to you.

2 Peter 1:3-4 –

1 Corinthians 10:13 –

We have a weapon of unlimited power on our side. Our fleshly nature does not have to win. Satan can appeal to our sinful desires, but his power over us is limited. We have a greater power at work in us. We have the power to resist our fleshly desires through the presence of the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Look back at Galatians 5:16-19. We have a choice to make. What is it?

We can choose to refuse our sinful nature. The powerful presence of the Holy Spirit supplies us with the power to be obedient to God. We can choose God’s “way out.”

Let’s talk: Think about the last time you faced a spiritual battle. What was it? Did you allow your flesh to win or did you walk in the power of the Holy Spirit? If you gave in to sin, can you identify the “way out” God offered?

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