SUMMER SERIES: SOUL CARE – Spiritual Shifts (Alliance Canada Devotions)
MESSAGE: From Cursing (judging) to Blessing – Rev. T. Crowe
KEY VERSES: Matthew 5:43-4; Romans 12:14-21; 1 Peter 3:8-9
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I. INTRODUCTION
- How do you tend to respond, view, or treat others who may have offended you or live against your Christian values?
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Spoken Blessing: to speak the intentions or favor of God over someone or some situation (Richard Bruncton) / based on God’s truths, character, redemptive desires prompted by the Holy Spirit in Jesus’ Name
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II. WORD OF THE LORD – circle/underline what stands out
43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. - Matthew 5:43-44
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. - Romans 12:14-21
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.
- Ephesians 4:29
III. IMPLICATIONS/APPLICATIONS
1. Bless those who are against you.
2. Be humble and bless those who are not like you.
3. Overcome evil with the blessings of love, goodness, and compassion.
4. Entrust God’s perfect final judgement will prevail.
BLESS YOUR ENEMIES CLOSER TO JESUS!