Sunday School

MEMORY VERSE: “By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.” Hebrews 11:31.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Joshua 2:1-6, 12-13

INTRODUCTION

The story of Rahab is one of the thought-provoking accounts in the bible. The occasion that projected her into the ‘hall of faith’ is that of a great faith in the God of Israel whom she knew almost nothing about. She rose from being a harlot to a joint heir in the Abrahamic covenant and eventually got a space in the lineage of Jesus Christ Matthew 1:5. Her life gives us a deeper insight into what God can do with the lives of every sinner who comes to Him.

OUTLINE

1.HER CHARACTER

2. ACHIEVEMENTS AND LESSONS FROM HER LIFE

1.HER CHARACTER

Rahab in hebrew means wide, she lived in the 12th century B.C. she was a canaanite harlot who lived in Jericho city Joshua 2:5. She rented rooms to travellers and visitors who came into the city. This explains why the two spies sent by Joshua found lodging in her house.

Her character is that of a selfless woman who saved her household with great negotiation skills Joshua 2:12-13. She knew what to do with the information at her disposal. Rahab asked the two Israeli spies to ‘swear by the Lord,’ this demonstrated her faith in the only true God. She was discerning enough to know that her city would be overthrown. In her wisdom, she joined herself to the winning side Joshua 2:9-10.

2. ACHIEVEMENTS AND LESSONS FROM HER LIFE

ACHIEVEMENTS
She skillfully hid the spies to prevent the king of Jericho from capturing and executing them Joshua 2:6. This act of kindness earned her salvation from destruction Joshua 6:25. She believed all the stories about the God of Israel even without seeing them Joshua 2:10.

Rahab was a skilful negotiator; she selflessly made the spies swear to spare her and her household Joshua 2:13. The book of Hebrews named her among faith heroes in the old Testament Hebrews 11:31. James records her as being ‘justified by works’ James 2:25. Mathew lists in the lineage of Jesus Christ Matthew 1:15.

LESSONS FROM HER LIFE

Rahab stepped out of her harlotry into faith in God. So, anyone can change from bad to good Isaiah 1:18. We should show kindness to all people especially those who believe in God, just as Rahab did to the spies Romans 12:21; Galatians 6:10. She walked by faith and not by sight Joshua 2:9-12. We also expected to walk by faith 2 Corinthians 5:7. Just as she ensured the safety of her household Joshua 2:18-21, every child of God should ensure the salvation of their family Acts 16;31.

Furthermore, she was diligent enough to follow instructions Joshua 2:18; 6:22-23. Likewise, believers must carefully follow right instructions Proverbs 4:13.

CONCLUSION

Rahab is a typical example of God’s transformative power towards anyone who puts their trust in Him, do not write yourself or anyone off.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN:Joshua 2:1-6
MON: Isaiah 1:18
TUE: Proverbs 4:13
WED: Acts 16:31
THUR: Hebrews 11:31
FRI: Joshua 2:9-12
SAT: Joshua 2:18-21

MEMORY VERSE: “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” 2 Timothy 4:2.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Romans 10:13-15

INTRODUCTION

One ministry assignment that every believer has been called to do is to reconcile people to God through intentional witnessing of Christ or evangelism 2 Corinthians 5:17-18. It is the act of preaching the gospel for the purpose of sharing the message and teachings of Jesus Christ to all those around us in our communities irrespective of their ethnicity. In simple terms, evangelism on the go is to be busy, active, and innovative with the preaching of the gospel of Jesus. Different channels must be employed to reach the lost with the gospel of salvation. The preaching of the gospel is a serious spiritual commission assigned to us by the master. It must be consciously, consistently, and conscientiously done by all believers.

OUTLINE

1.THE FATHER’S BUSINESS

2. OUR BUSINESS TOO

1.THE FATHER’S BUSINESS

The preaching of the gospel to the spiritually lost is so important that Jesus said he was specifically anointed by his father for this purpose Luke 4:18. He also reiterated this point in Luke 4:43 when He said preaching the kingdom of God is compulsory for Him because that was why He was sent into this world. God is so concerned for the lost because He does not want any spiritually lost to perish in hell Matthew 18:14. Jesus also said He came to the world to save the lost Matthew 18:11. Jesus in the parable of the lost sheep, illustrated the importance of a soul when the shepherd left 99 sheep to go after one lost sheep- soul Matthew 18:12. Speaking of how it is necessary for him to preach the gospel, apostle Paul placed a curse on himself, if he failed to preach the gospel 1 Corinthians 9:16. He also boldly declared that he was sent to preach the gospel 1 Corinthians 1:17a. The value of a soul is so much that there is rejoicing in heaven when one soul repents of their evil ways and turns to god Luke 15:7.

2. OUR BUSINESS TOO

Preaching the gospel to the lost is a serious occupation Jesus handed to his followers, when He gave the command to go in Mark 16:15. This kingdom business must be done with zeal and divine wisdom John 4:34; Ecclesiastes 10:10. It is an all -time trade Luke 9:60. There is no room for giving up in this occupation of witnessing Jesus Acts 5:42.

As a good businessman, you must be strategic, creative and seize every opportunity to talk to people about Jesus Acts 26:27-29; 1 Corinthians 9:19-23. This business must be done sacrificially, it may not be convenient at times, but you must still go ahead and witness Jesus 2 Timothy 4:2. As a business is driven by focus, the goal of evangelism is to make Jesus known, and win souls for him 1 Corinthians 2:2; Romans 1:14-15. Business owners attract people to themselves using various strategies; so, you must live in such a way that everything you do preaches Jesus to others; live evangelism Galatians 2:20; 1 Corinthians 11:1. This business must flourish in your hand as you continue to witness about Christ to souls Acts 8:5-6; Daniel 12:3.

A successful business goes beyond a generation; in the same vein, the witness of Christ must go to the next generation 2 Timothy 1:5; 2:2. God must be at the heart of every successful evangelism effort; therefore,intensive prayer is needed. The trademark of this business is Jesus, who is the sole message Colossians 1:27-28. Time is of the essence in business, do not waste any opportunity for preaching Jesus to the lost John 4:35.

CONCLUSION

Evangelism is a serious kingdom business. Be actively involved.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN:Jonah 3:2
MON: Matthew 4:17
TUE: Matthew 10:7
WED: Luke 4:18
THUR: Acts 10:42
FRI: Romans 10:8
SAT: 2 Timothy 4:2

MEMORY VERSE: “For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.” Matthew 24:7

BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 24:6-8

INTRODUCTION

Natural disasters challenge the christian belief that God is good. The enormous loss of lives and properties resulting from pandemics, earthquakes, floods, etc, is terrible and tragic. Our grief and even our anger are human, but no one grieves more than the lord himself Hebrews 4:15. Christ is moved by the afflictions we suffer and even weeps over our pains John 11:35. Could the God who loves us also be the one to destroy us? How do we reconcile the mercy of God in Christ with his permission of natural disasters in our world today?

OUTLINE

1.PROFILE OF NATURAL DISASTERS

2. WHY GOD ALLOWS IT

1.PROFILE OF NATURAL DISASTERS

Natural disasters are catastrophic events with atmospheric, geological, or hydrological origins. It is a major adverse event resulting from natural processes of the earth; examples include firestorms, dust storms, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunamis, storms, and other geologic processes. A natural disaster can cause loss of lives or damage properties and typically leaves some economic damages in its wake, the severity of which depends on the affected population’s resilience or on the infrastructure available Luke 21:11.

God created the whole universe and the laws of nature Genesis 1:1. Most natural disasters are as a result of these laws at work. For instance, hurricanes, typhoons, and tornados are the results of divergent weather patterns colliding. Earthquakes are the result of the earth’s plate structure shifting. A tsunami is caused by an underwater earthquake.

Natural disasters differ from God’s use of natural forces, as recorded in the Bible. Natural disasters kill and maim indiscriminately. God’s acts of judgement recorded in the Bible were selective genesis 19:29-30. Natural disasters usually strike with little or no warning. On the other hand, God gave warnings to the wicked before using natural forces against them Genesis 6:13; Matthew 24:38-39.

2. WHY GOD ALLOWS IT

It is distressing that natural disasters are often termed “acts of God” while no “credit” is given to God for years, decades, or even centuries of peace and stability.

However, generally, God allows natural disasters so as:

1. To serve as warning for unbelievers; disasters are warnings, and unbelievers often turn to God for the first time when they face a tornado or an earthquake Revelations 11:13; 16:18.
2. To remind us that even nature was affected by sin; natural disasters remind us that nature, while beautiful, is broken and cursed Genesis 3:17-18.
3. To establish god’s supremacy over man; some disasters give no warning even with all the science and technology a country can afford to put in place Psalm 115:3.
4. To indicate the beginning of the last days: they are signs of the end times Matthew 24:3, 7.
5. To allow cause and effect to operate independently; some natural disasters are a result of man’s abuse and damages to the natural environment Ecclesiastes 7:29.
6. To give believers the opportunity to demonstrate God’s love to humanity by helping, ministering, counselling, praying, and leading people to the saving faith in Christ acts 11:28-30; Galatians 6:10.
7. To establish God’s judgement upon the wicked Genesis 18:20; 19:24-25.

CONCLUSION

God can, and does, bring great good out of terrible tragedies Romans 8:28.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: Genesis 6:17
MON: Proverbs 24:22
TUE: Isaiah 17:11
WED: Isaiah 51:19
THUR: Jeremiah 46:8
FRI: Lamentation 1:1
SAT: Ezekiel 25:7

MEMORY VERSE: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff comfort me.” Psalm 23:4

BIBLE PASSAGE: Job 3:23-26.

INTRODUCTION

Depression is misunderstood by many, and it often carries a stigma. It can distort one’s perception of reality or make people doubt their judgement. Only those who have gone through depression can comprehend how terrible the experience can be. Finding healing is possible but this may take time. Some people may give the wrong advice because they do not understand depression. Therefore, it is important to find out the truth about depression and tips that can help people going through it.

OUTLINE

1.SOME WRONG PRE-CONCEPTIONS

2. HELPFUL TIPS FOR THE DEPRESSED

1.SOME WRONG PRE-CONCEPTIONS

SOME WRONG PRE-CONCEPTIONS

1. Preconception: Depression is not real.                                                                                                                                                                                                     Reality : Depression is a real illness that impacts the brain’s ability to operate as it should.
2. Preconception: Depression is a sin. Being depressed means you are failing to trust God.                                                                                                             Reality: Depression is a mental illness, not a sin.
3. Preconception: Depression will go away if you pray hard enough or have enough faith.                                                                                                              Reality: Depression is a serious illness that usually needs prayer plus treatment. God gave doctors and mental health professionals the understanding and skills to help those who are suffering.
4. Preconception: Depression is a punishment from God. If you feel depressed, it is because you have not confessed your sins John 9:1-3.                    Reality: Depression is not the fault of the person who is suffering. It is a trial that can redefine someone’s faith, but it is not a punishment for sin.
5. Preconception: People with depression are unstable and cannot be trusted with church leadership or responsibilities.                                                      Reality: Depression and other mental illnesses do not disqualify people from leadership or church roles except during times of ‘deep depression’. The experience can give people compassion or perspective in a way that makes them good leaders 1 Samuel 30:1-10.
6. Preconception: It is shameful to discuss mental illness openly.                                                                                                                                                           Reality: Church community should be a safe space for people to discuss mental health without prejudice.
7. Preconception: You can always tell if someone is depressed by outward appearances or actions.                                                                                              Reality: You cannot always tell that someone is depressed from how they look or act. Some depressed people are so skilled at hiding their conditions that you would never know.

2. HELPFUL TIPS FOR THE DEPRESSED

These are some helpful tips if you are a christian going through depression or if you know someone who is:

1. God cares about your suffering Hebrews 4:15; 1 Peter 5:7.
2. Like biblical patriarchs, you are not alone Jeremiah 20:7-11; 1 kings 19:4-6; Psalms 42:9.
3. God’s love and faithfulness does not depend on you. His love for us is solely dependent on his character, grace, and goodness Lamentation 3:21-23.
4. God saves and delivers from afflictions Psalm 34:18-19.
5. God can bring good even out of something as wearying as depression Romans 8:28.
6. There is still hope. Your low thoughts and emotions are not the truth Job 14:7-9; Romans 8:35-39.
7. You can find strength by leaning on community Romans 15:1.
8. Your friends and family can help you by praying and being there for you.
9. It is not a sin to seek professional help for depression as christian Luke 5:31.
10. Do not allow anything to separate you from God Romans 8:38-39; Hebrews 12:2.

CONCLUSION

With God’s love and support from the people around you, you can get through depression.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN:Job 14:7-9
MON: Romans 8:35-39.
TUE: Psalms 34:18-19
WED: 1 Samuel 30:1-10.
THUR: Lamentation 3:21-23
FRI: Romans 15:1
SAT: Jeremiah 20:7-9.

MEMORY VERSE: “And when Rachel saw that she bare Jacob no children, Rachel envied her sister, and said unto Jacob, give me children, or else I die” Genesis 30:1.

BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Kings 19:1-4..

INTRODUCTION

Depression is a word from the latin verb “deprimere’, meaning to press down. It is an emotional response triggered by circumstances beyond one’s mental stability. It is a mental health illness or mood disorder where one experiences unusual persistent sadness. As the saying goes, there is no health without mental health. This shows that other aspects of health such as physical, financial, spiritual, social can also take a downward spiral due to a depressive illness. Hence, it is important to educate ourselves on the causes, symptoms, and the way out of depression.

OUTLINE

1.DEPRESSION FROM BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVE

2. PREVENTING DEPRESSION

1.DEPRESSION FROM BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVE

Depression is often viewed as a persistent feeling of sadness Romans 8:20-22. There are many examples of men of god who struggled with sadness, even to the point of depression. David, a “man after God’s own heart” Acts 13:22, did not gloss over his sadness; he expressed it to God Psalm 56:8. Both Moses Numbers 11:15 and Elijah 1 Kings 19:3-5, two heroes of the faith, confessed to God that they preferred to die than live in their current reality.

Depression can be triggered by negative events such as loss of a loved one, loss of a job, loss of a relationship, loss of a pet, economic crises, financial instability, unpleasant circumstances, etc 1 Samuel 1:6-7; 30:7a; Nehemiah 2:12. Biologically, depression manifests when some chemical changes occur in the human brain due to persistent uncontrollable sad feelings. This causes changes in levels of some hormones in the brain which include cortisol, adrenaline, and dopamine. These changes affect multiple organs in the body including the brain leading to gross reduction in human productivity and health.

Consequently, symptoms of depression include a depressed mood or feeling of sadness, constant tiredness, reduced or lost interest in previously enjoyable activities, forgetfulness, hopelessness, helplessness, worthlessness, thoughts of suicide, attempts at suicide, being overly suspicious of people or events. Excessive complaints of body pains, loss of appetite, loss of interest in sexual intimacy with your spouse, loss of sleep, and poor attention span can also be a signal of this depressive illness.

2. PREVENTING DEPRESSION

Some people use inadequate coping mechanism for this mood disorder, they may engage in the abuse of alcohol, smoking, spouse abuse, excessive socialisation, etc. These maladaptive coping mechanisms give short term relief but only worsen the symptoms and eventually lead to a severe mental illness 2 Corinthians 4:18.

To prevent depression believers should note the following, in addition to seeking medical or professional interventions:

1. A christian should always be filled with joy of salvation, Romans 15:13. Joy is part of the fruit the Holy Spirit produces in the life of a follower of Jesus Christ Galatians 5:22; 1 Thessalonians 1:6.
2. God will never leave his own Deuteronomy 31:8.
3. God will strengthen and uphold his children irrespective of their prevailing situation Isaiah 41:10.
4. God hears our cry Psalms 40:1-3.
5. God is near to the broken – hearted Psalms 34:18-19; Matthew 11:28-30.

We should also develop positive attitudes; understand our mental limit; build problem solving skills, resilience skills and good communication skills.

CONCLUSION

Depression contributes to poor personal, family, community, and economic growth. It can be difficult to recognise but once any of the symptoms are noticed, it is important to seek care immediately

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: Isaiah 41:10
MON: Psalms 34:18-19.
TUE: Romans 15:13.
WED: Psalms 40:1-3.
THUR: 1 Kings 19:3-5.
FRI: Romans 8:20-22.
SAT: 1 Samuel 1:6-7

MEMORY VERSE: “And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand. “Mark 3:25.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 25:24-34.

INTRODUCTION

Families are the bedrock of society. When families fall apart, society falls into social and cultural decline. The plan of God for homes is for them to remain united in body and in spirit Psalms 133:1. A broken home is a family in which parents are separated or divorced. So many children and estranged partners have suffered the consequences of a broken home. This has caused the society and the church a lot of unrest. It is therefore necessary to examine the causes of broken homes and their remedy.

OUTLINE

1.WHY SO MANY HOMES ARE BROKEN

2. EFFECTS AND REMEDY FOR BROKEN HOMES

1.WHY SO MANY HOMES ARE BROKEN

1. Cultural shift in society because of a decline of religion and morality 2 Timothy 3:1-5;Colossians 2:8.
2. Wrong choice in marriage Proverbs 21:9; Proverbs 19:13.
3. Negative influence of parents or friends Genesis 2:24; Proverbs 13:20.
4. Lack of genuine sacrificial love 1 John 3:16; Romans 5:7-8.
5. Communication breakdown between couples Matthew 5:37.
6. Sexual unfaithfulness between couple Hebrews 13:4; Hosea 2:2-7.
7. Poor economic planning that makes couples mean and stingy 1 Timothy 6:10.
8. Preference for a child or their siblings Genesis 25:28.
9. Prioritising work or other things over the family Psalm 127:2;Proverbs 31:14-15.
10. Love for worldly pleasures 1 John 2:15-17.

2. EFFECTS AND REMEDY FOR BROKEN HOMES

Some effects of broken home include:

1. Husbands abandon spouses and children or vice versa.
2. Either or both parties live alone and get into relationships with other partners.
3. Children suffer emotional stress because they are abandoned.
4. Children may grow to not fulfil God’s plan.
5. Parental love is lacking.

Those who suffer the pains of broken homes can apply the following solutions:

1. Commit everything to God in prayer. Psalm 127:1; Psalm 50:15.
2. Stop and consider that God is greater than any difficulty. Jeremiah 32:27.
3. Embrace the fact that Jesus loves you. Romans 5:8; Matthew 11:28-30.
4. Ask God to make you a better person in the present circumstances. Psalm 51:10.
5. Seek the help of other christians. Proverbs 11:14.
6. Learn to forgive and seek reconciliation or restoration. Ephesians 4:32; Romans 12:18; Isaiah 57:18.
7. Be patient, meet your spouse at their point of need. Ecclesiastes 7:8; 1 Corinthians 7:3.

CONCLUSION

“Broken homes’ could be described as ‘broken lives’. Do all you can to make your family strong and united.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN:Matthew 11:28-30
MON:2 Timothy 3:1-5
TUE: Proverbs 31:14-15
WED: Romans 5:7-8
THUR: Mark 3:25.
FRI: Hebrews 13:4
SAT: Ephesians 4:32.

MEMORY VERSE: “By long forbearing is a prince persuaded, and a soft tongue breaketh the bone”. Proverbs 25:15.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 2:18-25.

INTRODUCTION

Many marriages are needlessly failing because the marriage partners have a lack of knowledge regarding the dynamics of good relationships Hosea 4:6. Most couples are ignorant on purpose. In this study, we will look at the scriptural principles and the love language that must characterise our marital relationships.

OUTLINE

1.SCRIPTURAL PRINCIPLES GUIDING MARRIAGES

2. UNDERSTANDING THE ‘LOVE LANGUAGE’

1.SCRIPTURAL PRINCIPLES GUIDING MARRIAGES

Married couples should understand that the image of God is best expressed in the combination of male and female Genesis 1:27. The God-designed difference between male and female is to be accepted as complementary, not competitive Genesis 2:18. Marriage is a divine, not human institution Genesis 2:21-23. It is expected to be a relationship of companionship, completion, and communion Genesis 2:25; Matthew 19:5. Marriage was designed by God to be a permanent, mutual, covenant relationship Matthew 19:6. God’s intent is for marriage to be an inestimable source of joy and fulfilment Proverbs 18:22. In fact, marriage is a major part of God’s plan to bring redemption to humanity Genesis 22:18. The seed of marriage relationship provided the vehicle for the incarnation of the saviour, Jesus Christ Genesis 3:15; Ephesians 5:31-32.

2. UNDERSTANDING THE ‘LOVE LANGUAGE’

Many problems in marriage, usually, occur due to the inability of the partners to understand each other’s love language. ‘Love language’ is an expression that makes you or your partner feel loved. There are five primary love languages. They are:

1. Quality Time:Spending time with each other and talking without interruptions, going out and about, having fun together, celebrating birthdays and wedding anniversaries, etc. let courtship experience continue even after marriage Genesis 26:8.
2. Acts Of Service: Do things you know your spouse will like you to do. For example, cooking meals, helping each other especially in the household chores, etc. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12.
3. Exchange Of Gifts: Express your love for each other through giving/receiving of gifts no matter how small 1 Samuel 1:5; Proverbs 17:8.
4. Words Of Affirmation: Couples must be consistent in saying ‘i love you’, ‘i am sorry’, ‘thank you’, ‘you look nice in that dress’, etc. to each other Songs Of Solomon 1:15; 4:1, 7.
5. Physical Touching: This is a way of communicating emotional love, e.g., holding hands, kissing, pecking, embracing, patting, necking, sitting close to each other, etc. Genesis 26:8; Songs Of Solomon 1:2.

CONCLUSION

Couples should always discover and express to each other ‘their’ primary love language through their words and actions.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: Proverbs 25:15
MON: Genesis 2:18
TUE: Matthew 19:5
WED: Genesis 22:18
THUR: Ecclesiastes 4:9
FRI: Genesis 26:8
SAT:Hosea 4:6

MEMORY VERSE:“Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverences her husband.” Ephesians 5:33.

BIBLE PASSAGE: :Ephesians 5:22-29

INTRODUCTION

According to the bible, marriage is when a man is joined to his wife in the presence of God in a consensual relationship that makes the two become one in all things Genesis 2:21-25. Marriage is an honorable institution Hebrews 13:4 and a lifetime commitment Matthew 19:6. However, it is generally observed that some marriages are in a state of ‘coma’ or completely ‘dead’, while some ‘merely exist’. What is the status of your marriage as a believer? It is interesting to know that God’s desire is that we all have ‘living marriages’.

OUTLINE

1.THE STATE OF SOME MARRIAGES

2. THE CHARACTERISTICS OF A LIVING MARRIAGE

1.THE STATE OF SOME MARRIAGES

“Marriage in coma’: This is a marriage in which neither of the spouses feel the presence of each other nor spend enough quality time together. Because of these actions, bitterness, and resentment spring up in their hearts towards one another Hebrews 12:15. The couple refuse to keep the lines of communication open. They dwell more on each other’s weaknesses or offences 1 Samuel 25:25-26. In this kind of marriage, there is selfishness, and the partners may be inconsiderate Philippians 2:3.

‘Dead marriage’: in this kind of marriage, there are no traces of true love. They are not divorced but may be separated. Even if they are living under the same roof, there is no emotional attachment/attraction or genuine concern for each other’s wellbeing. They are more like familiar strangers or two people just sharing the same space 1 Corinthians 3:3.

“Living marriage’:this is a kind of marriage where the couple dwell together in understanding, patience, sacrifice, love and enjoying the company of each other Genesis 26:8. Over time they have learnt to manage their weaknesses and excesses.

2. THE CHARACTERISTICS OF A LIVING MARRIAGE

A living marriage benefits from a mutual fulfilment derived from mutual selfless commitment to the marital union. This can only be achieved by determination and deliberate effort of both partners. Here are some characteristics of a living marriage:

1. Love: the love between such couple transcends ‘eros’ (sexual intimacy) or ‘philio’ (friendship). It is the God’s kind of love that is unconditional and sacrificial 1 Corinthians 13:4-8; Ephesians 5:24-25. A couple in a living marriage are prepared to ‘weather the storm’ throughout their lifetime.
2. Mutual support: this couple makes the decision to stay and support each other through ‘thick and thin’ Galatians 6:2.
3. Forgiveness: conflicts are inevitable, and sometimes healthy because it promotes a better understanding. The couple is quick to ask for forgiveness as well as to grant it Ephesians 4:32.
4. Kindness:They maintain a great habit of being kind and understanding to each other in all ways Romans 12:10.
5. Commitment: They show keen interest in the progress of each other’s career, ministry, business, extended families, etc. They share each other’s views and visions Philippians 2:4.
6. Appreciation: They develop the attitude of gratitude and celebrate each other Philippians 2:3.
7. Acceptance: They do not dwell on the weakness of each other but prayerfully work on each other and trust god for positive changes Ephesians 4:2.
8. Time: They spend quality time together in understanding and knowing each other Genesis 26:8; Ecclesiastes 9:9.

CONCLUSION

In a living marriage, ego is reduced to the barest minimum to enjoy marital bliss.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: Romans 12:10
MON:Ephesians 4:32
TUE: Philippians 2:3
WED: Ecclesiastes 9:9
THUR: Galatians 6:2
FRI: 1 Samuel 25:25-26
SAT: Ephesians 4:2.

MEMORY VERSE:“Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Esther 2:5-9.

INTRODUCTION

Good parenting does not just happen, it must be planned for and effectively pursued. The actions we intentionally take or refuse to take, and the ways we consciously parent amid all of life’s challenges have direct impact on our children. In this lesson, we shall consider what it means to parent intentionally and the how.

OUTLINE

1.WHAT IS INTENTIONAL PARENTING?

2. HOW TO BE INTENTIONAL

1.WHAT IS INTENTIONAL PARENTING?

Intentional parenting means parenting with a clear goal or biblical vision in mind to help your child fulfil divine purpose in life Habakkuk 2:2. It means being able to think through every step of your child’s stage of development 1 Samuel 1:11. Intentional parenting means making informed and conscious parenting choices Genesis 24:3-4; 1 Samuel 1:24.

It focuses on; what parents can do to help their children succeed 2 Timothy 1:5; Proverbs 13:22a; what specific actions they will take to support their children’s strengths and weaknesses Exodus 18:15-24; Ruth 3:1-5; how parents will facilitate the development of their children and what the outcome will look like 2 Timothy 3:14-15.

The goal of intentional parenting is to help children walk in the footsteps of parents who are godly 1 Corinthians 11:1. It is not permissive parenting; it involves giving up control to God while we intentionally do our part as parents, Genesis 18:19; Joshua 24:15. It also means parents understand themselves, their values, their motivations, strengths, and weaknesses. Intentional parenting begins with parents and not with the child. It cannot be outsourced Matthew 7:3-5.

2. HOW TO BE INTENTIONAL

1. Believe that God has given you the power to positively influence your child, Philippians 4:13.
2. Get the right knowledge: through the word of god, counselling, reading books on parenting, attending trainings/seminars, etc Proverbs 4:7.
3. You as parents must come to an understanding that childhood development is neither a race nor competition among different children. Each child is divinely made unique, there is no basis for comparison 2 Corinthians 10:12.
4. Give them age- appropriate responsibilities Genesis 37:13-14; 1 Samuel 17:17-18.
5. Teach them essential life skills Proverbs 31:1-9.
6. Deliberately teach them the word of god Deuteronomy 6:6-7, 2 Timothy 3:15.
7. Accept your child’s uniqueness Psalms 139:14.
8. Be a great role model Titus 2:7.
9. Be consistent, persistent, and deliberate with discipline Proverbs 29:15; Hebrews 12:7.
10. Communicate values clearly to your children. Do not parent on the assumption that they know what is right! Psalms 78:2-4.
11. Be an emotionally intelligent parent Colossians 3:21.
12. Work on yourself as a parent Matthew 7:3-5.

CONCLUSION

Intentional parenting will bring you and your child greater happiness Proverbs 29:17. Start early.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: Ruth 3:1-5
MON: Psalm 78:2-4
TUE: Proverbs 31:1-9
WED: Exodus 18:15-24
THUR: 1 Samuel 17:17-18
FRI: Deuteronomy 6:6-7
SAT: Matthew 7:3-5

MEMORY VERSE: “And he removed from thence, and digged another well; and for that they strove not: and he called the name of it Rehoboth; and he said, for now the Lord hath made room for us, and we shall be fruitful in the land.” Genesis 26:22.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 26:1-14.

INTRODUCTION

Breakthrough is have phenomenal success in a venture or project after efforts have been put in with the help of God’s blessings without whom we could do nothing Proverbs 10:22. It is overcoming something challenging to have an achievement that overcomes significant obstacles and produces great innovation or discovery. Breakthrough is associated with prosperity although it means different things to different people. It could be physical (financial, material, scientific, academic, etc.) or spiritual nature.

OUTLINE

1.EXAMPLES OF BREAKTHROUGHS

2. FROM SETBACK TO BOUNCE-BACK

1.EXAMPLES OF BREAKTHROUGHS

A breakthrough could be in the field of financial, material, scientific, academic or in warfare Exodus 14:21-22. There was an example of the four lepers who got an unimaginable and amazing breakthrough in the midst of famine and war 2 Kings 8:15-16, this is an example of a financial breakthrough. Abraham laid the foundation of both spiritual and financial breakthroughs for generations after him Genesis 18:18. Isaac got a financial breakthrough in Gerar; he became greater than Abraham, his father and a whole nation envied him Genesis 22:15-18; 26:13-14. Jacob had an extra-ordinary ‘scientific’ breakthrough and increased exceedingly Genesis 30:28-43. Through unprecedented sacrifice, Solomon had ‘multidimensional’ breakthroughs 2 chronicles 1:6-12.

2. FROM SETBACK TO BOUNCE-BACK

Quite often, a breakthrough means a change of trend in a man’s life. One can experience a breakthrough from unfavourable circumstances to favourable conditions. Let us look at some
Biblical examples:
1.Obededom: from apparent nothingness to unimaginable blessings 1 Chronicles 13:13-14.
2.Jabez: from a life filled with sorrow to outstanding success 1 Chronicles 4:9-10.
3.Peter: from an empty expedition to abundance harvest of fish Luke 5:4-7.
4.Widow of Zarephath: from hopelessness to miraculous supplies 1 Kings 17:10-16.
5.Naaman: from affliction of leprosy to wholeness in health 2 Kings 5:1-14.
6.Elizabeth: from barrenness to fruitfulness Luke 1:5-7, 57.
7.Widow of the prophet: from indebtedness to great wealth 2 Kings 4:1-7.

CONCLUSION

There cannot be a breakthrough without divine intervention. Therefore, you must turn to god for help if you desire a breakthrough in any dimension of your life, Deuteronomy 8:18, 28:8.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: 1 Chronicles 4:10.
MON: 2 Kings 7:16.
TUE: Jeremiah 29:11.
WED: Genesis 18:19
THUR: Genesis 22:16-17
FRI: 2 Kings 5:14.
SAT: Genesis 26:12.