Lifeway

Jesus was often invited into the homes of those to whom He ministered. He continued to surprise people who thought they knew how He would respond to the situations unfolding around Him.

Faith often grows in moments of desperation. There is a reason James wrote in James 1:2-3, “Consider it a great joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you experience various trials, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance”. Trials grow our faith as we see Jesus answer in ways we might not expect.

Childhood memories can shape a person's entire life. Before the Israelites entered the Promised Land, God wanted to make sure His people would remind the coming generations of His love, faithfulness and desire for their lives.

The reality of God’s omnipotence is a source of encouragement and courage for every believer, not just those who suffer religious persecution. Assured that we lift our prayers to the One who reigns supreme over every circumstance, gives us confidence as we face such hardships as illness, financial struggles, grief or a prodigal child.

Jesus taught that participation in the kingdom of heaven is not based on human effort, but on the benevolence of God. All of us stand condemned before God and desperately need His generous grace.

When you compare the terms of the covenant, who does more? God does. Who gets more? The Israelites. What God does on our behalf has always been and will always be infinitely more than we could ever do for Him.

Today’s study leads us to ask ourselves, “Who or what is worthy of my worship?” Jesus the Savior is worthy of our worship. He is the one true King. We can be assured of this truth because His birth fulfilled Old Testament prophecy. When we worship, we acknowledge Jesus’ identity. He is the Savior of the world.

Following God’s plans is just as important for believers today as it was for the ancient Israelites. Seeking His will and taking steps of obedience will often require believers to remove potential distractions that pull our focus from Him.

NASHVILLE (BP) — This weekly Bible study appears in Baptist Press in a partnership with Lifeway Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Through its Leadership and Adult Publishing team, Lifeway publishes Sunday School curricula and additional resources for all age groups. This week’s Bible study is adapted from the Bible Studies For Life curriculum. […]

Humble servanthood is difficult; it takes sacrifice and an agape love that only God can give. But when we live and lead with such humility, we follow in the footsteps of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, who sacrificed so much to serve us.