Life Journey Ministries
Small Group Bible Study & Prayer Support

I. Bible Passage

Galatians 5:6b - The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself in love.

The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.  Love has value!  It is a fruit of the Spirit – a work of the Holy Spirit in us, a result of Christ’s control in our life and not something we can obtain through our own efforts.

In his book, Loving People, Dr. John Townsend defines love simply as “seeking and doing the best for others.”  He goes on to say that when Christ is in control of our life, our heart, mind and energy is bent toward the betterment of someone else.  “That is what loving people do. It involves the whole person.  It is ongoing… and it is intentional” (pg.19).

We often compartmentalize our faith; faith is something we do on Sunday – while marketplace values occupy the rest of our days. To some extent we have even been programmed to believe that faith has no place in our work.  Like politics, religion is often looked upon as taboo in the market place – so much so that it can further create compartmentalization of our life of faith and our life of work.  It does not have to be that way! As we live out the fruits of our faith (not the traditions of our religion) in the marketplace we can be change agents through the work of the Holy Spirit.

II. Discussion

1. Discuss the notion that love has value in doing and being what is most helpful for someone, for some situation.
   
2. If love is other-oriented and other focused, what would you have to take on to become more aware and open to loving and/or making an intention for the betterment, safety, healing, growth, success, and responsible behavior of those you work for and with?  What would you have to give up?
3. In your work place, who would you like the Holy Spirit to give you an intention to love (seek and do for the betterment of another)?  Will you commit to be accountable to this group for working out His intention with this person or situation?
   

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 ...

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

Remember that love is an action word, an intentional seeking 
and doing what is best for the other.