June 1, 2020

Read:  1 Corinthians 13:4c-5a, Matthew 16:24, 22:38-39

Explain what it means not to be arrogant, rude, or insistent. What is the opposite of this behavior?

In what way does loving others actually reflect what is required to become a Christian? Be specific.

How do you think this is overlooked in Christianity today? How have you overlooked this?

May 30, 2020

Read:  1 Corinthians 12:12-27, 13:4b

In what way will envy always cause division? What does this imply about envy within the church?

How have you seen the enemy blind Christians to this issue? What has been the result? Be specific.

What protective steps can Christians take in order to make the church a more loving place? What will you do?

May 29, 2020

Read:  1 Corinthians 13:4b, Romans 12:15-16, Philippians 4:11-13

In what way is envy an issue of discontentment? What does this imply about where to find value?

In what areas of your life do you struggle with discontentment? How can this prevent loving others?

Take some time to pray and ask God to show you your triggers. Write out what God reveals to you.

May 28, 2020

Read:  1 Corinthians 13:4b, 2 Corinthians 10:17-18, Galatians 6:4

What type of “boasting” should be part of the Christian life? Give an example of how this would sound.

In what way does this protect against 1 Corinthians 13:4b? How does this also address personal insecurities?

How often do you express this type of boasting? How can you start today? (i.e. verbally, writing, etc.)

May 27, 2020

Read:  1 Corinthians 13:4b, James 3:13-16, 4:13-17, 2 Peter 2:1-3

Explain what it means to “envy” and the root issue. Explain what it means to “boast” and the root issue.

Why should this not be part of the Christian life? How will it prevent loving others from taking place?

In what way can you be triggered in this area? How can you start monitoring this area of your life today?

May 26, 2020

Read:  1 Corinthians 13:4, 2 Corinthians 6:3-7, Colossians 3:12-13a

What other godly attributes does Paul equate to patience and kindness? Why is this important?

What does Colossians 3:12 say is required in order to practice patience and kindness? (Hint: “put on”)

How does this relate to practice? What are some ways you can practice this in your current relationships?

May 25, 2020

Read:  1 Corinthians 13:4a, Romans 12:12, Galatians 5:22, Ephesians 4:32, 2 Timothy 2:24

If patience and kindness is described as fruit of the Spirit, what is implied by impatience and unkindness?

Practically speaking, how is this expressed? How does this highlight the way you are to love others?

In what way do you struggle with this issue? Be specific. How does God want you to adjust today?

May 23, 2020

Read:  John 21:1-19

In what way did Jesus reinstate Peter and commission him to continue carrying the Gospel forward?

What did Jesus tell Peter to do in order to demonstrate his love for the Lord? How does this surprise 

you?

How can this perspective often get missed in Christianity today? How have you missed this in your life?

May 22, 2020

Read:  1 Corinthians 13:4a, John 3:16, 13:34-35, 1 John 4:7-8

Explain how today’s scriptures define what is required in order to grow in a life of love. Be specific.

Why will avoiding those you struggle with prevent growth from happening? How is this for you?

How can this week’s sermon illustration (rubber band vs water), apply to your current situation?

May 21, 2020

Read: 1 Corinthians 13:4a, Matthew 22:37-40

In what way does 1 Corinthians 13:4a highlight the way to love God? How did Jesus highlight the same

truth?

Why is this important to understand? What is at risk when loving God and loving others aren’t

connected?

How does this challenge the way you’ve viewed loving God? How can you begin to step into this truth?

May 20, 2020

Read: 1 Corinthians 13:1-3, Matthew 5:21-30, James 1:14-15

Explain the difference between actions and attitude. Why will one lead to another? Give an example.

How did Jesus address this same issue in the Sermon on the Mount? (c.f. Matthew 5:21-30)

What is required in order to personally monitor this issue? (Hint: why?) How will you be more

intentional

May 19, 2020

Read:  1 Corinthians 12:31-13:3, Galatians 5:22-23, Philippians 2:4, 1 Peter 4:10

Why should “love” always be the driving motivator in the Christian life? What can often detract?

How does Galatians 5:22-23 also highlight this same truth? Be specific when it comes to church life.

In what way can this be easily overlooked? How have you missed this priority in your life?

May 18, 2020

Read: 1 Corinthians 13:1-3, John 13:34-35, Philippians 2:3, Matthew 22:37-40

In what way was Paul making hypothetical statements about spiritual gifts? Why?

What interpretation problems can take place if this principle isn’t understood? (Hint: “tongues of 

angels”)

How does Paul’s primary point help prevent pride within the church? How does this apply to everyone?

May 16, 2020

Read:  Proverbs 31:28-31

What action step is required of children and husbands toward their mothers and wives?

 What does this imply about celebrating Mother’s Day throughout the year?  Why is this important?

How will you specifically step into this truth on a regular basis?  Be creative!

May 15, 2020

Read:  Proverbs 22:6, James 1:5, Psalm 127:4

 In what way do mothers have to adapt to each child in a family?  What does this imply about flexibility?

 How can control issues actually lead to fear?  What is the solution based on today’s scriptures?

Write down the areas of wisdom you desire for your children.  Be specific.  Take time to ask God right now.

May 14, 2020

Read:  Proverbs 22:6, Philippians 4:6-7

Describe the different kinds of pressure motherhood can bring.  Be specific.

What promise does Philippians 4:7 provide?  What does this imply about God’s involvement in motherhood?

How can this help your current situation?  What steps will you take this week to step into this truth?

May 13, 2020

Read:  Proverbs 1:8, 2 Timothy 1:5, Titus 2:4

What do today’s scriptures highlight about motherhood and legacy?  Why is this important to

remember?

How is this truth often overlooked in today’s parenting discussions?  What will be the result?

Describe the impact your mom has had in your life.  In what way has she left a legacy?

May 12, 2020

Read:  Genesis 3:20, Proverbs 23:25

As you reflect on the original God-given role of a mother, what is God teaching you about your family?

In what way does this discussion about moms and kids ultimately come down to a relationship with

God?

Why is this important beyond celebrating Mother’s Day?  How does this help you?  Be specific.

May 11, 2020

Read:  Joshua 24:3, 1 Chronicles 28:5, Psalm 127:3, 139:13-14

How does the Old Testament view the provision of children?  What does this imply about motherhood?

How is this perspective countercultural today?  Give an example.

In what way does today’s reminder encourage you about motherhood?  How can you encourage others?

May 9, 2020

Read: James 4:11-12, Romans 14:1-13, 1 Corinthians 2:11-16

Describe how Romans 14:1-13 is an example of James 4:11-12. Give examples from the text.

How have you seen Christians today do this same thing? Give examples.

What is the subtle difference between spiritual protection and criticism? How can this be avoided?

May 8, 2020

Read:  James 4:11-12, 2:8, Leviticus 19:16, Matthew 22:37-40, 15:1-20, 7:1-6

How does speaking evil and judgment relate to God’s law? (i.e. Old & New Testament)

Why is this the opposite of humility? How do you see this happening today? Give an example.

In what way can you fall into this trap during this COVID-19 time? What is God revealing to you?

May 7, 2020

Read: James 4:11, Proverbs 22:1, Psalm 15, Romans 1:28-32, Matthew 15:19-20, 1 Peter 2:1

Based on James 4:11, how does slander relate to speaking “evil” against others? Why is it harmful?

List the various sins you see included in a discussion about slander. What does this imply?

How have you viewed slanderous discussion about others? How does this apply to you personally?

May 6, 2020

Read: James 3:6-12, John 8:42-44, Ephesians 4:25, Proverbs 12:22, 26:28

Why is lying the antithesis to being a Christian? How can Christians be deceived into the duplicity trap?

What does this teach about the importance of your words? (Hint: lying is the only way to live in 

duplicity)

What will you do to grow in truth, authenticity, and consistency in what you say?

May 5, 2020

Read:  James 3:9, Colossians 4:6, Hebrews 3:13, Psalm 35:28, Luke 6:28

Explain the truth of James 3:9 and why God is offended by our discussions about each other.

In what way does this elevate your perspective on gossip and criticism? How does this challenge you?

How will words of encouragement and grace prevent this problem? How will you start today?

May 4, 2020

Read:  James 3:9-12, Matthew 26:33-35, 69-75, Galatians 5:17

What is the primary truth being taught in James 3:9-12? How was Peter a living example?

How do you see this playing out in your life and Christianity in general? Give two examples.

How will you be more intentional about protecting yourself? Take time to pray about your commitment.

May 2, 2020

Read:  James 3:3-8

Take some time and pray, asking God to personally speak to you about today’s truth in your life.

Read the passage out loud inserting personal pronouns (i.e. I, me, my, etc.) to personally apply the 

passage.

What is God revealing about your mouth? How can you be more careful or practice being quiet today?