Life Journey Ministries

Small Group Bible Study & Prayer Support

I.  Bible Passage(s)

Galatians 5:22 …the fruit of the Spirit is…gentleness

The gentleness of Christ is the consideration of the sinner apart from his/her sin. In other words, love the sinner, hate the sin. For example, in Jesus’ response to the woman who had been caught in the act of adultery, there was no condemnation. He gave her freedom to go and sin no more (John 8:3-11).

All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Self-regard, self-righteousness does nothing to draw sinners to a saving faith in Christ. But a spirit of gentleness creates space for others to experience the love of Christ, the forgiveness of sin.

II. Discussion

1. Sinned is not excused.  However, discuss the wisdom in seeking to know and understand the sinner. Could there be something you don’t know that can explain why he/she sinned?
2. Gentleness is a fruit of the Spirit given to all Christians by faith and through the power of Holy Spirit.  How does a Christ-controlled life enable you to discern the difference between a self-righteous response to sin and resistance to evil?
3. How can you bring gentleness to bear upon practices in your vocational arenas (home, family, friendships, community, and place of employment)?

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.