His Words And You: March 2025

Sunday, 9 March 2025

Weekly Bible Lessons. Sunday School 2025, March 9th

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON

2025

RENEWING OUR COMMITMENT TO GOD IN THE NEW YEAR.

Key Verse: “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” (Isaiah 43:18-19)

This Week: 3rd Month, 2nd Week - March 9, 2025

Theme: – Living In Peace "C"

Memory Verse: "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." Romans 12:18

Objective: By the end of the lesson, peaceful living should be effortlessly imbibed by the reader and should be part of him if he so desires.

Content:

Introduction:

Living in peace involves a heart attitude and lifestyle that align with God’s teachings. You need to understand that real peace comes from God, thus,you must trust in God’s sovereignty. Pursue peace with others, practice forgiveness and reconcile with people who have issues with you. Control Your Words and Actions, In words and deeds, be a peacemaker, have humility and patience. Pray for Peace in your space, the country and the world. Avoid strife and quarreling, focus on righteousness. Now let's look at the key points in the main lesson.

This lesson will be broken into 4 parts to be treated in 4 weeks.

This week, we shall look at 3rd part treating another 2 (7 & 8) out of the ten discuss points of this topic.

MAIN LESSONS.

7. Practice Humility and Patience.

Humility and patience are essential virtues in the Christian life. The Bible teaches that both qualities reflect God’s character and are necessary for spiritual growth, strong relationships, and a life that honors God. Practicing humility keeps us dependent on God rather than on ourselves, while patience helps us endure trials and deal graciously with others.

(a) The Biblical Call to Humility: Humility is not thinking less of ourselves but recognizing our dependence on God and valuing others above ourselves. Philippians 2:3-4 – "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." True humility considers the needs of others before our own. Micah 6:8 – "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." Humility is a fundamental part of walking with God. James 4:6 – "God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble." Pride distances us from God, but humility invites His grace and guidance.

(b) Jesus is the Ultimate Example of Humility: Philippians 2:5-8 – "In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!" Jesus, though fully God, humbled Himself to serve others and suffer for our salvation. Matthew 23:12 – "For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted." God honors those who embrace humility.

(c) The Biblical Call to Patience: Patience is the ability to endure trials, wait on God’s timing, and deal with others graciously. It is a key aspect of spiritual maturity. Colossians 3:12 – "Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience." Patience and humility go hand in hand in the Christian life. Proverbs 14:29 – "Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly." Patience leads to wisdom, while impatience often results in foolish decisions. Romans 12:12 – "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Patience is crucial in enduring trials and trusting in God's plan.

(d) God’s Patience as Our Model: 2 Peter 3:9 – "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." God’s patience with us should inspire us to be patient with others. Exodus 34:6 – "The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness." God is slow to anger, showing us how we should respond in difficult situations.

(e) How Humility and Patience Work Together: Ephesians 4:2 – "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." Humility makes patience easier because it removes prideful expectations. James 1:19 – "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." A humble heart listens first, and a patient heart is slow to react in anger.

Practicing humility and patience is essential for living a Christ-centered life. These qualities reflect God's nature, strengthen relationships, and lead to peace and spiritual growth. By looking to Jesus as our example and relying on the Holy Spirit, we can develop a humble and patient heart that honors God.

8. Pray for Peace.

The Bible teaches that peace is a gift from God and that believers should actively seek and pray for peace in their own lives, relationships, and the world. True peace is not just the absence of conflict but a deep assurance that comes from God’s presence. Through prayer, we align our hearts with God’s will and invite His peace to rule in our lives.

(a) God is the Source of True Peace: Peace is not something we create on our own—it comes from God. John 14:27 – "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." Jesus offers a peace that surpasses worldly understanding. Isaiah 26:3 – "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you." Trusting in God leads to lasting peace. Philippians 4:6-7 – "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Prayer is the key to experiencing God's peace, even in difficult times.

(b) Praying for Personal Peace: Psalm 29:11 – "The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace." Peace is a blessing from God that strengthens us. Colossians 3:15 – "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful." Peace should govern our hearts and minds as we walk with Christ. Romans 8:6 – "The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace." True peace comes from surrendering to the Holy Spirit.

(c) Praying for Peace in Relationships: God calls us to be peacemakers and to seek reconciliation with others. Matthew 5:9 – "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." Peacemakers reflect God's character. Romans 12:18 – "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." We are called to do everything we can to promote peace. Ephesians 4:2-3 – "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Peace requires humility, patience, and love.

(d) Praying for Peace in the World: 1 Timothy 2:1-2 – "I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness." We should pray for peace in our nations and leaders. Psalm 122:6 – "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: ‘May those who love you be secure.’" Praying for peace in the world aligns with God's heart. Matthew 6:10 – "Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." Praying for peace means asking for God's kingdom values to be established.

Praying for peace is an act of faith that aligns our hearts with God’s will. Whether seeking personal peace, peace in relationships, or peace in the world, we must trust that God hears and responds. Through consistent prayer, we can experience His peace and become instruments of peace in our communities.

Questions: Note your questions here

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Weekly Bible Lessons. Sunday School 2025, March 2nd

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON

2025

RENEWING OUR COMMITMENT TO GOD IN THE NEW YEAR.

Key Verse: “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” (Isaiah 43:18-19)

This Week: 3rd Month, 1st Week - March 2, 2025

Theme: – Living In Peace "B"

Memory Verse: "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." Romans 12:18

Objective: By the end of the lesson, peaceful living should be effortlessly imbibed by the reader and should be part of him if he so desires.

Content:

Introduction:

This lesson will be broken into 3 parts to be treated in 3 weeks.

This week, we shall look at 2nd part treating another 3 (4, 5 & 6) out of the ten discuss points of this topic.

MAIN LESSONS.

4. Forgiveness and Reconciliation:

Forgiveness and reconciliation are central themes in the Bible, reflecting God's love and His desire for restored relationships. While forgiveness is commanded, reconciliation depends on both parties and is an important step in healing broken relationships.

(a) God’s Forgiveness as Our Model: Ephesians 4:32 – "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Our forgiveness of others should mirror God’s forgiveness toward us. Colossians 3:13 – "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." God's forgiveness is unconditional and complete; we are called to do the same.

(b) The Call to Forgive Others: Matthew 6:14-15 – "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." Forgiveness is necessary for our own spiritual well-being. Luke 17:3-4 – "If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them." Forgiveness is continuous and not limited by the number of offenses.

(c) Reconciliation: Restoring Relationships: Romans 12:18 – "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." While we are called to pursue peace, reconciliation requires effort from both sides. Matthew 5:23-24 – "Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift." Reconciliation is so important that Jesus commands us to seek it before worship.

(d) The Role of Love and Humility in Forgiveness: 1 Peter 4:8 – "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins." Love enables us to overlook offenses and seek peace. Philippians 2:3 – "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves." Humility helps us seek forgiveness and reconciliation instead of pridefully holding grudges.

(e) God’s Ultimate Example of Reconciliation: 2 Corinthians 5:18-19 – "All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation." God reconciled us to Himself through Jesus, setting the example for us to reconcile with others. Romans 5:10 – "For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life!" If God reconciled us when we were His enemies, we should be willing to reconcile with others.

5. Control Your Words and Actions.

The Bible emphasizes the importance of self-control in both words and actions. Our speech and behavior reflect our character, and as followers of Christ, we are called to exercise wisdom, restraint, and love in all we say and do.and

(a) The Power of Words: Words have the power to build up or destroy, to heal or wound. The Bible warns against careless speech and encourages wise and gracious words. Proverbs 18:21 – "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit." Our words can bring life (encouragement, truth) or death (harm, discouragement). James 3:5-6 – "Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body." James compares uncontrolled speech to a destructive fire, showing the importance of taming our words. Ephesians 4:29 – "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." Our words should edify and strengthen others rather than harm them.

(b) Speaking with Wisdom and Restraint: Proverbs 10:19 – "Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues." Sometimes, silence is the best response. Colossians 4:6 – "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." Our speech should be gracious and wise, reflecting God’s truth. James 1:19 – "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." Listening before speaking helps prevent unnecessary conflicts and misunderstandings.

(c) The Importance of Controlling Actions: Our actions reveal the state of our hearts. As believers, we are called to live with self-control, reflecting Christ in our behavior. Galatians 5:22-23 – "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit and essential for Christian living. Proverbs 25:28 – "Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control." A lack of self-control leaves us vulnerable to sin and destruction. 1 Corinthians 9:27 – "No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize." Paul emphasizes the need for discipline in both words and actions to remain faithful.

(d) Acting with Love and Integrity: Matthew 5:16 – "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Our actions should reflect God’s love and lead others to Him. Romans 12:21 – "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." We should respond to wrongdoing with righteousness and grace. 1 Peter 2:12 – "Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us." Our actions should be a testimony of Christ’s work in us.

Controlling our words and actions requires discipline, wisdom, and reliance on God. By following biblical principles, we can reflect Christ in our daily lives, build up others, and live in a way that honors God.

6. Be a Peacemaker.

The Bible teaches that being a peacemaker is a mark of true godliness. Jesus Himself is called the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), and He calls His followers to actively pursue peace in their relationships, communities, and the world. Being a peacemaker does not mean avoiding conflict at all costs, but rather working toward reconciliation, justice, and harmony rooted in God’s truth.

(a) The Blessing of Peacemakers: Matthew 5:9 – "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." Peacemakers reflect God’s character and are recognized as His true children. Romans 12:18 – "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." We are responsible for doing everything we can to promote peace, but peace is a two-way process.

(b) Peace Comes from God: John 14:27 – "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." True peace is not merely the absence of conflict but comes from a relationship with God. Philippians 4:6-7 – "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." When we trust in God, we experience a deep, lasting peace that equips us to spread peace to others.

(c) Peacemaking Requires Humility and Forgiveness: Ephesians 4:2-3 – "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Peacemaking requires humility, patience, and love. Colossians 3:13-15 – "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts." Forgiveness is a key part of peacemaking, just as God forgave us through Christ.

(d) Resolving Conflict God’s Way: Matthew 18:15 – "If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over." Biblical peacemaking involves addressing conflict directly and privately, seeking resolution with love. James 1:19-20 – "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires." Listening well and controlling anger are crucial for promoting peace.

(e) Peacemakers Promote Justice and Righteousness: James 3:17-18 – "But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness." True peace is rooted in righteousness, not compromise with sin or injustice. Proverbs 16:7 – "When the Lord takes pleasure in anyone’s way, he causes their enemies to make peace with them." When we live righteously, God can even turn our enemies into allies.

(f) The Ministry of Reconciliation: 2 Corinthians 5:18-19 – "All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation." As believers, we are called to bring people to reconciliation with God and with each other. Hebrews 12:14 – "Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord." Peacemaking is tied to holiness and our witness for Christ.

Being a peacemaker is a vital calling for every believer. It reflects God’s heart, strengthens relationships, and brings His peace into a broken world. True peace comes from God, and as His followers, we are to spread that peace through our words, actions, and pursuit of reconciliation.

Questions: Note your questions here

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Weekly Bible Lessons. Sunday School 2025, Feb 23rd

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON

2025

RENEWING OUR COMMITMENT TO GOD IN THE NEW YEAR.

Key Verse: “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” (Isaiah 43:18-19)

This Week: 2nd Month, 3rd Week - Feb 23, 2025

Theme: – Living In Peace "A"

Memory Verse: "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." Romans 12:18

Objective: By the end of the lesson, peaceful living should be effortlessly imbibed by the reader and should be part of him if he so desires.

Content:

Introduction:

This lesson will be broken into 3 parts to be treated in 3 weeks.

This week we shall look at 3 out of the ten discuss points of this topic.

Main Lessons:

1. Peace Comes from God

(a) Recognize God as the source of peace:

(i) Isaiah 26:3 – "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you."

(ii) Philippians 4:6-7 – "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

(b) Let Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace control your life.

(i) Isaiah 9:6 – "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given... and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

(ii) John 14:27 – "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."

(i) Romans 5:1 – "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ."

(ii) Colossians 3:15 – "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful."

(d) Live your life in God’s Peace

(i) Psalm 29:11 – "The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace."

(ii) 2 Thessalonians 3:16 – "Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you."

True peace is not just the absence of trouble but the presence of God’s assurance, comfort, and guidance in our lives.

2. Trusting in God’s Sovereignty.

Trusting in God's sovereignty means believing that He is in complete control over all things — past, present, and future. The Bible repeatedly affirms God's absolute authority over creation, history, and human affairs. Here are key biblical considerations on this topic:

(a) God's Sovereignty Over Creation: Genesis 1:1 – "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." Everything in existence were created by God, showing His supreme authority over all creation. Psalm 135:6 – "The Lord does whatever pleases him, in the heavens and on the earth, in the seas and all their depths." God's will is accomplished everywhere, demonstrating His power and control.

(b) God's Sovereignty Over Human History and Nations: Daniel 2:21 – "He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning." God directs the course of history, appointing and removing leaders according to His purpose. Proverbs 21:1 – "The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases." Even rulers and governments operate under God's sovereign hand.

(c) Trusting in God's Sovereignty in Difficult Times: Romans 8:28 – "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Even in suffering, God is working for the ultimate good of His people. Job 42:2 – "I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted." Job acknowledges that God's plans are unstoppable, even in the face of suffering.

(d) God's Sovereignty in Salvation: Ephesians 1:11 – "In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will." Our salvation is part of God’s sovereign plan. John 6:37 – "All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away." Jesus affirms that salvation is under God’s sovereign control.

(e) Responding to God's Sovereignty with Faith and Trust: Proverbs 3:5-6 – "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." Trusting in God's sovereignty means submitting to His plan, even when we don’t fully understand it. Isaiah 46:9-10 – "I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me. I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.’" God's sovereign purpose will always prevail.

3. Pursue Peace with Others.

The Bible calls believers to actively pursue peace with others, reflecting God’s character and the teachings of Jesus Christ. Peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of righteousness, love, and reconciliation.

(a) God's Call to Pursue Peace: Romans 12:18 – "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." Peace requires effort on our part, we must do our best even if others resist. Hebrews 12:14 – "Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord." Peace and holiness go hand in hand; a godly life fosters harmony with others.

(b) Jesus, the Prince of Peace: Matthew 5:9 – "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." True children of God actively work toward peace. John 14:27 – "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." Jesus provides inner peace that enables us to extend peace to others.

(c) Overcoming Conflict with Love and Forgiveness: Colossians 3:13-15 – "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts." Peace requires patience, forgiveness, and love. Proverbs 15:1 – "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." Responding with kindness helps prevent and resolve conflict.

(d) Reconciliation and Making Peace: 2 Corinthians 5:18-19 – "All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation." As God reconciled us to Himself, we are called to be agents of reconciliation. Matthew 18:15 – "If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over." Peacemaking involves addressing conflicts with wisdom and love.

(e) Peace as a Mark of Christian Living: James 3:17-18 – "But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness." A peaceful life reflects godly wisdom. Ephesians 4:2-3 – "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Humility, patience, and love are key to maintaining peace.

Questions: Note your questions here

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