Life Journey Ministries

Small Group Bible Study & Prayer Support

I.  Bible Passage(s)

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

God is rich in His kindness of which we have benefitted greatly!  All through the ages He has shown the incomparable riches of His grace, expressed in His kindness to us in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:7).

Kindness is part of that “new attitude,” or what Paul calls “new clothing” (Colossians 3:2) that we receive through our walk with the Holy Spirit from baptism.  It shows our compassion, mercy and consideration of others toward them as we gently, graciously, and generously lift them up.  Kindness is caring enough to provide a safe and welcoming space for the other to experience the love of God.

II. Discussion

1. As a result of your walk with the Holy Spirit, what do you see differently about others?
2. How has kindness affected you? Your relationships with co-workers, family, others? With yourself?
3. If kindness is a rare commodity in your vocational arenas, what can you do to change that?
4. Write a thank you note to those who have shown you brotherly kindness on account of their faith in Christ Jesus

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.