November 17, 2009 Self-Control

Life Journey Ministries

Small Group Bible Study & Prayer Support

 

I.  Bible Passage(s)

Galatians 5:23 …the fruit of the Spirit is …self-control

 

Say “No” to your own desires?  Just say “No” to your own impulses and the desires of your old nature?  Sound like hard work?

 

Self-control is not an achievement or the determination of your will over the desires of your old nature, but the result of a Christ-controlled life freed to live for God wherever you are.  …For, it is God who works in us to will and to act according to His good purpose (Philippians 2:13).  God’s good purpose is not that you indulge yourself in your old nature, instead, He works in you a life of meaningful work to serve one another and to encourage other believers in their spiritual walk (Galatians 6:10).

 

II. Discussion

1.  Read 2 Peter 1:1-11 about your participation in God’s divine power which is everything you need for life and godliness.

 

2.  Freed to live for God.  In 1 Corinthians 10:23, 31, Paul talks about personal freedom.  Even if your impulses and desires are lawful and not harmful to anyone subject each one to these three tests:

a.  Is it helpful?

b.  Is it constructive?

c.   Is it to the glory of God?

Test a few lawful and not harmful impulses and desires that come to mind.  Pray for God to work on those that fail the tests.

 

III. Connection

1.  Share the high points and low points of your week. Why do you see these as highs and lows? How are they impacting your life right now?

2.  This week I want to thank God for...

3.  This week God is leading me to confess or grow in ..

IV. Prayer & Praise

The prayer of the cross can be a helpful guide for prayer and praise. Simply picture a cross in your mind. Label the top of the cross “Praise and Adoration of God.” Label the base of the cross “Requests.” On the cross bar, label the left side “Confession;” and the right side “Thanks.” These four categories help us keep our prayers well rounded.

Many people make the sign of the cross when they pray. You might like to practice this prayer while making the sign of the cross. Touch your forehead and pray your praises and adoration of God. Touch your chest and pray any requests you may have. Touch your left shoulder and make any confessions the Spirit brings to mind. Touch your right shoulder and pray your thanks.