Happy Tuesday to you & yours. I hope your week is going great and that this message finds you well.
This is the study guide based on my recent article, “Compassion & Prayer,” from the "Summer on the Mount" series. This article is based on Matthew 6:1-18. If you haven’t read the article yet, now is a good time. If you have read it but want to refresh your memory, here is the link. I also recommend you have a Bible, paper, and pen with you as you work through this study guide. Take notes and reflect as God leads you.
As we reflect on God’s Word, let's examine our hearts and motivations in our acts of service and prayer. Are we seeking God's approval or that of others? Are our actions rooted in gratitude for God's grace or in an attempt to earn favor? May we be inspired to cultivate a faith that is genuine, humble, and centered on God's eternal purpose rather than our temporary glory.
Compassion & Prayer Summary:
The article explored Jesus' teachings on the importance of proper motives in our acts of righteousness, particularly in giving to the needy, prayer, and fasting. It emphasized that our compassion for others and our prayers should be centered on God rather than on seeking approval from others or attempting to manipulate God.
Jesus tells us not to show off our good deeds just to get “likes” and attention. When you help others, pray, or fast, do so in response to God’s love, not for yourself. Jesus calls out actors who pray or do good things just for the spotlight or self-promotion. Jesus also gives us the Lord’s Prayer as a model of how to pray genuinely. The key is to do things out of real love and gratitude for God, not so others or God “owe us” respect or favors. Authentic motives result in eternal fulfillment, not just momentary applause.
What motivates you to help others or pray? Be honest - are there times when you've done these things to be seen or praised by others?
Key Takeaways:
1. Jesus emphasizes the importance of proper motives in acts of righteousness.
2. Our compassion for others and our prayers should be centered on God, not self.
3. True discipleship is motivated by gratitude and love for God.
Questions to Ponder:
Why do you think Jesus places such importance on motives rather than just outward actions?
Reflect on the statement: "Actors crave applause." How does this relate to our spiritual lives?
How does the Lord's Prayer model the proper focus and priorities in our communication with God? What does the order of the Lord’s Prayer say to us?
How do we maintain proper motives in our acts of compassion and prayer? List some practical ways.
How can we cultivate genuine gratitude and love for God as our primary motivations for obedience?
Practical Applications:
1. This week, perform an act of kindness or charity without telling anyone about it.
2. Evaluate your prayer life. Are you praying to impress others or to genuinely connect with God? Make adjustments as needed.
3. This week, write a gratitude journal, focusing on God's grace in your life. This practice can help you track your spiritual journey, recognize answered prayers, and see how God is working in your life. Use this to fuel your motivation for serving Him.
4. Practice using the Lord's Prayer as a template for your own prayers, focusing first on God's glory and kingdom before your personal needs.
5. Reflect on your social media habits. Are you sharing spiritual activities for God's glory or self-promotion? If necessary, consider making changes.
Closing Prayer:
Close by praying the Lord's Prayer, pausing to reflect on each section and its meaning for your life.
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