AN EXPERIENTIAL APPROACH TO THE LESSON

BIBLE AND NUTRITION

Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from www.amazingfacts.org with the Sacramento church



To study the lesson with Dr Derek Norris of the Lake Forest church, click on the following link:

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q206-19-nutrition-bible




PLEASE GO TO YOUR SIDE BAR AND CLICK ON VIEW AND ON ZOOM IN + AS MANY TIMES AS NEEDED TO ENLARGE THE WHOLE PAGE SO YOU MAY EASILY READ IN THE PDF WHOSE FONTS YOU MAY ENLARGE ALSO DIRECTLY BY RAISING THE PERCENTAGE INCLUDED. LIKE THAT YOU HAVE A BIRD VIEW OF MANY PERSPECTIVES. THANK YOU.

AND JUST LEAVE YOUR CURSOR ON THE VERSES IN THE PDF SO YOU MAY READ THEM

htpp://www.cqbiblestudy.org




http://www.absg.adventist.org/


Nutrition in the Bible
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Cor. 10:31, NIV).



Go to Health!
Mark A. Kellner, Columbia, Maryland, U.S.A.
Sabbath Introduction
1 Cor. 10:31

It’s nearly the middle of the year—so, how are those New Year’s resolutions coming along? You know, the ones about eating better (less junk food, more fruits and veggies), getting more exercise (fewer video games), and taking care of yourself?

The need to live a healthful lifestyle isn’t just a good idea.

It’s amazing how many people make those resolutions on or near January 1—and then abandon them by, say, January 3, if not sooner. But the need to live a healthful lifestyle isn’t just a good idea, it’s part of what God wants us to do.

I once heard someone say, “Kids don’t come with an instruction manual.” Well, that’s not true. The Bible has loads to say about child rearing and also about how we should feed ourselves—as kids and as adults. In fact, God loves us so much, He gave us specific instructions about what foods to eat, starting in the Bible’s first chapter, Genesis 1:29: “ ‘I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food’ ” (NIV). From there, He gets quite specific about what we should—and should not—eat. So, we don’t need to guess about which fad diet will give us the best energy, appearance, or health. We only need to see what good foods God has set before us.

God’s instructions about food aren’t a narrative or something to make all those “begats” more interesting. The One who created us is the One who cares about us, so much so that He wants us to be healthy; and so much of our health can be determined by what we eat. Just ask successful athletes. Before a major competition, they make sure to eat the right foods that will supply needed energy. They also make sure they don’t eat foods that will detract from their performance.

The Bible’s thrust about proper nutrition has all sorts of implications, as we see from 1 Corinthians 10:31. Implicit in doing all “for the glory of God” is that He is watching us. Just as very young children want to please their parents, God delights in His children seeking to please Him. But also, doesn’t this suggest that others are watching? Jesus said that when we do good, we are glorifying God (Matt. 5:16). Won’t a healthful lifestyle be a part of that? We’ll learn that, and more, this week.



What Is Your Food Saying?
Seth Allen, Bracknell, United Kingdom
Sunday Evidence
Exod. 15:26; Lev. 11:44, 45; Num. 11:4–34; Daniel 1

Leviticus 11 gives God’s perspective on nutrition. The children of Israel were to walk, talk, and eat like His holy people should. The Egyptian diet on which they had lived for nearly four hundred years included many of the foods that were permissible for the children of Israel to eat. Many Egyptologists have concluded that the upper class ate the most meat, while the poorer class consumed more fruits and vegetables that grew in the rich soil around the Nile.

Can too much of a good thing be bad?

Numbers 11:4–34 reveals how seriously God considered the link between food and spirituality. “God gave the people that which was not for their highest good, because they persisted in desiring it. . . . They were left to suffer the result. . . . ‘The Lord smote the people with a very great plague.’ ”1 If the food was clean, why did God smite them with a plague? Perhaps it was because they lusted after meat so much that they lost sight of God. Can too much of a good thing be bad? God certainly seems to think so.

When the children of Israel eventually reached the Promised Land, historians say that their diet consisted mainly of fruits and vegetables because they made their livelihood from their livestock. When they did kill their animals, it was usually for sacrificial purposes or special occasions.
In Britain during World War II, strict food rationing meant that people ate less fat as well as fewer eggs and less meat and sugar. Studies today suggest that this type of diet reduces the risk of contracting cancer, heart disease, and other degenerative illnesses.2 We certainly know how rampant cancer is among society and that it is even increasing in our church.

God has shown us which foods are for our best good because He loves us so much. The benefits of eating according to His nutritional plan are both physical and spiritual. In these last days He is calling us to be last-day Daniels. Will you respond to the Master’s call?

REACT
1. How can what you eat witness to others of your commitment to God?
2. What is the difference between God’s ultimate will and His permitted will?
3. What does your diet say about your attitude toward God?
____________
1. Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 382.
2. T. Colin Campbell and Thomas M. Campbell II, The China Study (Dallas, Tex.: BenBella Books, 2006).



Soul Food
Ray Allen, Bracknell, United Kingdom
Monday Logos
Gen. 1:26–30; 7:1, 2; 8:20; Leviticus 11;
Deuteronomy 14; Prov. 23:19–21; Acts 10:1–28;
Rom. 14:17; 1 Tim. 4:1–5


The Original Diet (Gen. 1:26–30)
The original diet was vegan. It consisted of grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables.1 It appears to be similar to what Daniel and his companions ate (Dan. 1:11–15, 19, 20). An increasing number of dieticians and scientists today are verifying that a vegan diet produces optimal health.2

The people were obviously having serious withdrawal symptoms.

God allowed the survivors of the Flood to eat animals (Gen. 9:3, 4). The Bible records the age of selected biblical characters from both before the Flood and after. As it turns out, the addition of meat had the effect of slashing the life span considerably. Pre-Flood life spans often topped the 900-year mark, with Methuselah falling shy of 1,000 years at 969 (Gen. 5:27). However, Lamech lived to only 777 (Gen. 5:31), with Abraham cruising in at a grand age of 175 (Gen. 25:7). By the time of David, the average life span was down to 70 years.

The Vertical Connection (Gen. 7:1, 2; 8:20)
God told Noah to take into the ark seven of each kind of clean animal and two of each kind of unclean animal. Soon after the Flood, Noah sacrificed some of those clean animals. This sacrifice was acceptable to God. Although unstated in Genesis, Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14 confirm that God allowed the use of only clean animals for food. Just as God accepted the use of only clean animals in sacrifices offered to Him, so it appears that if human beings were to adopt the use of meat in their diet, God would accept the use of only the best—certain clean animals. There is a hint here of a connection between what we eat and our relationship with God—perhaps a link between the quality of our nutrition and the quality of our worship. The apostle Paul seems to support this in Romans 12:1 and 1 Corinthians 10:31.

Food for a Holy People (Leviticus 11; Deuteronomy 14)
Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14 list the categories of animal foods that are clean and unclean. Of the animals that live on the land, those that have both split hooves and chew the cud were considered clean. Of the creatures that live in water, only those with both fins and scales were to be used for food. God gave similar directives for birds and winged insects. Anyone who ate an unclean creature or touched its carcass was considered unclean. In Leviticus 11:43–46, God makes it clear that eating anything unclean is unacceptable for a people who belong to a
holy God. Deuteronomy 14:21 forbids an Israelite to eat anything found dead, but the carcass could be donated or sold to a foreigner for food. God’s people were set apart by God and were therefore holy. So for the Israelite, the choice of foods eaten
appears to be an integral part of being holy.

Angel Food Versus Egyptian Delights (Exodus 16)
God did not intend for the children of Israel to continue eating flesh foods. Soon after their escape from Egypt, He tried to wean them from such foods with manna, or “angel food” as it’s often called. However, the people were obviously having serious withdrawal symptoms from the fleshpots of Egypt. In the end, God allowed them to continue to eat flesh foods.

A Fly in the Theological Soup (Rom. 14:17; 1 Tim. 4:1–5)
Some of the Jewish members in the early New Testament church were so entrenched in the legal matters of the ceremonial laws and other concerns that they longed to force their views on new believers. Quite often the debate revolved around which food was permitted or not permitted. In Romans 14:15–17 Paul advised those who were more mature in their understanding of doctrinal matters not to pass judgment on those who were perhaps weak in their development, but to focus on the “weightier matters of the law” (Matt. 23:23, NKJV). A similar case is evident in 1 Timothy 4:1–5. Here Paul categorizes those forcing their pet beliefs on others as those who “will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons” (verse 1, NIV).

A Food Illustration (Acts 10:1–28)
Some commentators consider Peter’s vision as proof that God endorses the use of unclean meats. An adoption of this view, however, would be a misinterpretation of the text, which is simply an illustration to help Peter to overcome his prejudice toward Gentile converts. Up to that point, the Gentiles were considered unclean. Peter got the point. If God is no respecter of persons, neither should he be.

Eat Drink and Be Merry? (Prov. 23:19–21)
In Proverbs 23:19–21 Solomon advises against associating with those who have tendencies toward greed and intemperance regarding food and drink.

REACT
1. If a vegan diet represents the ideal, why did God permit the survivors of the Flood to eat meat?
2. What about today? Should we aim for a vegan diet, a lacto-ovo vegetarian diet, or a clean-meat diet? Explain your answer.
3. If the consumption of meat is the best option available, how important is it that it is free of fat or blood? (See Genesis 9:4.)
____________
1. Health and Happiness, p. 123.
2. Campbell and Campbell, The China Study, p. 242.



Small Decisions; Big Consequences
Gina Renee Wahlen, Silver Spring, Maryland, U.S.A.
Tuesday Testimony
Deuteronomy 14

“The history of Daniel and his companions has been recorded on the pages of the inspired word, for the benefit of the youth of all succeeding ages. . . .

“The time came when they must act for themselves.”

“Those who, like Daniel, refuse to defile themselves, will reap the reward of their temperate habits. With their greater physical stamina and increased power of endurance, they have a bank of deposit upon which to draw in case of emergency.

“Right physical habits promote mental superiority. . . . Daniel and his companions enjoyed the benefits of correct training and education in early life, but these advantages alone would not have made them what they were. The time came when they must act for themselves—when their future depended upon their own course.”1

Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah “were not only to be admitted to the royal palace, but it was provided that they should eat of the meat, and drink of the wine, which came from the king’s table. . . .

“Among the viands [food choices] . . . were swine’s flesh and other meats which were declared unclean by the law of Moses, and which the Hebrews had been expressly forbidden to eat. Here Daniel was brought to a severe test. Should he adhere to the teachings of his fathers concerning meats and drinks, and offend the king, probably losing not only his position but his life? or should he disregard the commandment of the Lord, and retain the favor of the king? . . .

“Daniel did not long hesitate. He decided to stand firmly for his integrity, let the result be what it might. . . .

“The character of Daniel is presented to the world as a striking example of what God’s grace can make of men fallen by nature and corrupted by sin. The record of his noble, self-denying life is an encouragement to our common humanity. From it we may gather strength to nobly resist temptation, and firmly, and in the grace of meekness, stand for the right under the severest trial.”2

REACT
If you are placed in a situation where food/drinks are being served that you know are contrary to what the Bible teaches should be consumed, how should you react? What are some ways to prepare in advance to make such situations less stressful?
____________
1. Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, pp. 27, 28.
2. Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, January 25, 1881.



Living to Eat or Eating to Live
De Laine Heinlein-Mayden, Ellicott City, Maryland, U.S.A.
Wednesday How-to
Gen. 1:26−30; 7:1, 2; 8:20

Many people understand the principles of nutrition that God has given us. It’s in the practical application of those principles where many fall prey to temptation. Here then are six ways to help you change your eating habits so they reflect God’s principles:

Be brave! Try something new once or twice a week.

Pray, sleep, and drink water. Getting enough sleep and drinking enough water prepare our bodies to withstand physical temptations. Time spent in prayer prepares us mentally and spiritually. Read Philippians 4:13. Always keep it in mind.

Change habits gradually. If you’re changing from a meat-based to a plant-based diet, make the change gradually. “Changes must not be made so abruptly that they will be turned from health reform, instead of being led to it.”1

Plan what and when to eat rather than following your cravings. Make a schedule of what and when you eat. Change that schedule as you learn how your body utilizes food. Experiment with eating only two meals a day, or try eating four to five smaller meals. Learn how fasting can benefit you physically and spiritually.

Journal your eating habits. Note the size of your portions along with the changes you experience in your body and mind, particularly your thoughts. Also note how your prayer life affects your eating habits and how your eating habits affect your prayer life.

Vary your food choices. Eat new and different foods. There are millions of healthy recipes online. Be brave! Try something new once or twice a week. When you first begin to change your eating habits, new foods may not be palatable. Allow time for your tastes to change

Research Ellen White’s guidelines. Go to the E. G. White Estate Web site (http://www.whiteestate.org). Then do a key word search of all her writings—for example, “eating habits” or “sugar.” Notice how God gently leads us into a deeper, purer relationship with Him. She wrote, “We should not be prevailed upon to take anything into the mouth that will bring the body into an unhealthy condition, no matter how much we like it. Why? Because we are God’s property.”2

As we seek to become closer to God by purifying our minds and bodies with good, healthful eating habits, He provides us with the strength to succeed.
____________
1. Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 284.
2। Ibid., p. 328.



Why Does good Nutrition Matter?
Wilona Karimabadi, Ellicott City, Maryland, U.S.A.
Thursday Opinion
Gen 1:26−30;John 10:10

If you were to ask the title’s question of any fitness trainer or nutritionist, you would likely get an enthusiastic response that would take more time than you would care to spend hearing it. If you were to ask that question of a Christian, I believe your response would be similar, but slightly less enthusiastic. However, when we approach the topic of good nutrition, Christians also should be passionate.

“There’s no telling where a more abundant life will lead you!”

“Garbage in, garbage out” describes the level of performance your body delivers based on what you fuel it with. Eating a diet rich in candy, simple carbs, fats, and sodas will get you a machine running on empty and unable to perform as God intended. However, load that same body with lean protein, grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables—and watch what happens!

God didn’t create our bodies to fail. He created the right sort of fuel to help them function with vitality. Nutrition matters to people who want to be healthy. And nutrition should matter to Christians who want to be healthy. But we may not always act that way. And that’s a problem.
If we look at our bodies as finely tuned machines, what would happen if we put the wrong kind of fuel in our tanks? That’s precisely why proper nutrition matters to the quality of life we strive for. “You are of infinite value. God calls your body His ‘temple.’ He wants the very best for you.”1

To be an effective Christian, we have to be running at our best. Living life abundantly is our calling, and eating healthfully helps us to fulfill that calling. “By making a few changes in your diet and lifestyle, you can live on a higher plane in harmony with the laws of your being. With this beginning, there’s no telling where a more abundant life will lead you!”2

Just as having a quality relationship with God matters, so it matters if we take care of the bodies He gave us. Approach your next meal with that in mind.

REACT
1. What are some foods that make you feel good? What are some that make you feel bad?
2. How do we dishonor God by failing to pay attention to what we eat?
_____________
1. Tim Crosby, “Why Going Meatless Makes Sense,” How to Go Meatless for Life, Vibrant Life special issue,
p. 10.
2. Ibid.



Right Eating, Abundant Living
Frank A. Campbell, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Friday Exploration
Prov. 11:3

CONCLUDE
We see the link between food and abundant life in the Bible’s dietary instructions and in Isaiah’s and Revelation’s preview into heaven’s menu. We see practical manifestations—meat eating following the Flood. And we see the spiritual connection—Jesus the “bread of life.” The journey from where we live to eat to where we eat to live more abundantly calls, like any journey, for the three Ps—planning, pursuit (action), and patience. Patience with ourselves. And, more so, with those who are not yet as far on the journey to abundant life as we are.

CONSIDER
•Spending 30 to 60 minutes thinking about Bible texts concerning food. Which ones deal with the physical? Which deal with the spiritual? Which cover both?
•Sharing with the class what the National Geographic article mentioned in the Connect section implies about how Adventist living leads to abundant life.
•Preparing a three-course or even a one-course meal made entirely of uncooked foods—fruits, vegetables, nuts (if you are not allergic to them), etc. (See the Connect section.)
•Starting a vegetable garden or a mixed flower and vegetable garden.
•Writing a polite letter suggesting what your principal, mayor, premier, governor, president, prime minister, king, or queen can do to improve the food and drinks available in local, regional, or national school(s) and hospital(s).
•Instituting a “Good Food Day” for yourself or family. This could mean no animal products, no snacking, etc. It could last a week, a month, or longer.
•Starting a healthful-food recipe collection.

CONNECT
Heal the World: Begin With Yourself (special youth edition of The Ministry of Healing), edited by Gary B. Swanson, pp. 97–112; Dan Buettner, “The Secrets of Long Life,” National Geographic, November 2005, pp. 2–27; LuAnn Bermeo, Amazing Meals, vols. 1 and 2; Rose Lee Calabro, Living in the Raw: Gourmet (Summertown, Tenn.: Book Publishing Company, 2005).






OPTIMISM: HAPPINESS AND HEALING





Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from www.amazingfacts.org with the Sacramento church



To study the lesson with Dr Derek Norris of the Lake Forest church, click on the following link:

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q206-12-optimism-happiness-and-healing




PLEASE GO TO YOUR SIDE BAR AND CLICK ON VIEW AND ON ZOOM IN + AS MANY TIMES AS NEEDED TO ENLARGE THE WHOLE PAGE SO YOU MAY EASILY READ IN THE PDF WHOSE FONTS YOU MAY ENLARGE ALSO DIRECTLY BY RAISING THE PERCENTAGE INCLUDED. LIKE THAT YOU HAVE A BIRD VIEW OF MANY PERSPECTIVES. THANK YOU.

AND JUST LEAVE YOUR CURSOR ON THE VERSES IN THE PDF SO YOU MAY READ THEM

htpp://www.cqbiblestudy.org



http://www.absg.adventist.org/


Optimism: Happiness and Healing
“Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (Lam. 3:21–23, NIV)



Looking Ahead With Hope
Opuge Ephraim Obuolloh, Kisii, Kenya, East Africa
Sabbath Introduction
Ps. 27:1, 14

In face of the economic downturn, wars, food shortages, and the constant changes
we have to contend with daily, we all are faced with discouraging situations that sometimes make life seem too difficult to bear. So many people are falling victim to depression because of their social and economic situations, while other people become exhausted and sick as a result of personal difficulties and stress.

As depression increases, the body’s defenses become weakened.

As depression increases, the body’s defenses become weakened. But how thankful we can be that the Word of God, the Bible, is filled with messages of hope—messages that when contemplated and lived can inspire and strengthen the fainting soul. These messages also can restore physical health to bodies made sick with worry or sadness. David most likely wrote our texts for today when he was a fugitive hiding in the wilderness.1 Read them now if you haven’t already done so. Such texts can inspire us today to keep going when the going gets tough. Of these verses, we read, “Fear is a dark shadow that envelops us and ultimately imprisons us within ourselves. Each of us has been a prisoner of fear at one time or another—fear of rejection, misunderstanding, uncertainty, sickness, or even death. But we can conquer fear by using the bright liberating light of the Lord who brings salvation.”2 “The psalm closes with a repetition of the injunction: ‘Wait, I say, on the Lord,’ as if the psalmist would fix deep in our minds the idea that at all times of doubt and danger, instead of despairing, we should go forward ‘in the strength of the Lord God’ (see Ps. 71:16).”3

God’s Word, the sacrifice of His only Son, His demonstrated love and faithfulness throughout our lives, and His daily presence in our lives should regularly inspire us to hope for a better future, both in this life and in eternity. God has the answers we need, and He has granted us access to them in the Bible. This week we will explore the unique link between optimism, well-being, and the healing of body and mind.

REACT
How is it that the Bible carries the answers to all of life’s dilemmas?
____________
1. Education, p. 164.
2. Life Application Study Bible (Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House, 1991), p. 929.
3. The SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 3, p. 697.



A Strong Heart
Lukas Olwayo, Kisumu, Kenya, East Africa
Sunday Logos
1 Kings 19:2−18; Psalm 27; 42; Luke 8:14; 10:38−42;
Rom. 8:35−39; 2 Cor. 12:9, 10; 1 Thess. 5:16−18

A Fearless Strong Heart (Psalm 27; 42)
David’s life surely had many challenges and trials. He expresses some of these quite vividly in Psalm 27. But in doing so, he also comforts and assures us. When life is difficult and when things seem to be going the wrong way for us, we must remember that God is with us still. David’s advice is that we must wait on the Lord. Waiting on the Him involves trusting in His providence and in His ability. It entails having confidence that He will do what He says and lead where He promises. Knowing that God is there for us in these ways should encourage our hearts to be strong. A strong heart is able to withstand many of life’s challenges, while a weak heart faints at any trial and will not be able to withstand the challenges of life.

When faith grows, anxiety lessens.

Only One Thing Is Needed (Luke 10:42)
Both Mary and Martha were disciples of Jesus. They both loved the Lord and devoted their lives to Him. Yet they approached discipleship in different ways. Even with Jesus in her house, Martha remained overly distracted by all the preparations needed to entertain the guest. Most likely these preparations were for their meal together. Mary, however, sat with Jesus so that she might hear what He had to say. Jesus knew that neither Mary nor Martha could live by bread alone (Matt. 4:4). He knew that there are times when feeding on the spiritual bread of His Word would be more important than feeding on bread from the oven. In Martha’s case, the “many things” (Luke 10:41, NIV) distracting her from Christ’s presence were not bad in themselves. The point here is that sometimes we can fill up our lives with “good things” to the point that we neglect our soul’s needs. Sometimes we are so busy doing things for Christ, that we fail to spend quality time with Him.

Martha being troubled refers to her “outward demeanor, in contrast with her inner feelings. She was ‘anxious’ inwardly, and as a result ‘troubled’ outwardly. If we would only seek to cultivate that inward composure that Martha so much needed we would avoid much unnecessary anxiety.”1

God does not bless us with good families, loving friends, well-paying and satisfying jobs, along with other gifts and abilities, just so we have excuses to abandon a close walk with Him. Always remember as Mary must have remembered— that without Him we can do nothing (John 15:5).

Our State of Mind (Matt. 6:31, 32)
Anxiety is a killer. Many of the physical and mental illnesses of our present age are stress related. However, when faith grows, anxiety lessens. This is what Jesus wanted Martha learn. This is part of what He taught in the Sermon on the Mount when He said, “ ‘Do not worry, saying, “What shall we eat?” or “What shall we drink?” or “What shall we wear?” For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them’ ” (Matt. 6:31, 32, NIV). Having the correct set of priorities—putting His kingdom first—will reduce your chances of a heart attack!

Mary chose to listen to the Lord. But if we are too busy to commune with Him, to pray, to study His word, to meditate on life’s purpose, and to enjoy a peaceful, private time with Him, our hearts will be troubled with life’s daily cares, wearing down our bodies and minds so that we will be weakened by illnesses small and large.

God Loves You (Jer. 31:3)
In Jeremiah 31:3, God said to the Israelites, “I have loved thee with an ever-lasting love.” As the object of God’s love, the apostle Paul could say that he knew in whom he believed (2 Tim. 1:12). In Romans 8:35–39, he declares that all true believers are the object of God’s love. Because this is so, nothing or no one can separate us from God’s salvation and deliverance. His love should inspire us to look at life positively, to expect good things to happen, and to live with the confidence that He will take care of us.

“God reaches toward his people with kindness motivated by deep and everlasting love. He is eager to do the best for them if they will only let him. After many words of warning about sin, this reminder of God’s magnificent love is a breath of fresh air. Rather than thinking of God with dread, look carefully and see him lovingly drawing us toward himself.”2

When life deals us blows, we are to know that all that truly matters is safe with the Lord. Such a state of mind will lead to a good state of health. His promises are many. Let them be your guide (Deut. 33:29; Ps. 4:8; 56:3; 91:1, 2; 1 John 4:4).

REACT
1. How does the fact that God has already provided our salvation inspire you to live positively?
2. If you are anxious about something in your life, do things to increase your faith. Be sure to notice how an increase in faith makes you feel physically.
3. How can we demonstrate our assurance of salvation to others so they will be inspired to follow the Lord?
____________
1. The SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 5, p. 785.
2. Life Application Study Bible (Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House, 1991), p. 1342.



“Joy . . . Never Failing”
Marcus Leeland, Bowie, Maryland, U.S.A.
Monday Testimony
Prov. 17:22

“The relation that exists between the mind and the body is very intimate. When one is affected, the other sympathizes. The condition of the mind affects the health to a far greater degree than many realize. Many of the diseases from which men suffer are the result of mental depression. Grief, anxiety, discontent, remorse, guilt, distrust, all tend to break down the life forces and to invite decay and death. . . .

“Let us educate our souls to be hopeful. . . .”

“Courage, hope, faith, sympathy, love, promote health and prolong life. A contented mind, a cheerful spirit, is health to the body and strength to the soul.”1

“Nothing tends more to promote health of body and of soul than does a spirit of gratitude and praise. It is a positive duty to resist melancholy, discontented thoughts and feelings—as much a duty as it is to pray. If we are heaven-bound, how can we go as a band of mourners, groaning and complaining all along the way to our Father’s house?

“Those professed Christians who are constantly complaining, and who seem to think cheerfulness and happiness a sin, have not genuine religion. . . .

“It is a law of nature that our thoughts and feelings are encouraged and strengthened as we give them utterance. While words express thoughts, it is also true that thoughts follow words. If we would give more expression to our faith, rejoice more in the blessings that we know we have,—the great mercy and love of God,—we should have more faith and greater joy. No tongue can express, no finite mind can conceive, the blessing that results from appreciating the goodness and love of God. Even on earth we may have joy as a well-spring, never failing, because fed by the streams that flow from the throne of God.

“Then let us educate our hearts and lips to speak the praise of God for His matchless love. Let us educate our souls to be hopeful, and to abide in the light shining from the cross of Calvary. Never should we forget that we are children of the heavenly King, sons and daughters of the Lord of hosts. It is our privilege to maintain a calm repose in God.”2

REACT
Take time to praise God for five things. Think about each item for one minute. Note how you feel at the end of this exercise.
____________
1. The Ministry of Healing, p. 241.
2. Ibid., pp. 251–253.





Living Productive Lives
Sarah Kwamboka Monyoncho, Nairobi, Kenya, East Africa
Tuesday Evidence
3 John 1: 2

Third John begins with an identification of its author and the person to whom it is written, followed by a thanksgiving and a wish for the well-being of the recipient. John addresses Gaius as his “dear friend.” While this suggests cordiality, it is probably not strong enough to capture the meaning of the Greek word used here (agapetos), which means “beloved.” Love is not simply affection or attachment but the God-given bond that unites Christians. And John’s statement that he loves Gaius “in the truth” points to the double-stranded cord that unites them: they are held together not only by love but also by the truth they share.

The wish for good health is typical of ancient letters, and here it is really a prayer. Specifically, John prays that Gaius “may enjoy good health” and “that all may go well with” him, “even as [his] soul is getting along well” (verse 2, NIV). The word translated “soul” (psyche) refers to every aspect of personhood. In the Gospel of John Jesus is said to lay down his psyche, which means more than to give his “soul” (see John 10:15, 17, 18). John’s confidence that Gaius is “getting along well” with respect to his soul does not therefore merely point to his soul being saved. Instead it is referring to both spiritual and moral health in light of accepting Jesus and obeying His commands.

When we consider it a duty to praise God and to be optimistic about our future as Christians despite the worldly conditions around us, our physical health also will benefit. Many research studies are showing this to be true. One such study was done at Carnegie Mellon University. Dr. Sheldon Cohen and his colleagues studied 193 healthy men and women between the ages of 21 and 55. Results showed that participants “with high scores for positive emotional style were more likely to resist colds and flu.” The researcher wrote that these “results indicate that positive emotions play a larger and more important role in disease risk and health complaints than previously believed.”*

REACT
1. What have you done recently to highlight hope and prosperity to those around you?
2. What does the Bible say about living peaceably with all people? See Romans 12:18. How can this contribute to both spiritual and physical health?
____________
*Miranda Hitti, “Happiness Good for Health,” WebMD, http://www.webmd.com/news/20061110/happiness-good-for-health (accessed February 10, 2009).



Living Well Despite Life’s Challenges
Jackson Watembo, Ronkai, Kenya, East Africa
How-to Wednesday
Genesis 6; 7; 12:1–7; Gal. 5:22–26

We live in a world of uncertainties and changes. Many things are often beyond our control. How we manage these events depends on how we see and react to them. Optimism is hoping for and expecting the best out of life. It entails patience and perseverance.

Give your worries . . . to the Lord in prayer. Then leave them there.

When we believe that we are controlled by situations, and when we whine and complain, we not only expose ourselves to defeat but weaken our resolve to be happy. Those who are optimistic in one situation will not only gain the courage to practise optimism the next time there is a problem but also will be developing their hearts and minds to withstand future challenges.

How does one develop optimism?

Take the step of faith. Many of us are depressed because we never try to trust. We refuse to walk in faith. It wasn’t until Peter stepped into the water that he knew he could walk on it. Unless we take the first step, we cannot go anywhere.

Trust in God. Trusting Him does not mean abandoning common sense and action. It does mean that despite circumstances you will believe and have faith that God’s promises will be fulfilled in your life. Noah trusted God, even though it had never rained before. Abraham trusted God even though God didn’t tell him where he was going.

Pray. Many of us are not optimistic because we do not spend a great deal of time in prayer. Those who struggle with their burdens and refuse to give them to the Lord continue to carry those burdens. Give your worries and anxiety to the Lord in prayer. Then leave them there.

Live a healthy lifestyle. Research has shown that exercise and eating healthful foods can help us to be happy. Exercise brings oxygen to every part of the body. This keeps us alert and strong. Good food helps us to fight colds, flu, cancers, and other health problems. When we feel well because we have taken care of our bodies, it is easier to be optimistic about life’s challenges.

People who fear life’s circumstances block the work of God in their lives and cannot therefore experience the fullness of life. However, optimistic people walk through life with courage and hope. Their lives bear much fruit.

REACT
Review the steps above. Choose two that you need to work on. Then develop and work a plan that will help you to do so.



“It Draweth Nigh, Awake From Sleep”
Isaac Nyakundi Mokaya, Kisii, Kenya, East Africa
Thursday Opinion
Rom. 13:11, 12

“And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light” (Rom. 13:11, 12, NKJV).

The world is full of maggots.

We are called to do God’s will. Many people say that Christ has delayed, and thus He has not kept His promise to return and take us to heaven. I believe, however, that He has not delayed as many think of delay. Instead, He “is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance” (2 Pet. 3:9, NKJV). He and his angels are working to win many of us to their side.
A story is told of a pastor who kept ducks and chickens. Once, he received an invitation to preach in a church far away. So he prepared enough food for his poultry to eat while he was gone. When he returned a week later, he was shocked to discover that the young chicks and ducks were in the latrine outside of his house. He took a spotlight and looked in the latrine. When he saw maggots’ wriggling there, he realized they had fallen in. They would rather have maggots to eat than the good food he had left for them.

The world is full of maggots placed by Satan in hopes of catching us in his snares. But we praise Jesus, because, like the pastor who rescued his ducklings and chicks, He wants to rescue us from the cares of the world and draw us close to God.

REACT
1. What are some of the ways the devil attacks us?
2. How you can avoid the devil’s snares? Read Proverbs 3:5, 6.
3. How has God helped you when you were tempted by Satan?
4. Are you as concerned as God is that not any should perish under the deceptions of Satan? If your answer is no, can you think why you might feel that way? What can you do to change your mind?
5. Review Romans 13:11, 12. How is “putting on the armor of light” (NKJV) a metaphor for being optimistic?



My Peace I Give
Dwain Esmond, Hedgesville, West Virginia, U.S.A.
Friday Exploration
Phil. 4:6, 7

CONCLUDE
Diseases without remedy, adverse climate changes, and financial crises are just a few of the problems making men and women’s hearts fail them for fear. God has not left His people helpless or hopeless. He has given to each person “a measure of faith” that is best used when placed in Him (Rom. 12:3). Through faith in God and His Word, we have at our disposal the strength to overcome any challenge we may face. To be at peace, we must use what we have to get what we need from a God willing to supply our every need.

CONSIDER
Watching your local evening newscast for the next five days. Create a chart showing the number of positive stories versus those that were negative. How might a constant barrage of the nightly news shape one’s mental state?
Making a list of the top ten stressors in your life. Try to come up with two positive ways to handle each source of stress. Then calculate the amount of time you lose each week by negatively responding to the stresses in your life.
Rewriting John 14:27 and Matthew 11:2–30 in your own words, beginning with this statement: “God is telling me that . . .”
Thinking of a stressful time in your life. How did God help you get through it? Create a spoken-word testimony of your deliverance by playing a favorite piece of Christian music in the background as you record your personal testimony.
Reading Romans 1:18–23. A lack of thankfulness by the Romans contributed to their mental depravity. Think of someone in your life for whom you are thankful. Cook or bake them something to let them know you appreciate them.
Organizing an agape feast at your home or apartment. Invite several friends and acquaintances to attend. Ask your guests to share something for which they would like special prayer or support. Take a moment to pray for the requests.
Thinking about a challenge in your life that you have failed to surrender to God. Meditate on James 4:2 and 1 Peter 5:7. Why not surrender your challenge to God right now?

CONNECT
The Ministry of Healing, chapter 18.
Philip Yancey, Prayer, chapter 11.

INTEGRITY: WHOLENESS AND HOLINESS

Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from www.amazingfacts.org with the Sacramento church



To study the lesson with Dr Derek Norris of the Lake Forest church, click on the following link:

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q206-05-integrity-wholeness-and-holiness



PLEASE GO TO YOUR SIDE BAR AND CLICK ON VIEW AND ON ZOOM IN + AS MANY TIMES AS NEEDED TO ENLARGE THE WHOLE PAGE SO YOU MAY EASILY READ IN THE PDF WHOSE FONTS YOU MAY ENLARGE ALSO DIRECTLY BY RAISING THE PERCENTAGE INCLUDED. LIKE THAT YOU HAVE A BIRD VIEW OF MANY PERSPECTIVES. THANK YOU.

AND JUST LEAVE YOUR CURSOR ON THE VERSES IN THE PDF SO YOU MAY READ THEM

htpp://www.cqbiblestudy.org


http://www.absg.adventist.org/




www.cqbiblestudy.org

Integrity: Wholeness and Holiness

“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us” (Titus 2:7, 8, NIV).


How Can I Sin Against God?
Andres Saenz, Alamosa, Colorado, U.S.A.
Sabbath Introduction
Gen. 39:9

“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us” (Titus 2:7, 8, NIV).

“I was just rectifying accounts,” she said.

I grew up in an environment in which cheating was part of life. The attitude was, the more you cheat, the smarter you are. What I learned from cheating, however, is that sooner or later everything will come out, and people will know who you really are. Some people think that they won’t get caught, but they always do.

I remember a pharmacy technician in my country who was a student at a private university. She always seemed to have money for everything she wanted. One day, her coworker asked her where all of her money was coming from, because the coworker suspected she was stealing money from the company. The technician said that her mother was giving her money, but her coworker didn’t believe her. One day the coworker watched as the technician sold a medicine, but failed to record the purchase. Instead, she put the money in her pocket. Eventually she was fired. She justified her actions by saying that she should have been paid more. “I was just rectifying accounts,” she said.

Willpower, morality, and spirituality are centered in the brain’s frontal lobe.* So, having a healthy brain will help us to have a better relationship with God. We need to be careful about the type of lifestyle we lead, because our lifestyle affects our frontal lobe. Many things affect the activity of the frontal lobe. Among them are the diet we choose, exercise, television programs and movies we watch, computer games we play, the types of books we read, and the music we listen to.

If you are struggling with the issue of integrity—living up to what you believe—consider eating more healthfully. Remember that you are what you eat! Study the example of Daniel, who decided to be faithful to God and not to eat the food the king offered him. As a result, he was found to be ten times wiser than the young men who ate the royal food (Dan.1:15–20). Also consider Joseph, who considered integrity crucial to his relationship with God, regardless of his circumstances.

This week, as you study integrity and its relationship to health, holiness, and wholeness, may you be inspired to nourish both your body and your soul.

REACT
What made Daniel and Joseph strong enough to remain true to what they believed, despite the fact that their lives were in jeopardy?
____________
*Dr. Neil Nedley, Renewing the Mind: The Frontal Lobe, http://neilnedleymd.revivevideo.com/index.htm#msg04 (accessed March 9, 2009).



Is Your Life Aligned With His?
James G. Moon, La Jara, Colorado, U.S.A.
Monday Logos
Gen. 39:6–12; 1 Sam. 24:1–10; Dan. 6:1–10;
Matt. 4:1–11; Rom. 1:25–27; Eph. 3:14–21

A basic definition of integrity is this: when your ways match your words. And biblical integrity is when your ways match God’s Word, when your whole life is aligned with His will and His ways. Let’s take a look at some people in Scripture who lived in alignment with the heart of our Father.

What can we do when integrity breaks down?

Aligning Our Roles (Gen. 39:6–12)
Joseph had two basic roles. He was a child of God and the manager of
Potiphar’s household. Because his roles were in alignment with his first allegiance to God and his second to humanity, he was able resist the sexual advances of Potiphar’s wife. Now some might say, “But look where his integrity got him! Prison!” Yes, in the short term, integrity often takes us down a difficult road. However, in the long term, we shall never regret putting God first. Ultimately, Joseph became Pharaoh’s right-hand man (see Genesis 40 and 41). Ultimately, he became a blessing to his father’s house.

Aligning Our Resentments (1 Sam. 24:1–10)
In Romans we read, “Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,’ says the Lord” (Rom. 12:19, NASB). David showed integrity when he refused to allow resentment toward Saul, who was seeking to kill him, to lead him down the path of personal revenge. How often do we attempt to get even, only to find that we have gotten bitter? Granted, some of us may have been threatened, abused, raped, molested, or wrongly accused. But, the dark side of defending and avenging ourselves is that we end up trapped in anger, resentment, and unforgiveness. In contrast, biblical integrity is when we love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us, putting them in God’s hands and allowing Him to be our vindicator.

Aligning Our Worship (Dan. 6:1–10)
Like David, Daniel trusted God to be his vindicator. His very name means “God is my Judge.” And through an experiential understanding of God’s justice, protection, and provision (Daniel 1, 2, 5), Daniel arrived at a place of radical integrity in worship. When faced with the threat of being thrown to the lions, he kept worshiping because he had spent a lifetime learning to trust in God as his defender.

As Adventists, we are called to proclaim the message “ ‘Fear God, and give
Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come; worship Him who made the heaven and the earth and sea and springs of waters’ ” (Rev. 14:7, NASB). Like David and Daniel, we are a people who worship God in part because He is our Judge. And in spite of what others might say or do to us, our way of life must become our way of worship.

Aligning Our Identity
Worship was certainly Jesus’ way of life. And the reason He worshiped with such integrity was that His identity was aligned with the word of His Father. At His baptism, the Father declared, “ ‘This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased’ ” (Matt. 3:17, NASB). And when tempted by the devil to turn the stones to bread, Christ declared, “ ‘MAN SHALL NOT LIVE ON BREAD ALONE, BUT ON EVERYRY WORD THAT PROCEEDS OUT OF THE MOUTH OF GOD’ ” (Matt. 4:4, NASB). In other words, Satan said, “If you are God’s son, prove it by turning the stones to bread.” But Christ understood that our identity is defined not by what we do, but by what God has done, by what God has said. And God declares to us that in Christ, we are His beloved!

When God affirmed Jesus after His baptism, and said, “ ‘This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased,’ ” He said it to us. As a result, your prayers, through faith in your substitute, Jesus Christ, are accepted by the Father.1

Out of Alignment (Rom. 1:26, 27)
Romans paints a picture of a people who have experienced a breakdown in integrity—a people who have lost their identity. They have become dis-connected from God and, as a result, have unhealthy relationships with one another; exchanging natural relationships for unnatural ones. Their failure to trust in God’s Word and provision led to moral and spiritual perversion.

Aligning Our Prayers (Eph. 3:14–21)
What can we do when integrity breaks down? Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 3 reveals a powerful way to strengthen our integrity and the integrity of others. In praying for others to find wholeness in their inner being, we ourselves are strengthened. In praying for them to know the “love of Christ that surpasses knowledge” (verse 19, NRSV), we find ourselves lost in the depths of His love.

“The highest glory of Christ upon His sovereign throne today is the glory of His prevailing intercession. . . . There is no more Christlike role than to be a co-
intercessor with Christ for the priorities upon His heart. In no other way can the Christian be of greater strength and blessing to Christ’s church. In no other way can you do more to advance Christ’s kingdom and bring glory to the name of Jesus.”2
____________
1. 1888 Materials, p. 124.
2. Wesley Duewel, Mighty Prevailing Prayer (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan, 1990), p. 27.


AND JUST LEAVE YOUR CURSOR ON THE VERSES IN THE PDF SO YOU MAY READ THEM



Integrity Role Model and Influence
Lani Tomagan-Willis, Pasay City, Philippines
Tuesday Testimony
Prov. 11:3

My parents sacrificed much to help others. Observing them, I have grown to appreciate the value of integrity. Their example has built within me a desire to do what I can to use my God-given talents for the benefit of others.

“When you lose your conscious integrity, your soul becomes a battlefield for Satan.”

“God desires us to make use of every opportunity for securing a preparation for His work. He expects us to put all our energies into its performance and to keep our hearts alive to its sacredness and its fearful responsibilities.”1

“When you lose your conscious integrity, your soul becomes a battlefield for Satan; you have doubts and fears enough to paralyze your energies and drive you to discouragement.”2 Review Psalm 25:21 and Ephesians 4:15.

It is interesting that while helping the poor, we are advised to “keep always in view their spiritual needs.”3 We are to meet people where they are and educate them, not in pride, but in character building. Life’s best things—simplicity, honesty, truthfulness, purity, integrity—cannot be bought or sold. For everyone, God has provided much good pleasure that may be enjoyed by both rich and poor alike. Pleasure is found in cultivating pure thoughts and unselfish actions. Pleasure comes from speaking sympathizing words and doing kind deeds.

From those who perform such service, the light of Christ shines to brighten lives darkened by many shadows. “Integrity, self-denial, and humility should characterize our lives.”4

“It is essential that you cultivate faithfulness in little things, and in so doing you will acquire habits of integrity in greater responsibilities. The little incidents of everyday life often pass without our notice, but it is these things that shape the character. Every event of life is great for good or for evil.”5

Thousands upon thousands of human beings are perishing. There is great work to be done. Are you doing all you can to help?
____________
1. The Ministry of Healing, p. 498.
2. Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1, p. 321.
3. The Ministry of Healing, p. 198.
4. Medical Ministry, p. 131.
5. Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1, p. 270.



The Integrity-Woven Character
Kay Brock, Estes Park, Colorado, U.S.A.
Wednesday How-to
Num. 23:19; Ps. 20:7; Titus 2:7

Cloth is woven with a shuttle filled with yarn, going in and out, in and out, until finally, there is a beautiful piece of fabric. So are our characters woven on a daily basis, with thoughts going in and out, in and out, all day long. It’s so easy, just once, to plagiarize a paper or tell that “little white lie.” The key is to make sure that all of our thoughts are of the purest quality possible. How do we maintain the integrity of our thoughts?

Every day, every response to each thought is a choice.

Our highest example of integrity is God. Numbers 23:19 says, “God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind” (NIV). To meet such a high standard ourselves, we must daily adhere to God’s values with brutal honesty, all day long, for the thoughts in our minds weave in and out, in and out all day long.

Closeness to our Lord is the only way to achieve integrity. Satan is trying to slip into our decision-making process. One must always choose to be honest. This does not come naturally. Every day, every response to each thought is a choice. Only God’s leading can keep us strong enough to make the right choice. Through daily Bible study one can stay close to Him.
Trust in the Lord to lead you. Psalm 20:7 says, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God” (NIV). If we are in constant contact with Him through prayer, we can hear and learn to trust His whisperings, His leading.

Stand firm when the winds of evil blow over you. Pressure to make an unwise choice will be there, always. Prove yourself before God and other people. Titus 2:7 says, “In all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility” (NKJV). “An honest man, according to Christ’s measurement, is one who will manifest unbending integrity. . . . Firm integrity shines forth as gold amid the dross and rubbish of the world.”*
Stand firm, so that your cloth of character will be beautifully woven with integrity.

REACT
How do you think people see your character?
____________
*Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, p. 310.

INTEGRITY: WHOLENESS AND HOLINESS

Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from www.amazingfacts.org with the Sacramento church



To study the lesson with Dr Derek Norris of the Lake Forest church, click on the following link:

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q206-05-integrity-wholeness-and-holiness



PLEASE GO TO YOUR SIDE BAR AND CLICK ON VIEW AND ON ZOOM IN + AS MANY TIMES AS NEEDED TO ENLARGE THE WHOLE PAGE SO YOU MAY EASILY READ IN THE PDF WHOSE FONTS YOU MAY ENLARGE ALSO DIRECTLY BY RAISING THE PERCENTAGE INCLUDED. LIKE THAT YOU HAVE A BIRD VIEW OF MANY PERSPECTIVES. THANK YOU.

AND JUST LEAVE YOUR CURSOR ON THE VERSES SO YOU MAY READ THEM

htpp://www.cqbiblestudy.org


http://www.absg.adventist.org/



Integrity: Wholeness and Holiness

“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us” (Titus 2:7, 8, NIV).


How Can I Sin Against God?
Andres Saenz, Alamosa, Colorado, U.S.A.
Sabbath Introduction
Gen. 39:9

“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us” (Titus 2:7, 8, NIV).

“I was just rectifying accounts,” she said.

I grew up in an environment in which cheating was part of life. The attitude was, the more you cheat, the smarter you are. What I learned from cheating, however, is that sooner or later everything will come out, and people will know who you really are. Some people think that they won’t get caught, but they always do.

I remember a pharmacy technician in my country who was a student at a private university. She always seemed to have money for everything she wanted. One day, her coworker asked her where all of her money was coming from, because the coworker suspected she was stealing money from the company. The technician said that her mother was giving her money, but her coworker didn’t believe her. One day the coworker watched as the technician sold a medicine, but failed to record the purchase. Instead, she put the money in her pocket. Eventually she was fired. She justified her actions by saying that she should have been paid more. “I was just rectifying accounts,” she said.

Willpower, morality, and spirituality are centered in the brain’s frontal lobe.* So, having a healthy brain will help us to have a better relationship with God. We need to be careful about the type of lifestyle we lead, because our lifestyle affects our frontal lobe. Many things affect the activity of the frontal lobe. Among them are the diet we choose, exercise, television programs and movies we watch, computer games we play, the types of books we read, and the music we listen to.

If you are struggling with the issue of integrity—living up to what you believe—consider eating more healthfully. Remember that you are what you eat! Study the example of Daniel, who decided to be faithful to God and not to eat the food the king offered him. As a result, he was found to be ten times wiser than the young men who ate the royal food (Dan.1:15–20). Also consider Joseph, who considered integrity crucial to his relationship with God, regardless of his circumstances.

This week, as you study integrity and its relationship to health, holiness, and wholeness, may you be inspired to nourish both your body and your soul.

REACT
What made Daniel and Joseph strong enough to remain true to what they believed, despite the fact that their lives were in jeopardy?
____________
*Dr. Neil Nedley, Renewing the Mind: The Frontal Lobe, http://neilnedleymd.revivevideo.com/index.htm#msg04 (accessed March 9, 2009).



Is Your Life Aligned With His?
James G. Moon, La Jara, Colorado, U.S.A.
Monday Logos
Gen. 39:6–12; 1 Sam. 24:1–10; Dan. 6:1–10;
Matt. 4:1–11; Rom. 1:25–27; Eph. 3:14–21

A basic definition of integrity is this: when your ways match your words. And biblical integrity is when your ways match God’s Word, when your whole life is aligned with His will and His ways. Let’s take a look at some people in Scripture who lived in alignment with the heart of our Father.

What can we do when integrity breaks down?

Aligning Our Roles (Gen. 39:6–12)
Joseph had two basic roles. He was a child of God and the manager of
Potiphar’s household. Because his roles were in alignment with his first allegiance to God and his second to humanity, he was able resist the sexual advances of Potiphar’s wife. Now some might say, “But look where his integrity got him! Prison!” Yes, in the short term, integrity often takes us down a difficult road. However, in the long term, we shall never regret putting God first. Ultimately, Joseph became Pharaoh’s right-hand man (see Genesis 40 and 41). Ultimately, he became a blessing to his father’s house.

Aligning Our Resentments (1 Sam. 24:1–10)
In Romans we read, “Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,’ says the Lord” (Rom. 12:19, NASB). David showed integrity when he refused to allow resentment toward Saul, who was seeking to kill him, to lead him down the path of personal revenge. How often do we attempt to get even, only to find that we have gotten bitter? Granted, some of us may have been threatened, abused, raped, molested, or wrongly accused. But, the dark side of defending and avenging ourselves is that we end up trapped in anger, resentment, and unforgiveness. In contrast, biblical integrity is when we love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us, putting them in God’s hands and allowing Him to be our vindicator.

Aligning Our Worship (Dan. 6:1–10)
Like David, Daniel trusted God to be his vindicator. His very name means “God is my Judge.” And through an experiential understanding of God’s justice, protection, and provision (Daniel 1, 2, 5), Daniel arrived at a place of radical integrity in worship. When faced with the threat of being thrown to the lions, he kept worshiping because he had spent a lifetime learning to trust in God as his defender.

As Adventists, we are called to proclaim the message “ ‘Fear God, and give
Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come; worship Him who made the heaven and the earth and sea and springs of waters’ ” (Rev. 14:7, NASB). Like David and Daniel, we are a people who worship God in part because He is our Judge. And in spite of what others might say or do to us, our way of life must become our way of worship.

Aligning Our Identity
Worship was certainly Jesus’ way of life. And the reason He worshiped with such integrity was that His identity was aligned with the word of His Father. At His baptism, the Father declared, “ ‘This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased’ ” (Matt. 3:17, NASB). And when tempted by the devil to turn the stones to bread, Christ declared, “ ‘MAN SHALL NOT LIVE ON BREAD ALONE, BUT ON EVERYRY WORD THAT PROCEEDS OUT OF THE MOUTH OF GOD’ ” (Matt. 4:4, NASB). In other words, Satan said, “If you are God’s son, prove it by turning the stones to bread.” But Christ understood that our identity is defined not by what we do, but by what God has done, by what God has said. And God declares to us that in Christ, we are His beloved!

When God affirmed Jesus after His baptism, and said, “ ‘This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased,’ ” He said it to us. As a result, your prayers, through faith in your substitute, Jesus Christ, are accepted by the Father.1

Out of Alignment (Rom. 1:26, 27)
Romans paints a picture of a people who have experienced a breakdown in integrity—a people who have lost their identity. They have become dis-connected from God and, as a result, have unhealthy relationships with one another; exchanging natural relationships for unnatural ones. Their failure to trust in God’s Word and provision led to moral and spiritual perversion.

Aligning Our Prayers (Eph. 3:14–21)
What can we do when integrity breaks down? Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 3 reveals a powerful way to strengthen our integrity and the integrity of others. In praying for others to find wholeness in their inner being, we ourselves are strengthened. In praying for them to know the “love of Christ that surpasses knowledge” (verse 19, NRSV), we find ourselves lost in the depths of His love.

“The highest glory of Christ upon His sovereign throne today is the glory of His prevailing intercession. . . . There is no more Christlike role than to be a co-
intercessor with Christ for the priorities upon His heart. In no other way can the Christian be of greater strength and blessing to Christ’s church. In no other way can you do more to advance Christ’s kingdom and bring glory to the name of Jesus.”2
____________
1. 1888 Materials, p. 124.
2. Wesley Duewel, Mighty Prevailing Prayer (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan, 1990), p. 27.



Integrity Role Model and Influence
Lani Tomagan-Willis, Pasay City, Philippines
Tuesday Testimony
Prov. 11:3

My parents sacrificed much to help others. Observing them, I have grown to appreciate the value of integrity. Their example has built within me a desire to do what I can to use my God-given talents for the benefit of others.

“When you lose your conscious integrity, your soul becomes a battlefield for Satan.”

“God desires us to make use of every opportunity for securing a preparation for His work. He expects us to put all our energies into its performance and to keep our hearts alive to its sacredness and its fearful responsibilities.”1

“When you lose your conscious integrity, your soul becomes a battlefield for Satan; you have doubts and fears enough to paralyze your energies and drive you to discouragement.”2 Review Psalm 25:21 and Ephesians 4:15.

It is interesting that while helping the poor, we are advised to “keep always in view their spiritual needs.”3 We are to meet people where they are and educate them, not in pride, but in character building. Life’s best things—simplicity, honesty, truthfulness, purity, integrity—cannot be bought or sold. For everyone, God has provided much good pleasure that may be enjoyed by both rich and poor alike. Pleasure is found in cultivating pure thoughts and unselfish actions. Pleasure comes from speaking sympathizing words and doing kind deeds.

From those who perform such service, the light of Christ shines to brighten lives darkened by many shadows. “Integrity, self-denial, and humility should characterize our lives.”4

“It is essential that you cultivate faithfulness in little things, and in so doing you will acquire habits of integrity in greater responsibilities. The little incidents of everyday life often pass without our notice, but it is these things that shape the character. Every event of life is great for good or for evil.”5

Thousands upon thousands of human beings are perishing. There is great work to be done. Are you doing all you can to help?
____________
1. The Ministry of Healing, p. 498.
2. Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1, p. 321.
3. The Ministry of Healing, p. 198.
4. Medical Ministry, p. 131.
5. Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1, p. 270.



The Integrity-Woven Character
Kay Brock, Estes Park, Colorado, U.S.A.
Wednesday How-to
Num. 23:19; Ps. 20:7; Titus 2:7

Cloth is woven with a shuttle filled with yarn, going in and out, in and out, until finally, there is a beautiful piece of fabric. So are our characters woven on a daily basis, with thoughts going in and out, in and out, all day long. It’s so easy, just once, to plagiarize a paper or tell that “little white lie.” The key is to make sure that all of our thoughts are of the purest quality possible. How do we maintain the integrity of our thoughts?

Every day, every response to each thought is a choice.

Our highest example of integrity is God. Numbers 23:19 says, “God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind” (NIV). To meet such a high standard ourselves, we must daily adhere to God’s values with brutal honesty, all day long, for the thoughts in our minds weave in and out, in and out all day long.

Closeness to our Lord is the only way to achieve integrity. Satan is trying to slip into our decision-making process. One must always choose to be honest. This does not come naturally. Every day, every response to each thought is a choice. Only God’s leading can keep us strong enough to make the right choice. Through daily Bible study one can stay close to Him.
Trust in the Lord to lead you. Psalm 20:7 says, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God” (NIV). If we are in constant contact with Him through prayer, we can hear and learn to trust His whisperings, His leading.

Stand firm when the winds of evil blow over you. Pressure to make an unwise choice will be there, always. Prove yourself before God and other people. Titus 2:7 says, “In all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility” (NKJV). “An honest man, according to Christ’s measurement, is one who will manifest unbending integrity. . . . Firm integrity shines forth as gold amid the dross and rubbish of the world.”*
Stand firm, so that your cloth of character will be beautifully woven with integrity.

REACT
How do you think people see your character?
____________
*Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, p. 310.

TEMPERANCE

JOHN THE BAPTIST






Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from www.amazingfacts.org with the Sacramento church



To study the lesson with Dr Derek Norris of the Lake Forest church, click on the following link:
http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q205-29-temperance






PLEASE GO TO YOUR SIDE BAR AND CLICK ON VIEW AND ON ZOOM IN + AS MANY TIMES AS NEEDED TO ENLARGE THE WHOLE PAGE SO YOU MAY EASILY READ IN THE PDF WHOSE FONTS YOU MAY ENLARGE ALSO DIRECTLY BY RAISING THE PERCENTAGE INCLUDED. LIKE THAT YOU HAVE A BIRD VIEW OF MANY PERSPECTIVES. THANK YOU.

AND JUST LEAVE YOUR CURSOR ON THE VERSES SO YOU MAY READ THEM

htpp://www.cqbiblestudy.org



http://www.absg.adventist.org/





“Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand” (Phil. 4:5).

Too Much of a Good Thing
Janalee Shaw, Sykesville, Maryland, U.S.A.
Sabbath Introduction
1 Cor. 9:25–27

Her friends have nicknamed Rachel the Duracell Energizer Bunny in acknowledgment of her devotion to her exercise routine. A petite brunette in her mid-fifties, Rachel worries about the effects of aging on her physical appearance, so she exercises four to five hours every day. She’s been doing this so long that she’s now losing muscle mass. Her personal trainer describes the results: Rachel “is gaunt with more noticeable wrinkles on her face and her body is much flabbier than it used to be. . . . In between her aerobics and weight-training sessions she showers at the gym and blows her hair dry, putting on layers of makeup. She dons the mask of youth, but in my eyes and in the eyes of the other trainers, she looks like an old woman with layers of makeup.”1

Even healthful habits can become destructive.

This energizer bunny belongs to a group of people who are classified as exercise addicts. Knowing moderate amounts of exercise will lead to weight loss and increased health, they reason that greater amounts of exercise will result in greater weight loss and better health. What they don’t realize is that excessive amounts are actually detrimental. In addition to advancing the effects of aging on one’s appearance, exercising too much can also lead to loss of coordination and appetite, headaches, gastrointestinal issues, and loss of ability to ward off infection. The potential emotional effects of overexercising include irritability, apathy, depression, emotional sensitivity, and reduced self-esteem.2 Thus even healthful habits can become destructive if they are followed intemperately.

We tend to think of temperance primarily in terms of substances we should not consume, but it should apply to every aspect of our lives. Our heavenly Father has designed us to live balanced lives. When we allow any one part of our life to overshadow all of the other parts, we are being intemperate. Then, because our finely tuned body has been thrown off balance, we experience physical, mental, and even moral weakening.

World-class athletes know self-control is necessary if they expect to perform to the best of their ability. Each aspect of their lives is carefully monitored to ensure it will not interfere with the accomplishment of their ultimate goal. We should likewise practice self-control, ensuring that we live in such a way that nothing will weaken our ability to reach our eternal goal (1 Cor. 9:25–27).
____________
1. Debbie Mandel, “Hooked on the Pain: Exercise Addiction,” SelfGrowth.com, http://www.selfgrowth .com/articles/Mandel4.html (accessed February 15, 2009).
2. The American Council on Exercise, “Fit Facts,” http://www.acefitness.org/fitfacts/pdfs/fitfacts/itemid_6.pdf (accessed February 15, 2009).



Avoid What Is Bad—Use in Moderation What Is Good
Benedict Oli, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
Sunday Logos
Gen. 9:20−27; Prov. 20:1; 23:31−35;
1 Cor. 6:19; 10:31; 2 Pet. 1:5−9


The Temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19)
The culture of Corinth during the time of the apostles was similar to the modern-day obsession with materialism and self-gratification. Paul addressed many of the issues that the Christians in Corinth were struggling with. Conventional wisdom of the time claimed that whatever was done in the body had no impact on the spiritual and mental experience of a person. Therefore, many Corinthians indulged in intoxicating spirits, immoral activities, and gluttony with no thought of eternal consequences. Like many today, the Corinthians believed they were free to do with their bodies as they chose.

Hold on to Jesus Christ. Honor Him in all you do.

Paul pleads with us not to be fooled by popular belief. We are ultimately accountable to God for how we treat the bodies that He made and then purchased. Therefore, it is our duty to keep this temple in the best possible condition.

In 1 Corinthians 6:19 Paul compares the body to a temple. Most of us see the modern church as a place where people worship God. The understanding of the temple in biblical times included more than this. In addition to being a place where people went to worship, the temple was where God dwelled. For that reason, the entire building was holy. Likewise, it is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in our hearts that hallows our body. Our bodies are not holy of themselves. They are sanctified by the holy God who abides in those people who have surrendered their lives to Him.

Temple Housekeeping (1 Cor. 10:31)
The broader application of 1 Corinthians 10:31 guides us as to how Christians are to conduct themselves in all situations. No matter what we are doing, we are to do it in a manner and spirit in which God can be glorified. In eating and drinking it is important for us to nourish our body temples in such a way that will promote the best possible health. In addition to the huge amount of information about healthful living available today, Seventh-day Adventists have been gifted with a health message through the writings of Ellen G. White. This message comprises clear guidelines on how to maintain our body temples. If we intentionally do something that we know is wrong, we have sinned (James 4:17).

A Lack of Self-Control = An Ineffective Christian (2 Pet. 1:5–9)
Self-control, the cornerstone of temperance, is mentioned in Peter’s list of
attributes necessary for a fruitful Christian life. During the time Peter wrote this list—also known as “Peter’s ladder”3—many similar lists existed. However, all of them had a temporal, philosophical focus, while Peter’s list is a product of divine inspiration.

Self-control, or lack of it, impacts one’s destiny. Self-control is listed as a fruit of the spirit (Gal. 5:23). If the Holy Spirit dwells within a person, the fruit of self-control will be evident in that person. Without self-control, our knowledge of Christ means nothing.

Results of Disobedience (Gen. 9:20–27; Prov. 20:1; 23:31–35)
The Bible records the results of drinking alcohol. Despite his wisdom, Solomon gave in to every tempting lust that assailed him, including alcohol (Eccles. 2:3). In hindsight, he warned against the folly of its use. He points out that consuming it leads to shame and violence, and that people under its influence easily disregard what is right and become scornful of godly matters.4
One of the saddest accounts in the Bible is found in Genesis 9:20–27. Following is a summary of the story and its corresponding lessons for us:

Noah became drunk and lay naked in his tent. How shameful for this mighty preacher of God, the man who found grace in the eyes of the Lord. Our lesson? No matter what great things God has done for you and through you—do not take your salvation for granted.

Ham saw his father, and with much laughter told his brothers. Ham, a believer in what Noah preached, was now behaving like those who had scoffed at Noah as he built the ark. Our lesson? Once saved does not mean always saved. Do not let down your guard against sin.

Shem and Japheth maintained their uprightness of character. Our lesson? It does not matter if the people who gave you the good news are slipping and falling, don’t slip and fall with them. Furthermore, if members whom you came in with start to falter, do not be discouraged. Hold on to Jesus Christ. Honor Him in all you do.

It seems easier to give in to the lust of the flesh rather than be temperate, for what our human nature wants is opposite from what the Spirit wants (Gal. 5:17). To live a life that honors God means that we need to deny ourselves perceived pleasures. God never said that the road to salvation would be easy, but He did promise to help us overcome every trial (Ps. 50:15).

REACT
1. Why is it unsafe to indulge in harmful substances even in small amounts?
2. Does being temperate mean abstaining from evils only? What about the prospects of having too much of a good thing?
____________
1. Robert H. Gundry, A Survey of the New Testament (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan, 2003), p. 376.
2. H. D. M. Spence and Joseph S. Exell, The Pulpit Commentary, vol. 19 (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Eerdmans, 1978), p. 222.
3. The SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 7, p. 597.
4. Ibid., vol. 3, p. 1014.



The Will to Glorify God
Joy Josephine Torato, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
Monday Testimony
1 Cor. 10:31

“God calls for a living sacrifice, not a dead or dying one. When we realize the requirements of God, we shall see that He requires us to be temperate in all things. The end of our creation is to glorify God in our bodies and spirits, which are His. How can we do this when we indulge the appetite to the injury of the physical and moral powers? God requires that we present our bodies a living sacrifice. Then the duty is enjoined on us to preserve that body in the very best condition of health, that we may comply with His requirements. ‘Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.’ ”1

“God requires that His people be temperate in all things.”

“Satan is no novice in the business of destroying souls. He well knows that he can lead men and women into wrong habits of eating and drinking, he has gained, in a great degree, the control of their minds and baser passions. In the beginning man ate of fruits of the earth, but sin brought into use the flesh of dead animals as food. This diet works directly against the spirit of true refinement and moral purity.

“God requires that His people be temperate in all things. The example of Christ, during that long fast in the wilderness, should teach His followers to repulse Satan when he comes under the guise of appetite. Then may they have influence to reform those who have been led astray by indulgence, and have lost moral power to overcome the weakness and sin that has taken possession of them. Thus may Christians secure health and happiness, in a pure, well-ordered life and a mind clear and untainted before God.”2

“Physical inaction lessens not only mental but moral power. The brain nerves that connect with the whole system are the medium through which heaven communicates with man and affects the inmost life. Whatever hinders the circulation of the electric current in the nervous system, thus weakening the vital powers and lessening mental susceptibility, makes it more difficult to arouse the moral nature.”3

REACT
1. Identify and list the things that hinder you from obtaining both physical and spiritual health.
2. What does Paul imply in 1 Corinthians 9:27? What is he saying about the mind’s relation to the body?
____________
1. Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 65.
2. Temperance, p. 162.
3. Education, p. 209.



Works and Salvation
Roboam Kakap, Kokopo, Papua New Guinea
Tuesday Evidence
Eph. 2:8–10

In the Old Testament, the word grace is translated from the Hebrew word chen. Chen usually describes the action of a superior person or being who is showing undeserved favor to an inferior.1 In Ephesians, Paul used charis to describe God’s grace. His letter is most likely a circular letter addressed to Ephesian believers in all the churches of Ephesus.2 In it, he focuses on two themes: the church’s spiritual privileges and the church’s responsibilities. Among the privileges, Paul talks about the privilege of receiving God’s grace.

Good works are the result of salvation, not the cause of it.

In Ephesians 2:8, 9, Paul points out that we are saved by grace through faith. It is God’s unmerited favor toward us that forgives our sins and gifts us with salvation. It is our faith that believes this is so and enables us to accept God’s grace. Paul makes it clear that it is also God’s unmerited favor toward us that enables us to break sinful habits and to live in a way that honors God.

However, it is not enough to acknowledge Jesus Christ as the Messiah. Even the demons believe that, but this knowledge does not save them (James 2:19). Having access to the grace of God requires faith on the part of the sinner. This faith is not merely an abstract belief. It also involves obedience.

We are saved by God’s grace through the faith we have in Him. And it is the grace of God that motivates us to do good works. We must remember that good works are the result of salvation, not the cause of it. Belief that accepts God’s grace without any corresponding good deeds is worthless (James 2:26). Faith and actions work together so that our faith is made complete by our actions.
Practicing a diligent temperate life will not save anyone. The basis of our salvation is the grace of God. It is the strength of His love for His sin-fallen creatures that bridges the gap between the Creator and His lost children. It is the grace of God that also strengthens us to do good works. The only kind of faith that saves is the faith that responds in obedience and bears much good fruit. Jesus makes it clear that those who fail to produce good fruit will not be saved (Matt. 7:19).

REACT
1. What kind of fruit are you producing (see Galatians 5:16–26)?
2. Is there ever a proverbial fence to sit on when it comes to temperance?
____________
1. J. D. Douglas, New Bible Dictionary, 3rd ed. (Leicester: InterVarsity Press, 1996), p. 433.
2. Robert H. Gundry, A Survey of the New Testament, 4th ed. (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan, 2003), p. 423.



Temperance
Vanessa Geita, Madang, Papua New Guinea
How-to Wednesday
1 Cor. 10:31; 2 Pet. 1:5–9

God is interested in all aspects of our lives, including our health. Our responsibility is to take care of our bodies so that whatever we do brings glory to Him. Most people think of what they eat and drink when they think of temperance. To many people, temperance is controlling the urge to eat or drink more than what is enough. However, temperance should also be applied to other aspects of life, such as watching television or movies, listening to music, surfing the Internet, spending money, selecting one’s wardrobe, sleeping, talking, and even controlling one’s imagination.

No one can force any one else to be temperate.

So how can we be temperate in all that we do, think, and say? Here are a few tips:

Prioritize. Start each day with prayer and Bible study, asking God to lead you through each step of the way as He desires, so that you will do what you need to do and not waste your time on things that are insignificant. Too many activities, even good activities, tend to complicate life and consume time so that we spend less time with God. Give your first and best attention to the things that matter most—the things of eternal value.

Know your limits. Ignorance is a lame excuse in this day and age when information is literally at our fingertips. Take time to learn about the dangers of excessiveness in anything and everything you do. We will be accountable on judgment day for knowing what is right but not doing it.

Draft a timetable or schedule. You do not have to strictly follow it, but a timetable can be a guide regarding how to spend your time doing the things you need to do for the day, the week, the month, and the year.

Be responsible. Temperance is a choice each of us has to make on his or her own. No one can force any one else to be temperate. Be diligent in all you do, think, and say for your own good, but even more so, for the glory of God.

REACT
1. In what areas of your life do you need to be more temperate?
2. As you review 2 Peter 1:5–9, ask yourself how you can apply the principles found there in your efforts to practice temperance.
3. What good activities are currently taking too much of your time at the expense of spending time with God?
4. How does a life lived temperately glorify God?



“Forbidden Pleasures”
Gina Renee Wahlen, Silver Spring, Maryland, U.S.A.

Thursday Opinion

Prov. 23:31, 32

“Laura Catagena swore off air conditioning, careerism, and sex . . . but her comfortable suburban upbringing only made it that much harder to try to live as Jesus would,” stated the Washington Post Magazine on its front cover of January 25, 2009. In her cover article, “The Trouble With Saintliness,” Darragh Johnson chronicles Laura’s struggles between living a temperate lifestyle and resisting the temptation of forbidden pleasures.

Prisons are filled with intemperate people who could not control themselves.

For many, the word temperance means a long list of dos and don’ts. It often conjures up images of early twentieth century temperance societies with their posters and laws prohibiting the sale of alcohol. Living a life of temperance is often portrayed as a boring existence in which one is deprived of the pleasures of life. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth.

It means choosing what is best, regardless of immediate circumstances and temptations. When it comes to living a life of success or of failure, it is often temperance that draws the line between the two. Prisons are filled with intemperate people who could not control themselves. On the other hand, people who are successful have learned that self-control—temperance—is the path that led them to success.

Thomas Yellich, a philanthropy professional, says, “Our society is based on consumption. . . More food, more drugs, more sex, just more of all things seems to be what will make us all happy eventually. Only it is not true.” “Learn self-control, discipline, limits, [and] responsibility and not only will you become a better person, you will become happy.”*

The irony of forbidden “pleasures” is that while the initial moment may be gratifying, the lasting results are often devastating. Rather than delivering freedom and happiness, intemperance delivers just the opposite—chains and misery. Read Proverbs 23:31, 32.

To be temperate is to use the mind that God has given you, recognizing that forbidden momentary pleasures do not bring lasting happiness, and choosing a better way.
____________
*Thomas Yellich, response to Bill Gates, “A New Approach to Cap[italism in the 21st Century,”
http://creativecapitalism.typepad.com/creative_capitalism/2008/06/bill-gates-crea.html#comment
-12-633912 (accessed May 5, 2009).



Under Control
Sandra Araújo-Delgado, Apison, Tennessee, U.S.A.
Friday Exploration
Prov. 25:28; 1 Cor. 10:31;
Gal. 5:22, 23; 2 Pet. 1:5

CONCLUDE
Our fallen nature constantly drives us to satisfy our cravings without restraint. Often the results are regrettable. Our society is plagued with obesity, alcoholism, and drug addiction, showing clearly that we are reaping what we sowed. As Christians, we are not immune to self-gratification. We can be self-indulgent with our time, our bodies, and with other resources such as talents and money. We may even embrace excess in the name of a “good cause.” God’s model for us is one of balance in everything we do. Only in living a balanced life can we glorify God and find true contentment.

CONSIDER
•Designing a logo for a temperance fair. Consider changing the negative image the word temperance often has.
•Charting your daily activities for one week. Analyze your results to find out if any area of your life is overshadowing another.
•Rephrasing Luke 9:23. E-mail your paraphrase to some friends and ask what it means to them.
•Taking a walk in a nearby park. Document any instances in nature where you can observe temperance or balance.
•Writing an article on temperance for your school newspaper or church newsletter. Use 1 Corinthians 10:31 as your basis.
•Making a collage of things in your life that may require self-control, such as watching TV, reading, talking on the phone, surfing the Internet, listening to music, and any others you might think of.
•Writing the statement “By God’s power, I will choose what is best regardless of the circumstances.” Place it where you can see it every day.

CONNECT
Prophets and Kings, chapter 39.

AN ATMOSPHERE OF PRAISE

Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from www.amazingfacts.org with the Sacramento church





To study the lesson with Dr Derek Norris of the Lake Forest church, click on the following link:

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q205-22-atmosphere-praise



PLEASE GO TO YOUR SIDE BAR AND CLICK ON VIEW AND ON ZOOM IN + AS MANY TIMES AS NEEDED TO ENLARGE THE WHOLE PAGE SO YOU MAY EASILY READ IN THE PDF WHOSE FONTS YOU MAY ENLARGE ALSO DIRECTLY BY RAISING THE PERCENTAGE INCLUDED. LIKE THAT YOU HAVE A BIRD VIEW OF MANY PERSPECTIVES. THANK YOU.

AND JUST LEAVE YOUR CURSOR ON THE VERSES SO YOU MAY READ THEM

htpp://www.cqbiblestudy.org


http://www.absg.adventist.org/

The Atmosphere of Praise

“The Lord God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being” (Gen. 2:7, NIV).


Praise—the Pure Air of Heaven
Alexis Boddy, Douglasville, Georgia, U.S.A.
Sabbath Introduction
Ps. 100:4


Psalm 100:4 commands us to “enter His gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise,” and to “be thankful to Him and bless His name” (NKJV). Why is such behavior commanded? Were we perhaps created as human beings with an inner desire to praise our Maker?

Praise . . . should come as naturally as breathing.

In Genesis 1, we read how God made each part of creation to fulfill specific purposes. He worked to make sure everything was good. All nature was created with the intention of praising God. Read Psalm 148.

The colors and vibrancy of the environment fostered an atmosphere of celebration. When the beauty that blossomed in the seas and on the land was revealed to Adam and Eve, they could not help but break into praise for what they were experiencing; and their praise was like the pure, clean air of both heaven and earth.

There has, however, been quite a bit of corruption in both God’s beautiful creation and in humanity’s praise. Many animals no longer peacefully co-exist. Water sources have become polluted, making it difficult in many parts of the world to obtain pure drinking water. The air we breathe is also full of contaminates, which can cause lung cancer and asthma. Humans now have an unhealthy desire to worship gold, money, precious jewels, and sinful activities, all of which contaminate our desire to praise our Creator. Like air, the atmosphere for praise should be pure and inviting. Praise is an action that should come as naturally as breathing, for it is written in our God-created nature that we are beings who need to praise our Creator in order to have a healthy, spiritual life.

All is not lost, however. Through the help of the Holy Spirit, people can learn once again to praise God fully and to immerse themselves in the joy of fulfilling their God-given purpose. The satisfaction that accompanies such praise is what God intended.

But what defines praise? The Bible describes praising God with the lyre, the harp, the tambourine, and with a joyful noise. People have various preferences as to how they praise God. The various religions debate the nature of praise and whether restrictions should be applied to such activities. Perhaps there is only one thing certain about praise—it is as necessary to the Christian life as air is to our physical life. This week, we will learn about the health benefits of both praise and air.



A Breath of Fresh Praise
Karen Pires, Lexington, South Carolina, U.S.A.
Sunday Evidence
Dan. 5:23

From Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar of Babylon had learned about the God in heaven. He had heard of Nebuchadnezzar’s pride and of how God allowed him to experience mental illness as a way to repentance. But Belshazzar made his own choices against God, so God removed His protection from him. On October 12, 539 b.c., Belshazzar and his court had an intemperate party in which he used the vessels from the temple to serve wine. There was false praise to gods of silver, gold, brass, and wood. God was not pleased. This was the end of the road for Belshazzar. That night Babylon was overtaken.

This was the end of the road for Belshazzar.

The definition for praise is “to express a favorable judgment of,” “to glorify . . . especially by the attribution of perfections.”1 In contrast, to flatter is “to praise excessively especially from motives of self-interest.”2 Flattery could also be “insincere or excessive praise.”3 From these definitions and from Belshazzar’s behavior, we see how our praise can be impure and therefore ruinous to our spiritual health.

Just as the right type of praise helps to grow healthy Christians, so does the right type of air help to grow healthy bodies and minds. The suspended water vapor found in air protects us from solar radiation and from the arctic vacuum of outer space, while fresh air transfers oxygen to the blood through the lungs and carries off the carbon dioxide that the body produces. Right now, you are carrying approximately two quarts (1.9 liters) of oxygen in your blood, lungs, and body tissues. Each cell in your body requires air in order to work properly. If brain cells are deprived of oxygen for more than four minutes, they begin to die.

Just as there are healthful ways and places to praise God, so there are healthful ways to obtain fresh air. It is important to praise God in the company of other Christians during social gatherings and worship service. Doing so helps us to grow spiritually. Likewise, it is important to seek fresh air whenever possible where there are trees, plants, and flowing water. The vegetation absorbs carbon dioxide in exchange for renewing the oxygen content of the air.

REACT
Think about how you can add more praise and fresh air into your life.
____________
1. Merriam-Webster Online, http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/praise (accessed February 5, 2009).
2. Ibid., http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flatter (accessed February 5, 2009).
3. Ibid., http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flattery (accessed February 5, 2009).



Attaining the Ultimate Atmosphere
Jessica Marie White, Ooltewah, Tennessee, U.S.A.
Monday Logos
Gen. 1:1, 2, 9−12, 20−26; Ps. 104:29;
Dan. 5:23; Luke 15:7; Rev. 21:4

When God created the earth, He created an environment in which we would be nurtured and would grow in our relationship with Him. He intended for us to develop and cherish an intimate relationship with our Maker. He wanted us to be so in tune with His will that praise would come as effortlessly as breathing. However, once sin came into the world, that perfect environment was gone. No longer would humans breathe the holy atmosphere. The connection intended for our happiness had been severed, and a lifelong struggle to reconnect with our Creator had begun. Through His life and death, our Savior endeavored to repair that connection and to restore that atmosphere. The final result will be the restoration of the perfect environment in the new earth, where once again praise and worship will flow as naturally as our breath.

His perfect plan was for them to live forever.

God-Given Life (Gen. 1:1, 2, 9–12, 20–26; Ps. 104:29; Dan. 5:23)
God breathed into Adam’s and Eve’s nostrils the breath (air, atmosphere) of life (Gen. 2:7). God gave them life and the ability to praise Him. The beginning of their lives was the beginning of God’s effort to establish an intimate relationship with us. Through their perfect surroundings and the demonstration of His care for them, He endeavored to draw Adam and Eve to Himself and to inspire their heartfelt praise. They constantly had before them the evidence of God’s creative power. After sin entered their paradise, they became more keenly aware of the truth that God held their very lives in His hands (Dan. 5:23) and that He could give life and take it away as He saw fit (Ps. 104:29). This truth, while not intended to create fear in them, was vital to their ability to distinguish between the one true Creator-God and the many false idols that would be presented as alternate gods. However, the attainment of this knowledge was never God’s intent. His perfect plan was for them to live forever in an atmosphere of worship, praise, and life.

The Original Atmosphere (Gen. 1:1, 2, 9–12, 20–26)
Genesis begins the account of the human race and reinforces God’s creative power. Here we have a glimpse into what happened when the world began. We see God gently and deliberately creating a perfect world. It was a flawless atmosphere in which to nurture His crowning creation—human beings created in His image. In everything surrounding them, Adam and Eve found evidence of God’s creative power, love, and compassion. As the birds’ “glad songs ascended to the praise of their Creator, Adam and Eve united with them in thanksgiving to the Father and the Son.”1 Every mountain and valley, every sunrise and sunset, every plant, and every gentle breeze pointed them to the Creator and inspired the most genuine praise from their hearts. God had created an environment that constantly reminded them of His greatness and that motivated their deepest, most heartfelt praise.

Living to Glorify God (Dan. 5:23; Luke 15:7)
Once sin entered God’s perfect creation, communication with Him took on a different perspective. Now we have to struggle to maintain a mere resemblance of a connection with our Creator. Daily, we must strive to create and support an atmosphere in which praise and worship come as naturally as our breath. For those striving to continually connect with Him, “to glorify God will be the continual aim of their life.”2 They will be daily growing closer to Him and will “dwell in this world in the atmosphere of heaven, imparting to earth’s sorrowing and tempted ones thoughts of hope and longings for holiness; . . . coming closer and still closer into fellowship with the Unseen; like him of old who walked with God, drawing nearer and nearer the threshold of the eternal world, until the portals shall open, and [they] shall enter there.”3 Those who are endeavoring to create an earthly environment that supports praise and a
worshipful spirit look forward to the day where the lost connection will be restored and the perfect atmosphere renewed.

A Renewed Atmosphere (Rev. 21:4)
In Revelation, the residents of the new earth are seen praising God continually. “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things” (Rev. 4:11, NIV). Daily, they will be in the presence of the Almighty, who created and redeemed them. Their natural inclination will be to praise the One who has done so much for them. “The redeemed raise a song of praise that echoes and re-echoes through the vaults of heaven: ‘Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb’ ” (Rev. 7:10).4 No more will they have to struggle to maintain a connection with their Creator. They will forever live in a perfectly restored atmosphere in which they will continually worship and praise Him “ ‘for ever and ever!’ ” (Rev. 5:13, NIV).

REACT
1. What daily practices do you have that may enhance or damage your atmosphere of praise?
2. What can you do daily to help maintain an atmosphere where praise can flow as naturally as breathing?
3. What might you be doing that could be polluting another’s atmosphere against praise?
____________
1. God’s Amazing Grace, p. 40.
2. Ibid., p. 236.
3. Education, p. 127.
4. The Great Controversy, p. 665.



Living in the Atmosphere of Heaven
Sarah White, Ooltewah, Tennessee, U.S.A.
Tuesday Testimony
Gen. 1:1, 2, 9–12, 20–26; Rev. 21: 4

“The spirit of Christ’s self-sacrificing love is the spirit that pervades heaven and is the very essence of its bliss. This is the spirit that Christ’s followers will possess, the work that they will do.”1

Love is the very atmosphere of heaven.

Love is the very atmosphere of heaven. Those who anticipate heaven and eternal life should strive to perfect their character to match that which will pervade heaven.

“If you would be a saint in heaven, you must first be a saint on earth. The traits of character you cherish in life will not be changed by death or by the resurrection. . . . The work of transformation must be done now. Our daily lives are determining our destiny.”2

Living in the atmosphere of heaven is not something that we have to wait to receive. By living the life that God intended for us we can have a taste of heaven here on earth.

A person “may dwell in this world in the atmosphere of heaven, imparting to earth’s sorrowing and tempted ones thoughts of hope and longings for holiness; himself coming closer and still closer into fellowship with the Unseen; like him of old who walked with God, drawing nearer and nearer the threshold of the eternal world, until the portals shall open, and he shall enter there. He will find himself no stranger. The voices that will greet him are the voices of the holy ones, who, unseen, were on earth his companions—voices that here he learned to distinguish and to love.”3

“Those who take no pleasure in thinking and talking of God in this life, will not enjoy the life that is to come, where God is ever present, dwelling among His people. But those who love to think of God will be in their element, breathing in the atmosphere of heaven.”4

REACT
If you were transported into heaven right now, would you find the “voices of the holy ones” unfamiliar, or would you feel as if you were coming home?
____________
1. Steps to Christ, p. 77.
2. The Adventist Home, p. 16.
3. Education, p. 127.
4. In Heavenly Places, p. 370.



Live Heavenly on Earth
Amanda Ernst, Douglasville, Georgia, U.S.A.
Wednesday How-to
Luke 15:4–10; 1 Pet. 1:18, 19

It is an obvious fact that we live in a fallen world. It is an amazing fact that by simply accepting Jesus’ gift of salvation, we become citizens of His kingdom. Even while we are still here on earth, we can live in an atmosphere of heaven, praising God daily with our words and actions.
How can we breathe the fresh air of heavenly love while on earth? And how can we incorporate nature’s fresh air into our lives? Here are steps to guide you:

God’s love for us is unimaginable.

Recognize your worth as a child of God. Read 2 Corinthians 6:18. God’s love for us is unimaginable. We can’t even begin to understand it, but we can praise and thank Him for it. Through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, every person can become a member of the highest royal family. Every day recommit yourself to following Jesus and to living your life as the child of God that you truly are.

Choose to glorify your Father in His temple. Read 1 Corinthians 10:31. We are not to treat our bodies with casual indifference. We must care about how we dress, eat, play, and speak. Exercising regularly helps us to breathe better and therefore to think better. When our minds are clear because we have exercised, we are better able to resist temptation. Consider your habits and daily activities. Find something in your life that you can change or improve and in so doing, bring praise to the Savior.

Lead others by example. As you grow in your relationship with God and live your life in honor of Him, you will find that His light will shine from you onto others. We are to find the lost and bring them to Jesus. When even just one person accepts Him, all of heaven rejoices! (Luke 15:4–10). Don’t be picky about whom you share God’s love with. Lead by example and witness to everyone. Jesus paid a terribly high price to redeem us from our unfulfilled, sin-riddled lives. Read 1 Peter 1:18, 19. We must not squander Christ’s precious gift. Look for ways you can share it today.

REACT
1. What are some specific ways you can begin to implement the above steps in your own life?
2. Why do you think God rejoices over each sinner’s salvation?
3. How important is it to live today like we are already in heaven? What are some other ways this can be done?



Our Bodies as Temples
Nathan Ernst, Douglasville, Georgia, U.S.A.
Thursday Opinion
Gen. 1:26; Dan. 5:23

Some Christians feel that God doesn’t care how we treat our bodies. They believe there are no longer “clean” or “unclean” foods. They base this claim on Peter’s vision of the sheet coming down from heaven (Acts 10:9–16). But the Bible makes it clear in the following verses that this is not the case. God really does care what we consume. However, it goes beyond clean and unclean meats, or even beyond vegetarian or vegan. Daniel 5:23 points out that the Babylonian king was dishonoring God by defiling the holy objects that had been looted from the Temple and using them to praise his false gods of wood, stone, and metal. While Christians no longer have an actual temple in which to worship God, we have other ways of living that glorify Him.

God really does care what we consume.

First Corinthians 10:31 tells us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and that they are not our own. Genesis 1:26 tells us that we are made in the image of the Creator God. Because it is God’s plan for us to honor Him through our physical bodies, it goes against His will when we fill our bodies with things that pollute them or when we treat our bodies in any other unhealthful way. Using drugs and alcohol are obvious, but not exercising or drinking too little water can also weaken our bodies, thereby dishonoring God. If an idol is anything we place above God, and if we knowingly live contrary to the standards He has set, then even a dangerous habit that affects our health becomes an idol to us.

First Corinthians 6:20 says, “You were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body” (NIV). If Christ can sacrifice everything for all of humanity, it’s not too much for Him to ask that we live our lives in the healthiest way possible. We can praise Him physically by not indulging in things that do serious and often irreparable damage to our bodies. Even though people are not worshiping idols in the form of wood or metal like those of the Babylonian king, we can worship idols by directly choosing to do things that God has shown us are contrary to His wishes. Choose today to worship God by living a healthy life in praise to Him.

REACT
What do you need to change about your life in order to praise God with your body temple?



Breathing Lessons
Jean Kellner, Columbia, Maryland, U.S.A.
Friday Exploration
Gen. 2:7

CONCLUDE
Breathing. It seems so natural. Why would we have to think about how we breathe? The fact is, how we breathe matters. Singers and those who play horns or reed instruments, athletes, and those beginning an exercise regimen learn this. But practicing proper breathing techniques also helps us to manage stress, increases the oxygen flow to our blood cells, optimizes our muscle function, and helps our brain think more clearly. We can breathe just enough to survive. But proper breathing maximizes our health and increases longevity. God breathed the first breath into humans, and Jesus revives us spiritually with His breath. John records that before Jesus ascended into heaven, He breathed on His disciples and told them to receive the Holy Spirit (John 20:22). We need to practice spiritual deep-breathing lessons, receiving all of the life breathed into us by Christ when He gave us the Holy Spirit.

CONSIDER
• Taking a nature walk. Breathe in deeply of the fresh air. Make your walk a personal get-away with your Creator. Tell Him how wonderful and beautiful His creation is. Thank Him for your life and health. Praise Him, and allow Him to use this time to bless you.
• Helping someone experience the “atmosphere of heaven” by taking an elderly person out of an assisted living residence for an afternoon. You could treat him or her to a picnic in a nearby park, to a museum, or to a bright and airy restaurant. Or you could just take them for a scenic drive.
• Taking time from your daily routine to breathe deeply. Get up from your desk, stretch, and take a walk to clear your mind. As you breathe deeply, praise God. Paul urges us, “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thess. 5:16–18, NIV). We can do this by making prayer and praise as regular as our breathing.

Keeping a daily praise journal to express your gratitude to God and the relationship that is being developed between you and Him. Use the journal as a way to see where He is leading you.
Leading out in a public praise meeting or asking the pastor if you can read • the Scripture during divine service; or lead in a song, sing a solo, or publicly testify as to how God is working in your life.

CONNECT
The Ministry of Healing, chapter 3.
Breathing Lessons



REST AND RESTORATION





Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from www.amazingfacts.org with the Sacramento church



To study the lesson with Dr Derek Norris of the Lake Forest church,
click on the following link:

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q205-15-rest-and-restoration



PLEASE GO TO YOUR SIDE BAR AND CLICK ON VIEW AND ON ZOOM IN + AS MANY TIMES AS NEEDED TO ENLARGE THE WHOLE PAGE SO YOU MAY EASILY READ IN THE PDF WHOSE FONTS YOU MAY ENLARGE ALSO DIRECTLY BY RAISING THE PERCENTAGE INCLUDED. LIKE THAT YOU HAVE A BIRD VIEW OF MANY PERSPECTIVES. THANK YOU.


http://www.absg.adventist.org



AND JUST LEAVE YOUR CURSOR ON THE VERSES SO YOU MAY READ THEM

htpp://www.cqbiblestudy.org


Rest and Restoration
“Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest’ ” (Mark 6:31, NIV).



The Need for Total Restoration
Courtney-Claire Haynes, Kingston, Jamaica, West Indies
Introduction Sabbath
Matt. 11:28–30

I have observed my family during a typical workweek and noticed how demanding school and work can be. The intensity of our day-to-day activities requires us to get some well-deserved rest. However, we never seem to have time for it.

What a great way to forget all our cares!

Think about your own schedule. How busy are you with classes, homework, your job, your family? Then there’s the time needed to eat or to clean your dorm room or house. If you are in charge of a growing family, the demands on your time are even more intense. What’s a person to do?

It is said that rest is required in order for someone to function at his or her physical, mental, and spiritual best. Getting this rest was part of God’s plan when He set aside both the darkness of each day and the seventh day as the Sabbath. He knew we would need daily rest, and that at the end of the week we would need time to forget all the troubles of the other six days. What a great way to forget all our cares—praising the Creator during one 24-hour period for sparing our lives each week! Read Matthew 11:28–30 again. “In these words Christ is speaking to every human being. Whether they know it or not, all are weary and heavy-laden. All are weighed down with burdens that only Christ can remove. The heaviest burden that we bear is the burden of sin. If we were left to bear this burden, it would crush us. But the Sinless One has taken our place. ‘The Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all.’ Isa. 53:6. He has borne the burden of our guilt. He will take the load from our weary shoulders. He will give us rest. The burden of care and sorrow also He will bear. He invites us to cast all our care upon Him; for He carries us upon His heart.”*

The need for rest will always be at the forefront of our minds because our bodies and our minds were not created for work only. The body needs rest as it is constantly attacked by physical and spiritual diseases. We also need to remember, however, that only the Divine Healer, Jesus Christ, will give us total restoration.
____________
*The Desire of Ages, pp. 328, 329.



Restored in Jesus’ Rest
Ryan O’Neil Seaton, Kingston, Jamaica, West Indies
Sunday Logos
Gen. 2:15; Exod. 20:8–11; 23:12; Matt. 11:28–30;
Mark 2:27; 6:30–32

Work and Rest Before the Infection of Sin (Genesis 1; 2)
Considering the Greek proverb “The beginning is the half of all things,” I decided to review the entire Creation story. I was excited to realize that Adam and Eve’s initial experience with God was largely that of rest! “Notice the symbolism of what happened at Creation. God worked six days and then rested the seventh, after His work was complete. But for Adam and Eve, the process was reversed. They first rested on the Sabbath and then followed it with six days of work. They had nothing to do with God’s creative acts. They came on the scene at the end of Creation week. They simply received their lives from Him and all the blessings of Eden as a . . . gift.”1

The Sabbath instructs us to rest in what God has done for us.

Before sin infected the earth, God assigned to Adam and Eve the work of dressing and keeping the Garden of Eden. To Adam, God also gave the task of naming the animals (Gen. 2:20). This confirms that we were not made for contemplation only. We also were created to interact with creation through the exercise of our bodies and minds.

The Rejuvenating Sabbath Rest (Exod. 20:8–11; 23:12; Mark 2:27)
God never intended the Sabbath to be a physical or ceremonial burden. In the context of rabbinic ceremonialism, Jesus declared that the “ ‘sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the sabbath’ ” (Mark 2:27, NRSV). The Sabbath is too wonderful a gift to be diminished by ceremony and overexertion. After Adam and Eve sinned, they began to deteriorate, along with the rest of creation. They began to experience weariness, pain, and hunger. Daily replenishment through sleep became an important cycle, and part of what the Sabbath fostered was an opportunity for that essential physical rest. Read Exodus 20:8–11; 23:12. When the body is refreshed, the mind is better prepared to function in the ways God had originally intended for it to work.

“[T]he sabbath commandment is unique among the ten. It is the only one not an obvious moral duty. Why? Amid the law’s stringent demands God offers us rest in the fourth commandment. The other nine tell us what we must do for God and neighbor. But the Sabbath instructs us to rest in what God has done for us. Exodus 20 reminds us of God’s finished Creation on our behalf. Deuteronomy 5 invites us to rest on the Sabbath in memory of the redemption He accomplished for us.”2

Pause for Peace (Mark 6:30–32)
At different points between the evening of Friday, March 26, and the after-noon of Sabbath, March 27, 1999, I had the opportunity of listening to, meeting, traveling with, and having Sabbath lunch with the late Dr. Samuele Bacchiocchi, in what was his first visit to Jamaica.
I don’t remember exactly how I got into the mix of waking up early Sabbath morning in the dorm, and then traveling with Pastor Wellington, Dr. Bacchiocchi (or Dr. Sam as he liked to be called), and my friend Sean Brooks as a company of four making the one-hour journey from the University’s Parish of Mandeville to my native Kingston, where we church-toured. However, I do remember the Sabbath lunch we had at Brother Ashton Tai’s home and a particular request of Dr. Sam after lunch. He asked Brother Tai if he could rest for one hour before returning to the afternoon session. This need reminded me of Mark 6 when Jesus bade His disciples to “ ‘come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest’ ” (Mark 6:31, NIV). As ambassadors for Christ, especially ministers and medical workers, we need to “rest awhile,” to occasionally chill out by seeking solitude.

Resting in Jesus (Matt. 11:28–30)
Finally, if our mind is not in Christ, physical rest will not fully restore our bodies. Christ invited, “ ‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light’ ” (Matt. 11:28–30, NIV). I like the composition and harmony of the song by Take 6 “Come Unto Me,” which is based on this invitation of Christ. The only way to find ultimate harmonious rest while working for the ultimate good is to accept Christ, then learn from and follow Him.

REACT
1. When was the last time you have awakened without the help of an alarm clock? Are you really getting enough sleep?
2. What steps can you take to minimize stress during the week?
3. What steps do you think people took to minimize stress on the Sabbath day in the Old Testament? What steps did Jesus and other people take to reduce stress on the Sabbath in the New Testament? What can we learn from this about the steps we can take to reduce stress on the Sabbath?
4. Search YouTube to find Take 6 or another group singing the song “Come Unto Me.” Listen to it and imagine that you are alone with Jesus.
____________
1. Robert S. Folkenberg, We Still Believe (Nampa, Idaho: Pacific Press®, 1994), p. 63.
2. Martin Weber, Some Call It Heresy (Hagerstown, Md.: Review and Herald®, 1985), p. 94.



“I Will Give You Rest”
Rita Ann Newman, Kingston, Jamaica, West Indies
Monday Testimony
Matt. 11:28–30

As a nurse I’ve learned that there is really only one invitation I can give to very ill people. Those are Jesus’ words in Matthew 11:28–30. Read them now if you haven’t already done so.
“These words of comfort were spoken to the multitude that followed Jesus. The Saviour had said that only through Himself could men receive a knowledge of God. He had spoken of His disciples as the ones to whom a knowledge of heavenly things had been given. But He left none to feel themselves shut out from His care and love. All who labor and are heavy-laden may come unto Him.

“Scribes and rabbis, with their punctilious attention to religious forms, had a sense of want that rites of penance could never satisfy. Publicans and sinners might pretend to be content with the sensual and earthly, but in their hearts were distrust and fear. Jesus looked upon the distressed and heart burdened, those whose hopes were blighted, and who with earthly joys were seeking to quiet the longing of the soul, and He invited all to find rest in Him.

“Tenderly He bade the toiling people, ‘Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.’ ”1

“The yoke is placed upon the oxen to aid them in drawing the load, to lighten the burden. So with the yoke of Christ. When our will is swallowed up in the will of God, and we use His gifts to bless others, we shall find life’s burden light. He who walks in the way of God’s commandments is walking in company with Christ, and in His love the heart is at rest. When Moses prayed, ‘Show me now Thy way, that I may know Thee,’ the Lord answered him, ‘My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest. . . .’

“Those who take Christ at His word, and surrender their souls to His keeping, their lives to His ordering, will find peace and quietude. Nothing of the world can make them sad when Jesus makes them glad by His presence. In perfect acquiescence there is perfect rest.”2

REACT
1. Is taking Christ’s yoke upon you similar or equivalent to taking up your cross? Explain.
2. How can taking Jesus’ yoke give you rest?
____________
1. The Desire of Ages, p. 328.
2. Ibid., p. 331.



The Essentials of Restoration
Robert Bennett, Kingston, Jamaica, West Indies
Tuesday Evidence
Exod. 20:8–11; Eccles. 5:12

I asked some friends what came to mind when they heard the word rest. For some it meant afternoon naps, peace and quiet, snuggling up in a favorite chair, or being in a safe haven away from the stresses of their fast-paced world. Certainly rest plays a vital role in our well-being. Today we will focus on rest as an integral part of the church’s health message from two perspectives: spiritual rest and physical rest.

Spiritual rest is just as important as physical rest.

Spiritual rest is just as important as physical rest. Scientific studies have shown that inadequate rest and, worse yet, sleep deprivation can have detrimental effects leading to premature aging, nervous disorders, and mood swings. During sleep, the body performs vital functions that are crucial to health and longevity. That certain functions leading to restoration occur during sleep is symbolic of our rest in Jesus, which leads to spiritual restoration. It is only as we rest in Him that we can experience spiritual restoration.

Physical restoration occurs as we adhere to the natural laws, one of those laws being rest. The parallel spiritual rest is mentioned in Matthew 11:28–30, where Jesus invites us who are weary to come to Him for rest. Ecclesiastes 5:12 states that “sweet is the sleep of laborers, whether they eat little or much; but the surfeit of the rich will not let them sleep” (NRSV). A hard-working Christian who trusts in God—or, as it were, rests in Jesus—will physically sleep well, taking no thought for tomorrow. There can be no doubt that a lack of proper rest at night will affect how we participate in the Sabbath rest. It is also important to realize that the spiritual rest Jesus calls us to enjoy will remove guilt feelings that often lead to unhappiness and a lack of peace.

Just as physical rest is necessary for life, so spiritual rest is essential for life, not only now but for eternity. As God rested on the seventh day after creating this world (Gen. 2:2, 3; Exod. 20:8–11), so the same seventh-day Sabbath is today a weekly reminder for us that Jesus is our Creator and Savior.

REACT
1. Ecclesiastes 8:16 speaks of “how one’s eyes see sleep neither day nor night” (NRSV). Does this describe your life? If so, what changes do you need to make?
2. Search the Web to learn more about the benefits of sleep. Compare those
benefits to spiritual rest.




Understanding the
Importance of Rest
Latoya Natalie McFarlane, Kingston, Jamaica, West Indies
Wednesday How-to
Mark 2:27; Heb. 4:9–11

Rest is important to the Christian’s life. Immediately after His work of Creation, God rested from all His work (Gen. 2:2, 3; Heb. 4:10). Because God knew the importance of rest in renewing the mind, body, and spirit, He instituted the Sabbath as a day of rest for humankind. For Jesus, rest was also important. Recognizing that His disciples were overworking, He instructed them to stop and rest (Mark 6:31).

Satan loves nothing more than the sleep-deprived Christian.

Rest in the Lord cannot be crammed into a few minutes of hurried devotion early in the morning. It requires that we take time to slow down and gain some perspective on life. The book of Hebrews assures us that at the end of our journey there “remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God” (Heb. 4:9, NIV).

In today’s society, it is becoming increasingly difficult for us to rest. Our pre-occupation with work, school, and other activities robs us of quality rest. At times, it would appear as if our own bodies force us to become sick so that we can finally rest. But there are easier steps we can take in the quest for rest:

Get quality sleep at night. Like any computer or machinery that requires maintenance over time, our bodies also require repair. Sleep recharges the brain and repairs the body from wear and tear. Schedule at least six to eight hours sleep. Lack of sleep for prolonged periods of time can affect our thinking and decision-making. Satan loves nothing more than the sleep-deprived Christian whose ability to think clearly and make wise choices is inhibited.

Eat well. Plan your meals to include foods from all the food groups. Eat a good breakfast and lunch; but eat a light supper. It’s hard to sleep when your stomach is full.

Exercise regularly. Exercise can help the brain switch roles and prepare the body for rest. However, don’t exercise just before going to bed, or your body will be too pumped to rest.
Spend quality time with God. Worship brings us closer to Him, helps us focus on what’s really important, and creates a feeling of calm. Avoid taking the burden of sin to bed with you. Give that burden to your Savior. In fact, He already took that burden to the cross where He died for your sins.

Resolve conflicts. Read Ephesians 4:26. As much as possible, settle disagreements and disputes before bedtime, especially within your household. This allows for a more peaceful rest.



Not Another Scam
Jenine Knibb, Kingston, Jamaica, West Indies
Thursday Opinion
Matt. 11:28–30

Have you ever received an e-mail or letter stating that you’d won a trip around the world or a cash prize redeemable after you made a “small” payment? These “generous” offers are usually scams that leave their victims worse off financially than they were before. As a result, I’m usually skeptical about these offers that seem too good to be true. However, Matthew 11:28–30 presents us with a proposal that I am unable to decline. It reads, “ ‘Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly’ ” (The Message). Who can resist an offer like that?
Jesus knows that every once in a while we need a break. His proposal of granting us rest is a guarantee that we can receive just that—once we go to Him. It’s an offer we never have to delete from our e-mail. That sly con artist, the devil, seeks to deceive us into believing that we can and need to carry our burdens by ourselves. Our Creator, on the other hand, has sent a gift of rest just for you, which you need only to claim.

It’s an offer we never have to delete from our e-mail.

Growing up as an Adventist, I have always looked forward to the Sabbath. It is the one day of the week on which the Lord commands us not to do any work. He doesn’t have to tell me twice! On the Sabbath, for 24 hours, I am set free from all my worries and cares. I don’t have to fret about deadlines or worry about finding the time to get all my tasks done. With all the physical, mental, and emotional rest that I get on the Sabbath, I am cleansed, repaired, and rejuvenated, fresh and able to face all the tasks that will present themselves to me during the new week. Rest is an inexpensive remedy for an exhausted individual. Why don’t you invest in some rest today?

REACT
1. Why do people who refuse to rest never really get ahead?
2. Why did our powerful and mighty heavenly Father rest after creating the earth?



God’s STOP Sign
Liane Edlund, Ekebyholm, Sweden
Friday Exploration
Mark 6:31

CONCLUDE
To a world on the go, God says, STOP! STOP working, and get a good night’s sleep. STOP worrying, and give your concerns to Me. STOP rushing, and take time to be with Me. The Sabbath is God’s special weekly STOP sign, calling us to lay aside our own work and to rest in the work God has done for us, both as our Creator and Redeemer. As we learn to rest, our faith in God’s love and care increases, and we are renewed from the inside out. So pay attention to God’s STOP signs in your life.

CONSIDER
•Painting or drawing a picture of a scene that embodies rest for you. Hang it up in your bedroom to remind you of what God wants for you.
•Starting a Quiet Service in the middle of the week. Set off a couple of hours when people can visit the church to meditate and pray. They should be able to come and go as they wish in quietness. Create an atmosphere of rest in the sanctuary with candles and soft music, but remember—no talking aloud.
•Babysitting for a couple with young children so they can spend the evening together. Give them a card with Jesus’ words to His disciples: “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”
•Compiling a Sabbath CD that helps you to unwind and enter into worship. Choose from your favorite “restful” songs.
•Making a prayer trail. Create a variety of stations at which participants can meditate over Bible verses and experience the restfulness of nature.
•Reviewing the steps for better rest listed in Wednesday’s lesson. How are you doing in your “quest for rest”? Which areas do you need to focus on in order to be rested?

CONNECT
The Desire of Ages, chapters 29, 38.
Shawn Boonstra, The Sign; Nancy Van Pelt, The Art of Making Sabbath Special (DVD); Max Lucado, Traveling Light.

FAITH AND HEALING

Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from www.amazingfacts.org with the Sacramento church



To study the lesson with Dr Derek Norris of the Lake Forest church,
click on the following link:

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q205-08-faith-and-healing



PLEASE GO TO YOUR SIDE BAR AND CLICK ON VIEW AND ON ZOOM IN + AS MANY TIMES AS NEEDED TO ENLARGE THE WHOLE PAGE SO YOU MAY EASILY READ IN THE PDF WHOSE FONTS YOU MAY ENLARGE ALSO DIRECTLY BY RAISING THE PERCENTAGE INCLUDED. LIKE THAT YOU HAVE A BIRD VIEW OF MANY PERSPECTIVES. THANK YOU.

http://www.absg.adventist.org



AND JUST LEAVE YOUR CURSOR ON THE VERSES SO YOU MAY READ THEM
www.cqbiblestudy.org


Faith and Healing
“ ‘You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You’ ” (Isa. 26:3, NKJV).

Great Faith and True Healing
Dwayne Dharma Ricky, Jakarta, Indonesia
Sabbath Introduction
Matt. 15:21–28; John 15:7; 1 John 3:22

Matthew 15:21–28 is a wonderful story about how faith can assist with the healing process:

“Then Jesus went out from there and departed to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a woman of Canaan came from that region and cried out to Him, saying, ‘Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David! My daughter is severely demon-possessed.’ But He answered her not a word. And His disciples came and urged Him, saying, ‘Send her away, for she cries out after us.’ But He answered and said, ‘I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’ Then she came and worshiped Him, saying, ‘Lord, help me!’ But He answered and said, ‘It is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the little dogs.’ And she said, ‘Yes, Lord, yet even the little dogs eat the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table.’ Then Jesus answered and said to her, ‘O woman, great is your faith! Let it be to you as you desire.’ And her daughter was healed from that very hour” (NKJV).

“She came with a kind of superstition as she might have come to any magician.”

“This woman had faith. (a) It was a faith which grew in contact with Jesus. She began by calling him Son of David; that was a popular title, a political title. It was a title which looked on Jesus as a great and powerful wonder worker, but which looked on him in terms of earthly power and glory. She came asking a boon [favor] of one whom she took to be a great and powerful man. She came with a kind of superstition as she might have come to any magician. She ended by calling Jesus Lord.” *

True faith rests on the promises contained in the word of God, and only those who obey His Word can claim its glorious promises. Read John 15:7 and 1 John 3:22.

Just as the woman received true healing not only for herself but for her daughter, so we can be healed if we are totally committed to God. This commitment is a deliberate intention not only of the heart but also of the mind. This week, the subject of our lessons will be the powerful influence our minds have on our bodies.

REACT
The quote from Barclay says that the woman’s faith grew as she had contact with Jesus. How could this be, since this was the first time she had met Jesus?
____________ * William Barclay, The Gospel of Matthew, vol. 2 (Philadelphia, Penn.: Westminster Press, n.d.), p. 123.



The Bronze Snake
Gustina Waro Lisa Ricky, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
Sunday Evidence
Num. 21:4–9; Prov. 17:22; 1 Cor. 13:13

When I was a little child, I wondered why it was important to pray before taking medicine. As an adult, I now realize that praying before taking medicine helps me to focus on the true Healer, Jesus Christ.

“ ‘I’m going to trust Him through all this.’ ”

This world is impure because of sin. Sin has created many diseases. Sin has therefore destroyed and degraded our body’s endurance.1 However, faith in Jesus, our love for Him, and the hope He inspires in us can be powerful medicines when it comes to being healed of these diseases.

The event that we read about in Numbers 21:4–9 is evidence that faith in Jesus can cause healing. The Lord said to Moses, “ ‘Make a snake and put it up on a pole; anyone who is bitten can look at it and live’ ” (Num. 21:8, NIV). In this instance, the snake on the pole symbolized Jesus Christ. As the people looked to the snake on the pole, those who had faith in their Savior were healed.

David B. Larson was the president of the International Center for the Integration of Health & Spirituality in Rockville, Maryland, U.S.A. Dr. Larson was a pioneer in scientifically researching the relationship between faith and health. He wrote, “The type of coping that seems to help [when a person is sick] is when a person sees himself in a collaborative venture with God: ‘I’m working on this together with God and I’m learning things through this experience.’ Another type of coping that is helpful is the attitude, ‘God’s will be done. I’m going to trust Him through all this.’ ”2

Mohammad Siahpush is a professor of health promotion at the University of Nebraska (U.S.A.) Medical Center. He states that “everything else being equal, if you are happy and satisfied with your life now, you are more likely to be healthy in the future. Importantly, our results are independent of several factors that impact on health, such as smoking, physical activity, alcohol consumption and age.”3

REACT
Review the statement above made by Dr. Larson. If you do not currently feel that you are working together with God, what can you do to strenthen your relationship with Him?
___________
1. Healthy, Happy, Holy, 2nd ed. (Bandung, Java, Indonesia: Indonesia Publishing House), p. 25.
2. Stephen Goode, “Larson Explores Role of Faith in Health,” http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1571/is_48_15/ai_58361271/?tag=content;col1 (accessed February 23, 2009).
3. “Happiness and Satisfaction Might Lead to Better Health,” http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/ 2008/08/080830161436.htm (accessed February 24, 2009).




Nothing to Fear
Jill Manoukian, Avon, Indiana, U.S.A.
Monday Logos
Gen. 3:8−10; Ps. 118:6; Prov. 17:22;
Matt. 6:27−34; Heb. 13:6; 1 John 4:18

Root of All Illness (Gen. 3:8–10)
The fall of Adam and Eve resulted in separation from God, the source of all life. Apart from Him, humankind was left in a state of self-destruction. Perfect bodies that once were clothed with light are now susceptible to sickness and disease. Temperate characters are now inclined to bad habits. The two humans closest to physical perfection on this earth hid themselves in shame from the Creator of the universe.

Some hospitals hire comedians to come and make people laugh.

And yet, the very One they hid from was the only One who could heal the damage wrought by a few moments of sinful indulgence. While God has not promised to remove every illness or wound we may encounter on this earth, He has promised to completely eradicate it one day. God is more concerned with the eternal than with the temporary. Christ’s work here on earth testifies to His desire to heal both physically and spiritually. He died to connect us back to the source of all life—God Himself.

Genesis 3 and Christ’s ministry reveal the close connection between the body and the mind. No sooner had Adam and Eve sinned than their bodies began to suffer the consequences. Death is now an expected part of our existence. Yet the pain we experience when a loved one dies indicates how unnatural death really is. It was never part of God’s original plan. Our spiritual life, the connection that we have with God, is closely tied with our physical well-being. The two cannot really be separated.

Putting Our Trust in God (Ps. 118:6; Matt. 6:27–34; Heb. 13:6)
Psalm 118:6 reassures us that God is on our side. We don’t need to worry. Because we have that assurance of God’s alliance with us when we put our faith in Him, we need not fear. He is listening when we call out to Him. He is there when we face the most challenging circumstances on this earth.

Stress and worry have long been connected with high blood pressure, heart problems, sleep deprivation, depression, anxiety attacks, and a host of other physical ailments. There are many things in this life to worry about: job stability, health, having enough food and clothing, getting our own education and educating our children, relationships with others—the list is seemingly endless.

Yet in Matthew 6:27–30, Christ counsels us to not worry about tomorrow or even about our basic needs. Why? Because God is in control. Putting our trust in the One who knows tomorrow can give us rest and peace today. That peace of mind boosts both our spiritual and our physical health. We can boldly trust in the Lord’s provision and in His wisdom and timing (Heb. 13:6).

Merry Hearts (Prov. 17:22)
Laughter is said to have healing qualities. Thus some hospitals hire comedians to come and make people laugh. We cannot really experience joy without the presence of those we love and who love us. When we have joy through fellowship, we can experience a healing that comes from sharing our faith and being bonded with others. That healing may manifest itself in forms such as lower blood pressure and higher immunity. Even tumors have been known to shrink where joy is present. More important, joy through fellowship heals our emotional and spiritual wounds that cause us so much agony.1

Conversely, without fellowship and the joy that comes with it, our hearts wither, and we are more likely to heal slower, if at all, both physically and spiritually.

Nothing to Fear (1 John 4:18)
Sin results in fear. That is why Adam and Eve hid from God in the Garden of Eden (Gen. 3:8–10). As humans we often allow fear to drive our behavior and even give us our values. We fear death, so we try to stay healthy and look as young as we can. We fear failure, so we do everything in our power to be successful. We fear poverty, so we run after monetary security. We fear the dark, so we keep the night light on. We fear losing loved ones, so we stay up late and worry about them. We fear other people, so we arm ourselves with mace and weapons. We fear what people think, so we try to control the image we present to them. All of these fears take us away from the Creator. All of these fears point to death and deception. The Bible tells us in 1 John 4:18 that “perfect love casts out fear” (NKJV). We no longer have to be afraid.

Science testifies to the connection between faith and physical healing.2 But more than that, we can experience healing in our spiritual lives that will overflow into every other aspect of our lives. That kind of love can come only from our Creator. It takes faith to believe, but the power is undeniable in a heart that is receptive to God’s perfect love. Ultimate healing is ours for the taking if we will allow Him to work in our broken lives. We can stop hiding our sin-ridden selves and start living in the power of His love.

REACT
1. What fears do you need to give to God today?
2. How have you experienced faith and healing?
____________
1. James G. Friesen et al., The Life Model: Living from the Heart Jesus Gave You (Pasadena, Calif.: Shepherd’s House, 2004), p. 23.
2. Jeffery Kluger, “The Biology of Belief,” Time, February 23, 2009, pp. 62–72.



Forever Faith
David Dane Ricky, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
Tuesday Testimony
Prov. 17:22

“Faith, saving faith, is to be taught. The definition of this faith in Jesus Christ may be described in few words: It is the act of the soul by which the whole man is given over to the guardianship and control of Jesus Christ. He abides in Christ and Christ abides in the soul by faith as supreme. The believer commits his soul and body to God and with assurance may say, Christ is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day. All who will do this will be saved unto life eternal. There will be an assurance that the soul is washed in the blood of Christ and clothed with His righteousness and precious in the sight of Jesus. Our thoughts and our hopes are on the second advent of our Lord. That is the day when the Judge of all the earth will reward the trust of His people.”1

“Courage, hope, faith, sympathy, love, promote health
and prolong life.”

“Courage, hope, faith, sympathy, love, promote health and prolong life. A contented mind, a cheerful spirit, is health to the body and strength to the soul. ‘A merry [rejoicing] heart doeth good like a medicine’ (Proverbs 17:22).

“A person whose mind is quiet and satisfied in God is in the pathway to health.

“Health, life, and happiness are the result of obedience to physical laws governing our bodies. If our will and way are in accordance with God’s will and way; if we do the pleasure of our Creator, He will keep the human organism in good condition and restore the moral, mental, and physical powers in order that He may work through us to His glory. Constantly His restoring power is manifested in our bodies. If we cooperate with Him in this work, health and happiness, peace and usefulness, are the sure results.”2

“Our desires and interests should be lost in His will. These experiences that test faith are for our benefit. By them it is made manifest whether our faith is true and sincere, resting on the word of God alone, or whether depending on circumstances, it is uncertain and changeable. Faith is strengthened by exercise. We must let patience have its perfect work, remembering that there are precious promises in the Scriptures for those who wait upon the Lord.”3
____________
1. Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2, p. 531.
2. Ibid., pp. 647, 648.
3. The Ministry of Healing, p. 231.
Prov. 17:22




The Garden of Faith
Eko Tulistyawati Ricky, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
Wednesday How-to
Gen. 12:6, 7; 13:3, 4; 2 Kings 5:1–27; Matt. 9:20–22

If we want to have true healing, we must grow a faith garden. This is important, because faith in God can enhance healing. To grow our faith garden, we need to plant four rows of Lilies, and finally in the center, plant one row of Edelweiss:

Faith and action go hand in hand.

Row 1—Lead us to have a relationship with God. Abraham was the father of the Israelites. Everywhere he went, he built an altar and offered sacrifices to show his faith in God. His supreme test involved the sacrifice of his son Isaac. Abraham passed this test. Abraham’s altars symbolize the special faith relationship he had with God. If we worship God as devotedly as Abraham did, our faith will also grow.

Row 2—Lead us to have a burning desire for Jesus. In Matthew 9:20–22, Jesus healed a woman who had been sick for 12 years. He told her that her faith in Him had made her whole. To get to Jesus, she forced herself through a huge crowd, despite knowing that her illness made her unclean and therefore banned from being in public. That is faith!

Row 3—Lead us to be strong like Jesus. Every time we fall, we must get up and keep going. Our problems make us weak only when we don’t depend on Jesus to help us.

Row 4—Lead us to obey all of God’s commandments. The experience of Naaman in 2 Kings 5:1–27 teaches us that for our faith to be genuine, it must be accompanied by action. If Naaman had not washed in the Jordan seven times, he would not have been cured. Faith and action go hand in hand.

Row 5 (the middle row)—Educate your mind to believe with all your heart that Christ is the answer. “Many are suffering from maladies of the soul far more than from diseases of the body, and they will find no relief until they shall come to Christ, the wellspring of life. Complaints of weariness, loneliness, and dissatisfaction will then cease. Satisfying joys will give vigor to the mind, and health and vital energy to the body.”*

REACT
1. How are the sacrifices we make today and our general, overall behavior better indications of our faith than just our words?
2. What is the significance of having the middle row be that of educating our mind? What is the role of education in faith building? Is faith only education, or is it more?
_____________
*Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2, p. 403.
The Garden of Faith
Gen. 12:6, 7; 13:3, 4; 2 Kings 5:1–27;
Matt. 9:20–22



The Combo Healing
Falvo Fowler, Silver Spring, Maryland, U.S.A.
Thursday Opinion
Ps. 27:11–13; 116:1–10

A large part of my growing-up years was in India. And many of those years were spent fighting off something that couldn’t be explained medically. At her wit’s end, the doctor diagnosed me as a drug addict even though I had never touched the stuff. Then she told others that it was the only logical (not medical) reason. (So much for patient confidentiality and the Hippocratic Oath.) The local ministerial director wanted to bring a faith healer from his home state. And when the local busybody met me on the road, she urged me to confess my sins, because they were what was making me sick.

All of this was just way too much for me to endure.

In the middle of all this “reasoning,” I began to believe the many rumors spread by the doctor, the ministerial director, and the busybodies. What if God is punishing me? What if I have done something wrong? What if my faith isn’t good enough?

I remember asking God to let me go, because the medicine they were giving me was sending me into convulsions, and the doctor was prescribing Valium to put me under so I could take that medicine. All of this was just way too much for me to endure.

One night when the convulsions began and my mom ran to get my dad, I prayed that God would hold me till they could get me to the hospital to sedate me. I grabbed my Bible and began reading. Miraculously the convulsions diminished. My parents came back and were amazed that I was just twitching. But the moment we stepped into the hospital, the convulsions resumed, and I went down like a bowl of jelly. And yes, the doctor sedated me.

Years later, an intern discovered that the doctor was prescribing medication that my body was allergic to. It wasn’t my sins. It wasn’t a drug habit. It wasn’t a lack of faith. It was just a wrong medicine.

When I told a pastor friend of mine this story, he said the prayer and Bible reading was just a coincidence.

Really?

How often we brush miracles away as coincidences. Yet miracles do happen. Yes, we have to do our part. And, yes, we have to pray through it all. But somehow there is a combination that builds power. When God’s grace, our faith, and the love and care of the people around us combine, we tap into the power beyond our understanding. Then healing begins in earnest.



The Whole in the Center
Sharon E. Wright, Silver Spring, Maryland, U.S.A.
Friday Exploration
Num. 21:4–9

CONCLUDE
Jesus’ ministry is full of stories of people who experienced healing through faith in Him. Even the Old Testament story of the bronze snake on a pole symbolized healing by faith in Jesus. Our bodies—and our environment—have been corrupted by sin. Only the One who created us in the first place can help us find healing. When we rest in His power and promises, we can avoid many of the health problems associated with stress and worry. God wants us to live joyful lives, free from fear. He wants to be the center of our existence.

CONSIDER
•Making a collage of Scriptures about health and healing.
•Writing a psalm from the viewpoint of one who has asked for—and not received—physical healing from a specific malady.
•Singing the hymn “The Great Physician Now Is Near.”
•Journaling your prayers for healing in your own life or someone else’s.
•Creating a short skit or role-play that illustrates several people coming to Jesus for healing. •Make sure that at least one of your characters does not experience the healing he or she desires, and show how this situation could still demonstrate God’s grace.
•Listing contrasts between a holistic Christian view of health/wellness and traditional modern medicine.
Interviewing a health professional about some of the concepts in this • week’s lesson.

CONNECT
The Ministry of Healing.
Jan W. Kuzma, Kay Kuzma, and DeWitt S. Williams, compilers, 60 Ways to Energize Your Life; Hans Diehl and Aileen Ludington, Dynamic Living or Health Power; S. I. McMillen and David E. Stern, None of These Diseases: The Bible’s Health Secrets for the 21st Century; George H. Malkmus, Why Christians Get Sick.
 

THE ENVIRONMENT

http://www.answersingenesis.org/assets/images/articles/am/v3/n3/mosaic-chart-large.jpg




Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from www.amazingfacts.org with the Sacramento church



To study the lesson with Dr Derek Norris of the Lake Forest church,
click on the following link:

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q205-01-environment




PLEASE GO TO YOUR SIDE BAR AND CLICK ON VIEW AND ON ZOOM IN + AS MANY TIMES AS NEEDED TO ENLARGE THE WHOLE PAGE SO YOU MAY EASILY READ IN THE PDF WHOSE FONTS YOU MAY ENLARGE DIRECTLY BY RAISING THE PERCENTAGE INCLUDED. THANK YOU.
http://www.absg.adventist.org



AND JUST LEAVE YOUR CURSOR ON THE VERSES SO YOU MAY READ THEM


www.cqbiblestudy.org
 
The Environment
“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it” (Ps. 24:1, NIV).


Are We Responsible?
Emily Helen Adams, Valley Center, California, U.S.A.
Sabbath Introduction
Ps. 24:1

It arrived at the shores of Alaska. The camper’s green plastic soda bottle that perhaps was thrown off La Jolla beach in California, grouped with a larger pile of rubbish off Saint Lawrence Island in the northern Bering Sea. Alaska and other northern regions are vulnerable to pollution from faraway places.* Today, more and more people dump their trash anywhere without thinking of the harm it does to the environment. When I told her of the soda bottle on the Alaska beach, one of my fellow dorm residents said, “I feel bad for the polar bears.” So should we all. Animals suffer from our careless habits.

The polar bears deserve to have a home to live in too.

Careless use of the earth’s resources will surely backfire. Scientists are predicting food and water shortages in the near future. They say we should take shorter showers, buy less food, and conserve natural resources by recycling much more and driving less. In a talk at Andrews University, conservationist Dr. Matthew Sleeth observed that the average person could cut fuel costs in half by leaving the car in the garage twice as much. Such conservation would not only reduce pollution but help equalize the use of natural resources among industrialized and developing countries.

The earth holds many splendors: the Grand Canyon, the Great Barrier Reef, and even the seemingly endless Sahara Desert. Wouldn’t it be tragic if all of these splendors would be ruined with debris, marring the pure brilliance of God’s crea-tion? God created the earth for us to love and to take care of. As His children, we are responsible for taking care of His precious gift that He left for us to love and admire. I take responsibility, not only by being a good citizen, but in caring for the earth by minimizing my use of disposable food containers, recycling, and keeping the area that I live in clean.

Psalm 24:1 states that the earth is the Lord’s. So why wouldn’t we want to take care of it? We should make a commitment to manage His world and its treasures because He assigned us to be its caretakers. The polar bears deserve to have a home to live in too. The earth is our gift from God, so it is our responsibility to protect His gift until He returns. This responsibility is the topic for this week’s study.
____________
*Alaska Conservation Foundation, “Toxic Pollution in Alaska,” http://www.akcf.org/_attachments/pdf/events_amp_publications/acf_dispatch/acf_dispatch_sum00.pdf (accessed February 13, 2009).



God’s Creation: Past, Present, Future
Christy Yingling, Berrien Springs, Michigan, U.S.A.
Sunday Logos
Genesis 1−2:7; 2:18−24; 3:7, 17, 19;
Ps. 24:1; Matt. 25:34−46; Mark 2:27, 28; 3:4


Idyllic Creation (Gen. 1:1–2:7; Mark 2:27, 28; 3:4)
“Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light” (Gen. 1:2, 3, NIV). Thus began God’s miracle of Creation. Those first six days of earth’s history provided a visual representation of His glory and love. The psalmist says, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands” (Ps. 19:1, NIV). God repeatedly stepped back to look at the work He had done and proclaimed that “it was good” (Gen. 1:4, 10, 12, 18, 21, 25, 31). Creation culminated with the Sabbath, the day to commune with God in the natural world He had created for humans. Sabbath, like the earth, was created for our benefit—a way for us to better understand our Creator. God intended the Sabbath rest for all of His creation, not just humans (Exod. 23:10–12).

The symbiotic relationship God intended was damaged.

Relationship Between People and the Earth (Gen. 1:26, 28; 2:18–24; Matt. 25:34−46)
Genesis describes Adam and Eve’s relationship with the rest of the creation in chapter 2: “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it” (verse 15, NIV). The relationship is expressed by the Hebrew word mishmar, meaning “allegiance,” “duty,” or “charge” (Num. 18:3–5, 8, 9). Mishmar has the same root as the word used in Numbers 18, where God describes the care the Levites are to have for God’s sanctuary. Here God reminds them that this responsibility is a precious gift, just like the earlier gift to Adam of caring for the earth. The same responsibility and privilege of careful superintendence over the earth still exists for us today. The earth is the Lord’s (Ps. 24:1), but God has given us the awesome responsibility of caring for it (Ps. 8:6–8).

Our relationship with the earth is further explained in verses that discuss steward-
ship. Jesus addressed this idea through several parables. In Matthew 25:14–30, He tells the story of the man going on a journey who entrusts his servants with his property. The man who invested wisely and protected his master’s interests was rewarded with even more responsibility. We all have different abilities and resources, and God has indicated that we should do what we can to be good stewards of these things, especially His original gift to us—the earth.

In the passage in Matthew, Jesus goes on to tell the story of the sheep and the goats who will be separated based on how they have taken care of those in need (Matt. 25:34–46). Again, Jesus emphasizes the idea of good stewardship of the resources we have been given.

God’s Earth Marred by Sin (Genesis 3)
With the entrance of sin, God’s ideal has been marred. Selfishness brings the tendency for us to use the earth without regard for the preservation of our resources. When Adam and Eve realized they were naked, they tore fig leaves from a tree to fashion crude clothing (Gen. 3:7). Later, God implemented the first animal sacrifice and used the skins to create more permanent clothes for them (Gen. 3:21). Thus death was an immediate result of sin.

Further effects of sin appear in the curse God delivered after Eve’s fateful decision. God said the ground would produce thistles and that humans would be able to eat only through “painful toil” with the earth (Gen. 3:17–19). The symbiotic relationship God intended was damaged.
God’s people continued to misuse the earth. Much later in earth’s history, the Israelites abused the land God gave them. His commands to allow a Sabbath rest for the land every seven years were ignored. When the Israelites were carried into captivity, the land would finally have its Sabbath rest (2 Chron. 36:20, 21).

Not only does our exploitation of the earth harm it; it also harms us and all the living inhabitants of the planet. We now have to worry about sun exposure, toxic smog, polluted water, chemicals in our food, and many other human-created environmental problems that threaten our health.

The Restoration
As long as we live on earth, we have a responsibility as Christians to preserve God’s creation to the full extent of our ability.

Though Jesus will re-create the earth when He comes (Rev. 21:1), we cannot use that as an excuse to ignore our duty to take care of the earth now. In fact, God has made it clear that a time is coming when He will reward those who have done good work, which could certainly include taking care of the earth (Ps. 62:12). He also explicitly states that those who destroy the earth will be punished (Rev. 11:18).

In God’s new earth, we will be able to see again God’s ideal Creation, never again to be marred by sin. We will be able to say with the seraphim, “ ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory’ ” (Isa. 6:3, NIV).

REACT
1. What changes can each of us make in our daily lives to protect and care for the earth?
2. In what ways can we still see God’s love and power reflected in a creation that is marred by sin?




Love the Earth, Love God
Stephanie Honrada, Berrien Springs, Michigan, U.S.A.
Monday Testimony
Genesis 1−2:7; 2:18−24

“As the earth came forth from the hand of its Maker, it was exceedingly beautiful. Its surface was diversified with mountains, hills, and plains, interspersed with noble rivers and lovely lakes; but the hills and mountains were not abrupt and rugged, abounding in terrific steeps and frightful chasms, as they now do; the sharp, ragged edges of earth’s rocky framework were buried beneath the fruitful soil, which everywhere produced a luxuriant growth of verdure. There were no loathsome swamps or barren deserts. Graceful shrubs and delicate flowers greeted the eye at every turn. The heights were crowned with trees more majestic than any that now exist. The air, untainted by foul miasma, was clear and healthful. The entire landscape outvied in beauty the decorated grounds of the proudest palace.”1

“Nature and revelation alike testify of God’s love.”

“Nature and revelation alike testify of God’s love. Our Father in heaven is the source of life, of wisdom, and of joy. Look at the wonderful and beautiful things of nature. Think of their marvelous adaptation to the needs and happiness, not only of man, but of all living creatures. The sunshine and the rain, that gladden and refresh the earth, the hills and seas and plains, all speak to us of the Crea-tor’s love. It is God who supplies the daily needs of all His creatures.”2

“In His teaching from nature, Christ was speaking of the things which His own hands had made, and which had qualities and powers that He Himself had imparted. In their original perfection all created things were an expression of the thought of God. To Adam and Eve in their Eden home nature was full of the knowledge of God, teeming with divine instruction. Wisdom spoke to the eye and was received into the heart; for they communed with God in His created works. As soon as the holy pair transgressed the law of the Most High, the brightness from the face of God departed from the face of nature. The earth is now marred and defiled by sin. Yet even in its blighted state much that is beautiful remains. God’s object lessons are not obliterated; rightly understood, nature speaks of her Creator.”3

REACT
Why is it worthwhile to keep the earth clean now if it will be destroyed with sin anyway?
____________
1. Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 44.
2. Steps to Christ, p. 9.
3. Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 18.



Stewardship of the Earth: What Does God Expect?
Michael Riess, Berrien Springs, Michigan, U.S.A.
Tuesday Evidence
Gen. 1:28

What did God mean when He told Adam, “Fill the earth and subdue it” (Gen. 1:28, NIV)? It’s obvious that He wants us to respect all of His creation, even though we are superior to it. But should we give nature precedence over our needs as humans?

God instructed His faithful servant Noah to cut down
a virgin forest to build an ark.

When God created Adam, He made him ruler over the entire planet, and He expected Adam to govern it wisely, nurturing what He made to serve humans. However, after the Fall the situation changed. Humans and nature then began to compete with each other. Nature experienced its first losses when Adam and Eve “killed” fig leaves to make clothes and when an animal was killed to make clothing for the fallen couple. People now needed to use and manipulate nature to survive in this new, sin-infested world. God never speaks out in opposition to this practice. In fact, in Genesis 6:14, God instructed His faithful servant to build an ark so that people could survive the worldwide flood that was coming. Even as the water receded, Noah was told that he and his family could eat the clean animals, so that the people wouldn’t die. It is evident from these verses that humans are intended to use nature for their basic needs and survival.

God also instituted the ancient Hebrew sacrificial system, where a sacrificed lamb was used to represent Jesus Christ. As a burnt offering (Leviticus 6), the animal was set on an altar and burned before the Lord. The people had a command from God to take the life of the animal so that they could better understand the future sacrifice of Christ. The people were, in fact, required by God to do this. We need to always rule over nature wisely, as God commanded us. God never gave us permission to abuse what He and His creative power have made. In fact, God makes it clear that one day He will destroy those who destroy the earth (Rev. 11:18). He does, however, grant us permission to use the resources He has given us and makes it clear that we are to use them wisely.

REACT
1. To what extent can we use the resources we have been given? Should we, for example, allow off-shore drilling?
2. What principles should we use to find a middle ground between using what God gave us and needlessly wasting it?




Appreciating Nature
Raquel Molina, Berrien Springs, Michigan, U.S.A.
Wednesday How-to
Gen. 1:26

During the six days of Creation, God made a special gift for Adam and Eve and their
descendants. How should we treat His gift? Here are two ideas:

Don’t leave it at the edge of the table where it may be knocked off and broken. We need to consider that the environment is as precious as our own lives. Both are gifts from God. Genesis 1:28 makes it clear that with this gift comes the responsibility to care for it. So why do we so readily abuse God’s present to advance our own desires? We have battered and abused our environment for the past few hundred years. We have destroyed whole forests. We are experiencing severe climate changes due to the depletion of the ozone layer. And most water supplies are polluted. Yet we persist in our ways. Luckily, there is hope. If many people would make small adjustments—such as slightly lowering room temperatures during winter, recycling, turning off lights when leaving a room, and using kitchenware rather than disposable containers—we can make a difference.

Go outside and explore!

Do not set it on a high shelf to gather dust. Have you ever received a gift you thought you would never use, so you laid it to rest on a high shelf where it’s still waiting for a garage sale? We should not treat nature like this. It begs for us to appreciate it and treat it well. God gave us an amazing world. So go outside and explore! There is no need to spend money traveling halfway around the world. Instead, check out nature trails or parks in your town. Even if you are a busy student on your way to the cafeteria, try taking the scenic route. One of the best times to appreciate nature is on a Sabbath afternoon. Persuade some friends to go for a walk to that lookout by the river or whatever lovely spot is near you. Watch the stars after the sun sets. Go to a beach and feel the sand beneath your feet. See if you can make at least one rendezvous with nature every week.

REACT
1. What is the connection between nature and our state of mind?
2. How does the way we treat the environment affect our relationship with God?
3. What others ways can you think of to care for God’s gift of nature?






The Environment’s Punishment
Erin Johnson, Berrien Springs, Michigan, U.S.A.
Thursday Opinion
Gen. 2:18–24; 3:17

When Adam was made, God had him name all the creatures. Why did He do this? Why didn’t He just make the names Himself and tell Adam what they were? I believe that it was so Adam would have a personal respect for the environment. He felt no fear toward the animals or threat from the birds because they were his companions. This was before sin, when the world was perfect. There was no fear of global warming or natural disasters. There was always food and good weather. Then it all changed.

Why were the earth and its creatures being punished for our actions?

When sin filled the world, it was not just humans who were affected, but also the land God gave us. In Genesis 3:17, God told Adam that the ground was cursed because he ate the forbidden fruit, and that now through painful toil he would grow his food for the rest of his life. Why were the earth and its creatures being punished for human’s actions? The earth was made for us to enjoy, but the pleasures of it were diminished as a result of sin. Instead of having fruit from trees already grown, Adam and Eve were forced to plant orchards. The conditions worsened, and this made it harder to farm. Also, the animals that were supposed to be for our enjoyment and companionship were being used in agricultural labor and killed for food. This was not a part of God’s original plan for the earth.

Sin affected not only the earth’s natural resources but our attitudes toward them. We are selfish enough to want to drive big air-polluting, gas-guzzling cars; we use plastic bags for our groceries because we are too lazy to carry around re-usable totes. There are so many ways we can prevent harm to the environment—but we do not act on them.

By treating the environment with respect, we are doing what God wanted us to do from the beginning. The land is His; let’s not litter it with candy wrappers and aluminum cans. The sky is His; let’s not fill it with chemical emissions. Look at all of the beauty that is left in the world and see for yourself whether it is worth preserving.

REACT
1. How can you eat in such a way as to respect God’s creation?
2. How can you become more involved in saving the environment? What practices in your daily life are environmentally unfriendly?
3. Investigate what health issues are caused by our polluting the environment.



Ruling With a Heart of Green
Frank A. Campbell, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Friday Exploration
Prov. 12:10

CONCLUDE
After creating a world that would be any gardener’s dream, God put humanity in charge. He gave us a gift to be treasured, a responsibility to be valued, a domain to be governed not with a fist of iron but with a heart of green. Because of sin and selfishness, we fail in environmental stewardship as in other responsibilities. The cost of failure can be severe for the environment, for our health and well-being, and for our eternal destiny. We must strive to minimize negative environmental impacts. Today is a good time—and where we live a good place—to start.

CONSIDER
Researching one or two terms found in environmental news, for example, biodiversity, climate change, sequestration, or invasive alien species.
•Preparing a scrapbook of the efforts Adventists or others in your community, country, or region have made to protect or improve the environment.
•Reflecting on evidence in the Old Testament of God’s concern for the environment. Are there any New Testament examples? (See John 6:12.)
•Writing a paragraph or two on what images the term environment arouses in your mind. A clean room? Unpolluted beaches? Recycling?
•Creating a chart—or writing an essay or even a poem—illustrating how preparing, advertising, and eating hamburgers in Europe or North Amer-ica can affect the health of rainforests in Africa or South America.
•Finding—or if necessary, creating—a Web site highlighting the responsibility of Christians to protect and improve the environment.
•Growing plants organically in a garden or in some pots.

CONNECT
Frank A. Campbell, “Whispers and Waste,” http://www.unep.org/OurPlanet/
imgversn/103/07_whisp.htm (accessed April 2, 2009); Henry A. Zuill, “Expanding the Garden: A Christian’s View of Nature,” http://www.aiias.edu/ict/vol_14/014cc_409-427.htm (accessed
April 2, 2009)

http://www.cqbiblestudy.org/site/1/lessons/2010-2/English/STUDENT/CQ-10-Q2-05.pdf#

THE WATER OF LIFE

Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from www.amazingfacts.org with the Sacramento church



To study the lesson with Dr Derek Norris of the Lake Forest church,
click on the following link:

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q204-24-water-life


To study the lesson on your mobile
http://www.ssnet.org/qrtrly/eng/10b/less04m.html


www.cqbiblestudy.org

The Water of Life
“ ‘Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but those who drink of the water that I will give them will never be thirsty. The water that I will give will become in them a spring of water gushing up to eternal life’ ” (John 4:13, 14, NRSV).



Nor Any Drop to Drink! Nor Any Drop Consumed?
Deena Bartel-Wagner, Spencerport, New York, U.S.A.
Sabbath Introduction
Rev. 21:6

“Water, water every where, / Nor any drop to drink.” These lines from Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s poem The Rime of the Ancient Mariner resound with desire and convey the deep need of water for sustenance.

Water seems like such a simple thing. Cool, clear water has no calories and often no taste. We usually take it for granted and generally don’t consume enough of it. The moment we can’t access it, however, our minds can think of nothing else but having a tall glass of it.

Water seems like such a simple thing.

Our bodies are composed of 70 percent water. Our bodies can survive between 50 and 80 days without food, but only 3 days, on the average, without water. Dehydration comes quickly, and we begin to experience all kinds of physical symptoms when we don’t consume water.

Throughout the Bible, numerous stories and references speak about water. Sometimes it is used as a cleansing agent (Noah and the Flood). Another time God made sure that a prophet on the run had water to drink (Elijah and the brook Cherith). God used the water of the Nile to send a message to stubborn Pharaoh. Jesus turned ordinary water into the most flavorful wine served at a wedding feast. The Samaritan woman was confronted about her need for living water beside a well that was the source of daily water for an entire village. It was there that Jesus promised to supply water that would keep His followers from ever thirsting again.

The Creator could have chosen a different physical makeup for this world. Instead, He chose to cover 72 percent of the world in water. Christ told the woman at the well that even with all this water, we would still be thirsty if we didn’t access the Living Water daily.

How often do you drink water without thinking about the Living Water and what it means to you? During this week, we will examine stories of water in the Bible and their implications for our lives today. Remember the feel of the water in the baptistry as you were washed clean of your sins. Reflect on how parched and dry your life would be without the Living Water that is provided to you because you became a follower of Christ.

Don’t go through life with water, water every where, nor any drop consumed. Drink freely today of the Living Water.


Gushing or Seeping?
Jordan Wagner, Spencerport, New York, U.S.A.
Sunday Evidence
1 Kings 1:45;2 Kings 20:20; 2 Chron. 32:30; John 9:1–12

Jerusalem was built on a hill of hard limestone. Underneath the limestone hill are karstic caves that were carved out by the underground water that flowed from the Gihon Spring. This spring was the city’s only water source. It is mentioned several times in the Bible including during the anointing of Solomon as King of Israel (1 Kings 1:45). In Hebrew, the word Gihon means “to gush forth.” The Gihon Spring didn’t have a steady flow of water. Its water flow was affected by the season and the amount of annual rainfall.
Residents of the city used a natural subterranean water system.

The spring was fed by ground water, which accumulated in the subterranean caves. When the area was filled, the water would spill over and siphon its way to the surface to create a pool.
The water would flow from the cave out into the Kidron Valley, where crops were watered from the spring. The Bible speaks of this area as the “King’s Garden” (2 Kings 25:4; Neh. 3:15).

Because the Gihon Spring lay outside of the city of Jerusalem, if an attack on the city occurred, the water supply for the city was threatened. Residents of the city used a natural subterranean water system, which is today known as “Warren’s Shaft,” because it was discovered by C. Warren in 1867 during archeological explorations. This shaft allowed a person to travel underground to the Gihon Spring and draw water from it by utilizing a container fastened to a rope without ever having to leave the protective walls of the city.

Water from Gihon Spring also flowed through Hezekiah’s Tunnel to the Siloam Pool. It was to this pool that Jesus sent the blind man to be healed (John 9:1–12). Hezekiah’s Tunnel was constructed during the reign of King Hezekiah and is mentioned in 2 Kings 20:20 and 2 Chronicles 32:30. The Assyrian army presented the threat of invasion and so the tunnel, as well as fortifications, were constructed. With these modifications, the Pool of Siloam was subsequently located within the walls of Jerusalem.*
____________
* Hillel Geva, “Jerusalem—Water Systems of Biblical Times,” Jewish Virtual Library, http://www
.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/Archaeology/jerwater (accessed February 6, 2009).




Water Please, No Ice Got water?
Monday Logos
Gen. 2:10; Isa. 40:31; Matt. 9:2−7;
John 4:1−26; 9:1−11; Rom. 6:1−6

“Water, Water, Every Where” (John 4:14)
Water is so ubiquitous that it seems almost meaningless to talk about it. Surely, everyone knows what water is and what it does. The only people who need to study it are the molecular biologists who want to understand the construction, application, and function of the tiniest parts of water. On the other end of the spectrum, it would be great to comprehend the depths of the deepest trenches of the ocean and how light-emitting fish can live there. But when the smart people who study those things figure them out, they’ll let us know with a news feature on the Daily Show, right?

Got water?

Assuming that God made water along with everything else He made, why is it the most abundant and recognizable commodity on the earth (at least from space)? And why do we spend so much time and money looking for it in places such as Mars? Those aforementioned smart people tell us it is the most fundamentally essential substance needed for life to exist. After all, God could have made things any way He wanted, according to any set of natural laws He wanted to put in place. There is no such thing in God’s universe as coincidence.

So what did Jesus mean when He said to the woman at the well, “ ‘Those who drink of the water that I will give them will never be thirsty. The water that I will give will become in them a spring of water gushing up to eternal life’ ” (John 4:14, NRSV)? The woman had obviously been living for some time without ever having drunk of the water Jesus offered. She had been married five times without the water Jesus offers. Perhaps this, in itself, is a clue to our quest for a reason to care about water.

Water’s Dual Meaning (Gen. 2:10–14)
Water is physical, and it is spiritual (symbolic). We use it to keep ourselves clean. Doing so not only helps us to look better and to be more socially acceptable, but it actually helps to prevent illness. We can literally wash away what ails us or what could potentially ail us. On the inside, by keeping our bodies hydrated, our organs can gather, filter, and eliminate hazardous foreign microscopic bodies and worn-out cells.

Spiritual water cleanses us from the eternal deadly effects of sin. A soul connected to the Source of this water is kept clean by the constant renewing of the Holy Spirit’s cleansing.
When Genesis 2:10–14 speaks of the river of water that runs from Eden, it tells us of the four rivers that originate from this source in the land of sinlessness. In the same way the four winds represent strife in all corners of the world, these four rivers could represent health and spiritual cleansing going to all corners of the world. Even today, Hindus believe rivers are sacred and their water is an important part of purification rituals.

Water’s True Source (John 4:14; 1 Cor. 10:4)
Jesus is the source of this living water (John 4:14; 1 Cor. 10:4). “Prayer will bring before the Lord of hosts the wounds of Jesus, and then will flow forth afresh the life-giving blood, symbolized by the flowing of the living water.”* Everywhere we see water—in the seas and rivers, in the vapor of the atmosphere, even within the membrane of every cell of our bodies—we are to remember that the saving, healing grace of Jesus is right there, ready to give us healing from sin and the illnesses it creates in us. We cannot be separated from this water and live. We cannot be separated from the grace of Jesus and live spiritually.

Water baptism was designed to teach these very lessons. The watery grave of Romans 6:1–6 bears in it the promise of healing for eternal life. This is the all-enveloping nature of water. Convenience aside, a person being baptized is intended to get wet. Thus, the intermingling of the physical and spiritual aspects of water are taught by God in making water one of the indispensible elements of good health—water on the inside, and water on the outside.

The power of Jesus’ promise in John 14 is seen as He spoke of the relationship between Himself and the Father and the Holy Spirit. Their fluid boundaries make it nearly impossible to know where one ends and the others begin. In verse 17, Jesus promised the Spirit who “ ‘lives with you and will be in you’ ” (NIV). Jesus doesn’t want to be just with us, but in every cell of our physical and spiritual being. He longs to be the ubiquitous commodity that is seen above all, whether others look at us in passing or study us in detail to determine the source and function of our life ambition. We are to be so close to Him that there is no difference between us. Then He says, “ ‘Because I live, you also will live’ ” (John 14:19, NIV).
Got water?
___________
*Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 411.
Gary Wagner, Spencerport, New York, U.S.A.



Quench My Thirst, O God
Ashley Trecartin, Loma Linda, California, U.S.A.
Tuesday Testimony
John 4:1–26

One of the provisions God made for humans when He created the earth was to provide water in abundance. He designed us to need it both on the inside and outside of our bodies. Without it, we cannot live more than a few days. As Christians, we need the daily living water that Bible study and prayer bring to our lives.

“He who drinks of the living water becomes a fountain of life.”

“In health and in sickness pure water is one of Heaven’s choicest blessings. Its proper use promotes health. It is the beverage which God provided to quench the thirst of animals and man. . . .
“The refreshing water, welling up in a parched and barren land, causing the desert place to blossom and flowing out to give life to the perishing, is an emblem of the divine grace which Christ alone can bestow, and which is as the living water, purifying, refreshing, and invigorating the soul.”1

“He who seeks to quench his thirst at the fountains of this world will drink only to thirst again. Everywhere men are unsatisfied. They long for something to supply the need of the soul. Only One can meet that want. The need of the world, ‘The Desire of all nations,’ is Christ. . . .

“Jesus did not convey the idea that merely one draft of the water of life would suffice the receiver. He who tastes of the love of Christ will continually long for more; but he seeks for nothing else. The riches, honors, and pleasures of the world do not attract him. The constant cry of his heart is, More of Thee. And He who reveals to the soul its necessity is waiting to satisfy its hunger and thirst.”2

“He who drinks of the living water becomes a fountain of life. The receiver becomes a giver. The grace of Christ in the soul is like a spring in the desert, welling up to refresh all, and making those who are ready to perish eager to drink of the water of life.”3
____________
1. My Life Today, p. 139.
2. The Desire of Ages, p. 187.
3. Ibid., p. 195.



Treating Spiritual Dehydration
Jason Hammel, Rochester, New York, U.S.A.
Wednesday How-to
Matt. 6:34; John 4:1–26;
Eph. 6:11; 1 Pet. 5:8

If you stop drinking water for just one day, it can cause headaches and dizzy spells. If you go without water for a longer time, the circulation of blood to your vital organs becomes less efficient, and your mental abilities become impaired. What would happen if a Christian stopped drinking the water of life that Jesus offers?

If you stay in this situation, you will surely die spiritually!

The media reports survival stories of individuals lost in the wilderness areas who have run out of water and drink polluted water in order to survive. The polluted water often causes illness. If the people are not rescued, they die.

If we apply this scenario to a person lost in the world without spiritual water, the result would be much the same. You realize you are lost. You become scared and desperate, willing to drink anything just to survive. Focusing on the immediate need rather than on biblical principles, you drink “polluted water” from worldly fountains. If you stay in this situation, you will surely die spiritually!

So how do we prevent this situation?

Be prepared for each day. Jesus says, “ ‘Each day has enough trouble of its own’ ” (Matt. 6:34, NIV). If we don’t drink enough spiritual water, we will become like a lost hiker without enough water. Therefore, “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Pet. 5:8, NIV). As you set out each day, be prepared. Don’t leave your house without drinking spiritual water. When you do leave, bring some with you, because you could lose your way. Remember, even seasoned hikers can lose their way.

Be forewarned. Paul advises us to “put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes” (Eph. 6:11, NIV). Drink daily and drink often of the water of life that only Jesus can provide. This is how you can have inside you a “well of water springing up into everlasting life” (John 4:14).

Remember the symptoms of spiritual dehydration. Wandering without purpose; anxious without hope; tempted (seemingly) without escape; entangled in worldly affairs; resistant to spiritual counsel.

REACT
1. When have you been spiritually dehydrated? How did you cope?
2. How can we bring relief to those who don’t even know they are spiritually dehydrated?




Food and Water, or a Sermonette ?
Carrie Purkeypile, Sacramento, California, U.S.A.
Thursday Opinion
John 4:14; 12:8

Jesus recognizes the physical needs we have. His earthly ministry was full of miracles that met such needs. He healed many debilitating diseases and provided food and drink for crowds of people. The other part of His mission, however, was even more important. He offered Living Water as well. He recognizes that spiritual knowledge and salvation are even more critical than the physical needs of His people. However, He doesn’t ignore either facet of our lives.

When we love God and have a relationship with Him, we want and need to share with other people. Because we know our value lies in God’s eyes, we should know that all other men and women are valuable too. All people, no matter how they are dressed or where they are located, are of the utmost value to our Creator.

We have the knowledge that can save lives just as certainly as any mythical superman who can hoist a fallen building, or a skilled mediator patiently rescuing hostages from a hostile situation. The fate of the human race is certain death. The saving answer to that problem is to accept Jesus as Lord of our lives and hearts. When we do, we become qualified to lead others to Christ.

Is it enough to serve soup at homeless shelters or send a donation that will purchase food for hungry people? By all means, Christ wants us to care about the predicaments of our fellow human beings. We weren’t called to live in a bubble. Christ balanced His ministry by meeting the physical and spiritual needs of those He encountered. Preaching a lengthy sermon to a starving person probably won’t do much good. As Christ did, we must reach out and help others. We must love them as He loves them. Show first; then tell what His love is and where to get more of it.

REACT
1. What are you doing to meet the physical needs of others? What spiritual needs are you helping others to meet?
2. Pray for a calling. Then be open to whomever God calls you to help physically or spiritually.
3. Have you received both the physical water and spiritual water in your life?
4. What is the water springing up to eternal life that Jesus spoke of in John 4:14?



Come to the Waters
Dwain Esmond, Hedgesville, West Virginia, U.S.A.
Friday Exploration
Acts 17:24

CONCLUDE
Water is the most abundant element on earth and arguably the most important. Wars have been fought over access to it. While physical water is essential to physical health and well being, the spiritual water offered humanity through the life, death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ is not only integral to one’s physical life, but it is also the essential building block of eternal life. When we drink deeply of the Living Water—Jesus Christ—we are satisfied for now and eternity. We become fountains from which others can drink freely.

CONSIDER
• Locating a babbling brook or waterfall. Watch and listen to the gentle flow. Ask a friend to videotape you doing a dramatic reading of Revelation 22, with special attention paid to verse 17.

• Ranking the following spiritual disciplines based on how much each quenches your spiritual thirst on a scale from 1 (most thirst-quenching) to 5 (least thirst-quenching): (1) spiritual music; (2) Christian friends; (3) Bible study; (4) witnessing; (5) devotional reading; (6) service done on behalf of others.
• Thinking of a moment in your life when something from God’s Word was a source of comfort to you. Write a one-paragraph testimony of this experience, and either share it with five Facebook friends or e-mail it to five friends.
• Writing a two-stanza song about Jesus, the Water of Life, using all of the • following words in each stanza: water, life, Jesus, cleansing, healing, thirst. The words need not be in the sequence listed.
• Reading and meditating on John 4:13, 14. What did Jesus say would happen • to those who drink the water He offers? Is your life a spring welling up with eternal life? Is your life having a godly impact on the people around you?
• Considering the following: If we cannot exist without water for more than three days, how long might our spiritual life last if we stop drinking the Water of Life—Jesus Christ?
•Starting a daily devotional walk with God by setting aside time each day to drink from His Word, the Bible. Plant something to signal the beginning of your journey, and remember to water it each day.

CONNECT
The Desire of Ages, chapter 19.
Max Lucado, Come Thirsty: No Heart Too Dry for His Touch, chapters 1–3.

http://www.cqbiblestudy.org/site/1/lessons/2010-2/English/STUDENT/CQ-10-Q2-04.pdf



CELEBRATING SPIRITUAL AND PHYSICAL FITNESS: KEEPING FIT AND HEALTHY-GOD'S WAY





Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from http://www.amazingfacts.com/

CLICK ON THE LINK THAT FOLLOWS FOR A VIDEO OF THE SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON PRESENTED BY DR DEREK MORRIS OF THE LAKE FOREST CHURCH

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q204-17-celebrating-spiritual-and-physical-fitness

http://www.cqbiblestudy.org

  
Celebrating Spiritual and Physical Fitness
“Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (Isa. 40:31, NIV).


Keeping Fit and Healthy—God’s Way
Lionel See Yun Song, Republic of Singapore
Sabbath Introduction
1 John 5:2, 3

Over the last decade, the world has seen many new diseases and health threats. Researchers have been put to the test to come up with solutions to these challenges, and while it might seem like they are making headway, we have to ask ourselves if we really have been experiencing an improvement in our lifestyle. Has all that increase in knowledge truly made us healthier?

Some of the fattest Americans are also dedicated Christians.

After realizing that some of the fattest Americans are also dedicated Christians, Dr. Don Colbert wrote two books: What Would Jesus Eat? and The What Would Jesus Eat Cookbook. Dr. Colbert believes patients may be willing to listen to what Jesus may have done even if they ignore their doctors’ advice about healthful eating.1 He recommends a diet similar to the Mediterranean diet that is rich in whole grains, vegetables, and olive oil, but that leaves out foods such as pork and shellfish, both which contain fatty acid.

According to Dr. Colbert, if individuals eat according to the Bible and pursue a balanced life, they can prevent and maybe even reverse some diseases. However, this is not new. Already, established institutions, such as the Penang Adventist Hospital and many other Adventist health institutions, have relied on biblical principles to reverse diabetes.2

In the November 2005 issue of National Geographic, Dan Buettner wrote an article on longevity, backed with statistics from research funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health. This research shows that the average Adventist in the state of California lives four to ten years longer than Californians who are not Adventists. These extra years are attributed to a low-fat vegetarian diet rich in nuts and beans and the absence of such habits as smoking and drinking alcohol.

First John 5:2, 3 says, “This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands. This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome” (NIV).

With medical doctors such as Dr. Colbert turning to the Bible for health solutions, let us take a deeper look this week at some biblical principles to learn about how God wants us to take care of our bodies.
____________
1. “Bible Inspires Florida Doctor’s ‘Jesus Diet,’ ” http://www.clickorlando.com/health/3952449/detail
.html (accessed March 6, 2009).
2. “Diabetic Reversal Program,” http://www.pah.com.my/services/diabetic_education_centre/diabetic
_reversal_program.asp (accessed March 6, 2009).



Celebrating Spiritual and Physical Fitness
Nathaniel Tan, Republic of Singapore
Sunday Logos
Ps. 139:13–16; Luke 15:4–24; John 15:10, 11; 1 Cor. 3:16, 17; 9:24–27
Eph. 2:8–10; 2 Tim. 2:3–5; 4:7 Heb. 11:6

Designed From the Inside Out (Ps. 139:13–16)
The psalmist points out that we are designed and created. We aren’t a by-product of nature taking its course; we were not put together by accident. In Psalm 139, he praises God, thanking Him for purposefully creating him. The psalmist reveals a unique awareness of God’s grace and purpose for him in the description of how he feels about having been “fearfully and wonderfully made.”

All talk and no action do not lead to fitness.

Physical-Spiritual Vessels (1 Cor. 3:16; 9:24–27)
Being a Christian means that your life is no longer yours to live. Rather, it is Christ’s (Gal. 2:20). Your body is the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit, a “temple” of God.

Both collectively and individually, Christians are “temples” of God. The church, as a congregation of believers, forms the “body” of Christ (Rom. 12:5), and individual Christians who accept Jesus as their Savior are spiritual temples of God because the Holy Spirit lives in them. These temples then become a part of God’s property. They are holy because God is there. Paul warns those who would dare trample on “holy property,” saying they will be dealt with accordingly.

God cannot allow any part of His holy work to be damaged without bringing about retribution. This warning goes out to those who would dare think about dealing harshly with God’s people and to God’s people themselves. As vessels for the Holy Spirit, we need to keep ourselves spiritually and physically fit in order to maintain the presence of God within us.

Both spiritual and physical fitness is all about Christian self-discipline. Paul employs the example of the Corinthian games, which were similar to the Olympics, to illustrate how important self-discipline is. As Christians, we must do our part to keep physically and spiritually fit. This way, we reach the ultimate “prize” as Paul describes it in 1 Corinthians 9:24–27. Athletes train themselves with rigorous routines and special diets that help them to perform their best. Here, Paul uses athletes as an illustration to emphasize the need for self-discipline in the Christian faith. All talk and no action do not lead to fitness.

It’s Still All Grace, Not Works (Eph. 2:8−10)
Though we employ Christian self-discipline to keep us on track, the prize really is a gift from God. But self-discipline alone gets us nowhere either. A genuine love for our Creator who purposely formed us helps us to ignore things that distract us from the prize—eternity with God.

“The grace that saves is the free, undeserved goodness and favour of God; and he saves, not by the works of the law, but through faith in Christ Jesus. Grace in the soul is a new life in the soul. A regenerated sinner becomes a living soul; he lives a life of holiness, being born of God: he lives, being delivered from the guilt of sin, by pardoning and justifying grace. . . . Our faith, our conversion, and our eternal salvation, are not of works, lest any man should boast. These things are not brought to pass by any thing done by us, therefore all boasting is shut out. All is the free gift of God, and the effect of being quickened by his power. It was his purpose, to which he prepared us, by blessing us with the knowledge of his will, and his Holy Spirit producing such a change in us, that we should glorify God by our good conversation, and perseverance in holiness. None can from Scripture abuse this doctrine, or accuse it of any tendency to evil. All who do so, are without excuse.”1

Completing the Race in Faith (2 Tim. 4:7; Heb. 11:6)
Without faith in God, we cannot complete the race. Paul stresses that because he has kept the faith and he has run the race, that the prize awaits him and all who have also run the race. Physically and spiritually speaking, Paul acknowledges that he was created for the sole purpose of running the race in which his faith and physical being had been tested. By faith, he ran the race and denied himself. By faith, he completed the race and claimed the prize.

Review Hebrews 11:6. “To come to God has two presuppositions here: (1) The person must believe that there is a God and then (2) believe that God rewards those who sincerely seek him. Believing that God exists is only the beginning; even the demons believe in God’s existence (James 2:19-20). God will not settle for mere acknowledgment of his existence. He wants a personal, dynamic relationship with you that will transform your life.”2

REACT
1. How have you personally experienced the life of faith as it compares to running a race or some other physical endeavor?
2. When we do not exercise physically, our muscles become weak. Likewise, when we do not exercise our faith in God, it becomes weak. How does one exercise faith? How often are you exercising your faith?
3. Physical exercise and a good diet are important. However, in themselves, they do not give us eternal life. Only faith in Jesus can give us that. Why is it important to understand this distinction?
4. Why is it not enough to believe in our church’s 28 fundamental beliefs?
____________
1. Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible, comment on Ephesians 2:1–10, WORDsearch 7.
2. Life Application New Testament Commentary, comment on Hebrews 11:6, WORD search 7.
Nathaniel Tan, Republic of Singapore



Strong Minds Need Strong Bodies
Faith Toh, Republic of Singapore
Monday Testimony
1 Cor. 3:16, 17


“Pure air, sunlight, abstemiousness, rest, exercise, proper diet, the use of water, trust in divine power—these are the true remedies. Every person should have a knowledge of nature’s remedial agencies and how to apply them.”1

“We have unseen enemies to meet.”

“We can not be too often reminded that health does not depend on chance. It is a result of obedience to law. This is recognized by the contestants in athletic games and trials of strength. These men make the most careful preparation. They submit to thorough training and strict discipline. Every physical habit is carefully regulated. They know that neglect, excess, or carelessness, which weakens or cripples any organ or function of the body, would insure defeat.

“How much more important is such carefulness to insure success in the conflict of life. It is not mimic battles in which we are engaged. We are waging a warfare upon which hang eternal results. We have unseen enemies to meet. Evil angels are striving for the dominion of every human being. Whatever injures the health, not only lessens physical vigor, but tends to weaken the mental and moral powers. Indulgence in any unhealthful practise makes it more difficult for one to discriminate between right and wrong, and hence more difficult to resist evil. It increases the danger of failure and defeat.”2

“The whole body is designed for action; and unless the physical powers are kept in health by active exercise, the mental powers cannot long be used to their highest capacity.” 3

“Anything that lessens physical strength enfeebles the mind and makes it less capable of discriminating between right and wrong. We become less capable of choosing the good and have less strength of will to do that which we know to be right.”4

“You realize, don’t you, that you are the temple of God, and God himself is present in you? No one will get by with vandalizing God’s temple, you can be sure of that. God’s temple is sacred—and you, remember, are the temple” (1 Cor. 3:16, 17, The Message).
____________
1. The Ministry of Healing, p. 127.
2. Ibid., p. 128.
3. Education, p. 207.
4. Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 346.



Science Proves God’s Health Laws
Choo Shi En Christon, Republic of Singapore
Tuesday Evidence
Lev. 11:45

Leviticus is a book many people view as irrelevant to modern society. However, as we explore the biblical reasons for spiritual and physical fitness, we soon discover that Leviticus is not as out-of-date as we might think. In fact, it might be more relevant than we could ever imagine.

When it comes to healthful living, the Bible truly was centuries ahead of its time.

Leviticus is one of the five books of Moses. It is written primarily as a book of the law, with little history in it. It was part of the Mosaic covenant that God had with Israel, a covenant stating that God would care for the Israelites as long as they followed His laws. Many parts of Leviticus deal with the behavior of the priests during Moses’ time. However, there are many parts which are still practical to us today.

In Leviticus 11, God talks about clean and unclean foods. In the early Christian church, much of this was deemed as irrelevant and unimportant. However, more and more, science is making discoveries that prove that God’s laws are really beneficial. Leviticus 11:7, 8, says that the pig is not to be eaten. Today, the World Health Organization has strict guidelines on the export of pork, as it has a very high risk of diseases. Other meats forbidden by Leviticus, such as shellfish and other seafood, have also been found to carry a variety of diseases.

When it comes to healthful living, the Bible truly was centuries ahead of its time. Long before scientists understood the health benefits of a biblical diet, God already had instructed His people to eat and live right. In Leviticus 11:45, God calls us to be holy, because He is holy. This includes what we eat, what we drink, and what we do. God gives us such laws so that we will be happy. He gives us instructions on how to live right, so that our bodies will be healthy. We are better able to enjoy life when we live by His rules.

REACT
1. What are some foods, based on biblical principals in Leviticus 11, that we should refrain from consuming?
2. How can we change our diet to better obey God’s principles of eating?



Be a Strong Branch!
Jimmy Quek, Republic of Singapore
Wednesday
John 15:5

Many scientists believe that there is a correlation between our spiritual health and our physical health. Studies have shown that cancer patients are able to fight the disease better when they have a spiritual belief.*

Jesus wants us to be a blessing to the people around us.

Miracles of complete healing of terminal patients baffled doctors when earlier they had told families members to prepare for the worst.

Often our stress and depression in life stem from the fact that we have drifted further and further away from God. Conversely, when we do not take care of our bodies, we find that we become poor ambassadors for Him. Not only do we not have the energy needed to work efficiently, but we become ineffective examples of the abundant life He offers (John 10:10).

Jesus said that He is the Vine and we are the branches. So we need to stay connected to Him as our source of strength. We need to be physically ready to do His bidding, to go where He leads, to show clearly that being a Christian is a more healthful way of life. So how can we be strong branches?

Commune with Jesus daily. He invites us to seek His wisdom, meditate on His Word, and rely on His strength. In return, He promises to give us everything we need (1 Chron. 28:9; Matt. 6:33).

Run with perseverance. The writer of Hebrews encourages us to “run with perseverance the race marked out for us” (Heb. 12:1, NIV). To do that, we need to be physically, spiritually, and mentally fit. We are to exercise our faith muscles in order to withstand the trials that will come our way. While our training may be painful and less than pleasant, it will produce “a harvest of righteousness and peace” (Heb. 12:11, NIV).

Be a light. Jesus is the Light of the world, and He wants us to bring His light to everyone around us. As we stay connected to the Vine, we are also called to bear fruit. Jesus wants us to be a blessing to the people around us. He wants us to bring light and encouragement to people who have lost hope and peace to those who are afraid. Our vertical connection with God enables Him to connect us horizontally to our communities. The joy of partnership with Him brings forth a healthy glow both spiritually and physically (John 8:12; 15:2).
____________
*“Researchers Look at Prayer and Healing,” http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/ 2006/03/23/AR2006032302177.html (accessed March 6, 2009).



Getting Our Priorities Right
Jonathan Gerber, Republic of Singapore
Thursday Opinion
1 Tim. 4:8

I have a friend who is a fruitarian. According to him, eating anything other than fruit is highly detrimental to your health. If he sees us eating anything else, he will scold us and give us a lecture on healthful eating and preserving our bodies for God’s work. My friend is also a Seventh-day Adventist.

How do we define ourselves?

Another friend of mine is so conscientious about getting enough exercise that she walks her dog for an hour every day. She is slim and fit. She is also a strict vegetarian who does not eat or use spices in her cooking because Ellen White cautioned against it.* She also is quick to correct and inform others in her presence who do not eschew what she considers to be unspiritual health habits.

A quick glance at their diet and fitness habits reveal that these two friends believe that following certain strict health practices are part of their obedience to Christ. However, is that all there is to our relationship with Him? How do we define ourselves? As zealots who go around scolding other people and making them feel judged and ostracized because they choose to eat a turkey sandwich?

Godly believers are known by their fruit—the fruit of the Spirit. This phrase is a biblical term that sums up nine visible attributes of a thriving Christian life. Using the King James Version of Galatians 5:22, 23, these attributes are love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance. We learn from Scripture that these are not individual fruit from which we can pick and choose. Rather, they form one fruit with nine facets that characterize all who truly walk in the Holy Spirit. Collectively, these are the characteristics that all Christians should be producing in their lives with the help of the Holy Spirit.

First Timothy 4:8 informs us, “Physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come” (NIV). Notice that this verse does not say that exercise has no value! It says that exercise is valuable, but it sets priorities right by saying that godliness is of greater value.

REACT
1. Are you shunning healthful habits because they are espoused by people who turn you off by being overzealous?
2. How can you promote a healthful lifestyle without coming across as overbearing and self-righteous?
____________
*The Ministry of Healing, pp. 305, 325; Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 67.



Living as Temples
Chandler Riley, Laurel, Maryland, U.S.A.?
Friday Exploration
1 Cor. 6:19, 20

CONCLUDE
God is our Creator and has made our bodies to be temples for His Holy Spirit. By grace, as an unearned gift, we are given the Holy Spirit, who leads us to greater and greater physical and spiritual health. We’ve also been given the Bible, which the Spirit uses to guide us in caring for our physical and spiritual well-being. By following biblical guidelines, we can live longer, healthier, happier lives. By not taking care of our bodies, we can weaken ourselves physically and spiritually. A life of health involves both our physical and spiritual well-being.

CONSIDER
•Drawing or painting your idea of what “good health” is.
•Writing your personal viewpoint about the effects of good health habits on your spirituality.
•Writing a poem or song about your life and body being a temple for God.
•Discussing with a group the effects of health on spirituality. Share examples of how you’ve seen this in your own life.
•Walking for 30 minutes at least once every day this week. Do you feel more relaxed? Sleep better? Look forward to these 30 minutes now?
•Asking God to lead you to better physical and spiritual health, and by His Holy Spirit, to show you areas that could use improvement.

CONNECT
Counsels on Diet and Foods, chapter 2.
Nellie Jones, “Religion and Health,” Vibrant Life, http://www.vibrantlife
.com/vl/article-81.html (accessed April 2, 2009); Dr. Robert E. Baines Jr. and Daphene Baines, “Do You Really Understand That Your Body Is The Temple Of God?” http://www.christian-living-site.com/Temple-of-God.html (accessed April 2, 2009).

http://www.cqbiblestudy.org/site/1/lessons/2010-2/English/STUDENT/CQ-10-Q2-03.pdf

THE POWER OF CHOICE

Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from http://www.amazingfacts.com/

CLICK ON THE LINK THAT FOLLOWS FOR A VIDEO OF THE SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON PRESENTED BY DR DEREK MORRIS OF THE LAKE FOREST CHURCH

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q204-10-power-choice

www.cqbiblestudy.org

The Power of Choice
“But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank” (Dan. 1:8, NKJV).


Making the Right Choice
Sandro A. Dela Roca, Dagatan, Taysan, Batangas, Philippines
Sabbath Introduction
Gen. 2:16, 17; Deut. 30:10–19


God created us as individuals capable of making decisions. We can analyze and categorize, but the query lingers today as it did in the Garden of Eden, “Is it evil, or is it good?”
I believe that what we are now and what we are to become depend on the choices we make. We may choose to remain silent in a particular situation or to speak forcefully in another. We must choose which god to serve, which foods to eat, which liquids to drink. Ultimately, what we choose is what we become as individuals.

I couldn’t stand the idea that I had no choice but to obey.

During my high school years, I formally trained in a military course integrated in the curriculum. I had no choice but to enroll. Not taking the course meant I could not graduate. What I hated most about the program was General Orders Rule #2, which stated, “Obey first before you complain.” Being inquisitive, I couldn’t stand the idea that I had no choice but to obey, or else I would be punished by having to do any number of pushups my superior assigned. The strictness of this discipline still lingers as I realize the significance of obeying God.

Since the Fall, God reminds us over and again about making the right choices. He even provides parameters to help us restore His lost image as stated in Deuteronomy 30:10–19. In these verses, “Moses challenged Israel to choose life, to obey God, and therefore continue to experience his blessings. God doesn’t force his will on anyone. He lets us decide whether to follow him or reject him. This decision, however, is a life-or-death matter. God wants us to realize this, for he would like us all to choose life. Daily, in each new situation, we must affirm and reinforce this commitment.”*

If we obey His decrees written in the Book, we participate in the process of restoration. The Lord reveals to us principles for physical well-being to elevate our spiritual maturity. But do we have enough power to make the right choices? This is the focus of our study this week.

REACT
Think about choices you have made. How important were they?
____________
*Life Application Study Bible (Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House Pub.; Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan, 1991), p. 321.



Decisions Over the World’s Temptations
Mariel Joyce L. Perez, Dagatan, Taysan, Batangas, Philippines
Sunday Evidence
1 Cor. 10:31

As Christians, we know that our bodies are the temple of God. So we must take care of them the very best we can. But people sometimes choose to put things into their bodies that are not healthful. Perhaps they do so because they are depressed, and they hope that what they eat and drink or the drugs they take will make them feel better. Sometimes people drink in hopes of forgetting their problems. But tobacco and alcohol are both poisons and do a great deal of harm to one’s body. These poisons increase the risk for behavior and brain-function disorders.

“Alcohol-dependent adolescents perform more poorly on tests of condition.”

“Researchers found that alcohol-dependent adolescents perform more poorly on tests of condition. The effect of nicotine on adolescent brains reveals the following results: (1) chemical receptors for nicotine (a sign of addiction) increase twice as much in adolescents as in adults; and (2) nicotine exposure caused permanent behavioral problems, especially in females.”*

On the other hand, healthful choices can powerfully effect positive changes in us. Regarding unhealthful foods, we know that meat contains cholesterol, which can cause many different diseases. That is why many people now choose to eat more vegetables, fruits, and other recommended healthful foods. They want to enjoy a good, long life. Because of their healthful diets, Seventh-day Adventists are known to live longer, healthier lives than people with other eating habits. Choosing to eat a healthful diet, to exercise, and to think good thoughts help us to sleep better and to have clearer minds.

God gave us the power of choice. We can use this power for good or for evil. We decide what to choose among the things that surround us. Whose steps should we follow? What kind of diet should we choose? It’s good to know that God is always available to help us with every choice we encounter in our journey. When we face difficult choices regarding our health, remember that He is ready to guide us.

REACT
1. What are some biblical guidelines in choosing the foods we eat?
2. How can people at any age resist temptation?
3. Why did God give us the power of choice knowing that we would often choose unwisely?
____________
*Elvira Galvez, “Alcohol, Nicotine and the Brain,” Sci-Tech Magazine, vol. XIX, no. 4, pp. 12, 13.



The Power of Choice
Jervenesence Salathiel O. Florece, Dagatan, Taysan, Batangas, Philippines
Monday Logos
Gen. 2:16, 17; 3:1−13; Deut. 30:10−19; Ps. 119:11; John 3:16; Col. 3:2; Heb. 11:8−10


The Fall (Gen. 3:1–13)
“In the midst of the garden, near the tree of life, stood the tree of knowledge of good and evil. This tree was especially designed of God to be the pledge of their [Adam and Eve’s] obedience, faith, and love to Him.”1

God did not create us to be robots.

When Adam and Eve were placed in the beautiful Garden, they had everything for their happiness; but God chose to test their loyalty before they could have eternal security. Satan was permitted to test them. If they endured the trial, they would be in perpetual favor with God.
Eve found herself gazing with mingled curiosity and admiration upon the fruit of the forbidden tree. God had given her the freedom and wisdom to choose between good and evil. He had freely given her the good, but she was considering the evil. The tempter plucked the fruit and passed it to her. She received it, ate it, and was delighted with it. It seemed delicious to her taste. As soon as she disobeyed, she became a powerful medium through which the fall of her husband could occur. Here is where sin entered our world.

Freedom of Choice (Gen. 2:16, 17)
God instructed our first parents with regard to the tree of knowledge. He did not deprive them of the ability to eat the forbidden fruit. He left them as free moral agents to believe His word and obey His command. However, our first parents chose to believe the words of the serpent instead of believing in God. They basically distrusted His goodness in favor of cherishing the words of Satan.

God created humans with the power to think, to discern what is good and what is right. He did not create us to be robots. As a result, we have the freedom to choose and to decide what we will do with our lives. God wants us to exercise this power and freedom for our good and for His glory.

Wrong Choices and Their Results (Deut. 30:10–19)
“Eve really believed the words of Satan, but her belief did not save her from the penalty of sin. She disbelieved the words of God, and this was what led to her fall.”2

We must not neglect the opportunity to study God’s truths. They are given to save us from deception. Neglecting them will result in ruin. Every wrong choice has unpleasant and sometimes serious consequences; but when we hide God’s Word in our hearts, when we learn to walk by Jesus’ side, we will also learn how to make choices that are true to the faith we confess.

God’s Choice (John 3:16; 1 Cor. 6:19, 20)
When Adam and Eve sinned, God set into motion the plan of salvation. This plan was conceived out of His love for us (John 3:16). Despite our sins, God loves us and wants to save us. That’s why He sent His Son to die for us. Because we are valuable in His sight, He wants us to live happy, healthy, and holy lives. That’s also why He wants us to choose to obey His will, to exercise the freedom of choice by choosing what is good for our bodies. Then we will be able to glorify Him with a redeemed body (1 Cor. 6:19, 20).

“It is Paul’s insistence that, though he is free to do anything, he will let nothing master him. The great fact of the Christian faith is, not that it makes a man free to sin, but that it makes a man free not to sin. It is easy to allow habits to master us; but the Christian strength enables us to master them. When a man really experiences the Christian power, he becomes, not the slave of his body, but its master. Often a man says, ‘I will do what I like,’ when he means that he will indulge the habit or passion which has him in its grip; it is only when a man has the strength of Christ in him that he can really say, ‘[I] will do what I like,’ not, ‘I will satisfy the things that have me in their power.’ ”3

REACT
1. How can you use the power of choice more wisely?
2. What might you be neglecting that would cause you to make unhealthful choices?
3. What basic mistake did Adam and Eve make, and how can you avoid making the same mistake?
4. How do we face temptations similar to those faced by Adam and Eve?
5. When Adam and Eve chose to sin, they blamed others for their poor choice. Do you ever find yourself blaming others for your poor choices? If so, why and how can you learn to take responsibility for your choices?
6. What does Hebrews 11:8–10 teach us about Abraham and the choices he made? What can you personally learn from those choices?
7. We want to make good choices, but when faced with difficult or tempting possibilities, we sometimes fail. How can we “program” our minds so that we can be more successful? (Ps. 119:11; Phil. 4:8; Col. 3:2.)
__________
1. The Story of Redemption, p. 24.
2. Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 55.
3. William Barclay, The Letters to the Corinthians, rev. ed. (Philadelphia, Penn.: Westminster Press, 1975), pp. 56, 57.



One Choice Out of Many Choices
Jerome B. Balbastro, Dagatan, Taysan, Batangas, Philippines
Tuesday Testimony
Gen. 3:2

When we are puzzled about choosing the one right choice from among many choices, it can be like the shadows of a night haunted by the noise of crickets. From such a night, we might believe that everything is dark rather than reach for the sunrise as our decision unfolds.

Perhaps to choose is to be human.

One thing that requires good decision-making and can lead to either our “day” or our “night” is appetite. “In the wilderness of temptation Christ met the great leading temptations that would assail man. There He encountered, single-handed, the wily, subtle foe, and overcame him. The first great temptation was upon appetite; the second, presumption; the third, love of the world. Satan has overcome his millions by tempting them to the indulgence of appetite. Through the gratification of the taste, the nervous system becomes excited and the brain power enfeebled, making it impossible to think calmly or rationally. The mind is unbalanced. Its higher, nobler faculties are perverted to serve animal lust, and the sacred, eternal interests are not regarded.”1

“The uncontrolled indulgence and consequent disease and degradation that existed at Christ’s first advent, will again exist, with intensity of evil, before His second coming.”2

“Indulgence of appetite would have involved the sacrifice of physical vigor, clearness of intellect, and spiritual power.”3

Satan may lurk all around us, but we need not fall as his prey. “Every man has the opportunity, to a great extent, of making himself whatever he chooses to be. The blessings of this life, and also of the immortal state, are within his reach. He may build up a character of solid worth, gaining new strength at every step. He may advance daily in knowledge and wisdom, conscious of new delights as he progresses, adding virtue to virtue, grace to grace. His faculties will improve by use; the more wisdom he gains, the greater will be his capacity for acquiring. His intelligence, knowledge, and virtue will thus develop into greater strength and more perfect symmetry.”4

Every religious philosophy deals with the concept of choice. Perhaps to choose is to be human. Whether we like it or not, the power of choice is ours. The main question is, How will we use that power?
__________
1. Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 151.
2. Ibid.
3. Ibid., p. 155.
4. Ibid., p. 15.



Restoration
Lyka Manalo, Dagatan, Taysan, Batangas, Philippines
Wednesday How-to
Gen. 1:29; Ps. 23:3; 119:11; Matt. 28:19, 20; 1 Cor. 10:31; James 5:16; Rev. 1:3

Our bodies are not ours. We are just stewards of them. Therefore, we need to treasure them. We can actually compare our bodies to photographs. Family pictures, for example, are treasures that can be damaged by water exposure, light exposure, and careless handling. If they are digital photos, they can be deleted accidently or our computers can crash and lose them. When our pictures are damaged or lost, we try to restore them any way we can.

When our pictures are damaged or lost, we try to restore them any way we can.

How does sin damage us? And how can we restore ourselves? Here are some ways:

Scan pictures. The first step to restore photos is to scan them. This will be the mirror to help you to see all distortions. By returning to the original diet God has given you, you can restore your body (Gen. 1:29).

Save. After scanning, begin saving the parts of the photo that you have restored. Whenever you start to restore your body, always remember to have a goal and to keep that goal in mind. Save it in your memory, so you won’t forget it (1 Cor 10: 31).

Fix flaws. The third step is finding what else you need to fix. Your whole body has been damaged because of sin. The only possible way to fix it is to ask the Lord for help (Ps. 119:11).

Remove marks and scratches. Adobe Photoshop Elements and Adobe Photoshop have dust and scratch filters that can delete imperfections. After restoring your body, temptations will still come your way. Two elements that will remove those temptations are prayer and the study of God’s Word.

Print and archive. After you’re done with all of the above steps, you’re ready to print and archive the pictures. You’re ready to share your living testimony and to be a more effective person in spreading the good news of Jesus’ soon return (Matt. 28:19, 20).



Feelings in Lieu of Choices
Villanueva Asis, Dagatan, Taysan, Batangas, Philippines
Thursday Opinion
Prov. 16:25; Matt. 13:18–23

In an accounting refresher course, our instructor used the phrase in lieu. She told us that it means “as if,” “would have been,” or “assumed to be.” We were discussing the topic “cash received in lieu of stock dividends.” She explained how to recognize stock dividends when they are declared and received. However, a problem arises when cash is received in lieu of cash dividends. When this occurs, she said that the “as if” approach is to be followed. This means stock dividends are “assumed to be received” and “subsequently sold” to the cash received.
What if this were compared to our choices? Does this mean to say that our feelings are “assumed to be” the choices we make?

We all know that for every choice we make, there are consequences—either good or bad.

However, sometimes people don’t take their choices seriously because they rely only on their feelings. They believe that it is better to make choices based on how they feel rather than on careful reasoning. We are sometimes blinded by our feelings to the point that we cannot see what the possible consequences of a choice could be.

Consider the parable of the sower in Matthew 13:3–8. If we choose to hear God’s Word and accept it quickly and joyfully, but then do not allow His Word to take root in our lives, we shall quickly be swept away by trouble or persecution. God surely wants us to choose, instead, to take the seed that fell on good soil. He knows we will be more fruitful and profitable when the reaping time comes.

Our salvation depends on how we choose and what we choose. We should base our choices not on feelings but on principles and on Scripture. As we live out the Word in our lives, the correct choices will be made clear. It is not true that feelings are “in lieu” of choices. It is unsafe for us to rely on our feelings. Learn to obey God. It is His plan for us to live a life of usefulness.

REACT
1. What is the remedy or remedies for having made a wrong choice?
2. How can we evaluate God’s will if we are faced with several good choices?
3. When might there be a time when feelings should influence how we make a choice?




The Right Choice
Sandra Araújo-Delgado, Apison, Tennessee, U.S.A.
Friday Exploration
Deut. 30:19; Josh. 24:15

CONCLUDE

Today more than ever we protect our right to choose. We see the power to choose and to shape one’s destiny as a basic human right. But while most of us have been given the opportunity to get behind the steering wheel of our lives, we often lack the wisdom to make sound choices. As Christians, we believe that God gave us freedom of choice not as a right but as a gift; and with that gift He also gave us in His Word guidelines on how to choose well.

CONSIDER
•Playing a word association game with a friend. Each of you write down whatever comes to your mind when you think of the words choice, responsibility, and consequence. Compare and discuss your answers.
•Making a list of the choices you have made in two different areas of your
• life and rank them in order of importance to you.
•Analyzing the life of Joshua. Make a video report highlighting his character qualities and the fortitude that compelled him to make wise choices in difficult circumstances.
•Singing the song “Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus.” Write your reactions to the lyrics.
•Setting a goal to form a new healthful habit. Follow your progress in a journal for three weeks.
• Interviewing five people with the question: Do you feel the need to make better health choices? If so, why? Write a report on their answers.
•Reflecting on the role your feelings play when making a decision. Ask God to help you make good choices based on His Word.

CONNECT
Patriarchs and Prophets, chapter 49.



http://www.cqbiblestudy.org/site/1/lessons/2010-2/English/STUDENT/CQ-10-Q2-02.pdf

PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM ALL BLESSINGS FLOW!

Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from http://www.amazingfacts.com

CLICK ON THE LINK THAT FOLLOWS FOR A VIDEO OF THE SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON PRESENTED BY DR DEREK MORRIS OF THE LAKE FOREST CHURCH

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q204-03-praise-god-whom-all-blessings-flow


Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow!
“Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name!”(Ps.103:1, NKJV).



What Is in the Heart of Love?
Ralna M. Simmonds, Mandeville, Jamaica
Sabbath Introduction
1 John 4:10

“He doesn’t love us ’cause of who we are, He only loves us ’cause of who He is.” My radio was tuned to the campus station at Northern Caribbean University. I liked the funky yet somber tune, but the words were what really got to me. So I went to the station to ask about the song and the group performing it. They were the Newsboys—a band of four young adults who were nontraditional in their ap- proach, but who were obviously aware of what grace is all about: God loving us, not because of who we are, but really and thankfully, because of who He is.

None of us can make God love us more or less.

Because of who He is? What do we make of that? First John 4:10 says, “This is what real love is: It is not our love for God; it is God’s love for us in sending his Son to be the way to take away our sins” (NCV). So basically, upon realizing what has been done to save us, we can praise God because He sent His Son to take away our sins!

Kay D. rizzo shares the secret to moving beyond a religious facade—the legalistic works that we hope God and others will see as evidence of our good- ness, but that, in reality, leave us empty and exhausted. She writes, “Praise puts our lives into a proper perspective with God. Our unworthiness glares at us in flashing neon lights when we measure our goodness up to God’s.”*
Like children, we often try to win God’s favor with sweet smiles and even sweeter deals; but the truth is, none of us can make God love us more or less be- cause His love is unconditional. Praising Him, however, calls us to look outside of ourselves and the messes we’ve created to the bigger picture He wants us to see. The Hebrew word yadah means “to shout jubilation,” while the word hallel means “to boast, celebrate, sing, glorify.” When rizzo started living out these words in her life, her life turned around.

What do you want to praise God for? Do you think that because your life might be a mess you have no reason to praise Him? I invite you to begin a regi- men of praise today. Start by asking God to show you the bigger picture so that you will see the real message behind every mess and be able to praise Him from whom all blessings flow! As you do, notice how much better you’ll feel—how your mental, spiritual, and physical health will improve!
____________
*Kay D. rizzo, On Wings of Praise (Hagerstown, Md.: review and Herald® 1996), p. 46.



Heart, Mind, and Actions
Venice Brooks, Jamaica, West Indies
Sunday Logos
Matt. 22:37, 38; Rom. 12:1; Eph. 2:8, 9; 5:2; Col. 3:12, 13;
2 Tim. 1:8, 9; 1 John 4:10


When people are involved in sin, their hearts are set on impure things. Today we will study how the heart and mind affect the actions. Matthew 22:37, 38, talks about how we should love God with all of our hearts, minds, and souls. The other texts for today teach us that we show love to each other by our ac- tions toward them. Interestingly, the heart affects the mind, which, in turn, affects the actions. Let us now look at each one of this important trio.

“Take me away with you—let us hurry!”

The Heart Loves and Feels Excitement
The heart longs, yearns, and lusts. The heart of a person in bondage to Satan loves to sin and feels excitement while sinning. Such a heart yearns after sin and is a slave to its cravings. The heart that is in sin will do anything to satisfy those cravings. This, in itself, is a form of idolatry, for our hearts should yearn for the Lord alone.

In contrast, the heart of one who is set free in Christ loves God and feels ex- citement over growing in righteousness. That heart earnestly desires to develop within itself holiness and purity. Colossians 3:1 instructs us to “seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God” (NKJV). In other words, we are to set our hearts on loving Christ. Involve your heart with Him. Become excited about Him, long to be with Him. yearn for intimacy with Him, and fight for a closer walk with Him. Let the cry of the beloved be yours: “Take me away with you—let us hurry! Let the king bring me into his chambers” (Song of Solomon 1:4, NIV).

The heart that is ravished by Christ refuses to let Him go. Such a heart em- braces Him and clings to Him. Let this be your goal!

“The Mind” Refers to Our Thoughts
The mind that is in sin continually thinks sinful thoughts. Sinful thoughts and images can interrupt our work, study time, family time, and all other areas of life. Let us always remember that the mind is a battlefield on which decisions are made, and that once we make a decision, our hearts usually follow.

Colossians 3:2 states, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (NIV). We are to think heavenly thoughts, thoughts about Christ and God, thoughts about eternity and heaven. We are to discern whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy. In other words, we are to think about Christ (Phil. 4:8). The reason we are urged to do this is found in Colossians 3:3: “For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God” (NIV). On the cross, Jesus died for us, but we also died in Him. Our old sinful natures hung on that tree with Christ. Perhaps I can say that my old heart that loved sin died 2,000 years ago. My mind that was consumed with sinful images was killed at the hands of roman soldiers, and then my old sinful self was buried in a tomb.

What We Do Is Tied to What We Love and Think About
It is impossible to change our behavior unless we first change our heart. Being a Christian is about loving God passionately and having our thoughts consumed by Christ. We are not only to profess His love, we are to show His love to others by being kind and loving.
Furthermore, if we decide in our hearts to glorify God, then we are working in concert with Him, and He will enable us to do that which is good. This will ensure our success, because God Himself will come to our aid so that He will be glorified. Indeed, He is glorified in the daily choices we make to turn away from gratifying our flesh and to set our minds on Him. What motivates us as Christians is to honor the Lord in everything, including our freedom from impurity.

So today we have seen how heart, mind, and actions are tied together and that we are to love God by setting our hearts and minds on things above so that we can die to sinful actions and learn to love one another. This is a sum- mary of the Christian’s life: We are to set our hearts toward loving God, and our thoughts are to dwell on Christ. Then, through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, we are able to live worthy of the sacrifice made on the cross.

Praise God! For we are given the strength to do all of the above through His Son, Jesus Christ!

REACT
1. read Exodus 20:4, 5. How does this commandment relate to today’s les- son?
2. Why must the heart, mind, and behavior work together in order for us to gain spiritual freedom?
3. Matthew 22:39 teaches us that we must love our neighbors as we love ourselves. Why is it impossible to love others if we do not love ourselves? How do we love ourselves in a Christian sense rather than a worldly sense?
4. What do the following texts teach us about the importance of how we regard others: Isaiah 58; Matthew 25:31–46?



“Love With Everything You’ve Got”
Kamala Glenn-Taylor, Sunrise, Florida, U.S.A.
Monday Testimony
Matt. 22:37, 38

“The church is God’s appointed agency for the salvation of men. It was orga- nized for service, and its mission is to carry the gospel to the world. From the begin- ning it has been God’s plan that through His church shall be reflected to the world His fullness and His sufficiency. The members of the church, those whom He has called out of darkness into His marvelous light, are to show forth His glory. The church is the repository of the riches of the grace of Christ; and through the church will eventually be made manifest, even to ‘the principalities and powers in heavenly places,’ the final and full display of the love of God. Ephesians 3:10.”1

“This love is . . . as broad as the world.”

“Those who would be worshipers of the true God must sacrifice every idol. Jesus said to the lawyer, ‘Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment.’ Matthew 22:37, 38. The first four precepts of the Decalogue allow no separation of affections from God. Nor must anything share our supreme delight in Him. We cannot advance in Christian experience until we put away everything that separates us from God.”2

“Those who love God cannot harbor hatred or envy. When the heavenly prin- ciple of eternal love fills the heart, it will flow out to others. . . . This love is not contracted so as merely to include ‘me and mine,’ but is as broad as the world and as high as heaven, and is in harmony with that of the angel workers. This love cher- ished in the soul sweetens the entire life and sheds a refining influence on all around. Possessing it, we cannot but be happy, let fortune smile or frown.”3

REACT
1. Christian love is more of a principle than a feeling. So then if we neglect the emotional aspect of love from its physical and emotional worldly counterparts, how do we display love for God and for others?
2. If praise is the result of a relationship with God, how do we reconcile our neg- ative emotions with Jesus’ plea to love Him with all our hearts, souls, and minds? Can we truly praise God if we are unhappy, judgmental, and resentful? Explain your answer.
____________
1. The Acts of the Apostles, p. 9. 2. Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, p. 329. 3. Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, pp. 223, 224.



The Heart of the Psalmist/Psalms— the Universal Language
Teka-Ann Haynes, Mentone, California, U.S.A.
Tuesday Evidence
Ps. 103:1

If nothing else, David knew how to praise God. However, we cannot even begin to understand the depth and actual expressions of his praise until we understand a bit about who he was—a man whose experiences with God were such that they made him a psalmist.

David’s psalms of praise are our universal language.

There abided in David a deep affection for God, which he expressed through his worship. This shepherd-boy-turned-king lived a life of trust and trouble, reconciliation and relief. Much of his work in the book of Psalms portrays him as either confessing with a contrite heart or praising with a purposeful spirit. If David understood nothing else about God, he understood His mighty power. David’s use of strong, encompassing words such as all, when he says, “Bless the Lord . . . and all that is within me,” shows not only the magnitude of his affec- tion, but also his understanding of God’s greatness. He believes it will take all that is within him to bless the name of God.

What really fascinates me, however, is the fact that the psalms of David are ap- plicable to all humanity. David wrote poems and songs that are universal. For cen- turies, the Jews and the Christian Gentiles used psalms for private prayer and public devotion, while the Hebrews used David’s psalms for their formal liturgy. Psalm 103 was used on special occasions in the temple for atonement. Jesus quoted from the books of Psalms and Isaiah more than any other books in the Old Testament.

The contemporary use of psalms is similar. His psalms are used for public and private devotions, they are printed in church hymnals, and they are relevant to all Christians, irrespective of age, experience, race, educational background, or religious affiliation. David’s psalms of praise are our universal language—our all. “The psalms of David pass through the whole range of experience, from the depths of conscious guilt and self-condemnation to the loftiest faith and the most exalted communing with God.”* Truly, David’s psalms of praise can help to heal our hearts and point us toward home.

REACT
1. read all of Psalm 103. Then go back to verse 2, where we are urged to remember all of God’s benefits. What does David say those benefits are?
2. How might writing your own psalms of praise set your feet upon the path
of both spiritual and physical wellness?
____________
*Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 754.



A Living Sacrifice
Deia and Nathan Williams, Beaumont, California, U.S.A.
Wednesday How-to
Rom. 12:1; Col. 3:12, 13

Our bodies were created by our heavenly Father who took much delight in creat- ing us. Once sin entered this world, maintaining the health of our bodies became problematic. Many people wonder why sickness exists. It exists because of the pres- ence of sin, and it will continue to exist until God returns to take us home.

“Nothing tends more to promote health . . . than does . . . praise.”

Sickness occurs in many ways. There are irritating influenzas and colds, nag- ging aches and pains. Cancer, autism, bipolar disorders. The list of serious diseases that threaten minds and bodies the world over is endless and continues to grow to the point where it seems ridiculous that Paul should council us to “present [our] bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship” (rom. 12:1, NrSV). yet our efforts to maintain the healthiest body and mind possible do not go unnoticed by our Creator. In fact, He has even given us guidance regarding how best to do so. Following are a few steps we can take to follow some of His directives regarding our health:

Eat a balanced diet. Such a diet includes a combination of carbohydrates, healthy fats, protein, and a variety of fruits and vegetables. One easy tip to re- member is to eat foods that are the color of the rainbow. Sometimes it is wise to keep a journal of the foods you eat each day. This is an easy way to notice what good foods are missing from your diet.

Make time for exercise. Combining aerobic and anaerobic routines will keep your heart strong as well as improve your lean body mass. Once again, keeping a journal of your daily/weekly physical activities will help you to see where you need to improve.

Drink fresh water. Eight glasses of water is the most often recommended amount. remember that caffeine depletes the body of water and that sodas do not count as part of the eight glasses.

Read the Bible, pray, and praise God. Communicating daily with our Creator is vital to maintaining spiritual well-being. “Nothing tends more to promote health of body and of soul than does a spirit of gratitude and praise. It is a positive duty to resist melancholy, discontented thoughts and feelings—as much a duty as it is
to pray.”* Consider keeping a prayer and praise journal.
____________
*The Ministry of Healing, p. 251.



Living the Praise
Marcia Na’Tricia Smith, Nassau, Bahamas
Thursday Opinion
1 Pet. 2:9

Being thankful describes our attitude toward God for what He has done, while praise is offered for who God is. Psalm 18:3 says, “I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised” (NKJV). We were created to praise God. Matthew 22:37 tells us to love God with all our hearts, souls, and strength. Praise is expressed through actions and love for Him.

Stormie Omartian said that praise is the prayer that changes everything. She further stated that praise and worship is the purest form of prayer, because it fo- cuses our minds and souls entirely away from ourselves and on God. It commu- nicates pure love, devotion, reverence, appreciation, and thankfulness to God. It is exalting God for who He is, and communicating our longing for Him.*

Live the praise!

At many points in our Christian walk, we will find ourselves dealing with trials. Being a Christian does not grant us immunity from these experiences. However, being able to praise God through them helps us to be victorious. In 2 Chronicles 20, we find the story of how King Jehoshaphat praised God when he heard that his enemies were rising up to destroy him and Israel. Take time now to read this marvelous chapter.

What a great example King Jehoshaphat and the Israelites are for us. Their words and acts of praise in the face of war teach us that the battle against sin is really God’s, that we do not need to be afraid or dismayed. How wonderful to be able to fight, not with weapons of destruction, but with songs and instru- ments of praise. We are assured through God’s Word that He is with us and that blessings will appear when we lift our praises to Him.

I am moved at God’s marvelous wonders. There are times when words fail to express my gratitude to a God who made heaven and earth; but through the power of the Holy Spirit, I can lift my hands and heart to praise Him.

He has given us more blessings than we deserve. As Ephesians 2:8, 9 tells us, “It is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from your- selves, it is the gift of God” (NIV). Let us therefore live the praise and see the difference in our personal lives.

REACT
How can you be thankful when you are feeling either physical or mental pain?
____________
*Stormie Omartian, The Prayer That Changes Everything (Eugene, Ore.: Harvest House Publishers, 2004).



Mind Conditioning = Healthy Spiritual Living
Jean Kellner, Columbia, Maryland, U.S.A.
Friday Exploration
Rom. 12:1, 2

CONCLUDE
In romans 12:1, Paul pleads with us to dedicate our bodies to God because of His great mercy toward us. He says that this is a sacrifice He will accept, and that it is a good way to worship Him. Then in verse 2, He tells us not to imitate the behavior and customs of the world, but to let God transform us into new persons by changing the way we think. Clearly then, if we are to worship God in our hearts and with our actions, we need to pay as much attention to the condition- ing of our minds—on God’s Word—as we do on paying attention to nurturing our bodies. We won’t be transformed without a renewing of the mind!

CONSIDER
• readingPsalm103.DavidwascalledamanafterGod’sownheart.Noticehowin Psalms he is constantly meditating upon God’s Word and praising Him. List all attitudes, actions, and attributes that David credits to God on behalf of His peo- ple. Make your own list of the ways God has manifested His grace in your life.
• WritingyourownpsalmorsongofprayerandpraisetoGod.Todothis,usethe list you developed in the above task. Or paraphrase one of your favorite psalms. • Expressing your love and gratitude to God by doing “secret” random acts of
kindness throughout the week to people who seem to need their spirits lifted. For example, leave a flower or piece of candy on the desk of a fellow student or coworker; leave a bag of groceries at the door of a neighbor, or someone you know to be in need; volunteer at a community shelter, or slip some money in an envelope and send it to someone in need without identifying yourself.
• Makingaprayerlistthatincludesneighbors,friends,familymembers,and church members you don’t usually pray for. Keep them at the top of your prayer list (ahead of your own personal petitions) for a month. Watch how God works in their lives.
• StudyingGod’sWordwiththeideaofusingthattimeasmentalcondition- ing for the spiritual battles you face daily. Let your study be mental exercise or “boot camp” for conditioning your spiritual walk.
• Witnessing to others about the love and power of Christ in you as your means of worthiness. Let His love and sacrifice be your confidence in claiming His promises.

CONNECT
Joyce Meyer, Battlefield of the Mind.

THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT: THE ESSENCE OF CHRISTIAN CHARACTER

Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from http://www.amazingfacts.com

CLICK ON THE LINK THAT FOLLOWS FOR A VIDEO OF THE SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON PRESENTED BY DR DEREK MORRIS OF THE LAKE FOREST CHURCH

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q103-27-fruit-spirit-essence-christian-character


www.cqbiblestudy.org

The Fruit of the Spirit: The Essence of
Christian Character

“To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in
you, the hope of glory” (Col. 1:27, NKJV).



Forty-five Seconds Could Determine Your Destiny
Kimberley Cadogan, St. Philip, Barbados
Sabbath Introduction
Matt. 7:18–20; Eph. 6:6

With a dramatic come-from-behind victory in the state finals, Coach Cleveland Stroud and the rockdale County High School’s Bulldogs wrapped up a successful championship season in the Georgia boys’ basketball tournament of 1987. yet there’s no record of it in their trophy case, because school officials alerted the authorities that a scholastically ineligible player had played for 45 seconds during their first postseason game. “We didn’t know he was ineligible at the time,” Stroud reported. “Some people have said we should have kept quiet about it, that it was just 45 seconds and the player wasn’t an impact player. But you’ve got to do what’s honest and what the rules say. I told my team that people forget the scores of basketball games; but they don’t ever forget what you’re made of.” 1

Like it or not, we are in the spotlight.

Many of us fake engaging personalities in order to hide our true colors, but our real characters are revealed by what we do when we think no one is watching. I’ve heard that the main reason people don’t believe in God is because so many Christians profess Him with their lips but deny Him with their lives.

Hope, however, is not lost. Through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, we can acquire new characters (2 Cor. 5:17) and become grafted into Jesus (John 15:5). During this quarter, we’ve studied the essence of Christian character: love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, faithfulness, meekness, self-control, righteousness, and truth. These heavenly attributes, though not brought to fruition through any conscious effort on our part, are perfected when we persevere in doing what’s right, whether it be returning extra change received from a cashier or not following the crowd in doing evil.

Like it or not, we are in the spotlight. We are known by our spiritual fruit (Matt. 7:20). “When we Christians behave badly, or fail to behave well, we are making Christianity unbelievable to the outside world.”2

Sow a habit, reap a character; but sow a character and you reap a destiny. People never forget what you’re made of. So what are you going to do? you have only sec- onds to react—45 to be exact.
_____________
1. William Schmidt, “For Town and Team, Honor Is Its Own reward,” New York Times, http://query
.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9B0De4D8123FF936a15756C0a961948260 (accessed October 5, 2008).
2. C. S. lewis, Mere Christianity (Glasgow: Fount Paperback, 1977), p. 173.



Restoring His Character:The Fruit of the Spirit
George McCallum, St. Philip, Barbados
Sunday Logos
Matt. 6:33; John 15:8; Rom. 3:20–26; 14:17; 1 Tim. 6:11; 1 John 2:15

Character Destroyed
Just as the young couple started to enjoy being made in God’s image, they cut their lives short by tasting a tempting fruit. By eating of the fruit of knowledge of good and evil, Adam and eve lost within themselves God’s character. Not only did disobedience tarnish their pure character, it caused them to lose their home, their self-esteem, and their desire to communicate with their Creator. However, God did not put them beyond His reach of forgiveness. He went searching for them, wanting to restore in them His character and a desire for eternal fellowship with Him (Gen. 3:8, 9; Ps. 139:7–10).

Clearly her first evangelistic effort was a success.

The spirit of disobedience that expels the righteousness of God and removes us from His presence must be replaced by the fruit of the Spirit. Herein lies the only possibility to restore His character in us so that we can follow His will. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross makes this all possible.

Restoration (Rom. 5:19–21)
God’s character is restored in us through the working of the Holy Spirit, which, in turn, is based on the merit of Christ’s atoning sacrifice. anyone who possesses God’s character is a new creature guided by the Holy Spirit (John 3:3– 7). Thoughts and actions are now determined by the Spirit’s will. The changed person is not just another person but a peaceful person, a joyful person, a loving person, a patient person, a faithful person, a meek person, a self-controlled per- son, and a truthful person.

When the woman of Samaria experienced transformation, the perception oth- ers had of her perished. “ ‘Come, see a man who told me all things that ever I did. Could this be the Christ?’ ” (John 4:29, NKJV). The “old” woman was always avoiding the villagers, but the courageous “new” woman approached them with a life-changing message. This was uncharacteristic of the “old” woman in two ways. She hated to see and be seen by the villagers—especially those who knew her sor- did past. and she had a message about Jesus even for those who despised her.
Thus, the messenger became a new person with a new mission in life. The Bible didn’t say how many came out to see Jesus as a result of this woman’s invitation, but clearly her first evangelistic effort was a success. Perhaps Jesus declined to eat the evening meal because He was overwhelmed by this success (John 4:30–34). He was satisfied with her transformation and felt His own joy as He witnessed the presence of the Holy Spirit bud within her. “The Samaritan woman who talked with Jesus at Jacob’s well had no sooner found the Saviour than she brought others to Him. She proved herself a more effective missionary than His own disciples.”1

A New Creature (2 Cor. 5:17)
One who personifies Christ is transformed by the Holy Spirit. Such a person has chosen that which is righteous rather than the things of the world (1 John 2:15). In order for one to possess a Christlike character, total surrender to the Holy Spirit must be first and foremost.
Butterflies go through four stages of life, but they look like butterflies only in the fourth stage. an adult butterfly lays an egg. Then the egg hatches into a caterpillar or larva. The caterpillar forms the chrysalis or pupa; and, finally the butterfly emerges from the chrysalis. It is not strange for a caterpillar to become a butterfly. However, it would be strange for a caterpillar to behave like a butter- fly. So one bright morning, this new beautiful creature flies away into the sunny sky having absolutely no idea of the scientific process or means by which it attained this change. The fruit of the Spirit represents the new creature (butterfly) and not the process. likewise, when the miracle of transformation is wrought through the power of the Holy Spirit, we become like Christ, with a desire to soar into the splendor of His righteousness. So it is that we can exemplify Him at home, in school, and in our work. The transformed person is always ready to testify to the Spirit’s restorative power, giving all the credit to God’s grace.

Are You Willing to Be Transformed? (Rom. 12:1, 2)
While Paul sojourned in Corinth, thoughts of Rome occupied his mind. He so wanted to see the gospel of Christ take hold in this city to which much of the world looked. But what a joy it must have been while he rested in Corinth to see that the “Corinthian believers, once so prone to lose sight of their high call- ing in Christ, had developed strength of Christian character. Their words and acts revealed the transforming power of the grace of God, and they were now a strong force for good in the center of hedonism and superstition.”2

What do your words and acts reveal? are they a force for good?

REACT
1. Do you think those who have not experienced transformation of the Holy Spirit can effectively witness for the lord? Why, or why not?
2. Based on this quarter’s lessons, state how you think it is possible to be like Christ.
3. What are some of the things that might be preventing you from totally
surrendering to the Holy Spirit’s power? ____________
1. The Ministry of Healing, p. 102. 2. The Acts of the Apostles, p. 372.



“Love” Your Fruit
Lisa Thorne, St. Philip, Barbados
Monday Testimony
Matt. 22:39

Ellen White points out that “wherever there is union with Christ there is love. Whatever other fruits we may bear, if love be missing, they profit nothing. love to God and our neighbor is the very essence of our religion. No one can love Christ and not love His children. When we are united to Christ, we have the mind of Christ. Purity and love shine forth in the character, meekness and truth control the life. The very expression of the countenance is changed. Christ abiding in the soul exerts a transforming power, and the outward aspect bears witness to the peace and joy that reign within.”1

“The small, simple courtesies, go far to make up the sum of life’s happiness.”

“It is little things that test the character. It is the unpretending acts of daily self- denial, performed with a cheerful, willing heart, that God smiles upon. We are not to live for self, but for others. and it is only by self-forgetfulness, by cherishing a loving, helpful spirit, that we can make our life a blessing. The little attentions, the small, simple courtesies, go far to make up the sum of life’s happiness.”2

In Galatians 5:22, 23, Paul speaks about the “fruit of the Spirit” that we will naturally bear if we are led by the Spirit. a simple analysis of this text shows that the fruit combined is love, the essence of God’s character. read 1 John 4:7–19.

There is a powerful statement in the book Education that says, “The world does not so much need men of great intellect as of noble character. . . . Character building is the most important work ever entrusted to human beings.”3

“Our lord Jesus Christ came to save this world as the unwearied servant of man’s necessity.”4

REACT
How do you think Christ can reproduce Himself in your heart? ____________
1. Selected Messages, bk. 1, p. 337. 2. Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 158. 3. Education, p. 225. 4. The Ministry of Healing, p. 17.



Fruitless Fruit Trees
Greig Jordan, St. Philip, Barbados
Tuesday Evidence
John 15:1–5

One of the most wonderful things about living in the tropics is the abundance of fruit and fruit trees. We all know that with fruit trees come plenty of fruit, and there is only one thing that beats picking up fresh fruit from the market, and that is picking fresh fruit right from the trees.
It was God’s ideal that every tree should bring forth fruit.

It was God’s ideal that every tree should bring forth fruit.

Oh, how blessed were our first parents, Adam and Eve, to be placed in the Garden of eden, where there was an abundance of fruit and fruit trees at their fingertips (Gen. 1:29; 2:16). In this Garden, there was not an unfruitful tree. It was God’s ideal that every tree should bring forth fruit. Sin, however, has brought barrenness.

In some cultures, the farmer or husbandman would drive an iron stake through the trunk of a barren fruit tree, and by the next season that tree would be bearing fruit. as Christians, we need not worry about having an iron stake driven through us, for we have been redeemed from the curse of sin and unfruitfulness by the precious blood of Jesus Christ. He is the True Vine (John 15:1–5).

“If we do not bear any fruit, the powers of darkness take possession of our minds, our affections, our service, and we are of the world, though we profess to be children of God. . . . By abiding in Christ, we may have His sweetness, His fragrance, His light. Christ is the light of the world. He shines in our hearts. His light in our hearts shines forth from our faces. By beholding the beauty and the glory of Christ, we become changed into the same image.”*

REACT
Make a list of what occupies your mind, your affections, and your service. Based on that list, would you say you are leaning toward the world or toward God? If you are leaning toward the world, what can you do to get yourself leaning in God’s direction?
____________
*The SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 5, p. 1143.



The Genuine Article
Terry Williams, St. Philip, Barbados
Wednesday How-to
John 15:8; Phil. 1:6

Without money, our basic needs would be almost impossible to come by. Unfortunately, money doesn’t grow on trees; and because there’s a limited supply of money, it’s greatly valued. Similarly, in a world filled with so much misery, unhappiness, and indifference, people who display the fruit of the Spirit are as precious as they can be rare.

The Christian’s Engraver is Christ. His character is our template.

Still, with anything of value, there will always be counterfeiters. Such individuals “rip off” originals for personal gain. When innocent people fall prey to counterfeit products, the results can be devastating. In the Christian realm, people who profess to be Christians but then behave inconsistently with regard to Christian principles can do great damage. Two techniques used to spot monetary forgeries are useful in ensuring that, as a Christian, you are the genuine article:

Know how the money feels. The paper upon which legal tender is printed has a unique consistency, so that as you get used to the feel of real money, you will easily recognize the difference between it and money that is forged. It’s the same with genuine Christians. They have a uniqueness about them that is easy to detect, especially when they are mixed in with forgeries—people who claim to be Christians but who have failed to developed the fruit of the Spirit.

Know the identifying marks of real money. Legal currency has key features that distinguish it from counterfeits. These features include watermarks, indentations, holograms, and serial numbers. an engraver designs a steel plate with each feature, making it impossible to mimic all of them with any degree of accuracy. When the plate is completed, its unique characteristics are transferred to paper. Thus, the end product is always a replica of the original.

Likewise, genuine Christians exhibit certain features—the fruit of the Spirit. The Christian’s engraver is Christ. His character is our template, and our role is to allow Him to complete the development of the fruit in our lives. as these fruit develop, we will become mighty witnesses to a world in desperate need of God’s love.

REACT
What are the dangers of counterfeiters spreading the gospel?



The Fruit of the Spirit
Alicia Haynes, St. Philip, Barbados
Thursday Opinion
John 4:1–42; Gal. 5:22

The fruit of the Spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith- fulness, gentleness, and self-control.

The entire experience encouraged her to faithfulness.

This list highlights the mind-set (or heart-set) Christians are to develop. Jesus exemplifies each of these fruit. Therefore, He is our example; and the Holy Spirit assists us in following His example. There are so many situations in the New Testament in which we see Him exhibiting these gifts as He interacts with those He came to save—for instance, the woman of Samaria, whom Jesus met beside a well while traveling through that country. During that time, the Jews and Samaritans were bitter enemies. Furthermore, it was the custom that men did not talk with women in public. However, Jesus overlooked these en- trenched attitudes. He showed her His love, His compassion, His gentleness, and His kindness. He also was patient with her while she presented her side of her situation. Can you imagine the peace she must have experienced when she realized her sins were forgiven? What about the joy she exhibited when she left her water jug and hurried back to the village to tell everyone about having met the Christ? The entire experience encouraged her to faithfulness.

“This woman was in an appreciative state of mind. She was ready to receive the noblest revelation; for she was interested in the Scriptures, and the Holy Spirit had been preparing her mind to receive more light.”*

We are called to emulate Jesus in the way He reached out to everyone who needed Him. let everyone with whom we have daily and even occasional contact see a shining light in us. let the world experience God’s love through the fruit of the Spirit we are growing. let us love one another, and let us vow that from this week forward, we will give the Holy Spirit permission to cultivate the growth of these fruit in our lives. let God work a mighty transformation in your life so that others can see Christ in you, “the hope of glory” (Col. 1:27, NKJV).

REACT
Notice that the fruit began to grow immediately in the Samaritan woman.
What does this tell us about the nature of the fruit and the Holy Spirit’s work in
our lives once we desire to be transformed? ____________



Reflecting Christ Fully
Alden Ho, Berrien Springs, Michigan, U.S.A.
Friday Exploration
2 Sam. 12:1–13; Acts 13:22; Rev. 22:11

CONCLUDE
Jesus came not only to die for our sins but to show by example how we are to live. as we have studied this week, when our characters are patterned after the fruit of the Spirit, we will be reflecting the image of Christ. The call for us is to come out of the world and be separate. We must be willing to follow Jesus all the way. anything less is not enough and will leave us wanting.

CONSIDER
•Using graph paper to plot your spiritual life. Start from the time you were baptized to your present spiritual condition. Note the highs and lows. Set a goal of where you would like to be and where you are now. Then ask the lord to help you become more like Him.
•listing the people you have not forgiven and asking God to give you the strength to do so no matter what they have done to you. remember that forgiveness can be an ongoing process.
•Analyzing famous relationships in the Bible and listing the characteristics that made these relationships weak or strong. Which of these characteristics do you see in your relationships? •Which good characteristics do you need to develop? Which do you need to discard? Pray for the Holy Spirit’s help in doing both.
•Sharing what Christ has done for you with someone you don’t know.
•Listening to the song “People Need the lord”while sitting in a busy public place. Then read John 14:21; Matthew 24:14; 28:19, 20. as you sit there, pray for the people around you.
•Meditating on John 3:16,17. Then as the Holy Spirit inspires you, journal
your thoughts about Christ’s death for you and for others—even the most despicable person you know.

CONNECT
Maranatha, chapters 32–60.
W. D. Frazee, Another Ark to Build (Harrisville, N.H.: Mountain Mission- ary Press, 1979); Felix a. lorenz, The Only Hope (Brushton, N.y.: TeaCH Services, 2003).

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THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IS TRUTH

Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from www.amazingfacts.com

CLICK ON THE LINK THAT FOLLOWS FOR A VIDEO OF THE SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON PRESENTED BY DR DEREK MORRIS OF THE LAKE FOREST CHURCH

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q103-20-fruit-spirit-truth




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The Fruit of the Spirit Is Truth
“And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart” (Jer. 29:13, NKJV).



Do the Right Thing?
Daniel Smith, Orlando, Florida, U.S.A.
Sabbath Introduction
2 Chron. 25:1, 2

As William stared out the window of the train he rode home from work, he noticed how rapidly the telephone poles were flashing across his view. He won- dered, “Where have the years gone? I feel like they’ve passed by as fast as these telephone poles are passing by. Now what am I going to do?”

Is this an answer to my prayers? No one will ever know if I take these bags.

“William the Wiz.” Once upon a time that’s what everyone called him. Not too long ago, he had graduated at the top of his class with an MBa from Har- vard. Immediately, he landed a six-figure job. Wall Street is where he received his nickname—the boy genius, the financial wizard. William was living the all- american dream—great job, exclusive home, and a loving wife. But then the banks started collapsing. His job and business went bankrupt. He lost all of his money, investments, and the expensive home he and his wife had come to love.

These thoughts raced through William’s mind as he got off the train to walk the rest of the way to the house he’d soon have to leave. He cried out, “Oh, God! Please help me. I’ve been a faithful Christian, and you’ve always blessed me with more than I’ve needed. I haven’t prayed to you in a while, but you know my heart.” What started out as a typical day in William’s world had be- come his worst nightmare. as he walked through the familiar wooded area to get to his estate home, he discovered an armored truck that had crashed down a small hill. The occupants, nowhere in sight, apparently had gone for help. about five steps from William were two bags, each stamped with these words: 1 million dollars.

William thought to himself, Is this an answer to my prayers? No one will ever know if I take these bags. I could pay off my house and get out of debt. He stood there for what seemed like an eternity, analyzing his peculiar dilemma.

“Hello, 911? I’m reporting an accident. I’ll wait here for the authorities.” as William closed his cell phone, a text in Scripture came to him, which he repeated aloud. “Second Chronicles chapter twenty-five verse two. and he did that which was right in the sight of the lord, but not with a loyal heart” (NKJV). although he had been sorely tempted to keep the money, he knew that as a professed Christian, he had to do the right thing. This week, how will the fruit of truth grow in your life, as it grew in William’s the day the banks collapsed?



Practice the Truth to Reveal Fruit
Kimberly A. Hudgens, Orlando, Florida, U.S.A.
Sunday Evidence
John 8:31, 32; John 14:6, 16, 17; 17:17

Jesus proclaimed that He is the Way, the Truth, and the life (John 14:6). He also asked the Father to send us the Holy Spirit (the Comforter), which is the Spirit of truth (verse 17). Because we are unable physically to see Christ or speak to Him as His disciples did, the Holy Spirit comes to dwell within us to guide us in the truth Christ displayed while on earth. History has taught us that knowing the truth is good. However, we must apply the truth to our lives. How do we do this? John 17:17 says, “ ‘your word is truth’ ” (NKJV). “The Word of God is declared to be ‘truth.’ The Scriptures reveal to us the character of God and of Jesus Christ. We be- come new creatures by making the truths of the Word of God a part of the life.”*

The fruit make up a person’s character. They are what a person does.

Because God’s Word is truth and His Word encompasses the Ten Commandments, we can conclude that truth is displayed by keeping the law. Jesus says, “ ‘you will know them by their fruits’ ” (Matt. 7:16, NKJV). The fruit make up a person’s character. They are what a person does. Thus, our transformation of character when we live by God’s law makes evident the fruit of the Spirit. This fruit is displayed when we put the Word/law of God into action. Christ’s example teaches us how we should keep the law. let us not be like the Pharisees who knew the truth but misapplied it. We thus need to ask the Holy Spirit to help us under- stand God’s Word, as well as to correctly apply it to our daily lives.

If we continue in God’s Word and keep His commandments, we will be His disciples, know the truth, and be free (John 8:31, 32). We must apply the truth by keeping God’s law. Then we can enjoy true spiritual freedom, along with genuine happiness by being at peace with God and with others. Obeying His Word frees us from guilt, condemnation, and pain, because Jesus will replace the void with His fruit (character), which is composed of love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and self-control (Gal. 5:22, 23). This fruit is a gift God wants to give everyone. We need to meditate daily on His Word, be obedient to what the Holy Spirit reveals to us as we study, and share the truth we learn with others.

REACT
What are some practical ways we can show the truth to others who do not
know about Jesus? ____________
*The SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 5, p. 1053.



Can You Handle It?
Jason Gibson, Orlando, Florida, U.S.A.
Monday Logos
2 Chron. 25:2; Ps. 51:17; Jer. 29:13; John 7:16, 17; 14:6; 17:3; Heb. 5:14

Religion can be frightening. every religious group claims to have the truth. Many individuals have become confused and have decided to go along with whatever truth feels right to them, hence the growth and popularity of spiritu- alism and the occult. Knowledge, traditions, and life experiences play a major role in what we think is truth. as Christians, what truth do we hold, and how should we respond to it?

Sometimes we have to wait for our spiritual teeth to grow in before we can eat the solids of God’s truth.

Christ the Truth (John 14:6)
The best way to find truth is through our lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Thomas found this out when he asked Jesus where He was going (John 14:5). Jesus’ response revealed a few things about Himself. In order for Thomas to gain access to the place his Master was going, he had to know that Jesus was the Way, the Truth, and the life (John 14:6). The only way to gain access to the Father is through His Son.

True Proof (John 7:16, 17; 2 Chron. 25:2)
Throughout the Bible, God has validated His words through His actions. God is fair and just and doesn’t want us to believe Him without making an educated decision. all of the miracles performed by God and Jesus show that they are truth. Jesus demonstrated this characteristic on earth. When He went to the temple to teach during a feast in Jerusalem, the people asked how He knew the things he taught (John 7:14, 15). He told the people they would have to live what He taught to find out if the doctrine He preached was true or false (John 7:16, 17).

Imagine if, as Christians, we all lived the teachings of Christ. Many people would then be blessed by our lives, and the truth would be stamped and sealed in the minds of the individuals being blessed. even having the truth as it is in God, we sometimes become anesthetized by our spiritual routines and tradi- tion. It is possible to know God’s truth and to do His will with an unwilling
heart. read 2 Chronicles 25:2. This text is speaking of King amaziah of Judah, who carried out the law without his heart being in it. If we are willing, the Holy Spirit is able to make our hearts of iron malleable.

Exchange (Ps. 51:17; Jer. 29:13)
In order to learn something new, we have to give up something in exchange. In order to gain the knowledge of a mechanical engineer, it is necessary to give up one’s personal time to study a variety of math and science concepts. One would also have to invest money in an educational institute to receive training. What do we have to give up to know Christ? read Psalm 51:17 and Jeremiah 29:13.

Like a Baby (Heb. 5:14)
Babies are born without teeth. The variety of foods they can eat progresses as they grow—at first liquids, then soft foods, and when the teeth come in, hard solids. When we first receive knowledge of the truth, we are like a baby. It takes time and spiritual maturity to learn everything Christ has to teach us. Sometimes we have to wait for our spiritual teeth to grow in before we can eat the solids of God’s truth. With maturity, we may be able to discern truth, and, therefore distinguish good from evil (Heb. 5:14). Paul explained this concept so that we may preach the truth to those around us without bombarding them with spiritual things they aren’t yet able to understand.

Eternal Life (Luke 4:18; John 17:3)
When our Savior came to earth to dwell as a human, He devoted His life to completing His mission—healing the sick and brokenhearted and preaching the gospel (luke 4:18). Most of all, He came to give His life for everyone so that we all can live eternally with Him. Jesus revealed the truth about eternal life when He looked to heaven and uttered these words, “ ‘and this is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent’ ” (John 17:3, NKJV). eternal life consists of knowing the truth about the Father through His Son Jesus Christ, who is the Way.

REACT
How did your life change when you found the truth as it is in Christ?
What other things did Jesus say or do to demonstrate His knowledge of the truth?



“The Truth That Changes”
Neville and Keisher Peter, Orlando, Florida, U.S.A.
Tuesday Testimony
John 16:13, 14; 1 Cor. 2:10, 11

When we allow the Holy Spirit to lead us, the truth shall be revealed. This experience has been manifested in my life as well as my wife’s.

Neither of us had any formal Bible studies. We relied on the Holy Spirit to lead us into all truths.

Growing up in an adventist home, Bible study and knowledge of church doc- trines were required. These requirements were fulfilled out of obligation rather than a heart-felt desire. as a result, when I grew older, I drifted away. However, at the age of 25, I accepted Christ as my lord and Savior. Shortly after that, someone bought me the Bible on CDs. I rarely missed a day of listening to them. It was only after listening to God’s Word with a heartfelt desire that a transformation occurred in my life.

My wife grew up in a Catholic home. In her early twenties, situations caused her to seek the lord beyond the realm of that denomination. So, she began read- ing the Bible. Feeling something was missing from her church, she began attend- ing a Pentecostal church. after three years of attending that church, she still felt something was missing. So she began praying to God about it. Shortly afterward, she heard the adventist message. For three months, she studied on her own with the aid of the Holy Spirit. The truth she longed for was finally being revealed to her.

Neither of us had any formal Bible studies. We relied on the Holy Spirit to lead us into all truths.

“God intends that even in this life the truths of His word shall be ever unfolding to His people. There is only one way in which this knowledge can be obtained. We can attain to an understanding of God’s Word only through the illumination of that Spirit by which the word was given. ‘The things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God;’ ‘for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.” 1 Corinthians 2:10, 11. and the Saviour’s promise to His followers was, ‘When He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth. . . . For He shall receive of Mine, and shall show it unto you. John 16:13, 14.’ ”*

REACT
What great truth about yourself has the Spirit revealed to you? Is there any-
thing that needs to change? If so, how will you go about making that change?
____________
*Steps to Christ, p. 109.



Christ in Us, Faithful and True
Stacey-Ann Montañez, Orlando, Florida, U.S.A.
Wednesday How-to
Pss. 15:1, 2; 119:11; 3 John 4; Rev. 19:11; 22:6, 7

In order to be Christlike, we must seek truth, obey it, and believe in truth’s power. The Bible is comprised of truth. Over the centuries, the Word has dis- proved its many critics, as its prophetic writings have come to pass and continue to come to pass even in our day.

Whenever we are tempted to tell a lie . . . let us remember who our Father is.

John 1 tells us that, in the beginning, the Word was with God, the Word was God, and “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14, NKJV). God’s Holy Spirit overshadowed a virgin and gave power to the word that He gave to the prophet Isaiah (see Isaiah 7:14 and Matthew 1:18–23). So then Jesus, whose mother is of human flesh, and whose Father is God, manifested char- acteristics of His Father’s Word. John reveals Jesus’ name as Faithful and True. Through personal experience, many Christians have found Jesus to be exactly that. Furthermore, these are the same characteristics of the words in the Bible. Jesus, like God’s Word, is faithful and true (rev. 3:14; 19:11; 21:5; 22:6).

Because we are God’s children, we should also be faithful and true (1 John 3:1–3, 18, 19). Here then are ways we can show our Father’s character and can worship Him in spirit and in truth.

Confess. James 5:16 says to confess our sins to one another and to pray for each other. It is good to have trustworthy friends with whom we can do this. However, there are some people we cannot trust, and there are some sins it would be wise to confess only to God. He is always willing to forgive us, to cleanse us from sin, and to help us not to sin again. read Psalm 32:5 and 1 John 1:9.

Accept God’s forgiveness. He is faithful and just to forgive our sins, and the Holy Spirit has the power to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).

Tell the truth. Whenever we are tempted to tell a lie (no matter how small), let us remember who our Father is and then choose to tell the truth. God will work out the rest if we trust Him to do so. read Colossians 3:8, 9 and revelation 22:14, 15.

REACT
Christ spent time seeking out the Father’s truth in what we call the Old Testa- ment. He chose to trust and obey that truth every moment of every day. How is it possible for us to do the same?



Are You an Undercover Christian?
Kathleen Nelson, Altamonte Springs, Florida, U.S.A.
Thursday Opinion
John 17:3

Have you ever found yourself telling a so-called white lie? Maybe trying to make a good impression or avoiding punishment seemed more important at the time. What about that dear friend or relative who consistently fabricates lies to satisfy his or her delusions of grandeur? How disappointing and hurtful this is, when on a daily basis, lie after lie continues to unfold. It is hurtful because lies have the power to destroy relationships. It is disappointing because this person’s spiritual condition is revealed.

Knowing truth is not beneficial unless truth is personally applied.

As I ponder the word truth, I realize that knowing truth is not beneficial unless truth is personally applied. In the Garden of eden, God told the first couple the truth about eating the forbidden fruit. However, they chose to believe Satan’s lies, and we know the results—pain, destruction, and death that will continue until the end of time.

In His wisdom and out of His love for us, God devised a way to pass truth down from generation to generation. as Christians preparing for eternity, applying truth to our everyday lives is as important as knowing the truth. In order to be truthful, we must have Jesus in our hearts. He will give us the ability to be truthful. “ ‘you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free’ ” (John 8:32, NKJV). “every soul that refuses to give himself to God...is not his own....He is not allowed to see the beauty of truth, for his mind is under the control of Satan.”* How important it is, then, to establish and maintain a personal relationship with God that includes total, daily surrender to Him. Our walk, talk, dress, attitude, and every fiber of our being will then reflect Christ.

Jesus said to His disciples, “ ‘I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing’ ” (John 15:5, NKJV). When the flow of nourishment from God is continuous and unob- structed, we will reap a full harvest of truth.

REACT
1. How can you help someone refocus his or her pursuit of self-esteem to the pursuit of knowing God?
2. In what ways could our financially overdrawn lifestyles be a result of insuf-
ficient spiritual deposits?
_____________
*The Desire of Ages, p. 466.



“Truth Has Two Meanings”
Barbara Manspeaker, Luray, Virginia, U.S.A.
Friday Exploration
Prov. 11:3
CONCLUDE

No matter how you define truth, it boils down to one thing—a lack of falsehood. We face truth as integrity every day of our lives: Should I call in sick so I can catch the gigantic sale downtown? Should I tell my professor I’m late because I was in a traffic jam when I really overslept? Should I tell the insurance company an unknown vehicle hit the back of my car and kept going, or that I actually backed into a trash can?

Just as there are no big sins or little sins, there is no “white lie,” “little fib,” or “just a little exaggeration.” Sin is sin. Integrity is integrity. The same is true of God’s Word. all of it is truth. It’s not for us to pick and choose what we want to believe. Christians will be known by their integrity—how truthfully they live, how truthfully they represent Jesus in their daily lives.

CONSIDER

•Examiningandcomparingarealflowerwithanartificialflowerofthesame species. What makes the real flower different or superior to the fake flower? relate this to people who exhibit integrity to those who do not. Which one do you want for a friend? Why?
•Inventing a game with some friends in which you take turns telling stories that are interlaced with both fact and fiction. Have the listeners try to de- termine the truth by observing your body language, facial expression, and tone of voice. What did you learn?
•e-mailing or texting some of your friends, asking them these questions: What do you think integrity means? How does it apply to you? Why would you want your best friend to be a person of integrity?
•Reflecting on the week just past by asking yourself these questions: Was I always completely truthful? Why, or why not? Is this a problem I need Jesus to help me with?
•Googling the word integrity.How many entries did you find? What did you learn from some of what you read?
•Watching a DVD of a Bible story; then read it from a book and from the Bible. Which was closer to the Bible truth—the book or the DVD?

CONNECT
Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2, pp. 437, 438.
Henry and richard Blackaby, Spiritual Leadership (Nashville, Tenn.: B & H Publishing, 2001), pp. 104–107.

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THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IS RIGHTEOUSNESS







Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from www.amazingfacts.com

CLICK ON THE LINK THAT FOLLOWS FOR A VIDEO OF THE SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON PRESENTED BY DR DEREK MORRIS OF THE LAKE FOREST CHURCH

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q103-13-fruit-spirit-righteousness





www.cqbiblestudy.org

The Fruit of the Spirit Is Righteousness

“ ‘Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled’ ” (Matt. 5:6, NKJV).


Beautiful From the Inside
Katelyn Reed, Melbourne, Australia
Sabbath Introduction
Matt. 23:25−28

In many parts of the world, a great deal of emphasis is placed on self-improvement and personal appearances. Much of the desire to be youthful and beautiful is fueled by the advertising industry, whose message seems to be, “If you look good, you’ll feel good, and you’ll achieve more in your life.” Consequently, many people invest considerable effort and expense in dieting, cosmetic surgery, gym memberships, and a wide range of self-improvement techniques to ensure that they are always looking their youthful best.

To exhibit righteousness properly involves one’s interior as well as exterior life.

For two weeks in October 2008, I volunteered to participate in an overseas mission trip. We travelled to aore adventist academy in Vanuatu, where we assisted in the maintenance of several campus buildings. It was a tremendous experience to help restore the exterior of those buildings to their former glory. However, our group felt that we benefited far more than the recipients of our volunteer work. Sure, it was hot, hard work to scrub mold and flaky paint off the outside of the buildings before we could paint them. yet it was not the work that enriched our lives. It was the treasure we discovered on the inside of those buildings—the spiritually sincere and loving hearts of the aore students.

In Matthew 23:27, Jesus compares the teachers of the law and the Pharisees to “ ‘whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and everything unclean’ ” (NIV). In other words, the exteriors of the buildings were brilliantly maintained, but the contents were dead and decaying. evidently, to exhibit righteousness properly involves one’s interior as well as exterior life.

We cannot hope to develop righteousness as a fruit of the Spirit by merely exercising our personal strengths, resources, and endeavors. at best, our finest efforts can only match the experience of those whom Jesus so pointedly criticized. We will achieve only an outward appearance of righteousness.

Righteousness is a fruit of the Spirit that is beautiful, externally and internally. Jesus is the author of that righteousness, and it is only as we allow the Holy Spirit to help us grow and nurture Christ’s righteousness within us that our lives can become the treasure we desire it to be for our God—beautiful on the outside and on the inside.


A Righteous Cause
Lincoln Steed, Hagerstown, Maryland, U.S.A.
Sunday Logos
Matt. 23:25–28; Rom. 3:28; 8:1–4; 10:1–3; Gal. 3:6; 1 John 2:3–6; 5:1–3

Receiving Eternal Life (Mark 10:17–22)
It’s one of the most urgent questions anyone can ask, “ ‘What must I do to inherit eternal life?’ ” (Mark 10:17, NIV). The rich young ruler, who asked the question of Jesus, thought he already knew the answer. He thought his careful to-do list of good deeds had already done the trick. and, yes, we read that he went away sorrowful when Jesus added one more item to the list—giving up all his possessions.

The righteous cause we are about is not how good we have to be.

But unless that story is read correctly, it will only deepen the mystery of how we can inherit eternal life. logically, we must recognize that the rich young ruler would still be lacking in effective righteousness even if he had given away all that he had. He would then have been on the right track to “knowing Jesus”—shorthand for something theologians argue about and make obtuse, but yet the very essence of what the entire issue of salvation centers on.

Jesus spent well over three years with His disciples. But did they really know Him by the time the soldiers took Him by force in the garden? Yes, they recognized Him as a Great Teacher. On one occasion, after Jesus had scared many of His followers away with talk of His martyrdom, Peter actually confessed that he thought Jesus to be the Christ, the Son of the living God. How much he understood of his own statement is in Jesus’ comment that it came not from man, but an answer given to Him. Certainly Peter resorted rather easily to forbidden force in trying to save Jesus, and then fled the scene of His arrest to perjure his faith by repeated profanities. He knew Jesus well enough to be heartbroken at the loss of a friend; but not until Pentecost did he know what knowing Jesus really meant.

What Does Obedience Have to Do With It? (1 John 2:3)
“Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments” (1 John 2:3, NKJV). Much of the Christian life is not easily self-perceived. In fact, as with the rich young ruler, it almost goes without saying that someone’s claim to be good or perfect only highlights his or her deficiency—revealing pride if nothing else, which was, after all, Lucifer’s original sin. Yet, a sign of knowing Jesus is in keeping His commandments.

I sometimes think that we have overexplained the dynamic of obedience, perfection, and righteousness. The legality of our salvation is clear. We lost all because of Adam’s sin and our continuing propensity to repeat it. By a life of obedience carried forward even to the Cross, the God-man Jesus Christ redeemed us from the consequences of sin and gave our Creator the moral right before His own creation to reclaim us from the state of disobedience. That much we had nothing to do with. It was unmerited favor from the Creator. It is in the practicality of how we were reclaimed that much of the confusion arises.

In 1 John 5:1, we read that “whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God” (NKJV). The believing here is more than mental assent. In verse 6, John speaks of water and blood. In this, there is talk of the Spirit. This is, of course, a repetition of Jesus’ counsel to Nicodemus that in order to be saved one must be born of water and the Spirit. In 1 John, we are reminded that for us, water means dying to the old life. However, for Jesus it was “blood”—His actual death—that has practical value for our transformation. and all of this is empowered by the Holy Spirit.

There is a wonderful triumphalism in John’s words. “Whatever is born of God overcomes the world,” he proclaims. “and this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith” (verse 4, NKJV).

Faith without works is dead, James tells us in his epistle (James 2:17). John has shown us that faith is the actual dynamic of belief and action that proves the righteousness of God in our lives. Without this dynamic, we are not saved. Without it we show that we have never “seen” Jesus. Without it we can never begin to emulate our Lord and vindicate the trust He has placed in us.
Put another way, the righteous cause we are about is not how good we have to be. We are all poor judges of our own actions. We are to be about having the mind of Christ. That is quite a tall character call. Thank God we have the power of the Holy Spirit to inspire and mold not only our actions, but our very state of mind.

REACT
1. Can we say, I am saved—present continuous? How else can we express it?
2. Are we saved because we obey? Or do we obey because we are saved? Can we “be saved” without obedience? explain your answers.
3. John seems to put much on the emotional relationship established by Jesus’ life and death. How is this central?
4. If we are under obligation to God, at what point do we meet His expectation?



Love Is a Doing Word
Kate Hollingsworth, Coldstream, Victoria, Australia
Monday Testimony
1 John 4:16

“Righteousness is holiness, likeness to God, and ‘God is love.’ 1 John 4:16. It is conformity to the law of God, for ‘all Thy commandments are righteousness’ (Psalm 119:172), and ‘love is the fulfilling of the law’ (romans 13:10). Righteousness is love, and love is the light and the life of God. The righteousness of God is embodied in Christ. We receive righteousness by receiving Him.

Jesus loves practically.

“Not by painful struggles or wearisome toil, not by gift or sacrifice, is righteousness obtained; but it is freely given to every soul who hungers and thirsts to receive it.”1

More than merely the absence of sin in our lives, righteousness is God’s love, which is His character and law. Because love is a doing word, righteousness is surrendering to God and allowing His love and goodness to be lived through us. It is trusting that the opportunities, wisdom, talents, resources, and power to love practically come from God. It is listening to the Spirit’s promptings and being a channel through which God can meet needs.

Jesus loves practically. He helped His tired friends catch fish, and He healed entire villages. He befriended outcasts and showed compassion to a woman caught in adultery. He died our death, so that His righteousness would cover us; and now He mixes His righteousness with our prayers and presents them to His Father.

Yet He is not always permissive and softly spoken in His love. Jesus drove money-changers from His Father’s house when they did not honor God, and He spoke the truth in love when it was difficult to hear. Love needs to be clear to be kind, setting boundaries and protecting people from crossing them and hurting themselves. Love is saying “No” when it is not popular to say “No.” Love can be messy, difficult, and tiring. To love this way requires faith, which is also a fruit of the Spirit!

Jesus is our example and Substitute for righteousness. Let us continue to meditate on His life, and “as we discern the perfection of our Saviour’s character we shall desire to become wholly transformed and renewed in the image of His purity. The more we know of God, the higher will be our ideal of character and the more earnest our longing to reflect His likeness.”2
____________
1. Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 18. 2. Ibid., p. 19.



More Than Appearances
Larissa Gredig, Warburton, Victoria, Australia
Tuesday Evidence
Matt. 23:25−27; Rom. 3:28

During the time of Christ, the “letter of and spirit of legalism—of righteousness by one’s own works—which in NT times, came to be identified with Jewish religion, accurately reflected the spirit and teachings of the Pharisees.” They “tended to overlook the fact that the disposition of the heart was of greater importance than the outward act.”* They believed that keeping the innumerable laws they had created would prove one was a righteous Jew and would therefore secure one’s place in heaven.

There are still those who believe that what they do is more important than what they believe.

Jesus had been talking with the people about doing what is right. The Pharisees, hearing that the Sadducees were unable to trick Jesus with their questions, decided they would give it a try. Jesus answered their questions in turn and then delivered a powerful rebuttal. “ ‘you are hypocrites! you wash the outside of your cups and dishes, but inside they are full of things you got by cheating others and pleasing only yourselves’ ” (Matt. 23:25, NCV). Throughout Matthew 23, Jesus shows these church leaders that they are more interested in appearing righteous, honest, and God-fearing than they are in actually fulfilling these actions.

Romans 3:28 takes the issue further, urging that salvation comes through having faith in God, not by obeying laws. Also read Romans 3:29, 30.

We see in our own churches and schools, and sometimes in our own homes, these same battles. There are still those who believe that what they do is more important than what they believe, and that if they act like a Christian on the outside, they can be what they like on the inside.
However, the verses we’ve looked at today make it clear that we need to be “clean” on the inside and that no amount of work, displays of humility and charity, or acting the way we think a Christian should act will get us to heaven. All we need is faith and to accept the gift of salvation. Read Romans 5:16, 18.

REACT
1. How would you explain to a nonbeliever what Romans 3:28 means?
2. Doing good things is important, but how can we make sure that we don’t
turn our faith into a works-based religion? _____________
*Seventh-dayAdventistBibleDictionary, s.v. “Pharisees.”



Getting It Right
Braden Blyde, Adelaide, South Australia
Wednesday How-to
Rom. 10:3

Whenever a new electrical appliance or other piece of equipment arrived at home, it wasn’t long before my mother would become frustrated, because my father, brothers, and I would always try to put it together without reading the instruction manual. Sometimes we’d get it right. I guess it’s our human nature. even regarding righteousness, people have a history of setting up their own procedures and experiments. The plethora of churches and denominations around the world testify to this. We leave God’s instruction manual in the box and then wonder why our lives and the church don’t look the way they’re supposed to. So just how are we supposed to grow the fruit of righteousness? Here are a few ideas from God’s Word:

Getting it right isn’t about getting anything at all.

Start with yourself. When we think about “getting it right,” it’s easy to pick at others. But as Matthew 23:26 suggests, it isn’t even about getting what’s visible in our own lives right, let alone correcting others.

Stop trying. This is not a call to give up, but as the catch cry suggests, “let go and let God.” We can’t create righteousness under our own steam. We must let God do it for us (Rom. 3:28).
Be willing to sacrifice. Getting it right isn’t about getting anything at all. rather, it’s about giving. First John 2:6 encourages a life modeled on Christ, which at its very foundation was a life of sacrifice.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. When it gets to be too much, we don’t have to resign ourselves to failure. ask for help. Seek answers through the Bible, the Holy Spirit, and people you can trust. Sure it’s humbling, but humility might just be the answer you’re looking for.

Despite being married for more than 25 years, my father still tackles new equipment without consulting the instruction manuals. and my mother—well, I think she’s stopped trying to make him do otherwise. When we come to understand the duality of righteousness—its imputed and imparted nature—it becomes obvious why our own efforts, like my father’s, are always going to come up short. There is, and always has been, a plan. We just have to be willing to be led.

REACT
1. In what aspects of life have you struggled to let God take control? 2. Why do we always think we have the best way? 3. In what specific ways can we learn from the life of Christ?



God’s Creative Accounting
Desré Nikolich, Sydney, Australia
Thursday Opinion
Rom. 6:23

Creative accounting occurs when accounts are managed in such a way that the resources are reallocated to fit with their requirements, thus absorbing the differences and making the account appear to be balanced. Did you know that God has done some creative accounting? In His case, however, He added only value to the account.

Because God’s value of love was pitted against His value of righteousness, something had to give.

The account in question involves our righteousness. When sin entered the world, humanity deserved to die (Rom. 6:23). Sin unbalanced God’s divine justice, and a cost ensued. The problem was, and still is, that God not only values justice as part of His character and kingdom, but He also values love. Because God’s value of love was pitted against His value of righteousness, something had to give. In His mercy and love, He cried out, “ ‘How can I give you up? . . . all my compassion is aroused’ ” (Hosea 11:8, NIV). God’s love could not fathom losing humanity. So in order for Him to rectify the sin problem, His creative accounting came into being. Jesus—God incarnate—came to die in our place, living a perfect life and dying our death. Through this process, He absorbed the cost of sin, which is eternal death.

“The grace of Christ and the law are inseparable. In Jesus mercy and truth are met together, righteousness and peace have kissed each other.”* “The gift of God is eternal life in Jesus Christ our lord” (rom. 6:23, NIV). This gift is for everyone who will accept Jesus’ death for their sins.
We all have an opportunity to follow natural justice or divine justice. In natural justice, the wages of sin are payable by our eternal death. Divine justice came through Jesus’ sacrifice, enabling the divine ledger to be balanced. The cost of sin has and will be accounted for. There is, however, a limiting factor. The limitation is not with God (as the cost already has been paid), but with humanity. Provision has been made for everyone to be saved. But God, in order to be truly just, allows us to accept His gift or reject it.

Our righteousness has been paid for, but it will be verified when the accounts are finally audited and confirmed. Our righteousness in and of itself is totally inadequate. It is only as we live in Jesus and accept His righteousness that we can then be made right. God’s creative accounting will be the theme throughout all eternity.
____________
*Selected Messages, bk. 1, p. 349.



Christ Our Righteousness
Renee Coffee, Gobles, Michigan, U.S.A.
Friday Exploration
CONCLUDE
Rom. 3:21–23

Righteousness comes not from obedience to the law but from submission to God. When Jesus lived on earth, He surrendered His life to God and followed His Father’s instructions. If we are to live lives of righteousness, we must do the same. each morning, we have a choice. We can sit on the throne of our heart, or we can step aside and let Jesus be our Master. “each morning consecrate yourself to God for that day. Surrender all your plans to Him, to be carried out or given up as His providence shall indicate. Thus day by day you may be giving your life into the hands of God, and thus your life will be molded more and more after the life of Christ.”*

CONSIDER
•Designing a small poster with the words Christ Is My Righteousness or another similar saying. •Post it where you can see it daily.
•Writing two headings on a piece of paper: “righteousness Is” and “righteousness Is Not.” review this week’s lesson. Then write down words or phrases that complete each of the lists.
•Writing a definition of what it means to “know” Jesus. Singing or repeating the words to the song “Not I, but Christ,” which is no. 570 in The Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal. Try writing a fifth verse.
•Asking a number of people to define what it means to be righteous, and then creating your own definition.
•Meditating on what you could you do this week that would give you a clearer vision of Jesus and His righteousness.

CONNECT
Joseph Stowell, Simply Jesus and You (Colorado Springs, Colo.: Multnomah Books, 2006), pp. 23–29; Ellet J. Waggoner, “The lord Our righteousness,”Christ and His Righteousness, pp. 58–69; Warren W. Wiersbe, Be Right (elgin, Ill.: David C. Cook, 2008), pp. 112–122.
____________ *Steps to Christ, p. 70.

http://www.cqbiblestudy.org/article.php?id=3

THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IS SELF CONTROL

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The Fruit of the Spirit Is Self-Control
“But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified”
(1 Cor. 9:27, NKJV).


Christ-Control Is Self-Control
Edinor Lindiwe Donda, Pretoria, Republic of South Africa
Sabbath Introduction
Prov. 25:28; Gal. 5:18, 24, 25

Proverbs 25:28 basically tells us about controlling one’s temper. Walls were erected to guard a city against crime. a city that was not protected was exposed to all sorts of things. likewise, a person without self-control exposes himself or herself to all sorts of evil. Self-control is the power to restrain and direct oneself according to God’s will and for His glory.

We learn self-control as we surrender ourselves to the Lord.

Temptation, my beloved guest That keeps me in denial on my quest To find fulfillment for this my burden Which does on my shoulders rest. It irritates this self that I hesitate to resist That which satisfies my lustful being. I persist To think of the consequences of my existence. I exist Within this weak brand of flesh That has led me to the rivers of sin, to taste Of sin wrapped in the desires of still this flesh. But resistance is now a dream, a dream that I live for. as my thoughts travel through time, I see My mind has driven me to owning a value— SelF-CONTrOl.
Self-control is not gained merely by suppressing lust, but also by controlling lust. It is the manifestation of God’s work in us through the Holy Spirit. The lack of self-control is responsible for many of today’s problems. lacking in love for God and His Word results in a lack of self-control (2 Tim. 3:1–4).

How does one gain self-control? “In order to know how to behave our- selves circumspectly, we must follow where Christ leads the way.”* We learn self-control as we surrender ourselves to the lord. To be Christ-controlled is to know that we are His. This week, let your prayer be, “Uphold my steps in your paths, / That my footsteps may not slip” (Ps. 17:5, NKJV).
____________
*Sons and Daughters of God, p. 154.



Self-Control or Self-Destruction
Sipiwe Nelani, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa
Sunday Evidence
Phil. 4:8

Details involving alexander the Great’s death are debatable. One account states that while busy with plans to improve the irrigation of the euphrates and to settle the arabian coast of the Persian Gulf, alexander became quite ill at a function honoring Nearchus’s departure for arabia. This same function also com- memorated the death of Heracles. at this affair, alexander filled a huge beaker with wine and drank it quickly. This caused him great pain and distress. However, no one was able to help him, and it was evident he would die. His friends asked him: “To whom do you leave the kingdom?” He replied, “To the best [the stron- gest].” These were his last words.
“Control of consciousness determines quality of life.”
Before he died, alexander gave his ring to Predicca. This ring was a symbol of kingship. at sundown on either June 10 or 11 323 b.c., after a ten-day fever, alexander died in the palace of [Nebuchadnezzar].1 He was called the Great, but he was not the greatest in exercising self-control. He conquered the world, but he could not conquer his lust. If this account is the true account, then he literally drank his life away.
according to a convergence of scientific evidence and spiritual beliefs, con- sistent well-being depends more on one’s ability to control internal experience than on controlling external events and circumstances. By no means is this a new view. It is an insight found in many cultures and religions. “The sim- ple truth—that control of consciousness determines quality of life—has been known . . . for as long as human records exist.”2 The control of internal desires determines the outcome of the external experiences.
In the first part of 2 Samuel 11, David intentionally observes Bathsheba bathing and orders that she be brought to him. as a result of his lack of self-control, Bath- sheba becomes pregnant, and David has her husband murdered so he can marry her. This murder itself displays further lack of self-control. Joseph, in contrast, did exercise self-control when Potiphar’s wife presented herself to him. even though her lie about what happened landed Joseph in prison, the final outcome of his refusal to succumb to her proposition was that a nation was saved from starvation.
____________
1. “alexander the Great,” http://w3.usf.edu/~hellenic/FrameMakedonia.htm (accessed December 12,
2008). 2. Mihaly Csíkszentmihályi, Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience (New york: Harper and row,
1990), p. 20.



Mastery of Self
Khwezi Yanga Toni, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa
Monday Logos
Judges 13–16; 1 Cor. 9:24–27; Phil. 4:8; Col. 3:1–10; Heb. 12:1, 2;
1 John 2:15, 16

The Meaning of Temperance (Ps. 101:3; 1 Cor. 9:24–27; Gal. 5:23; Phil. 3:8, 9)
Temperance is the mastery of all our actions, thoughts, feelings, habits, appetites, desires, and passions. Temperance, or self-control, means dying to self and letting Christ take control of every aspect of our lives. Notice that this fruit describes one’s relationship to self.

The Word encourages us to season our speech with grace.

When to Acquire Self-Control (Genesis 37–39; Judges 13–16; Daniel 1; Luke 2:52)
“In childhood and youth the character is most impressible. The power of self- control should then be acquired. . . . More than any natural endowment, the hab- its established in early years will decide whether a man shall be victorious or van- quished in the battle of life.”1 Proof of this is seen in the lives of Jesus, Daniel and his companions, and Joseph. Many people advise enjoying life while you are young. Then when you are old, you can start living righteously. This doesn’t work, however. Consider the lives of Samson, Nero, and alexander the Great. God teaches us that we must seek Him in the days of our youth (eccl. 11:9, 10; 12:1). “The youth who finds joy and happiness in reading the word of God and in the hour of prayer is constantly refreshed by draughts from the Fountain of life. He will attain a height of moral excellence and a breadth of thought of which others cannot conceive.”2

The Mind and Our Speech (Prov. 4:25, 26; Col. 3:2, 3; 1 John 2:15, 16)
“The mind is the capital of the body. The mind controls the whole man. all our actions . . . have their source in the mind. It is the mind that worships God and allies us to heavenly beings.”3 What we say and do originates in the mind. How we re- spond to stimuli in our environment generally originates in the mind. If our minds are focused on the world, we will act and think as the world does. The apostle Peter urges us to be in control of our minds (1 Pet. 1:13). If we want to think a certain way, we need to focus on things that are associated with that way (Prov. 4:25, 26), for by beholding we become changed. We must set our minds on things above, store our treasures in heaven, and love not the world. We must focus on Christ (Isa. 26:3) and learn to think the way He thinks, for He is our perfect example. Oncewe have control over our minds, it will be easier to control our speech. The Word encourages us to season our speech with grace so that others might be led to Christ (Col. 4:6; rom. 15:18). Pray for God to watch over your lips (Ps. 141:3). and always remember that our words express our thoughts.

Appetite (Heb. 12:1; 1 Cor. 6:19, 20; 10:31)
Our bodies are temples of God. Therefore, we must not consume food or drink that will defile our bodies. In Hebrews 12:1, we are urged to present our bodies as living sacrifices to God.
What we eat affects how we think. “No Christian will take into his system food or drink that will cloud his senses, or that will so act upon the nervous system as to cause him to degrade himself, or to unfit him for usefulness. The temple of God must not be defiled. The faculties of mind and body should be preserved in health, that they may be used to glorify God.”4 all that we do should be done for God’s glory.

Fruit (Matt. 19:26; John 15:5, 16; Gal. 5:22–25; Phil. 4:13)
On a vine, the branches produce fruit. The fruit and the branches depend on the vine for survival. Christ said that He is the Vine, and we are the branches. If we as branches stay connected to Him, we will bear much fruit. So without Him, we cannot grow the fruit of the Spirit. Without Him, we cannot have self-control. The Holy Spirit’s fruit can only be grown in us to the extent that we depend on Christ (Matt. 19:26; Phil. 4:13).

A branch does not produce fruit for its own consumption, but to serve others. likewise, we bear the Holy Spirit’s fruit so that we can bless others and lead them to Christ. We “must be able to overcome the desires of the flesh and avoid what is bad, while doing good to others.”5 “We do not live to ourselves, and we do not die to ourselves” (rom. 14:7, NrSV).

REACT
1. Do you ever limit temperance to just health issues? If yes, how can you change?
2. Consider your own habits or lack thereof. Which habits show self-control
or a lack of self-control? How can you develop better habits? ____________
1. Messages to Young People, p. 134. 2. Ibid., p. 431.
3. Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1, p. 72. 4. Temperance, p. 18. 5. roberto Badenas, “Temperance,” Adventist Review, October 26, 1995, p. 19.



Determining the Future
Khaka Gomba, Pretoria, Republic of South Africa
Tuesday Testimony
1 Cor. 9:27

“What can be done to stay the tide of disease and crime that is sweeping our race down to ruin and to death? as the great cause of the evil is to be found in the indulgence of appetite and passion, so the first and great work of reform must be to learn and practice the lessons of temperance and self-control. To effect a permanent change for the better in society, the education of the masses must begin in early life. The habits formed in childhood and youth, the tastes acquired, the self-control gained, the principles inculcated from the cradle, are almost certain to determine the future of the man or woman. The crime and corruption occasioned by intemperance and lax morals might be prevented by the proper training of the youth.

Those who do not overcome in little things will have no moral power to withstand greater temptations.

“One of the greatest aids in perfecting pure and noble characters in the young, strengthening them to control appetite and refrain from debasing ex- cesses, is sound physical health. and, on the other hand, these very habits of self-control are essential to the maintenance of health.”1
“The walls of self-control and self-restriction should not in a single instance be weakened and broken down. . . . Those who do not overcome in little things will have no moral power to withstand greater temptations. all who seek to make honesty the ruling principle in the daily business of life will need to be on their guard that they covet ‘no man’s silver, or gold, or apparel.’ While they are content with convenient food and clothing, it will be found an easy matter to keep the heart and hands from the defilement of covetousness and dishonesty.”2
“you will doubtless meet with things that will ruffle your spirit and severely test you; but self-control may be yours in the strength of Jesus.”3

REACT
1. What practical steps can we take to guard the avenues of our minds?
2. How much damage has lack of self-control caused in our communities?
____________
1. Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, December 13, 1881. 2. Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, p. 574. 3. Ibid., p. 501.



When No One Is Looking
Nkosazana Uviwe Maxhela, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa
Wednesday How-to
Judges 13–16; 1 Cor. 9:24–27; Phil. 4:8; Col. 3:1–10; Heb. 12:1, 2; 1 John 1:15, 16

You’re the only person in your parents’ room. Guess what you see on the dress- ing table? Money! It’s almost calling out your name. Do you take it and quickly disappear, or do you resist the temptation?

God left a trail for us to follow as we develop self-control.

Resisting temptation can be a battle, especially when there’s no one there to witness. Jesus Himself admitted that even though at times our spirits will be will- ing to do what is right, our carnal nature is like a wind that pushes us back (Mark 14:38). In the hour of trial, when we think no one is watching, God sees us. He desires that we practice self-control and that we control our tempers even when we are deliberately provoked by others (rom. 12:19–21). He desires that we be- come temperate in our diets and that we subject even our thoughts to that which is holy and acceptable to Him. God left a trail for us to follow as we develop self- control. The trail is clearly marked with signs. Here are a few:

Buckle up (1 Thess. 5:17). When we do, we’re making sure that our hearts are safely fastened to God’s throne of grace. We do this by fervently praying and put- ting our trust in the almighty, whose arm is not too short to save us. Being in constant communion with Him will keep His words fixed in our hearts. Then the Holy Spirit can deliver us.

Meditate (Phil. 4:8). If we fill our minds with pure thoughts, we will be better equipped to resist temptation. as the seeds of good thoughts germinate and take root in our minds, we will be better able to counter any attacks that jeopardize our self-control. resisting evil will then become a matter of principle.

Learn to do good (Isa. 1:17). Helping others is one of the best escape routes when fighting temptation. When you’re faced with a trying situation, stand up for God, turn full circle, and do what is good instead. acts of kindness will counter temptation and direct your focus to God’s strength rather than your weakness.

Run, friend, run (James 4:7). Fleeing from temptation is not a sign of weakness. It is a sign of self-control. God says we must avoid the devil because the battle is not ours, but His. When we run, we acknowledge His saving grace and His ability to save us. run, and let Him take care of your fears.



Caution: Power of Self- Control Weakened!
Xhantilomzi Perseverance Mlamleli, East London, Republic of South Africa
Thursday Opinion
Ps. 101:3

Many Christians are not aware of the dangers present to us through various media. Television, radio, magazines, and many Internet Web sites are designed to control our minds without our even being aware of it. “any information programmed subliminally to your subconscious mind meets no resistance. This subliminal information is stored in your brain with an identification that will trigger a delayed alarm clock reaction capable of influencing your behavior.”1 Such messages are presented to us so rapidly in the form of printed words, pictures, or voices that we are not consciously aware of them. Knowing about information that is programmed to reach us subliminally gives added meaning to our text for today. It’s almost as if the psalmist understood fully that the sub- conscious mind can absorb many things that it’s not even aware of.

Media seek to define reality for us.

Media seek to define reality for us. a great deal of it presents sin in exciting ways. It’s as if those working in various media take special effort to degrade our mental and spiritual abilities. The danger for us is that the values of the sinful world gradually shape how we think and then eventually how we live. Hence, the struggle for self-control occurs. Media can also deaden our interest and ability to meditate on God’s Word. Here is what author and avid reader Nicholas Carr has to say about his personal experience: “What the Net seems to be doing is chipping away my capacity for concentration and contemplation. My mind now expects to take in in- formation the way the Net distributes it: in a swiftly moving stream of particles.”2

REACT
1. How can you personally avoid the deception of the media?
2. Consider what you read and watch, the music you listen to, and your In- ternet usage. How might they all be influencing your ability to study the Bible and apply its truths to your life? What might you need to change in order to more effectively study God’s Word and practice its teachings?
3. Why does the Bible require us to abstain from the appearance of evil
(1 Thess. 5:22)? ____________
1. Steven Jacobson, Mind Control in the United States (n.p.: Critique Pub., 1985), p. 7.
2. Nicholas Carr, “Is Google Making Us Stupid?” The Atlantic, July/august 2008, http://www.theatlantic .com/doc/200807/google (accessed December 12, 2008).



Wholesome Choices
Jennifer Morgan, Newfoundland, Canada
Friday Exploration
Gal. 5:16–25; Col. 3:1–10
CONCLUDE

A temperate life is one of habitual self-control. This is easy if the individual develops healthy habits at an early age. However, with God’s grace, all of us can live happy, balanced lives whenever we start a good habit. Temperance is not what you don’t do. It’s all the good things you choose to do. If we fill our bodies with healthful food, our minds with wholesome study, our ears and eyes with God’s blessings, and our leisure time with acts of generosity, our lives will produce the fruit of the Holy Spirit.

CONSIDER
• readingrudyardKipling’spoemIf,andconsiderhowhisadviceandPaul’s in Galatians and Colossians can help you live a life of self-control.
• Finding a new recipe with healthful ingredients to prepare and share for Sabbath lunch.
• Making a list of the things you did in your leisure time last week. evaluate each activity for its wholesomeness. Make a list of positive alternatives to the negatives on your first list. act on your positive alternatives.
• Finding a friend who will help you start a new good habit. Go jogging together; share diet tips, music, books, outreach activities, or anger manage- ment or addiction-fighting strategies. Commit with your friend to practice this new habit for 40 consecutive days.
• askingaclosefriendtonameonethingthatyouhabituallydothatishurt- ing yourself and others. Discuss ways to change this behavior and devise a plan to do so.
• reading a biography about a person who successfully overcame his or her bad habits.

CONNECT
The Ministry of Healing (There is an excellent abridged youth edition called Heal the World, Begin With Yourself, edited by Gary Swanson, 1997.)
Ben Carson and Cecil Murphey, Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story (Hagerstown, Md.: review and Herald®, 1990); rick Warren, The Purpose Driven Life: What On Earth Am I Here For? (Grand rapids, Mich.: Zondervan, 2002).

http://www.cqbiblestudy.org/article.php?id=3

THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IS MEEKNESS 

THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IS MEEKNESS


Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from www.amazingfacts.com

CLICK ON THE LINK THAT FOLLOWS FOR A VIDEO OF THE SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON PRESENTED BY DR DEREK MORRIS OF THE LAKE FOREST CHURCH

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q102-27-fruit-spirit-meekness




The Fruit of the Spirit Is Meekness

“ ‘Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth’ ” (Matt. 5:5, NKJV).

What Do They Think Of?
Francia Bissereth, Hyattsville, Maryland, U.S.A.
Sabbath Introduction
Luke 6:43−45

One Sabbath after church, a group of Seventh-day adventists on their way home encountered a police check on a street in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. When the adventists came close to the policemen, one of the officers said that there was no need to check this group because they were wearing decent clothes and had Bibles in their hands. With gratitude, the adventists continued on their way.

It wasn’t until a bit later that I realized I was wearing scrubs.

As I was leaving work one afternoon, a woman opened a passenger door of a car at a red traffic light. She was not feeling well and was beginning to vomit. Since I was close, I ran to help her. as I drew nearer, I heard people say that the she was pregnant and had not eaten well during the day. I was surprised to see how the other people in the car were so grateful for my little bit of help. It wasn’t until a bit later that I realized I was wearing scrubs.

Those few seconds under the red light, thinking of it, anyone stopping to help might have been inclined to seek praise and recognition. However, the only praise necessary was the look that the passenger who needed help gave me.

What does the world think when it sees you? How do people classify you? Do they classify you as one who bears Christian fruit or as a barren tree? Per- forming a simple act of service that you know will reap little or no praise helps the world see in a person the fruit of meekness and will differentiate you from almost everyone else. as Jesus said, “ ‘each tree is recognized by its own fruit’ ” (luke 6:44, NIV). What fruit do you bear today?

This week’s lesson will help us better understand the fruit of meekness and how we can cultivate it.



Understanding Meekness
Kendall Turcios, Houston, Texas, U.S.A.
Sunday Logos
Gen. 50:15–20; Matt. 5:5; 11:29; Rom. 12:3; Gal. 6:1;
Phil. 2:1–3

Power Kept Under Control (Matt. 5:5; 11:29)
When most people hear the word meek, they have a mental picture of a wet noodle. a friend of mine jokes by saying, “The meek shall inherit the earth . . . if that’s OK with everybody else.” However, when we look at the Greek word for meek—praus—we see a truly different meaning. The first meaning describes a balance between emotional extremes. In other words, meekness would mean a balance between too much anger and not enough anger. When the Bible tells us, “In your anger do not sin” (eph. 4:26, NIV), it is saying that there is a righteous and justifiable form of anger. as Christians we may appropriately feel angry at injustice in the world, but we would be off the mark to react in a hotheaded manner at being personally slighted. The first meaning of meekness marks this balance between emotional extremes.

Jesus not only advocates for meekness, He personifies it.

The second and more profound meaning of meekness describes the dynamic of a horse or an ox relenting to and accepting a necessary degree of control from its master. It is here that we find a powerful animal that could well crush its owner but instead allows itself to be led, trained, and directed by the will of its master. The Bible, in stating meekness as an indicator of the Spirit-filled life, thus shows that a Christian has power but submits that power to God’s will.

Humanity’s Aversion to Meekness (1 Cor. 2:14)
Sinful nature rears its ugly head in the form of self-will. Carnal nature will not allow itself to be tamed or subjugated by anyone or anything. In the Garden of eden, eve, in listening to the serpent’s voice, doubted God and exercised her own will against His will. In so doing, she went against the spirit of meek- ness. She did not remain submitted to God. Most people would agree that as humans, we have a hard time with submission. The origin of sin shows us that God granted the gift of meekness in order for humanity to remain in His will.

Jesus Says, “Be Like Me” (Matt. 11:29)
Jesus, our perfect example, came into the world to show us the way of sal- vation. His life is one of total surrender and trust in His heavenly Father. The Bible tells of how He often prayed through the night to obtain the strength to fulfill His mission. Thus, He invites us to consider His yoke. In His time, a yoke was not something you picked up at the Jerusalem Wal-Mart where all yokes hung together on a rack. Instead, a yoke was a custom-made tool that a carpenter would make to accommodate the animals that would use it to haul a heavy load. The yoke itself was not a burden but rather a tool that made the burden easier to carry. So, in essence, Jesus is saying, “as long as you’re carrying that burden, let Me give you a yoke to help you out. and by the way, My yoke is easy.” Jesus also put it in the following way, “ ‘In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world’ ” (John 16:33, NIV).

Jesus not only advocates for meekness, He personifies it. In His quest to save humanity, His life exemplified meek surrender—the only way we can possibly enter into a right relationship with God and experience true joy and unending happiness. Jesus easily could have used His power to overwhelm His enemies. However, He kept that power under the controlling will of God. It is a decep- tion to think that we can truly be happy outside the will of God. True happiness can be found only in surrender.

“In his sinless state, man held joyful communion with [God]. . . . after his sin, he could no longer find joy in holiness. . . . Such is still the condition of the unrenewed heart. . . . Could he be permitted to enter heaven, it would have no joy for him. The spirit of unselfish love that reigns there . . . would touch no answering chord in his soul. His thoughts, his interests, his motives, would be alien to those that actuate the sinless dwellers there.”*
Jesus exemplified this surrender and invites us to follow Him in meekness.

The Promise of the Meek (Gen. 1:28; Ps. 37:11; Matt. 5:5; Gal. 5:22, 23)
If you’ve ever wondered why the meek are the inheritors of the earth, you are not alone. looking at Genesis, our first parents were commanded by God to fill the earth and take care of it. Sin changed all of that. However, we also find in the Old Testament an appeal to humanity to resubmit their will to God based on the following promise: “But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy great peace” (Ps. 37:11, NIV). Jesus’ life on earth showed us what true meekness is. In Galatians, the promise of the meek inheriting the earth is renewed so that now through the Spirit we can receive this fruit.

REACT
1. What is preventing you from living out meekness?
2. What are the implications for meek Christians that they shall inherit the
earth? Does this promise have an immediate impact, or is it only for the future?
explain your answer. ____________
*Steps to Christ, pp. 17, 18.



Meekness: “Unmistakable Evidence”
Lauren Halstrom, Saginaw, Michigan, U.S.A.
Monday Testimony
John 3:1–21; 15:1–6

“The abiding presence of meekness is an unmistakable evidence that we are branches of the True Vine, and are bearing much fruit. It is an evidence that we are by faith beholding the King in his beauty and becoming changed into his likeness. Where meekness exists, the natural tendencies are under the control of the Holy Spirit. Meekness is not a species of cowardice. It is the spirit which Christ manifested when suffering injury, when enduring insult and abuse. To be meek is not to surrender our rights; but it is the preservation of self-control under provocation to give way to anger or to the spirit of retaliation. Meekness will not allow passion to take the lines.

“Meekness is not a species of cowardice.”

“When Christ was accused by the priests and Pharisees, he preserved his self-control, but he took his position decidedly that their charges were untrue. He said to them: ‘Which of you convinceth me of sin?’ ‘If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil; but if well, why smitest thou me?’ He knew that his position was right. When Paul and Silas were beaten and thrust into prison without trial or sentence, they did not surrender their right to be treated as honest citizens. When there was a great earthquake, and the foundations of the prison were shaken, and the doors were opened, and every man’s bands were loosed, and the magistrates sent word to the prisoners that they might depart in peace, Paul entered a protest, and said: ‘They have beaten us openly uncon- demned, being romans, and have cast us into prison; and now do they thrust us out privily? Nay verily; but let them come themselves and fetch us out. . . . and they came and besought them, and brought them out, and desired them to depart out of the city.’ Through the action of Paul and Silas the name of God was magnified and the authorities were humbled. It was necessary that the honor of God should be vindicated at this time.”*

REACT
Most likely, you are currently facing a situation that requires the type of meek- ness Christ exhibited while on this earth. How might you react in a meek man- ner, so that God’s honor will be vindicated and you will not be surrendering your
rights, yet all the while maintaining self-control with the help of the Holy Spirit? ____________
*ellen G. White, Signs of the Times, august 22, 1895.



Meekness or Weakness
Samuel Pegus, Adelphi, Maryland, U.S.A.
Tuesday Evidence
Matt. 5:5

Meekness does not stand for weakness. If it did, it would be impossible for a weak individual to inherit the earth. at a glance, biblical people who were meek seemed to be submissive and to have cowered at authority. looks, however, can be deceiving. Meekness is rooted in loyalty to God alone and in obedience to Him as our Judge and King.1 Christians suffer trials and tribulations for their obedience. People who are meek will have worries, but they will communicate with God and find comfort and strength within His Word. Bible reading and prayer will guide them. Such individuals are able to inherit the earth.

God’s strength is perfect, and He will strengthen us if we let Him.

One definition of meek means “yielded.” It carries the idea of strength under control. “When a horse is domesticated, it is trained so a rider can sit upon its back or so that it can pull a plow. The proper term for this process is that the animal has been ‘meeked’ or broken. It yields to the rider or the yoke. The ani- mal now exhibits strength under control.”2 abraham was meek. If he had relied on his own strength, he would not have considered the idea of sacrificing his son, nor would he have left his home to go to an unknown place. Job may have had questions and doubts when in tribulation, but with meekness, he was able to say, “ ‘Blessed be the name of the lord’ ” (Job 1:21, NKJV). If Job had relied on his strength alone, he would have cursed God and died right there (Job 2:9). Meekness led John the Baptist to say, “ ‘He must increase, and I must decrease’ ” (John 3:30, NKJV). Isn’t that what meekness is all about? God’s strength is perfect, and He will strengthen us if we let Him.

Peter addressed Christians with this reminder: you “are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His [God’s] own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Pet. 2:9, NKJV). People such as abraham and Peter knew they were royalty. They could rejoice in their privileged status. Before, they had been in darkness, but once they yielded in meekness to God’s will they came into God’s light. They had a desire for the kingdom that was promised to them.
So, my friend, be ye meeked.
____________
1. God’s Word to Women, “What Is Meekness?” http://www.godswordtowomen.org/lesson 52.htm (accessed December 4, 2008)
2. “What Is Meekness?” http://healtheland.wordpress.com/2007/11/15/what-is-meekness (accessed December 4, 2008)



A Vowel Makes All the Difference
Gladys S. Kelley, Laurel, Maryland, U.S.A.
Wednesday How-to
Phil. 2:3−5; 1 Pet. 3:4

There is a Spanish saying that goes like this: “Manso pero no menso” (Meek but not a fool). In Spanish, one vowel makes all the difference between the two words manso and menso. yet in practice, there is an abyss between them. For many Christians, Jesus’ gift to be “meek and lowly in heart” (Matt. 11:29) is one of the hardest gifts to accept and exemplify. Perhaps the reason is not un- willingness but one’s comprehension of what meekness encompasses.

God’s Spirit living in us tips the balance and makes all the difference.

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines meekness as “deficient in spirit and courage: submissive” and “not . . . strong.” These definitions are negative. They make it seem that meek people are silent doormats for strong and competent people to walk on. and if we are all honest, none of us would consciously vol- unteer for a position as doormat.

Nevertheless, in 1 Peter 3, Jesus says that meekness is of great value to God. Therefore, it is imperative that we obtain it. Through Jesus’ example, we can learn that meekness is revealed not only in the things we do, but in how we do them. Our attitude determines whether we are meek or we are fools. Being meek encompasses having the ability to respond harshly yet choosing not to. This can be accomplished only by following Jesus’ example of meekness. Here are ways we can do so:

Submitting totally to God (John 5:30). Though Jesus was an equal Member of the Godhead, He surrendered completely to the Father and to the Holy Spirit. When we face a difficult situation, our relationship with God plays a key role in how we respond.

Putting others before self (Phil. 2:5–7). Jesus offered all He was for our sake. When we see others going through a challenging situation and have the resources to help them, then we must do so, even if doing so puts us in an uncomfortable position.

Walking humbly with God (Mic. 6:8). When we follow the requirements listed in Micah 6:8, we allow ourselves to become agents of change in other people’s lives.
God wants us to be patient and humble yet always ready to fight the good fight of faith. Based on the world’s standards, we might appear to be fools. yet God’s Spirit living in us tips the balance and makes all the difference.



True Peace Is Found in Our Humility
Andrew Gregory Stoner, Frederick, Maryland, U.S.A.
Thursday Opinion
Matt. 11:29, 30

We often hesitate to take the advice of others. and if we were to do so, we’d first want to know about their experience, background, beliefs, and so on. Be- cause, after all, do they know what they’re talking about? Have they gone through what you’re going through? Will they really understand you?

We do not find true peace by acquiring possessions, money, or personal power.

It’s difficult for us to simply believe and follow, to drop all of our life experi- ence and think that someone else could lead us through a crisis or hardship. In addition to that, imagine if the person giving the advice also said, “Do what I say, and carry my burden.” That’s a lot to ask, isn’t it? It requires you to humble yourself and truly believe that the one giving the advice is completely trustworthy, faithful, and, most important, has your best interest at heart.

Jesus Christ—our Savior, Teacher, Friend, and lord—tells us in Matthew 11:29, “ ‘Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls’ ” (NKJV). In verse 30, Jesus goes on to tell us that His burden is light. I imagine that Jesus adds this because He knows our hearts. He knows that our first reaction will be, “Take your yoke? No way! I have enough upon my shoulders as it is!”

Jesus knows our “load” and that it is nothing compared to His “load” as Creator and Caretaker. He also knows that when we accept His yoke, our burden becomes lighter. From Him we can learn how to find rest for our souls by being gentle and humble, rather than self-righteous and critical of others.

We do not find true peace by acquiring possessions, money, or personal power. There is proof of that in the life of the average Hollywood celebrity. The world can take material things away from us as quickly as it gives such things to us. Our covetous nature is self-destructive and leads only to more pain and problems. But Jesus leads by example and shows us that only by humbling ourselves can we inherit the kingdom of God.

Jesus is our example for living. The peace He gives to us is a gift. We can- not earn it with good deeds or a hefty bank account. all we can do is humble ourselves, praise Him, and grow the fruit of meekness modeled by our lord and Savior, King, and Friend. Only then, do we find peace that is everlasting and life that is eternal.



Meekness—A Strong Word
Sergio Torres, Miami, Florida, U.S.A.
Friday Exploration
Phil. 2:5–8

CONCLUDE
To be meek is to be many things. It is to be gentle and kind. To be meek is not having to win an argument. To be meek is to be less defensive. It is to think of others first and to be of service to those around you. To be meek is to give up on having to be right. To be meek is to know and to act on the truth that all people are valuable. To be meek is to be Christlike. No wonder meekness is a strong word.

CONSIDER
• Praying “blessed are the meek” for an entire week and reflecting on how being meek can change your life for the better.
• attendingachurchofadifferentculturefromyoursforamonthandmak- ing friends there with at least three people.
• Not blowing your car horn for a week. Journal what changes you see in yourself in relationship to other drivers and your own driving habits.
• Spending time weekly for two months with a group of people or with an individual who has special needs. Do this through a service organization that needs help. What did you learn about meekness and how it can change your life as a result of your experience? Ideally this experience will become a regular feature of your life.
• Giving up your views and the need to be right in a family discussion. • Practicing the discipline of silence for ten minutes daily for a week. What
do you hear God telling you during those times? • Finding ways to defend the rights of the needy and poor in your com-
munity.

CONNECT
Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, pp. 13–18; Welfare Ministry, pp. 81–86.