NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP) — This weekly Bible study appears in Baptist Press in a partnership with LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Through its Leadership and Adult Publishing team, LifeWay publishes Sunday School curriculum and additional resources for all age groups.
This week’s Bible study is adapted from the MasterWork curriculum.
Bible Passages: Romans 6:14, 7:24-25, 12:2
Discussion Question: What does a life that is seeking God’s kingdom and righteousness look like?
Food for Thought:
There is a misconception among non-believers that Christians have all the answers, that our lives are somehow perfect and that we live happy, non-stop joyous lives. Isn’t that funny? For Christians, our lives are about seeking God’s Kingdom and His righteousness, but that search isn’t one of ease and perfection. We must continually turn from the sin that is all around us and the temptations we regularly face. Being a Christian doesn’t mean we’re sinless; it just means we turn from that sin.
Contemporary Christian artist Mandisa said, “A lot of people think we as Christians have to put our masks on and pretend that everything is great … but I’ve been surprised that people thought I had it all together. The truth of the matter is I have bad days too and am still learning to bring that to the Lord and let Him lift my burden.”
One of the songs on her current CD addresses that. The title track, “What If We Were Real,” reflects Mandisa’s thoughts about being “tired of smiling all the time and acting like it’s all perfect. Sometimes I just want to scream.” Another cut from the CD, “Stronger,” was inspired by the belief that walking through one’s hardships makes us more resilient.
As you continue your walk with Him, keep the words of Stronger with you when you encounter the inevitable trials that every Christian will face:
Try and do the best you can
Hold on and let Him hold your hand
And go on and fall into the arms of Jesus
Oh, lift your head it’s gonna end
God’s right there
Even when you just can’t feel Him
I promise you that He still cares
MasterWork is an ongoing Bible study curriculum based on works from a variety of renowned authors and offers pertinent, practical messages that adults will find uplifting and enriching. The list of authors and their books to be studied in upcoming months can be found at www.LifeWay.com/MasterWork.
Other ongoing Bible study options for all ages offered by LifeWay can be found at www.LifeWay.com/SundaySchool.
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