Food for Thought
For the week of April 7, 2008
(Questions and Scriptures for further study)
1. This week we learned some important lessons on how we are to communicate and interact with others. We were encouraged us to “speak the truth in love.” Paul encouraged the believers in Ephesus to do the same thing in Ephesians 4:11-16. Check out that passage in its context, and then read about Paul’s confrontation with Peter in Galatians 2:11-21. How could Paul’s rebuke of Peter still be considered loving?
How do Paul’s words in 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12 help us understand the balance of speaking truth in love?
2. There can be times when others “speak truth” to each of us. Proverbs has a lot to say about how we respond to those “rebukes.” Read the following verses and make a list of some of the benefits of accepting rebukes as well as the dangers of ignoring them.
Proverbs 1:20-33
Proverbs 3:11-12
Proverbs 15:31-32
Proverbs 19:25
3. This week’s teaching encouraged us to be absolutely pure in the midst of a culture that is full of temptation. King Solomon gave his son some wise advice to help him avoid sexual temptation. What are the specific temptations that Solomon points out in Proverbs 7? (Note: Proverbs 5 & 6 shed more wisdom on this topic.)
What other temptations from modern culture could be added to this list?
How could you use Psalm 119:9-11 to help you stay pure?
4. This week’s passage in 1 Timothy made it clear that we have the responsibility to love and take care of our family. Take a few minutes to think about and pray for your family. Ask God to show you if there is any way you could be more loving, or any needs that you could work toward meeting.