Church of the Living God
Bible Study Lesson
Presenter: Overseer
Ennis F. Tait
Date: Wednesday,
April 29, 2015
Series: Transformation – 50 Days of Expectation
Scripture Reference:
The Gospel of Matthew
Focus Verse: Matthew
6:25-34
Today’s Discussion: “What’s
on Your Mind?”
There are a number of
approaches to extract one’s view on a particular subject matter. All of which encourage all those involved to
carefully process what’s being presented.
As we consider the topics of discussion that are atop the various media
sources, we can see the mass confusion arising from the mixed thoughts plaguing
the world.
For those within academic realm the process is known as
“logical reasoning”. However, if I were
looking at a situation or discussing an issue of concern from a biblical
perspective, I would strongly consider “what would Jesus do or say” about the
matter.
The lesson aim is to evaluate and assess the mindset of believers. Believers are encouraged in the Word to
be careful how we present ourselves to God and each other. In addition, we
should be fully aware and able to discern the daily struggle between flesh and spirit which affects how we
live our lives. (Reference: Romans
12:1-2)
The Apostle Matthew records Jesus’ appeal to HIS followers
to consider three major factors by which we as believers should live: giving,
prayer (forgiving), fasting. (Reference:
Matthew 6:1-18) In addition the Lord instructs us to focus our minds on the
righteousness of God and not the things of the world. (Reference: Matthew 6:19-21)
It is quite obvious that many of us put more energy into
what we wear; what we eat; where we live; or how much money we have or need to
make it. All of these are essential to
the natural man. The Apostle Paul
suggests to the church to consider adopting the Christ way of thinking. (Reference: Phil. 2:5-8) We can conclude that the opposite of
high-mindedness is humility. Humility is
a spiritual characteristic that should guide our thinking. (Reference:
I Peter 5:5-6) However, Jesus wants
each of us to redirect our attention away from the flesh and consider a new way
of thinking.
(Read verses 31-38)
31 What I'm trying to
do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you
can respond to God's giving. 32 People who don't know God and the way he works
fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. 33 Steep your
life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing
out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met. 34 "Give
your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up
about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever
hard things come up when the time comes.” (MSG)
Point to Ponder: How
much time do you spend meditating on the word of God?
