Food for Thought

For the week of April 14, 2008

(Questions and Scriptures for further study)

 

This week’s teaching closed with three questions to help us evaluate our personal response to spiritual leadership.  Take a look at the questions below and then read the Scriptures to further your healthy response to leaders.

Am I generous or stingy?

¬     God tells us that generosity isn’t dependent on a large bank account, but rather on an accurate perspective of our possessions and the role they play in advancing God’s Kingdom.  How do the following passages help us gain the attitude and practice of generosity?

Luke 12:22-34

2 Corinthians 8:1-15

2 Corinthians 9:6-8

Do I tend to believe the best or worst in others?

¬     It’s no secret that seeing the best in others can, at times, be no small challenge.  David gives us an amazing example of seeing the best in others as Saul, his King, attempts to take his life.  What perspectives can you gain from David to help you see and believe the best in others?

1 Samuel 24:1-7

1 Samuel 26:1-25

How does Romans 13:1-6 add to this perspective of believing the best in those that lead us?

Is my focus on God or man?

¬     Keeping our focus on God is important. Whenever we begin to place our trust and focus on the spiritual leaders instead of God, we’ll eventually be disappointed. Read Acts 17:11 and notice how even the Apostle Paul encouraged people not to blindly follow his leadership.

Have you ever found yourself angry at God for the failings of His servants?

Are you helped by your spiritual leaders or dependent upon them?