I have a nephew that’s book became the Netflix movie: Leave No Trace. I find that the dialogue in his books so realistic, so I asked Peter: “What’s your secret to writing such good dialogue?”
“I find people don’t really listen to each other but are just waiting to say that they want to say — and I try to capture that.”
So sad but true!
How we need Christ to help us really listen, to forget about ourselves and see and hear others with compassion.
A short but powerful book by Keller is:
It’s also his second most popular sermon out of 1200. Perhaps the most famous quote from it is:
This Christ-like quality empowers listening, empathy, and truly giving His love to others, as exemplified by my friend Linda Strom.
I’ll put the transcript in the study in parts, but click here to download Keller’s sermon to download:
https://gospelinlife.com/sermon/blessed-self-forgetfulness/
Sunday:
1. How did you experience the goodness or compassion of the Lord this week?
Monday: The Text 1 Corin. 3:21-4:7
Prepare your heart by singing this verse from Be Thou My Vision to your soul.
Thou mine inheritance, now and always;
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart;
O King of glory, my treasure Thou art.
2. According to 1 Corinthians 3:21-21-23, what were the Corinthian Christians boasting about that caused division?
3. What parallels are there in the Church today?
4. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:1-2.
A. How are we to regard ourselves? What does this mean?
B. Picture how your day today might go if you keep at the forefront of your mind to serve and glorify Christ? Be specific.
C. What is required of us according to verse 2? What does this look like? Be specific.
5. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:3-5
A. What does Paul say about himself in verse 3?
B. I know I do care what others think, for I struggle with the idol of human approval. I need to sing that verse from Be Thou My Vision to my soul, and live it out. Why might the truths in that song be helpful?
C. Why does Paul say that even if our conscience is clear, we may not be innocent?
D. What sobering thought does he have in verse 5?
6. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:6-7 and summarize Paul’s main point. What would this mean in your life?
Tuesday: Mechanical or Supernatural Change
Listen through the end of this transcript. I encourage that because Keller is so anointed when he speaks.
7. Share one thing that stood out to you after listening.
Now, continue to answer with the help of the transcript:
We are conducting a series in which we examine the signs of a supernaturally transformed heart. That means we’re not looking so much at morally virtuous behavior. You can do all kinds of morally virtuous things out of a heart filled with fear, pride, and desire for power or out of a heart that has been actually changed at the root by the grace of God. What we’re doing is we’re looking at the traits of a heart that has really been radically changed by the grace of God.
8, What difference is there between a supernaturally changed heart and a mechanically changed heart?
This particular letter, this passage that was just read to you, is obviously a letter from Paul to the Corinthians. The Corinthian church was filled with division. The reason for all the references to Paul and Apollos and Cephas was that this church had originally been planted by Paul, but later on, other ministers came through, other speakers, other evangelists, and there were different people who had connections to these different prominent ministers. One person was mentored and discipled by Paul. Another one was mentored and appointed into leadership by Apollos, another great teacher, and so forth. Instead of everybody just being very happy they had this relationship with Paul or Apollos, these relationships are now the basis for a power play. Parties have arisen. Divisions are tearing the church up. People are saying, “I should be the leader because Paul, the Saint Paul, is the one who discipled me.” Others said, “So what? I have a relationship …” and so on. Paul, in this passage, shows the root cause for why we cannot get along, the root cause for why there’s no peace in the world, why we can’t live at peace with each other, is pride and boasting. Verse 21 starts off, “… no more boasting …” The last verse in chapter 4, in verse 7, is says, “Let’s stop the boasting, and especially let’s not have pride of one man over another.” Do you see verse 6? We’re at the trait of humility.
9. What is the root cause for why we cannot get along?
We’re here to talk about humility. That means we get into a very, very culturally interesting subject, which is self-esteem. I’ll tell you how interesting it is. Up until the twentieth century, the traditional cultures have always believed too high a view of yourself is the real root cause for most of the evil in the world. This is still true in most cultures of the world. Most of the crime, the violence, the warlikeness … Why do people abuse? Why are people cruel? Why do people do the bad things they do? Traditionally, the answer was hubris. That’s Aristotle’s term. Of course, it’s Greek. Pride, too high a view of ourselves, is the reason why we misbehave. In the modern Western culture, particularly in the United States, we have an utterly opposite cultural consensus. The basis of our education, of the way in which we treat incarcerated prisoners, the basis of a lot of our legislation, certainly the basis of our counseling in our culture is exactly the opposite of the consensus of all the other societies that have ever lived. Our belief today is people misbehave for lack of self-esteem, because they have too low a view of themselves. It’s deeply rooted in everything. It’s a cultural consensus. The reason husbands beat their wives, the reason why people are criminals is they have too low a view of themselves. Traditional cultures said the problem is you have too high a view, pride, and too much self-esteem. Of course, now we say it’s too little self-esteem. Probably the simplistic approaches are going to be jumbled up pretty badly in the next few decades, but did any of you notice on February 3, New York Times Magazine had an article, called “The Trouble With Self-Esteem,” by Lauren Slater, a psychologist. It was not a groundbreaking article. It wasn’t some new bolt out of the blue. All she was doing was beginning to report what the experts have known for years. What’s significant about the article is there’s enough accumulated evidence now that it’s starting to come down into popular consciousness but has a long way to go. What she says is there’s no evidence for the last 15 to 20 years that low self-esteem is a big problem in society. She says in the article, for example, “Last year alone there were three withering studies of self-esteem released in the United States, all of which had the same central message: people with high self-esteem pose a greater threat to those around them than people with low self-esteem and feeling bad about yourself is not the cause of our country’s biggest … problems.” It would be fun to go and explain why that works and how that works and so on, but suffice it to say, she’s right when she says it will be years and years for modern Americans especially to accept this. It is so deeply rooted in us that lack of self-esteem is the reason why there’s drug addiction. That’s the reason why there’s abuse and why there’s crime and why there’s wife beating and so forth. She says it’s going to take forever, and here’s the reason why. What’s so wonderful about the low self-esteem theory of misbehavior is you have to make no moral judgments in order to deal with these problems. All you have to do is support people and just build them up. In traditional cultures the way you dealt with these problems was you clamped down on people and you convicted people and you called them bad. We don’t want to go back to that, do we? What’s intriguing about this passage is it gives us an approach to self-regard, an approach to the self, a way of seeing yourself, that is absolutely, utterly different than traditional cultures or modern, postmodern contemporary culture.
10. What does the world see as our problem? Do you see this? Can you give an illustration?
The three things we learn here are Paul shows us the natural condition of the human ego, then the supernatural condition that can be brought about through the gospel, the transformed sense of self and identity Paul had discovered, and, lastly, how to get it. Are you ready?
Wednesday: Our Natural Condition: Over-Inflated!
The natural condition of the human ego The first thing we learn is the natural state of the human self. He uses a word in verse 6 that you say, “Okay, sure I know about that.” He says, “Let’s have no more pride,” but you have to understand Paul is using a word pride here that’s unusual. What’s really significant about it is it’s not the hubris word. It’s not the normal word for pride, but it’s a word Paul uses in this particular book six times. It’s used by no one else in the Bible. It’s even used only by Paul one other place in Colossians. It’s used six times. It shows up every couple of chapters, and many commentators now realize it’s a special theme of Paul. He is trying to help these Corinthians by teaching them something about the human ego by using this particular word. This word for pride is a word that literally means to be overinflated, swollen, distended beyond its proper size. It’s a word that actually is related to the word for bellows. It’s very evocative and kind of painful. It evokes the image of some organ of the human body that is distended because so much air has been pumped into it that it’s ready to burst. It’s overinflated, it’s distended, it’s swollen, and it’s inflamed because it has been extended past its proper size. That, he says, is the condition of the natural human ego. I think because it’s so evocative and such an interesting metaphor, we’re supposed to reflect on what does the metaphor mean? What is he trying to say? Here are some things we learn. I’ll put it this way. The natural condition of the human ego is to be empty, obviously, painful, busy, and fragile.
11. How does Keller describe the word Paul keeps using that is a special theme of his?
12. I looked for this Greek word, which I think is a preposition “para” which does occur six times in 1 Corinthians and once in Colossians, but I also found it in Romans, where it seemed the clearest. What is the context in the following and how can you see the warning about being “over-inflated?”
A. 1 Corin. 1:11-12
B. Romans 12:3
C. Romans 12:16
13. What are the dangers of being over-inflated? Can you give an example from your life?
14. What does Proverbs 27:2 say? Have you been guilty of this? If so, why, do you think?
Thursday: Empty and Painful
Empty: The image, first of all, gives us, obviously, at the center of the human ego, no matter how big it is, is an emptiness. Soren Kierkegaard, in his book The Sickness Unto Death, says it is the normal state of the human heart to try to build its identity around something besides God. Spiritual pride is the illusion that you are competent to run your own life, achieve your own sense of self-worth, and find a purpose big enough to give you meaning in life without God. What Soren Kierkegaard says is the natural, in other words, the normal human ego is built on something besides God, something that will give you worth, something that will give you a sense of “specialness,” something that will give you a sense of purpose. Of course, as this is a very well-known metaphor in the history of Christian communication, if you try to put anything in the middle of a place that was originally made for God, it’s going to be too small, and it’s going to rattle around in there.
15. What does Keller say people do to try to overcome the emptiness of a life apart from God? What will happen as a result of this?
Painful. Because the human ego in the beginning is empty, it’s painful. The idea of being distended, the idea of being overinflated means it’s painful. What do I mean by that? Have you ever noticed that you don’t notice your body unless there’s something wrong with it? For example, I didn’t come to church today saying, “My toes just feel great tonight, and my elbow just works like a charm.” You only would talk like that or think like that if something had been wrong with it, because parts of your body do not call attention to themselves unless there’s something wrong with them. The ego has something incredibly wrong with it. Your self, your identity, has something unbelievably wrong with it, because it’s always drawing attention to itself every single day, how you look, how you are treated. People are always saying, “My feelings were hurt.” How can feelings be hurt? What do feelings taste like? It’s your ego that’s hurt. Your feelings are fine. You’re having bad, bad, bad feelings about your ego. Do you see? Just walking around doesn’t hurt my toes unless there’s already something wrong with them. Yet you can’t get through the day without feeling snubbed or feeling ignored or feeling stupid or getting down on yourself. There’s something wrong with your identity. There’s something wrong with your ego. There’s something wrong with your sense of self, because it’s never happy. It’s always drawing attention to itself. First of all, it’s empty, but it’s like a bloated stomach that hurts like crazy because it’s distended in its emptiness so it’s painful.
16. What is Keller’s pain point here?
17. Was there a time you built your life around something other than God? How did that work out for you?
18. As a believer, do you ever still make an identity other than being a child of God too important? What is the danger?
Friday: Busy and Fragile
Because it’s empty and painful, the ego is incredibly busy, and this explains what we mean when we say it’s always drawing attention to itself. It’s incredibly busy trying to fill the emptiness. It’s incredibly busy doing two things in particular. Those two things are comparing and boasting. Do you see them in here? First of all, notice he doesn’t say in verse 6, “Then you will not take pride.” He says, “Then you will not take pride in one man over against another.” That’s the very, very essence of what it means to have a normal human ego. The normal human ego is not only empty, but the way it tries to fill its emptiness and tries to deal with its incredible discomfort, which it does have, is by comparing yourself to other people all the time. C.S. Lewis points out in his famous chapter on pride in Mere Christianity that pride is by nature competitive. The very, very essence of pride is you’re competitive. Here’s the way he puts it. He says something like, “Pride is something that’s essentially competitive. Pride gets no pleasure out of having something, only having more of it than the next person. You may think you’re proud of being successful or intelligent or good-looking, but you really aren’t. You’re only proud of being more successful, more intelligent, and more good-looking than other people. When you are in the presence of people who are much more successful, intelligent, and good-looking than you, you lose all pleasure in what you had because you really had no pleasure in it. You were proud of it. Pride is the pleasure of having more than the next person. Pride is the pleasure of being more than the next person. Lust may drive a man to sleep with a beautiful woman, but at least lust makes him want her. Pride drives a man to sleep with a beautiful woman just to prove he can do it and to prove he can do it over the others. Pride destroys the ability to have any real pleasure from her.” Maybe this happened to you. When I was a junior in high school, my mother kept coming to me and saying, “Honey, go out for the chess club.” I said, “Mom, I hate chess.” “Yeah, I know,” she says, “but it would look so good on your college application. Why don’t you volunteer to do some of that …? Don’t they feed the homeless and the hungry downtown every Saturday morning?” “Yeah, Mom, I don’t want to go there. I hate that.” She says, “I know, but it would look so good on your college application.” So my junior year in high school, I just did all kinds of stuff I had absolutely no interest in doing for themselves, but I was putting together a résumé. That is what your ego is doing all the time. You’re in jobs you take no pleasure in. You’re doing diets you take no pleasure in. You’re doing all kinds of things you are not doing for themselves. You are by comparing yourself to other people are boasting. The word boasting here means to recommend yourself. It means you are creating a self-esteem résumé desperately to fill the sense of inadequacy and emptiness. You’re so busy all the time.
19. What did C. S. Lewis say about pride? How could you see this in the opening of 1 Corinthians?
20. Are you too busy? If so, why do you think?
Fragile. Anything that is overinflated is imminently about to be deflated. To be overinflated means you’re constantly in danger of being deflated, and you are. People who seem to have no pride because they hate themselves and they tell you they hate themselves and they tell themselves they hate themselves are deflated. To be deflated means you were inflated. If you’re puffed up and not filled up, if you are puffed up by air and not filled up by something solid, then to be inflated and to be deflated is all the same thing. To have a superiority complex or an inferiority complex is just the same thing. They’re both results of being overinflated, distended, empty, painful, busy, and of course, therefore, fragile.I’ll just read you a perfect example of this. I’m not trying to lift her up as being worse than other people at all. As a matter of fact, she actually shows a tremendous amount of awareness, and I have a lot of admiration for her. If you want a perfect example of exactly what we’re talking about, this is something I lifted years ago out of a Vogue magazine interview with Madonna, in which she was talking about her career. Here’s what she says. She says, “My drive in life comes from the fear of being mediocre. That’s always pushing me. I push past one spell of it and discover myself as a special human being, but then I feel I’m still mediocre and uninteresting unless I do something else, because even though I’ve become somebody, I still have to prove I’m somebody. My struggle has never ended, and I guess it never will.” I’ll tell you one thing. She knows herself better than most of us know ourselves, because what she’s saying is, “Every time I accomplish something, I say, ‘Now I have the verdict that I’m somebody,’ and the next day I realize, unless I keep going, I’m not. My ego cannot be satisfied. My desire for self-worth and to be sure I’m somebody needs a verdict, and it’s not coming. I keep thinking I’ve won it from what people have said and from what the magazines have said, and the next day I have to go somewhere else.” Why? “Because my ego is insatiable. It’s a black hole. It doesn’t matter how much I throw into it. The cupboard is bare. I put all kinds of stuff in it every morning, and the next night it’s bare.” She said, “I’ve become somebody, and I still realize I still have to become somebody.” You say, “How neurotic!” No, she knows herself. She’s ahead of most of us. That’s the normal ego state. That’s the normal state of the human self, but Paul comes around and in the middle of this passage, for their sake, all these people who are fighting over him and saying, “I know Paul,” and they’re just showing all this pride … They can’t enjoy the fact they know Paul. They have to use the fact they know Paul for one-upmanship on the other people in the church.
21. What was his point about Madonna’s self-reflection?
22. How fragile are you? How do you overcome this?
Saturday:
23. What is your take-a-way and why? How will you apply it?
113 comments
Sunday:
1. How did you experience the goodness or compassion of the Lord this week?
I am at our daughter Ruth’s house since last night. She performed with a KC choir raising some funds for breast cancer. Glad to be with her for a little bit of time.
Dee, again, the title of this lesson for the week is timely. Much needed as I reflect on what I have been learning about life and His personal touch in my life. Self-forgetfulness-oh-a gut punch reminder. Satan wants to condemn but the Spirit convicts with much grace and assurance of my salvation. Even when I forget to self forget, He does not leave me there and sends a warm invitation to pivot and correct.
i am writing to test my soul. By the end of the week, after I listen to Keller, I will come back here and see how the Lord will help me see where self forgetfulness would give me a different perspective.
I have often wondered about visibility in terms of ministry in the public eye. God has led me the last couple months to reach out to the elementary principal to volunteer at the school. I wanted to see our church kids midweek during lunch to say hi. Now, it has opened my eyes to many needs among our kids as well as the staff. I have been presented with a couple specific needs and have been praying about it-boils down to special Ed students and music.
my struggle is I really want to just lead a quiet life. But this opportunity is very exciting and I would love to do it. I just don’t like the visibility. But then, being light and salt have been the messages God has given me. Oh, dear! So I am praying and will stop the rabbit trail here.
How I love this post — especially this line:
Even when I forget to self forget, He does not leave me there and sends a warm invitation to pivot and correct.
I agree with Dee…such a great post!
I love how God has opened your eyes to see the need at your local school. Will pray for God’s wisdom and strength as you seek out this opportunity🙏
Bing, I agree with Dee and Sharon. The opportunity to bless others is one of your gifts. Praying for God to guide you to the place He knows you will thrive and cause others to thrive. So happy that you have had time with Ruth.
Bing, I think of you often and hear your struggle during this transition time in life. I know God will be faithful to you and will use you. 💕
Thank you all! God is slowly giving me some clarity, and there might be a way to let the two interests, namely, special ed and music, “marry”. I go back this Friday.
I look forward to connecting through the Word again after a dry season with (without) the Lord. Praying God will use this avenue to bring me back to Him.
Lolly — we are so very glad to have you. I know you will find a welcome here.
Welcome Lolly! Glad you are joining us😊
Welcome Lolly! This is a place filled with God’s love and comfort.
Hi Lolly, Welcome. May God bless you and encourage you in joining us here.
Lolly, welcome to the blog!
Welcome Lolly!
It’s sooo good to have you join us here.
Sunday:
1. How did you experience the goodness or compassion of the Lord this week?
God, who spoke all of creation into being has graced us with some amazing sunsets, beautiful butterflies, which always reminds me that I am a new creation in Christ and colorful flowers. It reminds me that He not only created this world but He also sustains it.
I am looking forward to this week’s lesson and I so needed the reminder of the Keller quote…praying that God will do a work in my heart in “thinking of myself less.”
Love these reflections on God’s creation, Sharon.
Sharon, we have had so many monarchs, especially last month, among our zinnias. God’s creation is a great reminder of his love for us.
1. How did you experience the goodness or compassion of the Lord this week?
Again, we experienced some bad news. I decided to not worry and asked God to handle the problem. I trusted He would. He did!
2. According to 1 Corinthians 3:21-21-23, what were the Corinthian Christians boasting about that caused division?
They were boasting about who was the best leader.
3. What parallels are there in the Church today?
I think we get caught up in this way of doing things or that way, and forget the truth. We have had some people leave our church who disagreed with the way our pastor was preaching. I had no idea until recently why that was. It hurt us in the congregation because we were not privy to the details. In fact, it caused us, in the congregation to speculate, which is worse than actually knowing the truth!
I recently had a conversation with our pastor about Israel and Palestine, and the conflict. This exodus from the church was discussed in light of the troubles today. I had no idea. Apparently these people were Zionists (?). It doesn’t make sense to me, as these people believe there will be pure sacrifices at the rebuilt temple before Jesus comes again. I am confused because I thought Jesus said we no longer needed the temple with sacrifices. We could pray anywhere and He was the pure sacrifice! 🤷🏻♀️
There are so many reasons people leave a church — some legit, often not. And often the reason given may not be the real one. But it hurtful. And politics certainly divide.
Laura, I will try to put together a coherent response because you delve into some very involved discussion of hard questions here. You are right temple sacrifices are no longer needed because Jesus was the ultimate and perfect sacrifice for sin. Eschatology is the study of prophetic writings from the Bible that is a branch of theology concerned with the final events in the history of the world or of humankind. My dad was a student of Bible prophecy which created an interest in me of such things. As an older person I have tried to be objective in my study and examined such teaching from various Bible teachers whom I respect and have found great variance of thinking. And I am talking about well studied godly people. Over time I have settled into my thinking and have made a choice which is different from some of even close family members of mine. But we agree to disagree on some points of the subject and let time play out according to God’s plan and not our opinions.
Even to call someone a Zionist can mean different things to different people very positively or very negatively because interpretations and impressions of it are different. Here is a link to a definition and assessment of Zionism related to the Jewish people and Israel as a nation https://jewishcenterforjustice.org/what-is-zionism-six-things-to-know/
People within the Church who start making claims of being Zionists and giving interpretations of their own thinking are off base.
Something I appreciate are the very good Bible teachers who focus first on the Gospel and give themselves to propagating and teaching it. At this point in time I truly believe the Gospel should always be the focus of the church. Especially as we are living in what would seem very much like end times. But Jesus himself made it clear we should not set dates for his return but we should be wanting and watching for it with the primary goal of spreading the Gospel. Every single prophecy that God made in the Bible either has been fulfilled or will be. We dare not add to or take away from any of it. Man has complicated it terribly with his own ideas. I think careful study actually simplifies much of it but it can’t be learned from sound bites of material.
Thank you for sharing this good wisdom, Bev. I so appreciate you.
Bev! Thank you for the article and the explanation. It helped me understand so much better. I thought Zionism was rebuilding the temple and preparing the new pure sacrifices. I agree completely with what the article said about Israel having its own state. My pastor believes that too.
Thank you for this good answer, Bev.
Bev, thanks for the link. I am not very familiar with Zionism. It will be good for me to read about it and to reflect some more on what the bible has to say about Israel.
Laura, I love what you said after receiving bad news: I decided not to worry! smart Christian thing to do! (smile) We have a choice, or a decision on what to do when we receive bad news. god will take care of it.
Sunday:
1. How did you experience the goodness or compassion of the Lord this week?
—As I reflected on this past week I couldn’t settle in my mind on one particular instance but rather look back and realize there was a consistent daily care of the Lord for me in a lot of little ways. Actually in general ways that wouldn’t seem noteworthy but an important part of that was the study of God’s Word and daily quiet time with Him. I experienced a satisfaction of being fed from the Bible and its richness of truth and encouragement.
Monday: The Text 1 Corin. 3:21-4:7
Prepare your heart by singing this verse from Be Thou My Vision to your soul.
3
Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise;Thou mine inheritance, now and always;Thou and Thou only, first in my heart;O King of glory, my treasure Thou art.
2. According to 1 Corinthians 3:21-21-23, what were the Corinthian Christians boasting about that caused division? They were boasting about their spiritual leaders (Paul, Apollos, Peter), and dividing themselves into factions based on whomever they chose to follow.
3. What parallels are there in the Church today? The plethora of “denominations” based on traditions; each claiming to be the most biblical. Believers who will only listen to a favorite speaker/author and boast that he/she is the best.
4. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:1-2.
A. How are we to regard ourselves? What does this mean? From 3:23, we belong to Christ, His property. 4:1=2, I am to be a faithful to Him first and foremost.
B. Picture how your day today might go if you keep at the forefront of your mind to serve and glorify Christ? Be specific. I would praise the Lord as I look at the beauty outside my bedroom window and carry that praise throughout the day.
C. What is required of us according to verse 2? What does this my bedroomlook like? Be specific. I am to be faithful, to live a godly life reflecting Jesus to all I come in contact with each day in my speech and actions. Examples would be: act don’t react, think about my words before I speak, be patient and kind, spend more time in prayer for others.
5. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:3-5
A. What does Paul say about himself in verse 3? It does not really matter to Paul what others say about him; their judgement does not concern him. Paul isn’t even judging himself. He’s seemingly not concerned about his standing among men.
B. I know I do care what others think, for I struggle with the idol of human approval. I need to sing that verse from Be Thou My Vision to my soul, and live it out. Why might the truths in that song be helpful? I need not worry about man’s approval, because it does not affect my spiritual destiny.
C. Why does Paul say that even if our conscience is clear, we may not be innocent? I cannot be totally aware of all the consequences of my words and actions; I am a flawed human being. It is only the righteousness of Jesus imputed to me that justifies. To think otherwise is pride and presumption and self-deception.
D. What sobering thought does he have in verse 5? When the Lord comes to judge EVERY single thought and deed will be revealed.
6. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:6-7 and summarize Paul’s main point. What would this mean in your life? I think the main point is not to idolize one man/woman above another. Any and all gifts are from the Lord, and no one is better than another. In my life this has meant that all believers are equal in the Body of Christ. I can appreciate and learn from gifted speakers/authors, but they are not be put above any other believer. Only Jesus is to be worshipped.
Monday: The Text 1 Corin. 3:21-4:7
Prepare your heart by singing this verse from Be Thou My Vision to your soul.
Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise;
Thou mine inheritance, now and always;
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart;
O King of glory, my treasure Thou art.
2. According to 1 Corinthians 3:21-21-23, what were the Corinthian Christians boasting about that caused division?
—They were bragging about who they were following as if their teacher was the best one and that made them more privileged.
3. What parallels are there in the Church today?
—I see clearly how people have their preacher and Bible teachers they like to hear and follow and like to tout who they are. This is an example that makes me personally sad but exemplifies this question.
There were people who loved my son’s preaching and teaching and made it known. But now that he has moved on so have they because our interim pastor is older and not nearly as articulate. They just don’t care for him. But the man has a good heart and is preaching and teaching the Gospel. He has other gifts that God is using in our church and so the comparison is unfair to him. And for their loyalty to the body to be based on a man was wrong. Even if he was my son. 🙁
4. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:1-2.
A. How are we to regard ourselves? What does this mean?
—As mere servants of Christ. The important thing as a servant is to be faithful to the work put before us.
B. Picture how your day today might go if you keep at the forefront of your mind to serve and glorify Christ? Be specific.
—I think the danger is when I make what is going on around me about me. It is a natural progression that if I am seeking to serve and glorify Christ I will put others and their interest first ahead of my own. Today is a rainy day at home with just Terry & I. I need to love him like Jesus does. Keep in mind girls he is a man! 😀
Seriously I respect the fact I still have him in my life.
C. What is required of us according to verse 2? What does this look like? Be specific.
—To be faithful in what I am called to do and where I am to serve.
Actually serving Terry requires just basic preparing meals and keeping our home up and useable.
5. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:3-5
A. What does Paul say about himself in verse 3?
—He doesn’t concern himself with what other people think of him. He is not about being a people pleaser and he doesn’t even trust himself to not think more highly of himself than he ought to.
B. I know I do care what others think, for I struggle with the idol of human approval. I need to sing that verse from Be Thou My Vision to my soul, and live it out. Why might the truths in that song be helpful?
—It is good for me to take my focus off the material world of my things and what people think of me so as to receive their praise. It is good for me to consider Jesus and put him first for the wonderful treasure he is in my life.
C. Why does Paul say that even if our conscience is clear, we may not be innocent?
—Truly only God knows the motives of our hearts. We ourselves may feel our motives are pure but we can’t trust our hearts because our sinful bent is pride and self interest. The NLT says
“My conscience is clear, but that doesn’t prove I’m right. It is the Lord himself who will examine me and decide.” It makes me think of Psalm 139:1 “O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me.”
I am glad for this truth because it is Jesus who can and will bring cleansing to my selfish heart if I confess and lay it all before him.
D. What sobering thought does he have in verse 5?
—Some day when the Lord returns and judges us for the life we lived in this world we all will be exposed for who we really are and what our very private thoughts were.
I think it will be at that time we truly will understand what a great salvation is ours that was obtained for us by Jesus on the Cross. He will absolve those many sins and acknowledge the times we chose Him instead of self.
6. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:6-7 and summarize Paul’s main point. What would this mean in your life?
—Paul reminds us to consider his example and to turn away from prideful thinking and favoritism by making judgments about others that are not ours to make. God has given us all we have and all we need for life and growth. They are gifts from Him and we have no place for boasting about anything we have.
Monday: The Text 1 Corin. 3:21-4:7
2. According to 1 Corinthians 3:21-23, what were the Corinthian Christians boasting about that caused division?
From the Amplified…”So let no one boast in men (about their wisdom or that one is a leader). “
3. What parallels are there in the Church today?
There is a tendency to brag about which church you’re going to on the basis of who is the preacher. There a many mega churches that have big name pastors, well known because of being on tv or books they have written.
4. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:1-2.
A. How are we to regard ourselves?
Servants of Christ.
What does this mean?
That Christ is our Master, the ultimate leader.
B. Picture how your day today might go if you keep at the forefront of your mind to serve and glorify Christ? Be specific.
I will be spending the afternoon with my grandsons and I need to be considerate of their needs, to build them up with encouraging words and kindness. Let them take my head in their precious hands and give them my full attention. Oh, may they see Christ in me.
C. What is required of us according to verse 2?
We must be faithful stewards, good managers of what we’ve been put in charge of.
What does this look like? Be specific.
My son and DIL are counting on me to take good care of their children, be there for them and meet their needs. I also need to remember that even though they aren’t there to see…God does and I’m accountable to Him as well.
5. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:3-5
A. What does Paul say about himself in verse 3?
It matters very little to him how man may evaluate him or any authority. He doesn’t even trust his own judgement on this point.
B. I know I do care what others think, for I struggle with the idol of human approval. I need to sing that verse from Be Thou My Vision to my soul, and live it out. Why might the truths in that song be helpful?
It is nice to be seen and encouraged. The verse of this song was perfect as there are times I don’t feel like anybody cares what I write on this blog because of no response, but I have to remind myself that I’m not here to get praised for what I say but rather to draw closer to God as He is my treasure and I learn so much from y’all.
(Please know that I didn’t share that to get more responses but because it’s an area that God is working in my heart with the idol of approval😔)
C. Why does Paul say that even if our conscience is clear, we may not be innocent?
God is the one who examines us and He will decide.
D. What sobering thought does he have in verse 5?
Don’t make judgements about anyone ahead of time – before the Lord returns. He’ll bring out our darkest secrets to light and reveal our private motives. Then He will give to each of us whatever praise is due.
6. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:6-7 and summarize Paul’s main point.
We’re not to be proud of one of our leaders at the expense of another. Everything we have is a gift from God so we shouldn’t boast or judge.
What would this mean in your life?
To keep my focus on Christ and His truth.
How often do you take care of your grandchildren? I’m remembering it’s perhaps once or twice a week? That’s such a gift.
I do think we long for praise from others, and while we know that is “fleeting,” God does seem please with people like Barnabas who encouraged so many.
You have a good memory and yes, it is a gift. I feel like they’re our mission field.
So agree about God being pleased with those who encourage others.
4. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:1-2.
A. How are we to regard ourselves?
We are to be stewards of God’s mysteries.
What does this mean?
We should take care of the Word, making sure it is well interpreted and given to others correctly.
B. Picture how your day today might go if you keep at the forefront of your mind to serve and glorify Christ? Be specific.
I would choose kindness and love to those around me…even to my family members!
C. What is required of us according to verse 2?
We are to be faithful and trustworthy.
What does this look like? Be specific.
I sbould honor being a Christian. Walk the walk.
Even to family members! 🙂
5. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:3-5
A. What does Paul say about himself in verse 3?
It is not important that people may judge him here on earth. He says he doesn’t even trust himself with his own judgement!
B. I know I do care what others think, for I struggle with the idol of human approval. I need to sing that verse from Be Thou My Vision to my soul, and live it out. Why might the truths in that song be helpful?
The view is totally on God, with the writer wanting to be “one” with Him.
C. Why does Paul say that even if our conscience is clear, we may not be innocent?
We are human! We can’t be impartial to ourselves. Only Gid will be our judge.
D. What sobering thought does he have in verse 5?
God will reveal our true motives within our hearts.
6. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:6-7 and summarize Paul’s main point. What would this mean in your life?
No boasting in one another! We have received our gifts from God and perhaps, others, and not solely ourselves.
Tuesday: Mechanical or Supernatural Change
Listen through the end of this transcript. I encourage that because Keller is so anointed when he speaks.
7. Share one thing that stood out to you after listening.
—I found his whole discussion on self esteem in regards to the American Culture very interesting. The fact that it is in direct contrast to how other cultures for centuries have operated on the premise that pride was destructive. I would observe that in America we have an educational system that has taught the opposite. It seems to be another example of twisted or upside down thinking that has been effectively immersed into our culture of thought.
8, What difference is there between a supernaturally changed heart and a mechanically changed heart?
—The traits of two hearts are radically different. One has been changed by grace and the other operates out of fear, pride and desire for power.
9. What is the root cause for why we cannot get along?
—It is pride and boasting. The need is for the trait of humility.
10. What does the world see as our problem? Do you see this? Can you give an illustration?
—The world thinks low self esteem creates the problems in our society. Yes, often bad behavior is excused and allowed on that premise. It precludes people from making moral judgements about sin. Sins that need to be dealt with because of it there are hard consequences that wreck peoples lives.
So much good about America yet the culture seems increasingly twisted.
Tuesday: Mechanical or Supernatural Change
Listen through the end of this transcript. I encourage that because Keller is so anointed when he speaks.
7. Share one thing that stood out to you after listening.
What stood out to me is that low self esteem or high self esteem is used as an excuse for bad behavior depending on the culture and the times in which we live.
8. What difference is there between a supernaturally changed heart and a mechanically changed heart?
A supernatural changed heart is a heart radically changed by the grace of God. A mechanically changed heart comes from morally virtuous behavior.
9. What is the root cause for why we cannot get along?
Pride and boasting.
10. What does the world see as our problem?
Low or high self esteem.
Do you see this? Can you give an illustration?
I’m not sure of an illustration but I remember being a younger parent you didn’t want to build your children up too much because they would think they were better than everyone else. And if you didn’t build them up, they’d never think they were good enough. I never looked at it from a view of good or bad behavior but rather figuring out how to balance it. Hmm🤔
That’s interesting about how you thought as a younger parent. As a grandmother, I will often say something like, “The Lord has given you such a gift for empathy — or encouragement — or whatever.”
Love your answers, especially to 7, Sharon. Truth!
Tueday: Mechanicl or supernatural change
7. Share one thing that stood out to you after listening.
Keller’s description of the ego: empty, painful, busy, and fragile. I am so very thankful that the Lord saved me from myself, and I am complete in Him.
8, What difference is there between a supernaturally changed heart and a mechanically changed heart?
A mechanically changed heart is one that shows change in behavior due to human effort for any number of reasons: pride, fear, approval (of peers, parents, etc), sesire for power. Because it is produced by human effort, it can easily be changed. A supernaturally changed heart is one that is changed at the root by the grace of God through salvation. The behavior of a person with this change is no longer based on human emotion or endeavor.
9. What is the root cause for why we cannot get along? Pride.
10. What does the world see as our problem? Do you see this? Can you give an illustration?
I’m not sure I understand the question correctly, did you mean politically as in we being the USA or as in we being the church (or individual believers)? I see the problem in every case as pride and a desire for power/recognition, whether it’s countries or congregations. We are #1, the best in the world, or “Our church is wonderful. We have a great pastor, thriving social programs, fantastic music team, there’s no place equal to it.”
I should rephrase the question, after reading Bev’s reply –what do most Americans think is our problem? I think they would often say a lack of self-esteem.
7. Share one thing that stood out to you after listening.
I think it’s funny that they are having similar problems in the church then, as we have now!
Also, I don’t think I agree with Keller on the low self esteem idea; where a low self-esteem doesn’t cause bad behavior. People do drugs to escape their reality. Often times it’s a low self-esteem that gets them there. They don’t feel worth anything. They don’t have a purpose in life. Maybe they don’t want to commit suicide, but they do want to escape life. 🤷🏻♀️
8, What difference is there between a supernaturally changed heart and a mechanically changed heart?
Mechanically changed is when you do things to check the box, they’re complete. Supernatural is when you do things to please God.
9. What is the root cause for why we cannot get along?
Pride and boasting.
10. What does the world see as our problem? Do you see this? Can you give an illustration?
I’m not sure I got this answer. Is it that we believe a low self-esteem is the basis for all our bad behavior as Americans? And, other cultures see it as a high self-esteem is the reason. They squash it and we support people and build them up.
I guess in school there are students who have been told they have an anxiety problem. Then they use that as a crutch and never can believe in themselves as being un-anxious again. Or, for a very long time. I realize there are students who do have actual anxiety and need help, but all of the sudden it has become the ADHD of the decade! So many students with similar diagnoses. So weird. This creates a “bad behavior” of sorts where students are no longer able to rise to their full potential. I’m not sure this is what you want here…
Laura — yes anxiety and ADHD is such a problem, especially if it immobilizes them. You must face that regularly. Does your school make them put away phones?
Oh yes! The governor of NH signed a cell phone ban from bell to bell! We have had little to know troubles this year. It is wonderful. Someone had to be the adult 😉
Not having cell phones is such a good idea. Too many distractions!
“No,” not “know!” Stupid autocorrect!
Monday: The Text 1 Corin. 3:21-4:7
Prepare your heart by singing this verse from Be Thou My Vision to your soul.
3
Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise;
Thou mine inheritance, now and always;
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart;
O King of glory, my treasure Thou art.
2. According to 1 Corinthians 3:21-21-23, what were the Corinthian Christians boasting about that caused division?
They were boasting about which leader they were following-Paul, Apollos, or Peter.
3. What parallels are there in the Church today?
I would call it name-dropping? We can get sucked into thinking that we need the most popular, articulate, polished, etc, pastors or leaders. Comparing people will only cause division and strife. Denominations can think they have the right doctrines, so they are better than the others. And some people go to church because of the pastor; when the pastor does something to disappoint them, they are quick to leave or criticize.
4. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:1-2.
A. How are we to regard ourselves? What does this mean?
As servants of Christ. Entrusted with the mysteries God has revealed (the gospel) and to be faithful. We are to follow Christ’s example and not look to people for approval.
B. Picture how your day today might go if you keep at the forefront of your mind to serve and glorify Christ? Be specific.
Keeping my compass to the True North. Correcting myself when I feel like I am serving myself rather than Christ.
For me, it means not assuming that Richard would just agree with what I would propose as we prepare for a council meeting at church tomorrow. That I would listen well.
C. What is required of us according to verse 2? What does this look like? Be specific.
We must prove to be faithful. The gospel is always our guide when we relate to others. Relating to my husband means both of us are to be faithful in living out the gospel. We are equal in the eyes of God, both in access to his throne, as well as our responsibility to His authority.
5. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:3-5
A. What does Paul say about himself in verse 3?
He does not judge himself.
B. I know I do care what others think, for I struggle with the idol of human approval. I need to sing that verse from Be Thou My Vision to my soul, and live it out. Why might the truths in that song be helpful?
I do struggle with the idol of human approval, too. The Song, Be Thou my vision, describes man’s praise as empty (interestingly, Keller calls one of the characteristics of the human ego, as empty). True riches can only be found in Christ, so I need to focus on Him alone. His praise is what matters.
C. Why does Paul say that even if our conscience is clear, we may not be innocent?
Only God knows the motives of our hearts.
D. What sobering thought does he have in verse 5?
It is God who judges, and He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart.
6. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:6-7 and summarize Paul’s main point. What would this mean in your life?
Do not be puffed up and boast as to who I am following as a Christian leader.
We are all on level ground at the foot of the cross. No one is better than the other.
Everything we have is from God and not from ourselves.
Love your “Keeping my compass to the True North”
Sunday:
1. How did you experience the goodness or compassion of the Lord this week?
Our study here in Phillipians with Tim Keller, shows me how to have peace through not being anxious, but through prayer with thanksgiving making my requests known to God, I can have the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding.
How we need to practice this continually!
Yes!
Wednesday: Our Natural Condition: Over-Inflated!
11. How does Keller describe the word Paul keeps using that is a special theme of his?
—He said it “literally means to be overinflated, swollen, distended beyond its proper size”.
12. I looked for this Greek word, which I think is a preposition “para” which does occur six times in 1 Corinthians and once in Colossians, but I also found it in Romans, where it seemed the clearest. What is the context in the following and how can you see the warning about being “over-inflated?”
A. 1 Corin. 1:11-12
B. Romans 12:3
C. Romans 12:16
—In each setting there are people who for various reasons viewed themselves as more important than others. Whether is was because of which great teacher they were associated with or as in the Romans verses thinking they were better than they were or better than others and thinking they knew it all.
13. What are the dangers of being over-inflated? Can you give an example from your life?
—The danger is that pride ruins relationships. The verse in 1 Corinthians refers to quarrels among them. And in the Romans verse Paul calls them to live in harmony.
As for my own life when I have wanted to have my own way in the most basic setting of getting along with my husband and he has his own idea of the same thing and how something should be it can put us quickly at odds and irritated with one another. Our harmony is disrupted. One or both of us thinks we know better. Ego gets involved and we stop practicing loving each other well.
14. What does Proverbs 27:2 say? Have you been guilty of this? If so, why, do you think?
—“Let someone else praise you, and not your own mouth….”
At those times in the past in my life when I have sinned in this way the setting has usually been in the company of people where I have been trying to impress them that I am somebody because of who I know. Just like in the Corinthians passage where the people were bragging about who they were associated with I have been tempted to name drop.
I think when that happens it actually comes out of my own insecurities and forgetting who I am in Christ and Christ alone. If I want to name drop it should only be His with praise in light of what He has done for me in spite of me.
Appreciate your honesty with a4. Me too.
Tuesday: Mechanical or Supernatural Change
Listen through the end of this transcript. I encourage that because Keller is so anointed when he speaks.
7. Share one thing that stood out to you after listening.
Even for an introduction, Keller points us to the importance of the gospel, and it is sheer grace from Him that I even have the privilege of understanding what he (Keller) has to say. Yes, he is so anointed when he speaks. “A heart that has been changed at the root by the grace of God”. I don’t deserve it, so I know it is God’s magnanimous grace that justified me, is sanctifying me, and will glorify me.
Now, continue to answer with the help of the transcript:
We are conducting a series in which we examine the signs of a supernaturally transformed heart. That means we’re not looking so much at morally virtuous behavior. You can do all kinds of morally virtuous things out of a heart filled with fear, pride, and desire for power or out of a heart that has been actually changed at the root by the grace of God. What we’re doing is we’re looking at the traits of a heart that has really been radically changed by the grace of God.
8, What difference is there between a supernaturally changed heart and a mechanically changed heart?
A supernaturally changed heart is only possible by the grace of God.
A mechanical changed heart is works-oriented and may show up as morally virtuous deeds, but the heart is still full of fear, pride, and desire for power..
9. What is the root cause for why we cannot get along?
Pride and boasting
10. What does the world see as our problem? Do you see this? Can you give an illustration?
Either high or low self-esteem
I believe low or high self-esteem springs from the same thing lack of awareness or acknowledgment that, without Jesus, we cannot do anything.
I think it could start with comparing, as Keller said. “I am not good enough”. So, parents, teachers, and significant others try to build someone’s self-esteem. The person gets to some comfortable level of high self-esteem and starts looking down on those they think are not as competent as they are. Then something happens and makes them realize that they need to do more to go higher; that’s when the self-esteem, which was then high, plummets and goes back to low self-esteem. Then the cycle begins again.
The three things we learn here are that Paul shows us the natural condition of the human ego, then the supernatural condition that can be brought about through the gospel, the transformed sense of self and identity Paul had discovered, and, lastly, how to get it. Are you ready?
Thanks for stressing the importance of listening as he is so anointed when he speaks.
Wednesday: Our Natural Condition: Over-Inflated!
11. How does Keller describe the word Paul keeps using that is a special theme of his?
May I express my appreciation for how excellently Keller elaborated on the word for pride? The word Paul used means to be overinflated, swollen, or distended beyond its proper size. I was interested in knowing what the Greek word that Paul used here instead of hubris. I found out, that is, if I am correct, it is the Greek word “physioo,” meaning “to puff up” or “inflate.” That is our natural condition! I need God’s help!
I found the above before I had a chance to read Dee’s own study and comment on question 12.
12. I looked for this Greek word, which I think is a preposition “para” which does occur six times in 1 Corinthians and once in Colossians, but I also found it in Romans, where it seemed the clearest. What is the context in the following, and how can you see the warning about being “over-inflated?”
A. 1 Corin. 1:11-12 There was quarreling among the people about who to follow.
B. Romans 12:3 thinking highly of oneself.
C. Romans 12:16, looking down on people who are “poor” (marginalized, mentally challenged, the elderly, physically limited, etc)
13. What are the dangers of being over-inflated? Can you give an example from your life?
God resists the proud. You may lose fellowship/relationship with other people.
14. What does Proverbs 27:2 say? Have you been guilty of this? If so, why, do you think?
Do not praise yourself. I believe that the times I praise myself most often are when I am alone with my thoughts. Well, not really alone because God is always with me and He knows my thoughts. I do it to make me feel better. Or at times, with my closest friends. It goes back to my idol of approval. And again, I am thankful for the grace of God, as this study is helping me develop a deeper sense of contentment in being a child of God, loved unconditionally. I don’t have to seek contentment elsewhere.
11. How does Keller describe the word Paul keeps using that is a special theme of his?
It evokes the image of some organ of the human body that is distended because so much air has been pumped into it that it’s ready to burst. It’s overinflated, it’s distended, it’s swollen, and it’s inflamed because it has been extended past its proper size” Keller also mentioned a bellows, which I can see being used to pump air into a body inflating it to a disproportionate size. KJV uses the words “puffed up” in this passage.
12. I looked for this Greek word, which I think is a preposition “para” which does occur six times in 1 Corinthians and once in Colossians, but I also found it in Romans, where it seemed the clearest. What is the context in the following and how can you see the warning about being “over-inflated?”
A. 1 Corin. 1:11-12 Context: Paul has heard there are quarrels among them Warning: quarrels are a result of them bragging about different leaders
B. Romans 12:3 Context: Paul is pleading with them to be transformed and not conform to the world Warning: Don’t think you are better than anyone else, God grants the faith and the body is ONE.
C. Romans 12:16 Context: Paul is telling them how the body of Christ should act/behave towards each other. Warning: Don’t think yourself smarter/wiser than anyone else.
13. What are the dangers of being over-inflated? Can you give an example from your life? One danger of being so puffed up is that you end up not listening to anyone else because you have all the answers. There is the danger of becoming self-righteous, criticizing, judging, and condemning people who disagree with you or don’t meet your standards.
I tried to have a conversation with a friend about what I was learning in a Bible study group. Her reply was, “I know,” and then she proceeded to tell me how wonderful her Bible study group was, and that I should read the book they were using. Sadly we never did talk about things of the Lord.
14. What does Proverbs 27:2 say? Have you been guilty of this? If so, why, do you think? Do not boast about yourself, praising yourself. Let others do the praising about you. I don’t recall ever trying to draw attention to myself, “I did this, See what I’ve done, etc.” The danger for me has always been when I do receive recognition/praise, that I do not become puffed up. I try to just say thank you, or in many instances give God the glory for using me.
It made me smile about competition over whose Bible study was best! 🙂
2. According to 1 Corinthians 3:21-21-23, what were the Corinthian Christians boasting about that caused division? Their spiritual leaders were being boasted about among the groups of Christians.
3. What parallels are there in the Church today? I’m curious if the current division among our pastors would qualify? The pastor of our church plant does not believe in infant baptism. Our mother church allows all baptisms: infant, believers, and profession of faith if baptized as an infant. Is our pastor at our church plant boasting to go against the mother church in this? He has remained silent publicly but would like our church to go independent as his conscience will not allow him to celebrate infant baptism. I’m not sure this applies to boasting, but seems like an ego problem because he can’t seem to let it go in favor of continuing to pastor our church, although, no decision has been made and we are praying he changes his mind.
4. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:1-2.
A. How are we to regard ourselves? What does this mean? We are stewards of the mysteries of God and should be trustworthy.
B. Picture how your day today might go if you keep at the forefront of your mind to serve and glorify Christ? Be specific.
If I am serving God above everything, I will keep my calm while teaching and not be irritated by the constant distraction from studies which my son is always initiating. I will administer corrections and look for ways to help him stay on task for each 20 minute session. My errands will not end in frustration with grocery pick up errors, but I will trust God to meet my needs. At small group tonight, any discussion will be trusted to God and not threaten my thinking, but enlighten me to someone else’s need or insight.
C. What is required of us according to verse 2? What does this look like? Be specific.
A trustworthy steward is one who keeps the mysteries of God above everything else. Our salvation and the salvation of others is most important, therefore, as I go through my day I should be humbly seeking to look for those who need salvation and also be a good witness for Christ. My son should see the light of Christ in my responses to him. The grocery clerks should see my grace in response to any errors in the order. Our small group should see my graceful response to any disagreements with regard to discussion in bible study.
5. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:3-5
A. What does Paul say about himself in verse 3?
He is not thinking about himself, because he is filled with Christ-that’s what I think he is saying.
B. I know I do care what others think, for I struggle with the idol of human approval. I need to sing that verse from Be Thou My Vision to my soul, and live it out. Why might the truths in that song be helpful?
If we can truly forget about the world’s riches and man’s empty praise, we can focus on the Lord and his plan for us and do more work for his kingdom. We will not be preoccupied with our own desires or recognition.
C. Why does Paul say that even if our conscience is clear, we may not be innocent?
We all sin and fall short of the glory of God-only what Christ did on the cross is able to clear our record.
D. What sobering thought does he have in verse 5?
Only the Lord can bring to light each one’s purpose in their heart and whether they please the Lord. There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
6. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:6-7 and summarize Paul’s main point. What would this mean in your life?
The verdict should lead to the performance not the performance to the verdict. We are not on trial, because Jesus went to trial. Jesus finds me more valuable than all the jewels on earth. What others think does not matter compared to my identity in Christ.
I need to relive the gospel everyday on the spot whenever I am feeling I am back in the courtroom. If I am offended that my son is continually derailing my teaching plans or using up my time with distractions, I can have compassion on him and gracefully redirect his mind to the task at hand, guiding him for Christ’s sake to single mindedness. If an error is made in my plans for groceries, I can calmly trust the Lord and respond gracefully, If a friend thinks differently regarding a doctrine, I can listen and trust the Lord has their salvation in hand.
I wonder if your pastor is against because some see infant baptism as salvation. I suspect your mother church sees it as dedication. Does seem sad though.
11. How does Keller describe the word Paul keeps using that is a special theme of his?
Pride. The word means to be swollen, or overinflated, empty.
12. What is the context in the following and how can you see the warning about being “over-inflated?”
A. 1 Corin. 1:11-12
The followers are arguing about who is most “qualified” to teach because of who taught them.
Verse 10 says to be unified, and verse 13 says that they were all baptized in the name of Jesus, not Peter, Paul. Or someone else.
B. Romans 12:3
The context is to be a living sacrifice to God.
Here he gives a warning to not think higher of themselves than others. They are to measure themselves by their faith.
C. Romans 12:16
Here he is telling them that God will prevail with justice. It’s not their job to judge.
Live in harmony, don’t be too proud to gather with others who are unlike you. Live with peace in your life.
Love this: Live in harmony, don’t be too proud to gather with others who are unlike you. Live with peace in your life.
2. According to 1 Corinthians 3:21-21-23, what were the Corinthian Christians boasting about that caused division?
3. What parallels are there in the Church today?
4. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:1-2.
A. How are we to regard ourselves? What does this mean?
B. Picture how your day today might go if you keep at the forefront of your mind to serve and glorify Christ? Be specific.
C. What is required of us according to verse 2? What does this look like? Be specific.
5. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:3-5
A. What does Paul say about himself in verse 3?
3
Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise;Thou mine inheritance, now and always;Thou and Thou only, first in my heart;O King of glory, my treasure Thou art.
B. I know I do care what others think, for I struggle with the idol of human approval. I need to sing that verse from Be Thou My Vision to my soul, and live it out. Why might the truths in that song be helpful?
It all seems to go back to the heart and who we put first in our life. If we seek God’s Praise, our heart will be in order and richer. We will do more for ahis kingdom. Man’s praise is so fleeting. Life is so fleeting. We never learn anything when we are talking, only when we listen. You cannot build a relationship unless you truly know someone. I cannot know someone or be a friend unless I listen to their stories.
C. Why does Paul say that even if our conscience is clear, we may not be innocent?
It is the Lord who examines me and knows my motives.
D. What sobering thought does he have in verse 5?
It is not our job to judge others. The Lord will reveal what is hidden in the darkness and the motives of the heart.
6. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:6-7 and summarize Paul’s main point. What would this mean in your life?
Do nit be arrogant. Man is weak and flawed; do not be boastful and act as if these Holy Words of scripture come from your heart and mind. It will always be God’s Word. I am a cracked vessel and I pray that my words always point others to God, never to me.
I like when you said, “We never learn anything when we are talking, only when listening.” So true, and I have never thought about it that way, Patti.
I messed up the spacing on my first group of answers….so here are the rest.
B. Picture how your day today might go if you keep at the forefront of your mind to serve and glorify Christ? Be specific.
I will not think of my own problems, but focus on those I interact with. I will keep my mind on the fact that I serve Christ first. (not myself ). I have thank you notes and sympathy cards to write to others. I am Praising God that my week, which started out difficult, has turned out so well. I want to show gratitude to all those, who were so caring, in getting me through a tough few days.
C. What is required of us according to verse 2? What does this look like? Be specific.
I am to be a faithful steward of the things and people God has entrusted to me.
5. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:3-5
A. What does Paul say about himself in verse 3?
Only God is qualified to be my judge. I want my words and actions to be pleasing to Him and to glorify Him.
B. I know I do care what others think, for I struggle with the idol of human approval. I need to sing that verse from Be Thou My Vision to my soul, and live it out. Why might the truths in that song be helpful?
I need to seek God’s Praise. I do struggle with the idol of approval, but I need to keep my eyes on Jesus and His approval.
C. Why does Paul say that even if our conscience is clear, we may not be innocent?
Because God sees our hearts and our motives. I need to start at the heart and keep my motives pure.
D. What sobering thought does he have in verse 5?
Do not pass judgment. Each man’s praise will come to him from God.
6. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:6-7 and summarize Paul’s main point. What would this mean in your life?
We are not to arrogant or boast. No man is above another. Any gift that has been given me in this life if from God.
So very glad you are here, Patti. Sweet to connect.
13. What are the dangers of being over-inflated?
You rely on yourself to deal with life problems. This causes stress. You are grumpy because you can’t actually be and do everything for everyone, including yourself. You lose sleep because your are so busy.
Can you give an example from your life?
Yes! If I believe I am the “end all” for my teaching ability then I don’t respect others as I should.
14. What does Proverbs 27:2 say?
To let others praise me, not myself.
Have you been guilty of this?
Yes.
If so, why, do you think?
I felt like I should be recognized by my district as a teacher who won an award yet no one seemed to care. I felt disrespected.
That is hard, Laura. But it is true most people are so focused on themselves, but we are very proud of you!
Wednesday: Our Natural Condition: Over-Inflated!
11. How does Keller describe the word Paul keeps using that is a special theme of his?
Pride…it’s related to the word bellows and means overinflated, swollen and distended beyond its proper size.
12. I looked for this Greek word, which I think is a preposition “para” which does occur six times in 1 Corinthians and once in Colossians, but I also found it in Romans, where it seemed the clearest. What is the context in the following and how can you see the warning about being “over-inflated?”
A. 1 Corin. 1:11-12
Paul was told that the people were quarreling about who they were following.
B. Romans 12:3
Paul’s warning…don’t think you are better than you really are.
C. Romans 12:16
Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!
13. What are the dangers of being over-inflated?
Becoming your own god, a know-it-all attitude and therefore not a good listener, lack of wisdom, loss of relationships and falling.
Can you give an example from your life?
In my own life I have to remind myself that not everyone was raised in a Christian home and had the amazing teaching I had. I need to extend grace to wherever a person is in their walk with the Lord and that I can continually learn from them as well.
14. What does Proverbs 27:2 say?
“Let someone else praise you; not your own mouth – a stranger,not your own lips.”
Have you been guilty of this?
Yes
If so, why, do you think?
Insecurity
When over-inflated you can “become your own god.” I think that may be the greatest danger of all, Sharon.
That is so true about the blessings we’ve had that many have not, Sharon — and helps us give grace.
Wednesday: Our Natural Condition: Over-Inflated!
11. How does Keller describe the word Paul keeps using that is a special theme of his?
Pride…it’s related to the word bellows and means overinflated, swollen and distended beyond its proper size.
12. I looked for this Greek word, which I think is a preposition “para” which does occur six times in 1 Corinthians and once in Colossians, but I also found it in Romans, where it seemed the clearest. What is the context in the following and how can you see the warning about being “over-inflated?”
A. 1 Corin. 1:11-12
Paul was told that the people were quarreling about who they were following.
B. Romans 12:3
Paul’s warning…don’t think you are better than you really are.
C. Romans 12:16
Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!
13. What are the dangers of being over-inflated?
Becoming your own god, a know-it-all attitude and therefore not a good listener, lack of wisdom, loss of relationships and falling.
Can you give an example from your life?
In my own life I have to remind myself that not everyone was raised in a Christian home and had the amazing teaching I had. I need to extend grace to wherever a person is in their walk with the Lord and that I can continually learn from them as well.
14. What does Proverbs 27:2 say?
“Let someone else praise you; not your own mouth – a stranger,not your own lips.”
Have you been guilty of this?
Yes
If so, why, do you think?
Insecurity
Thursday: Empty and Painful
15. What does Keller say people do to try to overcome the emptiness of a life apart from God?
Try to run their own life, achieve their own sense of self-worth, and find a purpose big enough to give their life meaning.
What will happen as a result of this?
It will never be enough to satisfy and so they have to constantly do more things to stuff into the hole that only God can fill.
This reminds me of a song I used to sing with children…”Life without Jesus is like a donut, it leaves a whole in the middle of your heart.”
16. What is Keller’s pain point here?
I hope I get this 🤦🏻♀️. Trying to live life without God is not only empty, it’s painful, because it’s all about your ego…you’re only thinking about yourself so your focus is on how badly you’ve been treated by people throughout the day. We say our feelings have been hurt but really it’s our ego.
17. Was there a time you built your life around something other than God? How did that work out for you?
Miserably!
18. As a believer, do you ever still make an identity other than being a child of God too important? What is the danger?
The danger is getting my ego hurt because I don’t feel like I’m as important as I would like to be.
You definitely got the point.
Thursday: Empty and Painful 15. What does Keller say people do to try to overcome the emptiness of a life apart from God? What will happen as a result of this? The natural man/woman see something to build their life around that gives them a sense of worth, a sense of purpose. Nothing can fill the emptiness but God, so the result is a feeling that you still are lacking something.
16. What is Keller’s pain point here? You don’t recognize a problem with your body until some part of it is hurt/not working properly. Likewise the ego/sense of self is painful because of emptiness apart from God. It draws attention to itself, like a sore thumb.
17. Was there a time you built your life around something other than God? How did that work out for you? Oh, yes. As a teenager my focus was always trying to fit in (hair, clothes, etc). I never reached a point of being satisfied, always striving.
18. As a believer, do you ever still make an identity other than being a child of God too important? What is the danger? Not anymore, since learning the truth about the Body of Christ and my identification in Him. The danger of no being secure in that is always feeling inadequate, and I think you could become more controlled by your feelings (taking offense quickly, jealousy, anger, etc).
Love the “not anymore.”
SUNDAY:
1. How did you experience the goodness or compassion of the Lord this week?
He provided. He really did. And slowly, but steadily He’s providing the “other necessary” things we’ve talked to Him about.
Yay!
MONDAY:
2. According to 1 Corinthians 3:21-21-23, what were the Corinthian Christians boasting about that caused division?
They were boasting in men.
3. What parallels are there in the Church today?
Churches today have this division of “Oh, I belong to Pastor this, or Pastor that, or Church this or Church tbat” and they tend to seek the approval of these pastors they’re already beginning to idolize instead of seeking approval and praise from God.
4. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:1-2.
A. How are we to regard ourselves? What does this mean?
We are to regard ourselves as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. And as stewards to be found faithful and trustworthy.
I think it goes back to when Jesus was talking to the apostles about who is the greatest and He talked about the leader having to serve. And when one is a servant the person’s main attitude is to be faithful and trustworthy.
B. Picture how your day today might go if you keep at the forefront of your mind to serve and glorify Christ? Be specific.
I’ll spend time with Him having my quiet time. And help with what I need to help with. I’m not doing anything much.
C. What is required of us according to verse 2? What does this look like? Be specific.
It is required that we be faithful and trustworthy.
And it’s hard to be especially with everything going on around us. But I think it should be about us knowing where He has called us to be and not leaning on our own knowledge. Or giving ourselves the glory when everything goes perfectly right.
😂That tends to happen. I think it’s us being unfaithful when we give ourselves the glory for the work we asked Him to help and guide with.
5. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:3-5
A. What does Paul say about himself in verse 3?
He said it matters very little to him that he may be judged by anyone, and that in fact he does not judge himself.
B. I know I do care what others think, for I struggle with the idol of human approval. I need to sing that verse from Be Thou My Vision to my soul, and live it out. Why might the truths in that song be helpful?
That I need not need man’s praises, because they’re empty, but I should be continually reassured that God is my exceedingly great reward and no human praise can fill that space.
C. Why does Paul say that even if our conscience is clear, we may not be innocent?
We are humans, and to be honest they’re are certain things we can do or think that we don’t think is wrong because we feel entitled to it.
David in Psalms 19:12 says “Who can understand his errors or omissions? Acquit me of hidden (unconscious, unintended) faults.
D. What sobering thought does he have in verse 5?
That God will bring to light every secret thing and every motive of the heart.
6. Meditate on 1 Corin. 4:6-7 and summarize Paul’s main point. What would this mean in your life?
Even this salvation which I have had been given to me by God and has come by nothing I did, so I have no right to boast even about it.
Good work, Eunice.
I’m praying Eunice will find some Christian fellowship where she is – -will you all pray with me for that?
Yes! Praying for you sweet Eunice🙏
Yes, praying for Eunice!
Absolutely!
I join the others in praying for you to find a sweet fellowship of Christian friends. Lord, we ask that you will bring some Christian friends into Eunice’s life. We trust You Lord and we know it is difficult to feel alone. We pray this in the Mighty Name of Jesus.
Always know that you have mamas in Christ right here, dear Eunice.
Hello. I’m having a busy week and challenged to take time to get on to answer questions, but listening to Keller’s sermon and reading others responses as I can. Prayer request: I am hosting a hay ride this Saturday for our neighborhood and family. The neighbor who was so upset with my husband is coming. Please pray for the building up of community/relationships and the opportunity to share our faith or be a light. Also, we have been made aware of extended family that are having a real challenge with addiction and sin and have 2 young children-prayers for freedom and healing for them, safety/healing for the kids. Praying for each of you. I am really enjoying this study and been sharing with others. It is changing my thinking 🙂
I agree that this is a meaningful study, Chris. Praying for good relationships to develop and sweet friendships formed through the hayride. May God anoint you with His peace and with the Holy Spirit. You are a light for your community.
What an opportunity for your neighborhood! I am praying for your husband and the other party to make amends. Sounds like fun and I wish I could be there! 🙏🙏🙏
I agree with Patti, dear Lord. May tomorrow be a sweet time of fellowship and may Your light shine through Chris.
Amen to my sisters prayers for Chris and neighbors.
Thursday: Empty and Painful
15. What does Keller say people do to try to overcome the emptiness of a life apart from God? What will happen as a result of this?
Whatever will achieve self-worth. It will just rattle in there.
I need to counter and fill it with God’s truth. l.
16. What is Keller’s pain point here?
You are looking for your identity in something other than God, and the emptiness just heightened your pain.
17. Was there a time you built your life around something other than God? How did that work out for you?
My accomplishments. They made me feel good for a while, but the feeling did not last long. There were more accomplishments to pursue.
18. As a believer, do you ever still make an identity other than being a child of God too important? What is the danger?
I believe they are not as frequent as they used to be, although there is often an initial response to find my identity elsewhere, other than being a child of God. I know it is dangerous because the ensuing result is ALWAYS a sense of either discontent, resentment, or lack of joy and peace.
Friday: Busy and Fragile
19. What did C. S. Lewis say about pride? How could you see this in the opening of 1 Corinthians?
“Pride is by nature competitive. Pride gets no pleasure out of having something, only having more of it than the next person.”
I Corinthians 3:21 says, “No more boasting about human leaders.”
20. Are you too busy? If so, why do you think?
I have been too busy. But I am working on curtailing my impulses to say “yes” to an opportunity to serve or do something. I think my tendency to be too busy is because of my need for approval.
21. What was his point about Madonna’s self-reflection?
The human ego is never satisfied. Madonna has spoken to and for all of us. I have slowly been made aware of my heart’s motives for pursuing something, so I can please man. This has called for some deeper reflection on my part. Deeper conversations with God and with a friend or two. Indeed, “The purposes of a person’s heart are deep waters…” Proverbs 20:5 May the Lord have mercy on me.
22. How fragile are you? How do you overcome this?
I am the most fragile when I am not feeling well physically or when I am blind sided by something or someone. God’s Word through the Bible and through music are the two things I go to when I feel fragile. I believe this study has given me an important insight as to why I am fragile at times. The question, “Is this feeling all about me?” “What truth do I need to remember to overcome this self-focus?” “Does this change God’s love for me?” (to which the answer is, No).
Bing, I understand the Philippines was hit with a 7.4 earthquake today in Mindanao! You and your family along with all the people there are in my prayers🙏😊
Oh my — I didn’t know, Yes, prayers.
Thank you, Dee and Sharon. My family and friends are doing okay. I heard from my aunt that there were 2 casualties. We appreciate the prayers for no further casualties and damage.
Amen!!
I join the others in praying for your family, dear, Bing.
Praying 🙏🙏
Friday: Busy and Fragile
19. What did C. S. Lewis say about pride? How could you see this in the opening of 1 Corinthians?
Pride is by nature competitive.
Pride gets no pleasure out of having something, only having more of it than the next person.
Paul doesn’t say in verse 6, “you won’t be proud.” But, “you won’t be proud of one of your leaders at the expense of another.” In that statement you see the competitiveness that pride has.
20. Are you too busy? If so, why do you think?
In my mind…way too busy sometimes.
21. What was his point about Madonna’s self-reflection?
Because of her fear of being mediocre she is never satisfied with her accomplishments…she has to do more to fight off the fear of mediocrity. Keller does say that at least she recognizes this which most people don’t.
22. How fragile are you? How do you overcome this?
I was a lot more fragile in my younger days. I fight it once in a while but then I turn my focus on Him…the One who truly satisfies.
When asked if she was too busy, Sharon answered: In my mind…way too busy sometimes.
I know I have to fight distractions in my quiet time, in my writing time, even when I’m endeavoring to really listen to someone — so I have been crying out for help and when I’m on my laptop, staying with the purpose and not jumping to answer the beep of an email or message…
Maybe that isn’t what you mean, Sharon. Elaborate please.
Yes! Dee, I am the same way in my mind…doing 5 things at once. Often!
I meant it more in the context of how Keller defined it…”it’s incredibly busy to compare and boast.” When I give into my flesh, rather than focus on the Lord, I end up comparing myself to others in my mind and to take it further puff myself up so I look better in my mind🤦🏻♀️
Friday: Busy and fragile
19. What did C. S. Lewis say about pride? How could you see this in the opening of 1 Corinthians? Lewis said pride is competitive, always comparing yourself to someone else. I like how Keller put it, “It means you are creating a self-esteem résumé desperately to fill the sense of inadequacy and emptiness. You’re so busy all the time.” The Corinthians had made a popularity competition around their chosen leader, which was best-Mine.
Paul goes on to say in 2 Co. 10:12 “For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.”
I don’t want to be unwise, ignorant.
20. Are you too busy? If so, why do you think? No.
21. What was his point about Madonna’s self-reflection? She has a true understanding of herself, of her ego. Her accomplishments are never enough, she has to do more to be accepted.
22. How fragile are you? How do you overcome this.? As I said before, I am complete in Christ. Being in Christ levels the playing field, so to speak. I am no better, or less, than anyone else. I recognize that all gifts/talents are from the Lord, and He decides who gets what, for His purposes and glory.
15. What does Keller say people do to try to overcome the emptiness of a life apart from God?
We try to fill our lives with something else. Something that gives us a purpose. Something that lets us know we are special.
What will happen as a result of this?
It cannot take the place of God. It will be too small.
16. What is Keller’s pain point here?
We only recognize ywhen there really is pain in our body, not when things feel good. The human ego has an empty space where it feels rejected when it’s criticized.
17. Was there a time you built your life around something other than God?
Yes.
How did that work out for you?
Awful.
18. As a believer, do you ever still make an identity other than being a child of God too important?
Yes, my self worth can be based on my earthly talents.
What is the danger?
I can’t be in control, I might try to run my own show instead of asking God to be in charge of me.
Love Laura’s succinct answers such as:
17. Was there a time you built your life around something other than God?
Yes.
How did that work out for you?
Awful.
Tuesday:
7. Share one thing that stood out to you after listening. Every day we are putting our selves on trial and some days we feel like we are winning and some days we don’t. In Christianity the verdict leads to the performance-only the Lord’s verdict matters. He loves me & accepts me.
8. What difference is there between a supernaturally changed heart and a mechanically changed heart? A mechanically changed heart can do morally good things while still holding onto fear, control, a desire for power, etc. A supernaturally changed heart is changed by the grace of God and is motivated by the love of the Savior.
9. What is the root cause for why we cannot get along? Pride
10. What does the world see as our problem? Do you see this? Can you give an illustration? Self-esteem, particularly low, but high as well. Absolutely, I can see this. It’s interesting in my marriage, I tend to feel good about myself because of my very moral upbringing, my mind is always justifying myself and looking for reasons I am a good person, which inevitably fails and becomes deflated. My husband on the other hand is always looking down on himself and compiling the many sins he has, never feeling loved. Our adopted son is often struggling with negative self talk. My brain is always trying to help my family who are struggling by saying positive things about them. Really, what we all need is to focus less on ourselves and more on our Savior. So when we feel bad about our circumstances or ourselves, we can look to the Savior and feel good about what he has done for us. Funny how we hold onto thoughts about ourselves when we can have freedom in thinking about our Savior.
“Really, what we all need is to focus less on ourselves and more on our Savior. So when we feel bad about our circumstances or ourselves, we can look to the Savior and feel good about what he has done for us. Funny how we hold onto thoughts about ourselves when we can have freedom in thinking about our Savior. “
Such an insightful point.
Amen to Bev’s comment on Chris’s comment!
Amen to all of you! Truth!
11. How does Keller describe the word Paul keeps using that is a special theme of his? natural condition of the human ego is to be empty, obviously, painful, busy, and fragile.
12. I looked for this Greek word, which I think is a preposition “para” which does occur six times in 1 Corinthians and once in Colossians, but I also found it in Romans, where it seemed the clearest. What is the context in the following and how can you see the warning about being “over-inflated?”
A. 1 Corin. 1:11-12-the quarreling is due to pride in one’s thinking.
B. Romans 12:3-don’t think highly of ourselves, but with sober judgement, with regard to gifts. We should not think we are better than others in everything or anything, really, but let the Lord lead.
C. Romans 12:16-do not be haughty, associate with the lowly. These are some marks of the true Christian.
13. What are the dangers of being over-inflated? Can you give an example from your life? When we are over-inflated, we tend to POP eventually. Our pride gets offended, we fail at what we had been winning at or are exposed for who we really are. We hurt others and our witness for Christ.
14. What does Proverbs 27:2 say? Have you been guilty of this? If so, why, do you think? Not to boast-oh, I’m sure I have. I can’t think of an instance, but we love to think better of ourselves than others. I do remember a time when my ego was deflated. I was managing an apartment complex where we lived when we were first married. I had to enforce some rules and sent a letter to all the tenants about rules being broken and inspections coming up. Someone decided to slash my tires. We only had one vehicle and not a lot of money. I was devastated and could hardly function the rest of the day. Whatever their reason for slashing my tires, it should not have devastated me. The offender was never found out, but I wish back then I had an eye for seeing peoples needs like I do now and was not so concerned with myself. Clearly, that hit my identity.
19. What did C. S. Lewis say about pride?
By nature pride is competitive.
How could you see this in the opening of 1 Corinthians?
There is a competition between believers about who was more qualified than the other.
20. Are you too busy?
Yes, I am terribly too busy all the time. I have struggled getting my Bible study done the past 2 weeks because I have so much going on! Losing sleep too…
If so, why do you think?
Well, to pay the bills, I have 2 online college courses I’m teaching, along with my regular high school job. It’s too much, I now know that. But here I am, in the midst, and it is temporary. I finish with both college courses in early December.
Then there is my family. Busy with activities and school for the grands.
Then there is exercise for me. My hip is troubling me for the past 2 yrs so I have been trying to figure out what’s going on with it through PT and Pilates. Getting better but oh so slow.
Obviously, Something needs to go! But I don’t believe it’s for a competition; I’m not trying to compete against the “Jones’.” To live today in our messy world is expensive. I suppose we could sell our big family home, and pair down our lifestyle, and that may come in the next few years as I retire.
The competition thing may have been as I was younger, but mostly I have always competed with myself. I never liked the feeling of being jealous of others so I really haven’t thought to be competitive as an adult, other than with me 😉. Weird, I know.
21. What was his point about Madonna’s self-reflection?
He says she knows herself well because she understands that she is never satisfied with herself and her career as a singer. She always has to do more each time she succeeds with one aspect of her job.
There is a point where she/we can be satisfied by resting in Him instead of always reaching and searching for the thing that will absolutely never satisfy us.
22. How fragile are you? How do you overcome this?
I don’t believe I am too fragile really. I do have spurts of being this way, I am human of course, but normally I try to be happy for others who succeed in their lives. I think I am an “old soul” here. I’ve learned this lesson over time though. I haven’t always been so good at it. Maybe I’ve resigned myself to being mediocre. I kind of think I have done that with dance because of my hip injury bringing me down. That makes me sad, so I am fragile there I suppose.
We can overcome by knowing what I tell the grands often. I say that God made them exactly as He wanted to. They are special to Him. That’s what matters. He loves us because of who we are, His children.
Laura, I would say you are anything BUT mediocre. Your life is so busy, I am tired just reading about it! I think your self-talk is good, reminding yourself that the situation is temporary and will end. I know that the Lord will sustain you as you lean on Him, through the power of His love.
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for all your goodness and faithfulness to us. We are so blessed. Please strengthen Laura, grant her the wisdom and grace she needs in this busy season of her life. I pray there would be continued improvement in her hip towards a full recovery. As she spends her time serving others through teaching and loving her family, surround her with Your love. Touch her in a special way and fill her heart with joy and peace. In Jesus name and for His glory, amen
I agree, Cheryl Ann, with your prayer for Laura! Such a busy time for you, dear Laura. And you are invested in what god has called you to do right now.
Saturday:
23. What is your take-a-way and why? How will you apply it?
What you said, Dee, in your introduction: How we need Christ to help us really listen, to forget about ourselves and see and hear others with compassion.
How to apply it?
Lord, help me to stay content with your love for me, and this is the only way that I can be secure in my identity and be able to serve others. When I am empty, in pain, busy, and fragile, I remind myself of your unconditional love.
Help me to consistently say, do, and think that which would be more about others than about me. I will start with my husband and daughter. If I am not careful, they can get to the bottom of my list.