Sunday School

MEMORY VERSE: “ I will praise thee: for I am fearfully and wonderfully made marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” Psalm 139:14.

BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Samuel 17:33-36.

INTRODUCTION

Dignity represents the core beliefs you have about your worth and value. It is usually a product of one’s background and life’s experiences. It is usually relatívely stable or permanent such that it becomes an enduring determinant of several decisions later in life. Developing a positive sense of your worth is very important and indispensable to good relationship with others. It is important in marriage, corporate setting, ministry and other areas of life.

OUTLINES

1. UNDERSTANDING HUMAN DIGNITY
2. OVERCOMING NEGATIVE SELF- PERCEPTIONS

1. UNDERSTANDING HUMAN DIGNITY

The values we hold in life as a person comes from knowing that God created us in His image and likeness Genesis 1:26-27. God holds each of us deeply in high esteem as His creatures and considers us precious enough to die for every human being Isaiah 43:4; John 3:16. To broaden our understanding, it is important to consider the three major components of human dignity: self-awareness, self-acceptance and self-love.

1. Self-awareness: Self-awareness refers to the ability to recognise our emotional triggers and habits. It also involves identifying our strengths and weaknesses. This knowledge forms the basis of many personal decisions we take Judges 11:9-10; 16:15-19.
2. Self-acceptance: This is a phase that comes to us as we become mature in our understanding of the indices of life. At this stage of our life, we become more patient, compassionate and kind to ourselves as we go through the challenges of life. We understand that making mistakes, experiencing setbacks, loss, or plans not working out as we would like are part of life and being human Job 1:20-22. This removes the tendency to be so anxious or tense about things happening around us and makes us feel confidently secure about the future we have God Philippians 4:6; Matthew 6:27.
3. Self-love: This pushes us to deliberately make effort at eating healthy, listening to our body, taking good care of ourselves, learning to forgive ourselves, letting go of toxic relationships, setting boundaries and saying ‘No’ to others when we should Ecclesiastes 2:10; Genesis 13:7-9. It helps us nurture our strengths and learn to manage our weaknesses.

2. OVERCOMING NEGATIVE SELF- PERCEPTIONS

Negative self-perception often begins in the mind Proverbs 4.23. We must identify and confront harmful thought patterns using scriptures 2 Corinthians 10:5. Replace the lies of inadequacy and low self-esteem peddled by the devil in our heart with the truth of God’s Word John 8:32; Romans 12:2. Stop comparing yourself to others, such comparison will only create discontent and insecurity in our heart 2 Corinthians 10:12 Do not live your life relying on the opinion or approval of others, your dignity as a person is based on God’s approval 1 Thessalonians 2:4. Let go of past mistakes and embrace the new identity you have in Christ Philippians 3:13-14. Accept God’s grace, knowing that His power is made perfect in your weaknesses 2 Corinthians 12:9. Speak positive scriptural words that carry the life of God and affirmation over yourself, aligning your speech with God’s scriptural truth Proverbs 18:21. Practising the attitude of gratitude at all times will help shift focus away from negative thought and toward God’s blessings 1 Thessalonians 5:18.

CONCLUSION

Understanding the importance of human dignity is essential for living a confident and fulfilling life in Christ.

FURTHER READING

Sun: Proverbs 4:23.
Mon: Philippians 3:13 -14.
Tue: Proverbs 18:21.
Wed: 2 Corinthians 2:19.
Thurs: Acts 8:20.
Fri: Romans 12:2.
Sat: Ecclesiastes 2:10

MEMORY VERSE: “And of the children of Issachar, which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do; the heads of them were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their commandment. “ 1 Chronicles 12:32″.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Daniel 2:20-23.

INTRODUCTION

Issachar was the fifth son of Jacob and Leah, and the ninth son overall for the patriarch Genesis 30:18; 35:23. He had four sons Genesis 46:13, and went with his father into Egypt, where he died and was buried. Afterward, his descendants formed one of the tribes of Israel. By the end of the wanderings of Israel through the Sinai desert, they were numbered 64,300 fighting men Numbers 26:23-25. But what is most noticeable thing about them is that at the time of David, they had increased to nearly 90,000 in number, and they were known supremely for their wisdom. They understood the “signs of the times” and how best to live considering the circumstances surrounding
them 1 Chronicles 7:1-5; 12:32.

OUTLINES

1. UNDERSTANDING TIMES AND SEASONS
2. KNOWING WHAT TO DO

1. UNDERSTANDING TIMES AND SEASONS

The Bible tells us that there are various times and seasons Genesis 8:22; Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. Times and seasons are in God’s hands and can change as God wills Daniel 2:21a. To navigate times and seasons, God gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding Daniel 2:21c. He reveals the deep and secret things to His children when they seek Him Deuteronomy 29:29; Daniel 2:22. The Men of Issachar understood the times and always knew what Israel ought to do in every circumstance. It takes a maturing believer to discern the times Hebrews 5:12-14.
“ Understanding the times” also refers to having insight and discernment about the current circumstances, trends, and seasons in which we live Romans 13:11. It involves being aware of the cultural, political, social, and spiritual climate we are in and knowing what to do Daniel 2:27-28 and recognising opportunities and challenges of the times 11 Timothy 4:1-3.

2. KNOWING WHAT TO DO

The men of Issachar did not only understand the signs of the times but knew how to live in the light of them. To know what to do is to be strategic, vision-driven, and full of ideas and skills. Also, it is the ability to:

1. Make informed decisions: Go back to school (get an NVQ, degree, masters, PhD, or relevant professional qualifications), learn a trade, or acquire a skill, or what area to diversify into Genesis 26:1-3.
2. Respond appropriately to challenges and opportunities Genesis 26:12-22; Matthew 2:13-14; John 2:3-5.
3. Live wisely and authentically: a life of purpose, consequence, impact, and influence for the cause of Christ, Genesis 39:7-9; 1 Peter 3:10-11.
4. Engage in kingdom activities Ecclesiastes 12:1; Matthew 6:33.
5. Fulfil your purpose and calling daily, John 18:37.

CONCLUSION

The Men of Issachar were recognised for their ability to correctly interpret the political and spiritual climate of their time and provide guidance on how to navigate it. They were sought out for their counsel and played an important role in the leadership of Israel. You can be like them.

FURTHER READING

Sun: Genesis 1:14.
Mon: Psalm 62:8.
Tues: Isaiah 33:6.
Wed: Psalm 34:1
Thurs: Matthew 16:3.
Fri: Acts 14:15-17.
Sat: 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6.

THIRD QUARTERLY REVIEW

MEMORY VERSE: “ Traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God.” 2 Timothy 3:4.

BIBLE PASSAGE: 2 Peter 2:13-14.

INTRODUCTION

Lovers of pleasures referred to here are those who have made priority the physical gratifying or indulgence of their personal desires in their dealings in life. Such sensual gratifications have become their god with a small ‘g’; and therefore, they love and serve them instead of the true living God. These people live for pleasure without restraints and are overly concerned with their interests above others. Paul, in 2 Timothy 3:1-4 states lovers of pleasures as a sign of the last days. He used the Greek word ‘philodonos’ meaning “lovers of pleasures” to emphasise that society will become engrossed and obsessed with the pursuit of their comfort, happiness, wellbeing and pleasure to the exclusion of all else that might matter. We shall examine the dangers of sensual pleasures and remind ourselves how to make priority the bringing of pleasure to God in all we do.

OUTLINES

1. DANGERS OF SENSUAL PLEASURES
2. CREATED FOR GOD’S PLEASURE

1. DANGERS OF SENSUAL PLEASURES

Sensual pleasure is a fleshy, physically gratifying desire or worldly pleasure that naturally extinguishes all love and sense of God 2 Timothy 3:2-5. Some of the inherent dangers of these types of pleasures include: the word of God having no root in them because of the cares of this world and love for the pleasures of life Luke 8:14. Those who are given to sensual pleasures are careless in the way they live Isaiah 47:8. Their incessant love for pleasures often results in poverty because of misplaced priorities or mismanagement of resources they have Proverbs 21:16-17. They are sold out to lustful desires and turn a blind eye to God’s way Titus 3:3; Romans 1:32.These people will come under divine judgement because they take pleasure in sin 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12; 1 John 5:17a.It is rather unfortunate that these people are spiritually dead while they live to satisfy only sensual pleasures Romans 8:6; 1 Timothy 5:6. The reward of unrighteousness awaits them 2 Peter 2:13.

Those who take pleasure in fleshly lusts are not subject to God’s law and experience limited spiritual growth because they refuse to leave the baby stage of faith choosing rather to keep exhibiting other carnal traits like strife, envy, etc. Romans 8:7; 1 Corinthians 3:1-3. Those in this category are committed to satisfying themselves and pursue after mundane or earthly relevant things. Their ‘god’ is whatever their belly delights in Numbers 11:4; Philippians 2:21; Philippians 3:18-19. When every man is eager for what he can get, and anxious to keep what he has, this makes men dangerous to one another.

2. CREATED FOR GOD’S PLEASURE

We are created for God’s pleasure, and we must as a priority give Him glory and honour all the time Revelation 4:11. One of the ways to give God glory is to acknowledge Him in all that we do Proverbs 3:6; Jeremiah 9.23-24; when this is done in complete obedience, it is opens the way for God to bless us with all – round prosperity in all we do Job 36:11. We honour God when we surrender totally to Him Psalm 37:5; 55:22.

We also give pleasure to God when we do the following: live uprightly 1 Chronicles 29:17; stay away from anything that defiles us in anyway Ezra 10:10; 2 Corinthians 6:14; trust Him enough to totally to do His will Psalm 36:7-8; Psalm 103:21; seek to know Him by cultivating a deeper personal walk with Him daily Genesis 5:24; Hebrews 11:5; fear Him and hope in His mercy Psalm 147:10-11.

CONCLUSION

Love God and serve Him passionately; carnal pleasure is enmity against God. Love not the world!

FURTHER READING

Sun: 1 John 2:16.
Mon: Proverbs 21:17.
Tues: 1 Peter 4:3.
Wed: Titus 2:11-13.
Thurs: Colossians 3:2.
Fri: Mark 4:19.
Sat: 2 Peter 2:13.

MEMORY VERSE: “ Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye whích are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” Galatians 6:1.

BIBLE PASSAGE: 2 Corinthians 2:5-8.

INTRODUCTION

A soldier is a person who serves in a military organisation of a nation such as the Army, Navy or Air force. Christians are soldiers of Christ who have pledged loyal allegiance to the Kingdom of the God, called out from the darkness of the world to fight for the faith we profess in Jesus. No wonder Apostle Paul says …endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ 2 Timothy 2:3. However, the Christian soldier may be wounded during this fight. This may be due to the enemy’s attack, sin, carelessness, backsliding, loss, betrayal, hurt, being aggrieved, backstabbing, etc. This injury must be treated and the wounded soldirer restored so that the person is not completely lost.

OUTLINES

1. DISCIPLINE AND COMPASSION
2. RESTORATION

1. DISCIPLINE AND COMPASSION

The Christian soldier who sustains an injury due to sin, misbehaviour, carelessness, avoidable mistakes, etc. should be disciplined in love and according to God’s word so that the person may learn and serve as an example to others 1 Timothy 5:20. The time of discipline must be appropriately defined commensurate to the offence with the aim of providing a time of reflection and restoration at the end of it. The offender must know why the discipline is being enforced. Correction may seem grievous to the offender, but it is the son that the father loves,that he chastises Proverbs 15:10; Hebrews 12:7-8. 11.
If the injured soldier of Christ suffers personal or ministerial losses, they must be shown enough compassion until they are fully re-established back to the faith in full Romans 12:15; Galatians 6:1. Those who suffer from unjust treatment, backstabbing, hurt, neglect etc. must be attended to by those who know the truth to correct the injustice they have suffered as much as possible Acts 6:1-3; Romans 12:17-21.

2. RESTORATION

Restoring the wounded soldier is a process which would require the following:

1. LOVE: Genuine love must play an active role in the restoration process. God disciplined David when he committed adultery, but he did not dethrone or kill him 2 Samuel 12:12-14; Romans 12:9-10.
2. BUILD A STRONG SUPPORT SYSTEM: A good network of faithful believers must provide the necessary succour and a good support for the wounded soldier in their time of difficulty or vulnerability Galatians 6:1-2.
3. NEVER LEAVE THE WOUNDED SOLDIER ALONE: We must not allow the wounded soldier to be all alone; this may worsen the person’s state rather than heal it. Acts 20:35; Romans 15:1.
4. CARE AND VISIT: Our visitation must be deliberate and purposeful. We must take time to comfort with words from the scriptures and using good practical examples. We must also take time to pray for and with the wounded soldier Romans 12:5; 15:4.
5. NEVER HOLD A GRUDGE: The wounded soldier who has gone through a season disciplined or hurt does not need to be constantly criticised for their past misdemeanours before others because ‘being down does not mean being out’ Proverbs 12:18; Matthew 7:1-2; Romans 14:4.
6. THEY ARE NOT A PLAGUE: We must never treat the wounded soldier as someone with a contagious sickness who needs to be avoided rather, we must seek after the well-being of the wounded soldier so that the person does not go down into depression or another sin 1 Corinthians 12:25-26.
7. DO NOT BELITTLE THEM: We must consciously lift this wounded soldier up and never crush such a person through any negative attitude 1 Peter 2:17; Matthew 7:12.
8. BE OPEN TO CORRECTION: The wounded soldier must also be open to correction and comfort of the Holy Ghost Proverbs 12:1;
   2 Samuel 12:13 to be fully restored into the fold Philemon 1:10-12.

CONCLUSION

The wounded soldier must be recovered and fully restored. God desires that many would come to repentance and be saved from damnation.

FURTHER READING

Sun: Acts 6:1-3.
Mon: Matthew 7:1-2
Tues: Proverbs 12:1.
Wed: Corinthians 12:25-26.
Thurs: Galatians 6:1-2.
Fri: 1 Timothy 5:20.
Sat: Philemon 1:10-12.

MEMORY VERSE: “He hath made everything beautiful in His time: also, he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.”Ecclesiastes 3:11.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Acts 1:6-8.

INTRODUCTION

God’s timing is critically important in life Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. It is the perfect moment He has ordained for something to happen according to His will. It may be difficult for us to understand because divine timing might not fit into our own desired timeline or desires, nevertheless, it is always perfect in the end. God is accomplishing His divine purposes in our lifetimes from before our birth until the moment we take our last breath. Sometimes, a thing can be a great idea and of God, but it must be in God’s timing for it to be successful.

OUTLINES

1. THE NATURE OF GOD’S TIME
2. UNDERSTANDING GOD’S TIMING

1. THE NATURE OF GOD’S TIME

God’s timing is perfect. His timing is never early, and it is never late John 11:21-23. It is always purposeful Ecclesiastes 8:6a. He works all things for good in the lives of those who love Him Romans 8:28. God is in complete control of everything and everyone from everlasting to
everlasting Psalm 31:15a; Job 12:10. This is why Jesus told His disciples to focus on their primary assignment rather than get worried about the time of the establishment of His kingdom on earth Acts 1:6-8.

It is not unlikely that we question God’s timing in our journey of life especially when we are in a difficult situation Psalm 34:19. God knows exactly where we are in our lives at every moment Psalm 103:14-15: Psalm 139:7-8. He either put us there or is allowing us to be there, all for His own perfect purpose Job 2.1-6. Sometimes. God often uses hard times to strengthen us, allowing our Christian faith to mature and become complete James 1:3-4; Romans 5:3-5; 1 Peter 5:10. God’s timing is beautiful as it gives opportunity to receive divine direction Psalm 37:23, and an assurance of a future and a hope Jeremiah 29:11; Hebrews 10:36.

2.  UNDERSTANDING GOD’S TIMING

The key to understanding God’s timing is trust. Since human reasoning and understanding is limited, the Bible advises in Proverbs 3:5, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” We should not stubbornly insist on our own timings and agenda Proverbs 16:25; Psalm 37:23. Also, we need to know God to truly trust Him Philippians 3:10. The best way to know Him is by studying, meditating and obeying His word Psalm 119:105, Joshua 1:8. This will help us to discern God’s timing and make informed decisions 1 Chronicles 12:32.

We must learn to wait patiently for God Psalm 37:7 because God is good to those who wait for Him Lamentations 3:25. Our patience often reveals the degree of trust we have in God’s timing. When we wait on the LORD, we receive divine energy and strength Isaiah 40:31; Psalm 27:14.

While waiting, it is important we stay connected to God through prayer 1 Thessalonians 5:17. Finally, to understand God’s timing and make the right decisions at the right time we need the help of the Holy Spirit Isaiah 30:21.

CONCLUSION

God’s timing is the best; do not run behind or ahead of Him. Run alongside with Him.

FURTHER READING

Sun: Habakkuk 2:3.
Mon: Ecclesiastes 3:1.
Tues: Psalm 27:14.
Wed: Galatians 6:9.
Thurs: Psalm 31:15.
Fri: 2 Pet. 3:8.
Sat: Psalm 37.7

MEMORY VERSE: “ To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.” Ecclesiastes 3:1.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8.

INTRODUCTION

There are various seasons of life for every individual. These seasons of our lives will continue to change for as long as the Lord keeps us alive to witness them Genesis 8:22. Those who are wise must constantly remind themselves that no matter what difficulties we may be passing through now or at any stage of our life, there will be a change for the better in due time because change in life is constant. Accepting this obvious fact once and for all will make us enjoy life itself. It is therefore important for us to understand God’s role and how to live consciously.

OUTLINES

1. GOD MODERATES ALL THINGS!
2. LIVE LIFE ON PURPOSE

1. GOD MODERATES ALL THINGS!

From the very beginning of the creation of this earth, the Almighty God Himself made sure that there was no uniformity in His creation. He made light and darkness, day and night, male and female, etc. Genesis 1:5,27. The different varieties of His creation eradicated potential boredom. Can you imagine a world in which man experiences only darkness? All these different seasons are what makes life interesting Ecclesiastes 3:11.

Likewise,seasons of joy comes when we celebrate success, victory,breakthrough, promotion and good achievements, etc Psalm 118:24 while seasons of sorrow causes sadness, grief and lamentations because of loss,failure, defeats, demotion, betrayal, etc Psalm 116:3. A season of abundance comes with so much available to use and even share Isaiah 7: 21-22; 1 Kings 10:27 at other times however, one can also experience season of lack and struggle 2 Kings 6:25-30. Season of health comes with physical fitness and sound mind Psalm 105:37; Genesis 43:28; Season of sickness can be filled with pain, ache, and discomfort 2 kings 20:1; John 11:1-3.

Other seasons may include season of progress and season of stagnation Exodus 14:1-3, 13-16; season of growth and season of deterioration Genesis 41:29-31; season of strength and season of weakness 1 Kings 19:1-3; season of answered prayers and season of waiting/unanswered prayers Job 14:14-15; 2 Corinthians 12:9. In every season, the Almighty God is the great moderator of all. He will not allow a season you cannot survive to come your way 1 Corinthians 10:13.

2.  LIVE LIFE ON PURPOSE

Knowing that there are seasons in life gives us hope that no matter the conditions that we are in, there will always be a better change Job 14:14. We should therefore not despair if the season we are in is not as bright and as promising as we would have liked it to be 2 Corinthians 4:8-10. A new season is on its way Psalm 30:5. The new season will usher in beauty for your ashes, unspeakable joy and blessings Isaiah 61:3.

Believers must prepare for all seasons of life Job 2:10. Pray for a good season and always rejoice in the fact that all things (seasons) work together for our good Romans 8:28.

CONCLUSION

Believers are not immune to negative seasons but are blessed with the assurance of God’s presence even when it does not look or feel like it. Isaiah 35:4.

FURTHER READING

Sun: Leviticus 26:3-6.
Mon: Deuteronomy 28:12.
Tue: 2 Chronicles 15:1- 4.
Wed: Psalm 1:1-3.
Thurs: Daniel 2:21.
Fri: John 5:4.
Sat: Galatians 6:9.

MEMORY VERSE: “ Let all things be done decently and in order.” 1 Corinthians 14:40.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Titus 3:1-2.

INTRODUCTION

Etiquette. according to Oxford dictionary, is defined as code (specific rules) of polite behaviour within a culture, society or professional group. Etiquette makes one behave in a responsible way distinct from animals. It is applicable to various fields of life: social, professional business, spiritual, etc. When an individual display respect for rules of behaviour, we say that person has good etiquette or manners. The Bible equally advises us as believers to apply decency and orderliness in whatever we do 1 Corinthians 14:40. Hence, it is necessary for believers to be guided in their dealings and interactions with others.

OUTLINES

1. THE NEED FOR SOCIAL ETIQUETTES
2. SOME SOCIAL ETIQUETTES

1. THE NEED FOR SOCIAL ETIQUETTES

Social etiquettes are important to be followed, this stops people around us from being embarrassed by our behaviour Colossians 4:6. We should not behave irrationally or illogically in public especially as God’s childrenTitus 3:1-2. Without etiquette, members of society would show far too much impatience and disrespect for one another 1 Peter 3:8. Etiquette makes us cultured people who leave their marks wherever they go 1 Peter 2:9. It teaches us mannerism: the way to eat, talk, walk and most importantly behave in the society Proverbs 23:1-2; 1 Peter 2:13. It is essential for a lasting first impression Philippians 4:5a. The way you interact with your superiors, parents, fellow workers, friends, etc. speaks a lot about your personality and up-bringing Proverbs 18:24 Etiquette enables the individual to earn respect and appreciation in the society Luke 6:31. Etiquette helps to value relationships Proverbs 25:17.

2. SOME SOCIAL ETIQUETTES

1. When invited to a social gathering, do not be in a hurry to take the front seat until your host brings you up Proverbs 25:6-7; Luke 14:7-11.
2. Do not call someone more than twice continuously on phone. If they do not pick up your call, presume they have something important to attend to Matthew 7:1.
3. Return money or anything that you have borrowed even before the other person remembers asking for it.It shows your integrity and character Psalm 37:21.
4. Always be modest. Be careful not to order the expensive dish on the menu when someone is giving
   you lunch/dinner. Do not use the opportunity to takeundue advantage of your host. Also avoid taking friends along except on request Proverbs 23:1-2.
5. If you take a taxi with a friend and he/she pays,try paying next time Hebrews 10:24.
6. Never comment negatively on someone’s weight or physical features in the public Psalm 139:14.
7. For ladies, avoid sitting carelessly. It is advisable to cross your legs at the ankle. For men, always be a gentleman’ Rudeness is never manly Titus 3:2.
8. When someone shows you a photo on their phone, do not swipe left or right, you never know what next. 1 Corinthians 16:13 -14.
9. If a colleague tells you they have a doctor’s appointment, do not ask what for, just say ‘hope you’re okay?’ Do not put them in uncomfortable position of having to say what they do not want to say.
10. Do not be ‘a busy body’ in other people’s matter 1 Timothy 5:13; 1 Peter 4:15.
    In addition, you should not rush for food or chairs in a large gathering. Do not jump queue in public places, drive against traffic or break traffic laws. Avoid littering the environment with rubbish. Do not use reckless slangs (‘s**t’,’f**k’, etc.). Flagrant disregard for decorum, lack of table manners and improper dressing should be avoided.

CONCLUSION

We must consciously guard our utterances and conducts as good representatives of Christ everywhere we go 2 Corinthians 5:20.#

FURTHER READING

Sun: Psalm 101:2.
Mon: 1 Timothy 3:15.
Tues: 1 Peter 4:15.
Wed: Proverbs 23:1-2.
Thurs: Psalm 37:21.
Fri: Proverbs 25:6-7.
Sat: 1 Corinthians 16:13.

MEMORY VERSE: “ For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.” 1 Timothy 4:8.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Daniel 1:12-15.

INTRODUCTION

While it is good to pay serious attention to critical aspects of our lives like work/career, family, fellowship with God, ministry, we should not neglect our health Acts 27:34; 1 Timothy 5:23. Without knowing it,we put our health at risk, resulting in health problems that could range from minor to chronic or severe.

OUTLINES

1. HEALTH IS WEALTH!
2. TOP TIPS FOR HEALTHY LIVING

1. HEALTH IS WEALTH!

God created us spirit-beings after His own image,yet He gave us physical bodies to interact with this Earth while we live in worship of Him. Genesis 1:26-27; Genesis 2:7; John 4:24. God is very concerned about our physical health Jeremiah 30:17. It is therefore our responsibility as part of our act of gratitude to God to prioritise our health because our bodies are God’s temple Romans 12:1;1 Corinthians 6:19 This physical container of our body enable us as spirit beings to exist and interact wíth the physical world without which we would be unable to fulfil God’s purpose for us Genesis 1:28; 2:7.

Taking care of our bodies is also important because:
1.Good health is God’s will for us Jeremiah 30:17.
2. Without good health, it is impossible to serve God Mark 5:18-20.
3. Being in good health brings glory to God Acts 3:8-10.
4. It increases our productivity in every aspect of our lives Proverbs 31:17.
5. Living healthy increases our self-dignity Daniel 1:12-15
6. It is less expensive than ill- health Mark 5:25-26
7. We need to live healthy to be able to fulfil purpose Philippians 2:25-28.

2. TOP TIPS FOR HEALTHY LIVING

First and foremost, we need to involve God in our desire to be healthy: God will ensure that we are healthy when we obey/fear Him and depart from evil Proverbs 4:20-22; Proverbs 3:7- 8. It is important to renew our mind because negative thoughts and mindset can be detrimental to our mental health Romans 12:2. Practically, we must minimise the intake of sugar and ultra processed food. Eat more of whole grains, fruits and vegetables Genesis 1:29; Daniel 1:8, 12-15. Always stay hydrated, drink water in sufficient quantities especially during the day. Engaging in regular exercise will aid blood circulation in our body 1 Timothy 4:8a. We must ensure that we walk more than sit in one position for long periods at a stretch as this is detrimental to our health. Spending time outdoor and reducing screen time will prevent eye problem and brain malfunction while promoting general health. Be mindful of what you consume Proverbs 23:1-3, 20-21; 1 Corinthians 10:31 steer clear of alcoholic/strong drinks or psychedelic drugs: it damages the organs and the emotional well-being of its victims Proverbs 20:1; 31:6.

CONCLUSION

What we eat or drink is our first medicine. Take good care of yourself.

FURTHER READING

Sun: Jeremiah 30:17.
Mon: Mark 5:18-20.
Tues: Daniel 1:8, 12-15.
Wed: Proverbs 20:1.
Thurs: Acts 3:8-10.
Fri: Proverbs 31:17.
Sat: Proverbs 23:20-21

MEMORY VERSE: Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. Hebrews 13:4.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 49:1-4.

INTRODUCTION

Simply put, the ‘marriage bed’ describes the sacredness of the sexual intimacy between husband and wife. Ideally, it is a place of genuine love, faithfulness, longing and mutual satisfaction between a husband and his wife Song of Solomon 1:15-16. The marriage institution must be highly esteemed among all and the sanctity of the ‘marriage bed’ must be held in honour and not contaminated through sexual immorality Hebrews 13:4. God will judge and punish the unchaste and adulterous person. Faithfulness in marriage is important.

OUTLINES

1. NO UNHOLY ALLIANCE!
2. KEEP IT PURE

1. NO UNHOLY ALLIANCE!

The marriage bed will be defiled when the couple become unfaithful in their union by seeking sexual satisfaction outside marriage Hebrews 13:4. This impurity may stem from being involved in any form of adultery which Proverbs 6:32 depicts as a lack of understanding and destruction to the soul. All acts of fornication 1 Corinthians 10:8a, extramarital affairs with another person or involvement in any form of sexual immorality are abominable before God Romans 1:27-28; Leviticus 18:6, 17, 20, 23.

Other sexual activities that corrupt the marriage relationship include lustful thoughts and actions which defile the marriage bed 1 Peter 2:11; Matthew 5:28; Proverbs 6:25-29. Exposure to illicit sexually explicit materials Ephesians 5-5. Adulterous eyes that ultimately lead to ungodly sexual activities that ultimately lead to breaking of marriage vows 2 Peter 2:14; Proverbs 6:25b: Proverbs 7:10-23. Flirting Song of Solomon 3:5; 2 Timothy 3:13. Emotional cheating such as phone sex/digital intimacy with the opposite sex Romans 6:12-14. Suggestive moves that lead sexual temptations Proverbs 7: 16-19.

2.  KEEP IT PURE

Any form of infidelity in marriage displeases God Hebrews 13:4b. As a married couple, you have the responsibility to preserve the sanctity of your marriage bed 1 Corinthians 7:2-5. Couples should discuss with each other any untoward sexual pressure from a third party and seek godly counsel, if necessary, Proverbs 11:14. Couples must be sincere to identify any areas of sexual dis-satisfaction they experience during times of intimacy and wisely work at making it better Ecclesiastes 4:9- 10. Deliberately learn and grow your sexual intimacy together in the fear of God. Be a united force and uproot any stranger to your marriage bed Proverbs 5:3-6. Enjoy what you have and be content with your spouse Proverbs 5:15.

Flee from seductive influencers that sow seeds of lust in our hearts 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5. Constantly renew your mind with God’s word Psalm 119:11. Practice self-control Proverbs 25:28. Always remember that the pleasure of sin is for a moment, but the consequences are grave and could last a lifetime Proverbs 20:17. Evade the wrath of God and abstain from sexual infidelity because God will not hold anyone guiltless 1 Corinthians 6:9; Proverbs 6:29. Avoid toxic friends that could corrupt your marriage relationships Proverbs 1:10; 13-20.

CONCLUSION

The sexual activities of married people must remain sacred as the partners remain faithful to each other irrespective of time or distance.

FURTHER READING

Sun: Hebrews 13:4
Mon: Proverbs 20:17.
Tues: Proverbs 6:32.
Wed: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10.
Thurs: Proverbs 11:14.
Fri: 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5.
Sat: Proverbs 1:10.