Sunday School

MEMORY VERSE: “The daughters of Zelophehad speak right: thou shalt surely give them a possession of an inheritance among their father’s brethren; and thou shalt cause the inheritance of their father to pass unto them.” Numbers 27:7.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Numbers 27:1-7

INTRODUCTION 

Zelophehad means, the shade or tingling of fear. This man was from the tribe of Manasseh, he was part of the Israelites who left Egypt under the leadership of Moses that died in the wilderness. He had five daughters but no sons and therefore he had no male heirs. After His death, his daughters; Mahlah, Noha, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah went to Moses to demand their father’s inheritance because as women, they were not entitled to any inheritance. Moses took the matter to God, and they were justified. We have some lessons to learn from these ladies and the need to ask for our ordained inheritance.

OUTLINE

1. YOU NEED TO ASK

2. LESSONS FROM ZELOPHEHAD’S DAUGHTERS

1. YOU NEED TO ASK

Although our heavenly Father knows our needs Matthew 6:8, Jesus emphasised the need to ask in Matthew 7:7. To ask is important because it is those who ask that will receive Matthew 7:8; 1 Kings 10:13. Enquiring or asking sheds light on a subject Deuteronomy 32:7-8 as it brings clarity and revelation. It brings results because our requests are granted Ezra 7:6. We have access to information and become informed Genesis 43:7-8. Seeking answers provides adequate counsel and direction on the next steps to take Judges 1:1; 20:23. Being specific in our request gives us a greater chance of getting what we want 2 Kings 2:9-10; Matthew 7:9. It gives us access to our inheritance Psalm 2:8. We get a good understanding of the old biblical principles Jeremiah 6:16. Even research shows that asking questions builds our level of emotional intelligence.

2. LESSONS FROM ZELOPHEHAD’S DAUGHTERS

The following are some life lessons to learn from these ladies.

1. BE AUDACIOUS: Irrespective of their gender and the limitations placed on women in Israel (then) they were brave, and they chose to ask for what they felt was due to them Numbers 27:1.
2. ONE VOICE: The daughters of Zelophehad stood united before Moses, the priest, and even the congregation of Israel Numbers 27:1-2; Genesis 11:6.
3. GO TO THE RIGHT SOURCE: These ladies did not beat about the bush; they went to the man in charge who they knew could handle their matter to give them what they wanted. They went to the right source Numbers 27:2.
4. KNOWLEDGE: They were informed and had a good knowledge of history to know that those who rebelled against God had died in the wilderness Numbers 27:3a; Proverbs 13:16; 11:9.
5. SPEAK OUT: They placed a demand on Moses to get their father’s inheritance. Moses brought their matter to God Numbers 27:4-5 and God vindicated them by granting their request Numbers 27:7. As a child of God, you must learn to speak out and claim your inheritance.
6. BE AN EMANCIPATOR: They brought freedom to others as they raised the legal case of a woman’s right and obligation to inherit property in the absence of a male in the family and a law was made to regulate inheritance in Israel Numbers 27:8.
7. OBEDIENCE: They fully compiled with the instruction God gave through Moses that they should get married only within their father’s tribe Numbers 36:6; 11.

CONCLUSION

Talking what belongs to us may sometimes require some conscious, deliberate, and necessary efforts. Step out into your inheritance now.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: Numbers 27:3-7
MON: Genesis 11;5-6
TUE: Matthew 7:7-11
WED: Psalm 2:7-8
THUR: Proverbs 15:20-21
FRI: Ecclesiastes 7:9-10
SAT: James 1:5

MEMORY VERSE: “For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.” James 3:16.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 13:7-11

INTRODUCTION 

Strife is a strong and bitter disagreement over vital issues. It is often associated with conflict, opposition, fights, violence, etc. As a divisive agent, it causes confusion, destroys unity, and creates hostility in human relationships. Strife is listed among the works of the flesh in Galatians 5:19-21. It is a sign of carnality which breeds division 1 Corinthians 3:3. Strife destroys; hence it is in our best interest and honour to stay away from it.

OUTLINE

1.THE COSTLY IMPACT OF STRIFE

2. THE RIGHT RESOLUTION

1.THE COSTLY IMPACT OF STRIFE

Strife destroys good fellowship; it extinguishes the warmth and love in a relationship very fast Genesis 13:7. Like a virus, it spreads from person to person 2 Samuel 19:9. No matter who we are, we must take strife out of our lives because it can cause emotional wounds within families Genesis 27:34-36, 41, wars between nations; disharmony among the body of Christ Acts 15:35-39. It can lead to the destruction of lives Galatians 5:15.

Strife has some terrible agents that trigger it to action. Some of these include Pride Proverbs 28:25a; Anger/Wrath Proverbs 29:22; 15:18; Backbiting Proverbs 16:28; Tell- tale Proverbs 26:20; Argument 1 Timothy 6:4; Proverbs 26:21; Envy James 3:14; philippians 1:15; Unhealthy rivalry Luke 22:24; Unteachable spirit Proverbs 13:10; Evil desires James 4:1-2, Greed Proverbs 28:25.

2. THE RIGHT RESOLUTION

To prevent or stay away from strife must be a personal resolve and a responsibility we are willing to take up Philippians 2:3. We must intentionally work at it and confront it by consciously and consistently saying no to strife Proverbs 20:3. Walk in love, Colossians 3:14, Ephesians 5:2, Avoid needless arguments Proverbs 17:14. Do away with bitterness Hebrews 12:15, conflict, violent disagreement, etc. we must be a strife- stopper like Abram Genesis 13:8. Refuse to backbite or be a part of those who stir up trouble Psalm 15:3. Be the first to resolve issues Matthew 5:23-24. Learn how to disagree peaceably Romans 12:18.

Unity is another major requirement needed to keep strife out of our lives and relationships Psalm 133:1. Jesus in His prayers in John 17:22 asked the Father to make His followers one, as He and His Father are one. Unity brings positive results, makes us achieve collective goals and live in peace Genesis 11;5-6, it however requires humility. According to Psalm 133:2-3, unity brings anointing, refreshing, and blessings.

CONCLUSION

Strife is a dangerous tool of the devil; it removes the unity amongst believers that advances God’s kingdom on earth. It should be resisted at all costs.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: Deuteronomy 10:12.
MON: John 3:24.
TUE: Romans 13:13.
WED: James 3:14
THUR: 1 John 1:3
FRI: Proverbs 20:3
SAT: Revelation 22:11

MEMORY VERSE: “Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. “Romans 12:13.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 18:1-10.

INTRODUCTION 

Hospitality is the act of showing kindness and welcoming strangers. We have corporate and individual hospitality Acts 2:42-46; 2 Kings 4:8-13. To be hospitable is to be disposed to treating guests and strangers in a cordial and generous manner. Being hospitable is a command and a virtue that is recommended in the Bible Hebrews 13:2-3. Hospitality is rooted in generosity, gift exchange, and reciprocity. This lesson shall examine the attributes of a hospitable person and the various blessings attached to being hospitable.

OUTLINE

1. ATTRIBUTES OF A HOSPITABLE PERSON

2. BENEFITS OF BEING HOSPITABLE

1. ATTRIBUTES OF A HOSPITABLE PERSON

Being hospitable is a mindset. It is a conviction and an incurable attitude that is always displayed by the actions of the hospitable person, such as Abraham who entertained three strange men who crossed his path unexpectedly in the heat of the day Genesis 18:5.

Some of the key qualities showcased by hospitable people are:

1. FRIENDLINESS: Hospitable persons are pleasant without any form of hostility Ruth 2:13-14.
2. GENEROSITY: They are extremely liberal and give without holding back 1 Kings 10:10; Proverbs 11:24-25.
3. OPENNESS: They operate with open minds and are open to new ideas and suggestions 2 Kings 4:9-11.
4. SWIFTNESS: They are quick to welcome and entertain guests and strangers all the time Genesis 19:1-3.
5. COMPASSION: They are concerned about the wellbeing and welfare of others Matthew 15:32-36. This compassion is extended to lost souls thus they go after the lost sheep Matthew 10:6-8.
6. SELFLESSNESS: They are not selfish or self-centered in all they do 2 Corinthians 12:15.
7. ACCOMMODATING: They can tolerate and bear long with others Luke 15:20-24.
8. WARMNESS: They show kindness with their smiles, words, and actions 2 Samuel 9:1, 7.
9. BURDEN BEARING: They relieve others of their problems Acts 9:36; Romans 15:26.
10. CORDIALITY: They leave a lasting impression of love 2 Samuel 19:32.
11. SACRIFICIAL: They give by denying themselves John 6:9.

2. BENEFITS OF BEING HOSPITABLE

God pays attention to hospitable people and answers their prayers Genesis 18:10. They are blessed by the heavenly father Matthew 25:34-35. Their deeds are recognised by Jesus Matthew 25:40. It attracts miracles and uncommon blessings Acts 28:7-8; 9:36-42. God is pleased with them Hebrews 13:16. It attracts divine visitation Hebrews 13;2. It helps believers express the love of christ in practical ways and attract people into the kingdom Leviticus 19:9-10; 1 Peter 4:8-9. It is a necessary virtue to relieve or give succour to those in distress Romans 12:13. It is a quality of good church stewardship Titus 1:7-8; 1 Timothy 3:2. Being hospitable could also make a believer inherit the kingdom of God Matthew 25:34-36.

CONCLUSION

Being inhospitable does not portray us as christ’s ambassadors. Be hospitable, it is both physically and spiritually rewarding 1 John 3;17-18, Proverbs 19:17

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: Matthew 10:42
MON:Hebrews 6:10
TUE: Ecclesiastes 11:1
WED: Proverbs 28:27
THUR: 2 Corinthians 9:6
FRI: Matthew 25:40
SAT:2 Kings 4:43

MEMORY VERSE: “And Moses went out to meet his father-in-law, and did obeisance, and kissed him; and they asked each other of their welfare; and they came into the tent.”Exodus 18:7.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Ruth 1:16-18.

INTRODUCTION

Christian couples are expected to live according to the dictates of God’s word. The Bible tells us that a man should leave his parents and cleave to his wife Genesis 2:24. This shows that a line must be drawn between the families from which both partners originated from and the new family the couple is building. The Bible also admonishes us to honour our parents Ephesians 6:2-3 and be good to all men especially members of our household including our in-laws we have in our family relationships. Our in-laws are people related to us by marriage and we should relate with them with godly wisdom James 3:17.

OUTLINE

1.BUILDING A CORDIAL RELATIONSHIP

2. THE THIN LINE

1.BUILDING A CORDIAL RELATIONSHIP

Let us learn from Ruth’s relationship with her mother in-law. Ruth treated Naomi as she would have treated her own biological mother. We must treat our in-laws like our own blood relations. When relating with our in-laws, christian couples should therefore:

1. Avoid preconceptions: Do not have a biased perspective against your in-laws. Be open-minded in your dealings with them Romans 12:10, 16;1 Peter 3:8.
2. Do not act like strangers: let your in-laws see you as another child of theirs and not a stranger Exodus 18:7-9; Proverbs 18:24.
3. Avoid instituting damaging rules: Make sure you do not make rules that can destroy your relationship with your in-laws 1 Timothy 5:1-2; Judges 14:11-13, 18-20. Be wise in all decisions relating to your in-laws especially in speech Psalm 34:13; Colossians 4:6.
4. Avoid strife: Treat in-laws as important people exhibit maturity and patience with your in-laws Philippians 2:3; 2 Corinthians 6:4.
5. Remain humble in mutual submission: 1 Peter 5:5; Ephesians 5:21. Always walk in peace and pursue it Psalm 34:14; Romans 12:18.

2. THE THIN LINE

While it is important to establish a cordial relationship with in-laws, it is equally important that in-laws give some breathing space to their married sons or daughters to build a godly home with no undue external interference Colossians 3:21; Matthew 19:4-6. In- laws especially parents of the couples can give counsel or advice Exodus 18:19-24; Proverbs 11:14 and prayerfully support their children in marriage without necessarily imposing their views on them Ephesians 6:4. The married couple should be allowed to make their own decisions and their own mistakes.

CONCLUSION

Christian couples must relate cordially with their in-laws in love, peace, as light and as salt of the world Matthew 5:13-14, be at peace and always remain humble Hebrews 12:14.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: Ephesians 5:25-33
MON:Matthew 5:14
TUE: Luke 5:13
WED: Romans 12:18
THUR: Hebrews 12:14
FRI: Philippians 2:15
SAT:1 Timothy 5:13

MEMORY VERSE: “And will be a father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters saith the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:18

BIBLE PASSAGE: 2 Samuel 7:12-15

INTRODUCTION

The Bible constantly admonishes us to conform to the image of our Maker-God 2 Corinthians 3:18; Colossians 3:9-10. God wants to be involved in the lives of His children 2 Corinthians 6:17-18. Hence, the need to consider the example of His parenting style.

OUTLINE

1. DIVINE INVOLVEMENT

2. PARENTING GOD’S WAY

1. DIVINE INVOLVEMENT

God , our father, loves his children and wants involvement with all areas of our lives Jeremiah 31:3. He is forgiving and merciful when we err Hebrews 8:12. He is willing to receive all who come to him for the forgiveness of their sins 1 John 1:9. He is approachable Isaiah 1:18. Therefore, as parents, we too must be willing to love and be involved with our children. Just like the nature of God is, we must be forgiving and merciful when our children go astray.

God- our father also outlines clear boundaries for us to follow as His children Exodus 20:12-17. Therefore, as parents we must similarly communicate clear instructions to our children in all things that they need to know for a successful life Proverbs 22:6; 4:20-22.

2. PARENTING GOD’S WAY

God, our father is not manipulative because he gives us freedom over all non- moral issues in our lives. From the beginning,God gave Adam and Eve the freedom to eat any of the trees of the Garden Genesis 2:16-17.

However, He did communicate a distinct moral boundary so they would not eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. We must also have that balance in our parenting style. We must draw clear moral boundaries and yet grant freedom to our children over non-moral issues.

Our Heavenly Father also disciplines and corrects us when we disobey and rebel against Him Proverbs 3:12; Hebrews 12:7. He will not look the other way when we sin 2 Samuel 7:14. As parents, we must be willing to use all forms of discipline at our disposal to hold secure moral boundaries within the family Proverbs 19:18.

CONCLUSION

Just like Jesus was and still is an example to us, we need to be an example to our children. Being a good example is one of the most powerful and authoritative teaching tools we possess as parents John 13:15.

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: “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man has a quarrel against any:even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” Colossians 3:13.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 50:17-20

INTRODUCTION

Forgiveness involves an intentional decision to put aside feelings or resentment, anger, and revenge toward someone who has committed a wrong, been unfair or otherwise hurt you in some way. Many find it hard to forgive those who have offended them. Some believers even say that it is when they get to heaven before they can forgive. However, the Bible makes it clear that those who refuses to forgive men, will not be forgiven by God too Matthew 6:14-15. Therefore, it is important for us to understand why believers must practice forgiveness and learn to achieve it.

OUTLINE

1. REASONS CHRISTIANS SHOULD FORGIVE

2. ACHIEVING TRUE FORGIVENESS

1. REASONS CHRISTIANS SHOULD FORGIVE

One of the fundamental obligations of a christian is to follow peace with all men Hebrews 12:14-15. So as christians, we should not only forgive but we should heal Genesis 45:1-15; 50:15-21. The major reasons we are to do this are because:

1. It is a command Mark 11:25; Ephesians 4:32.
2. We are the light of the world. We are a living example that they follow and watch consistently Matthew 5:14-16.
3. God is angry with the unforgiving Matthew 18:32-35; Colossians 3:6-8.
4. Lack of forgiveness can hinder prayers Mark 11:25.
5. We all need to be forgiven Matthew 6:14.

2. ACHIEVING TRUE FORGIVENESS

Forgiveness can help prevent depression, anxiety, high-blood pressure and hostility Romans 12:18. It boosts self-esteem and brings peace of mind Psalm 32:1-5; Hebrews 12:15b. To forgive, we can adopt the programme known as REACH model. REACH stands for Recall, Empathize, Altruistic gift, Commit and Hold.
Recall: To achieve forgiveness, you must first be objective in understanding clearly the wrong done to you. It is not to wallow in self- pity or to hold grudge against the offender Genesis 45:4.
Empathize: Being objective will also help you to see from the offender’s point of view, why he or she did what was done. But without downplaying the wrong that was done Genesis 37:8, 19-21; 50:20a.
Altruistic gift: At this stage, the offended can remember their own shortcomings and how they were forgiven. He then realizes that forgiveness is a gift that we all need at one point or the other Colossians 3:13.
Commit: To commit is to make public (share) your decision to forgive with an accountability partner who can put a check on you. Apostle Paul wrote publicly about his commitment to always have a clear conscience Acts 24:16.
Hold: At the final stage of this model, the offended must be determined to see to it that his decision to forgive is realised. This is tough because memories of the event will often reoccur. When the feeling of hurt arises, you must remind yourself that you have forgiven and ultimately, you want the good of the offender Genesis 50:17-20.

CONCLUSION

True forgiveness may not come cheap, but its benefits outweigh the pain. Learn to forgive.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: Mark 11:25
MON:Romans 14:19
TUE: Matthew 5:44
WED: 1 Thessalonians 5:15
THUR: Romans 12:16
FRI: 1 Corinthians 1:10
SAT: Acts 7:60

MEMORY VERSE: “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” Amos 3:3.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Ecclesiastes 4:9-12.

INTRODUCTION

Marriage is a covenant relationship between a man and a woman which makes them husband and wife. The marriage institution can be likened to the relationship between Jesus and His church Ephesians 5:24-25. Marriage is not co-habiting: it is to be physically, emotionally,spiritually, financially, sexually, and materially connected. It will be impossible for couple to succeed maritally except they are united. From the beginning, unity in marriage is not a given, couples need to prayerfully work in harmony to keep and maintain their relationships. Genesis 2:24.

OUTLINE

1.CULTIVATING UNITY IN MARRIAGE

2. THE BLESSINGS OF UNITY

1.CULTIVATING UNITY IN MARRIAGE

Unity in marriage means to be of one mind and purpose in the marriage .How do you promote unity in marriage?

1. Make Jesus the foundation and the Chief Cornerstone of your marriage 1 Corinthians 3:11; 1 Peter 2:6. When Jesus is in your relationship, your marriage will stand firm, even during the storm John 2:2-3, 7-10; Mark 4;36-39.
2. Rely on God’s word and be prayerful. There is an answer to all of life’s questions in God’s word. It does not matter how unreasonable your spouse may be, there is an answer in God’s word, search it out and stand on it in prayer Psalm 119:98, Proverbs 24:3. Always pray against the arrow of discord from the enemy. Satan and his agents are constantly waging war against godly and successful marriages, do not give satan a place in your home. Renounce demonic agenda for your marriage and pray that a broken home will not be your portion. James 5:16.
3. Love and Submit: These are two mutually exclusive factors that promote unity in marriage Ephesians 5:22, 25,33. You cannot genuinely love your wife as a husband or submit to your husband as a wife and not be united in marriage. When submission is genuine, love follows and when true love is displayed, submission will follow Colossians 3:18-19.
4. Communicate with understanding: for every couple, there are differences in personalities, background, giftings, strength, etc. Every spouse must be ready and free to express themselves and understand one another. As a couple, the more you communicate,the more you understand each other and the more you thrive in unity Amos 3:3, Philippians 2:2-3.
5. Trust and Respect: Trust is built and earned over time. Couples should grow to have confidence that your partner will never deliberately hurt or violate you Proverbs 31:11. Respect each other’s opinion, use your words wisely and speak kindly to yourselves. Do not discuss your spouse’s weaknesses with other people. Ephesians 5:33b; Romans 12:10b. If a couple is fond of taking their disagreements to outsiders, discord is bound to prevail in their home Mark 10:9.
6. Be intentional about being romantic and sexually intimate: Create opportunities to call yourselves sweet names, play with each other, surprise yourselves with gifts and do not forget to celebrate your anniversaries together song of solomon 4:7, 9-11; Genesis 26:8. Having regular sex has lots of health benefits for both husband and wife and will strengthen intimacy/ bonding in marriage for a long time 1 Corinthians 7:2-5.
7. Avoid distant relationships and learn to forgive each other: the closer you are to each other physically, sexually, financially, mentally etc, the more united you’ll become. Eat, sleep, talk, bath, walk, pray, dress together, and forgive each other. Offence will always come especially with closeness, but couples must learn to forgive, discuss, and resolve issues amicably as life-long friends Ephesians 4:32; Matthew 18:21-22.

2. THE BLESSINGS OF UNITY

There are benefits couples stand to gain if they live in unity in their marriages. They will enjoy togetherness, harmony, and peace Psalm 133:1, they will make faster and better decisions and achieve more together Ecclesiastes 4:9-10. They will also receive answers to prayers Matthew 18:19, happiness, fulfilment, and good health Proverbs 17:22a, a stable environment to nurture children, and create lasting marriage.

CONCLUSION

Unity in marriage is possible. You must give your best to get the best out of your marital relationship.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
MON:Ecclesiastes 4:11-12
TUE: Psalm 133:1-3
WED: Genesis 2:24
THUR: Matthew 18:19
FRI: Proverbs 24:3
SAT: Amos 3:3

MEMORY VERSE: Do not hasten in your spirit to be angry, For anger rests in the bosom of fools. Ecclesiastes 7:9

BIBLE PASSAGE: Ephesians 4:26-27

INTRODUCTION

Anger is a negative emotion characterised by bitterness towards someone or something, especially when there is a perceived wrong. It often ignites powerful, restless, aggressive feelings and behaviours. The feeling of anger arises due to how we interpret or react to certain situations. Anger is said to be ‘temporary madness’ because it takes over the mind and body and removes the ability to reason with no respect for dignity and friendship. Anger management is gaining control over our emotions and the ability to regulate rage. We can be angry, but it must be managed and not degenerate into sin Psalm 37:8; Ephesians 4:26-27.

OUTLINE

1.ANGER TRIGGERS

2. DEALING WITH ANGER

1.ANGER TRIGGERS

As humans, we have triggers that make us angry and this could be, from trivial to serious concerns Leviticus 10:16-17. Anger issues also stem from a strong feeling that is oriented toward some real or supposed grievance Numbers 22:27. Other triggers of anger include hatred/ frustration Jonah 3:10-41; lack of rule over one’s spirit Proverbs 25:28; hasty judgements 2 Samuel 12:5-7; quick temper Proverbs 14:17; acting foolishly 2 Chronicles 16:8-10; transferred aggression Daniel 2:11-12, and unjustifiable reasons Matthew 5:22.

Anger is dangerous because it can result in murder and alter destinies Genesis 49:6-7. It also stirs up strife Proverbs 29:22; ruins/halts good relationships Proverbs 22:24-25; makes one do irrational things Exodus 32:19; brings low-esteem 1 Samuel 17:28-30; makes one say what should not be said 1 Samuel 20:30.

2. DEALING WITH ANGER

Every believer must develop the ability to control his/her temperament, particularly in stressful situations with the help of the Holy Spirit Galatians 5:22-23. It is the ability to show proper behaviour and/or disagree appropriately without losing control of one’s emotions Ephesians 4:26. Self – control is a good regulator for anger Galatians 5:23. We must consciously put anger far away from us Ephesians 4:31. Anger is a vice we must cease from Psalm 37:8. It must be deliberately put off Colossians 3:8.

We must also employ strategies such as being slow to speak James 1:19; providing a soft and gentle answer Proverbs 15:1`; being discreet Proverbs 19:11; walking away from an angry person/scene Proverbs 26:4; talking to oneself “why am i angry” 1 Corinthians 9:27; looking inwards with divine assistance for unresolved issues which trigger anger Psalm 139:23-24; staying calm Proverbs 14:29; not allowing anger to run for days, depicts maturity; learn to be quiet Proverbs 13:3 and attend to issues with knowledge Proverbs 17:27; Proverbs 13:16. If at the slightest provocation, you lose your temper, you must acknowledge that you have anger issues for you to be able to deal with it decisively, see a therapist if need be and ask God for help.

CONCLUSION

God has given us the grace of self- control, so our anger can be managed when we work at it and ask Him to help us. Control anger before it ruins you.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: James 3:2
MON:Psalm 39:1
TUE: Colossians 3:5
WED: Romans 8:13
THUR:Jeremiah 6:30
FRI: 1 Peter 4:11
SAT: Ephesians 4:10

MEMORY VERSE: “From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” Psalm 61:2

BIBLE PASSAGE: Ecclesiastes 2:10-11

INTRODUCTION

A midlife crisis is a term used to describe a period of transition in life where someone struggles with their identity and self-confidence. It happens anywhere between ages 35 to 60 years old and affects men and women. A midlife crisis is not a clinical disorder but is mainly psychological, emotional, or sometimes behavioural.

OUTLINE

1.SIGNS OF A MIDLIFE CRISIS

2. SOLUTIONS TO A MIDLIFE CRISIS

1.SIGNS OF A MIDLIFE CRISIS

Reasons for a midlife crisis can vary wildly. It may include feelings of dissatisfaction with our present status (financial,marital, social, etc), self- doubt, yet to be fulfilled dreams and a desire for significant changes in direction and purpose in various aspects of life, such as career, relationships, or lifestyle Ecclesiastes 12:1. These feelings are naturally amplified as we age: we realise we are running out of time and our past are likely becoming more permanent Psalm 69:1. Attacks from the devil can happen at any time in our lives but it certainly can play an integral role in a midlife crisis. Job, adjudged by God to be just and upright, was attacked by satan in his midlife Job 1:8, 13-21, 2:7.

Some common symptoms of a midlife crisis may include:

1. Questioning the meaning and purpose of life leading to a desire to make significant, often impulsive, changes in one’s life James 4:14; 1 Peter 1:24.
2. Anxiety about life choices and unmet goals resulting in feelings of depression, anxiety, or restlessness isaiah 49:4.
3. Dissatisfaction with one’s status: career, relationships, or accomplishments compared to one’s contemporaries- people within the same age bracket 2 Corinthians 10:12.
4. Preoccupation with youthfulness (dressing or acting flirtatiously) and a fear of aging Ecclesiastes 11:9-10.
5. Increased focus on physical appearance and attractiveness 2 Corinthians 5:12.

2. SOLUTIONS TO A MIDLIFE CRISIS

Virtually everyone experiences a midlife crisis but at varying degrees of intensity and duration. Some emerge from this period with a renewed sense of purpose and satisfaction, while others may struggle to overcome the challenges associated with this transition.

Here are some things believers undergoing midlife crisis should do:

1. Accept the fact that every stage of life, including midlife, is ordained by God and part of His good plan for us Proverbs 20:29.
2. Look inward and concentrate on your inherent potentials, the things that are really working for you and can stand you out from among others Matthew 25:15-17. Upgrade your skills or knowledge in your area of strength.
3. Determine to imitate Paul’s forward- looking perspective Philippians 3:13-15.
4. If you are experiencing certain symptoms of midlife crisis such as chronic fatigue, restlessness, headaches, or anxiety , prayerfully seek a counsellor, a therapist, or a mental health professional Proverbs 24:6.
5. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, nurture meaningful relationships,network with people that are ‘flying’ and find fulfilling activities that can contribute to a sense of well-being during this challenging period Proverbs 13:20.
6. Consolidate on your achievements or accomplishments so far. Find fulfilment in whatever God has ordained you to be 1 Timothy 6:6.
7. Prayerfully persevere i n whatever is presenting itself as a trial in your life, continue to serve the Lord and find joy in Him James 1:2-4.

CONCLUSION

God can see us through the period of midlife crisis, but we must be sensitive to what He is drawing our attention to. We need to do the needful before it is too late Ecclesiastes 12:1; Lamentation 3:27.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: Psalm 25:1-2
MON:Psalm 25:3-5
TUE: Psalm 119:35-37
WED: Psalm 1:2-3
THUR: 2 Corinthians 5:17
FRI: Ecclesiastes 3:1-5
SAT: Ecclesiastes 3:1-5

MEMORY VERSE: “Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous.” 1 Peter 3:8.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Luke 7:11-16.

INTRODUCTION

Empathy is the capacity to feel another person’s feelings, thoughts, or attitudes indirectly, especially because of whatever suffering they are going through. It is an attitude and ability to “rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn” Romans 12:15. Empathy is related to sympathy but is generally considered more deeply personal. True empathy is the feeling of participating i n the suffering of another.

OUTLINE

1.THE BIBLICAL BASIS

2. PRACTICING EMPATHY

1.THE BIBLICAL BASIS

The biblical basis for showing empathy as a believer will be discussed under three major headings: the model, the motive, and the method.

The Model:God himself is the very best role model at empathy 2 Corinthians 7:6. He knows our frame and afflictions Psalm 103:13-14; Exodus 3:7-8 and even helps through our errors and shortcomings Genesis 3:21. Jesus Christ also showed empathy when He wept at the tomb of Lazarus John 11:35; Matthew 9:36 and the bible affirms his undeniable feelings for us Hebrews 4:14-15; 1 Peter 5:7. The holy spirit exemplifies empathy by comforting us in times of grief and pain John 14:16, 18; Acts 9:31.

The Motive:The motive for empathy is to imitate God and to obey his repeated commands to show empathy toward one another Matthew 25:35-40; Colossians 3:12; 2 Corinthians 1:3-4.

The Method:The method of empathy is to discern sufferings or needs and to act quickly, personally, and deliberately to alleviate or meet them Luke 10:33-34; Galatians 6:2.

2. PRACTICING EMPATHY

Empathy is at the core of the christian witness. Though not lacking in modern christianity, a lot of efforts and work is still needed. Believers should imbibe the culture of showing empathy to all people irrespective of their place of origin Galatians 6:10. It should become our core part of our day-to-day interactions Hebrews 13:16.

Christians are called to restore those who have sinned in a spirit of gentleness Galatians 6:1. Be understanding and supportive of friends and partners during their emotional moments Proverbs 17:17. At work, we can show empathy to colleagues in times of stress or difficulties Galatians 6:2. Believers in healthcare should demonstrate empathy when dealing with patient’s concerns and pains Ezekiel 34:16. Teachers can be empathetic to student’s learning challenges and emotional struggles of people especially during challenging times Proverbs 14:21. Globally, empathise with those affected by global crisis or disasters by being concerned for our fellow human beings Genesis 4:9.

CONCLUSION

Every believer must imitate God and have empathy for one another. We must try to always put ourselves in the other person’s shoes Ephesians 4:32.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: 2 Corinthians 2:10
MON:John 8:44
TUE: Psalm 9:12
WED: Romans 6:21
THUR: Philippians 4:18
FRI: Proverbs 24:16
SAT: Ruth 1:16