Issue: 2021 June

Bible Study Guides – Work

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July 25 – 31, 2021

Key Text

“And the Lord God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it” (Genesis 2:15).

 Study Help: Messages to Young People, 177–180.

Introduction

“The true glory and joy of life are found only by the working man and woman. Labor brings its own reward, and sweet is the rest that is purchased by the fatigue of a well-spent day.” Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, 98.

Sunday

1 LABOR

1.a. At creation, what was graciously supplied to humanity? Genesis 2:15.

Note: “God appointed labor as a blessing to man, to occupy his mind, to strengthen his body, and to develop his faculties. In mental and physical activity Adam found one of the highest pleasures of his holy existence. And when, as a result of his disobedience, he was driven from his beautiful home, and forced to struggle with a stubborn soil to gain his daily bread, that very labor, although widely different from his pleasant occupation in the garden, was a safeguard against temptation and a source of happiness. Those who regard work as a curse, attended though it be with weariness and pain, are cherishing an error. The rich often look down with contempt upon the working classes, but this is wholly at variance with God’s purpose in creating man. What are the possessions of even the most wealthy in comparison with the heritage given to the lordly Adam? Yet Adam was not to be idle. Our Creator, who understands what is for man’s happiness, appointed Adam his work. The true joy of life is found only by the working men and women.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 50.

1.b. What portion of a wise person’s labor belongs to him or to her? Ecclesiastes 3:13.

Monday

2 THE COMMAND TO WORK

2.a. What is an intrinsic part of the fourth commandment? Exodus 20:9.

Note: “The religion you profess makes it as much your duty to employ your time during the six working days as to attend church on the Sabbath. You are not diligent in business. You let hours, days, and even weeks pass without accomplishing anything. The very best sermon you could preach to the world would be to show a decided reformation in your life, and provide for your own family. Says the apostle: ‘If any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel’ (1 Timothy 5:8).” Testimonies, vol. 5, 179.

“Laziness and indolence are not the fruit borne upon the Christian tree.” Child Guidance, 124.

2.b. How do faithful stewards do their work? Colossians 3:23.

Note: “The path of toil appointed to the dwellers on earth may be hard and wearisome; but it is honored by the footprints of the Redeemer, and he is safe who follows in this sacred way. By precept and example, Christ has dignified useful labor. From His earliest years He lived a life of toil. The greater part of His earthly life was spent in patient work in the carpenter’s shop at Nazareth. In the garb of a common laborer the Lord of life trod the streets of the little town in which He lived, going to and returning from His humble toil; and ministering angels attended Him as He walked side by side with peasants and laborers, unrecognized and unhonored.” Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 276.

“You are not to neglect the duty that lies directly in your pathway, but you are to improve the little opportunities that open around you. You must go on doing your very best in the smaller works of life, taking up heartily and faithfully the work God’s providence has assigned you. However small, you should do it with all the thoroughness with which you would do a larger work. Your fidelity will be approved in the records of heaven.” The Signs of the Times, June 16, 1890.

Tuesday

3 THE FAMILY FIRM

3.a. When should training begin concerning God’s statutes and judgments? Deuteronomy 6:7.

Note: “The education of the child for good or for evil begins in its earliest years. The children should be taught that they are a part of the family firm. They should be trained to act their part in the home. They are not to be continually waited upon; rather, they should lighten the burdens of father and mother. As the older children grow up, they should help to care for the younger members of the family. The mother should not wear herself out by doing work that the children might do and should do.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 10, 206, 207.

3.b. When should parents teach their children the principles of work and the duties of life? Proverbs 22:6.

Note: “In the home school the children should be taught how to perform the practical duties of everyday life. While they are still young, the mother should give them some simple task to do each day. It will take longer for her to teach them how than it would to do it herself; but let her remember that she is to lay for their character building the foundation of helpfulness. Let her remember that the home is a school in which she is the head teacher. It is hers to teach her children how to perform the duties of the household quickly and skillfully. As early in life as possible they should be trained to share the burdens of the home. From childhood boys and girls should be taught to bear heavier and still heavier burdens, intelligently helping in the work of the family firm.” Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 122.

3.c. What is the inevitable outcome of idleness? Proverbs 19:15.

Note: “Where there is an abundance of idleness, Satan works with his temptations to spoil life and character.” The Youth’s Instructor, October 18, 1894.

Wednesday

4 IMPROPER REST

4.a. What is the counsel for those who do not fulfill the command to work on the six common days of the week and rest on the seventh day as given in the fourth commandment? 2 Thessalonians 3:10; Proverbs 6:9–11.

Note: “God has given men six days wherein to labor, and He requires that their own work be done in the six working days.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 307.

“The word of God declares that if a man will not work, neither shall he eat. The Lord does not require the hard-working man to support others in idleness. With many there is a waste of time, a lack of effort, which brings to poverty and want. If these faults are not corrected by those who indulge them, all that might be done in their behalf would be like putting treasure into a bag with holes.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 247.

“Those who are endeavoring to reform should be provided with employment. None who are able to labor should be taught to expect food and clothing and shelter free of cost. For their own sake, as well as for the sake of others, some way should be devised whereby they may return an equivalent for what they receive. Encourage every effort toward self-support. This will strengthen self-respect and a noble independence. And occupation of mind and body in useful work is essential as a safeguard against temptation.” The Ministry of Healing, 177.

“Indolent, careless habits indulged in secular work will be brought into the religious life and will unfit one to do any efficient service for God. Many who through diligent labor might have been a blessing to the world, have been ruined through idleness. Lack of employment and of steadfast purpose opens the door to a thousand temptations. Evil companions and vicious habits deprave mind and soul, and the result is ruin for this life and for the life to come.

“Whatever the line of work in which we engage, the word of God teaches us to be ‘not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord.’ ‘Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might,’ ‘knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance; for ye serve the Lord Christ’ (Romans 12:11; Ecclesiastes 9:10; Colossians 3:24).” Christ’s Object Lessons, 345, 346.

Thursday

5 “HIS REST” (Hebrews 4:1)

5.a. When did the Lord institute His rest day for humanity? Genesis 2:2; Hebrews 4:4, 5. How did the Lord confirm His original institution? Mark 2:27, 28.

 Note: “God Himself measured off the first week as a sample for successive weeks to the close of time. Like every other, it consisted of seven literal days. Six days were employed in the work of creation; upon the seventh, God rested, and He then blessed this day, and set it apart as a day of rest for man.” Christian Education, 190.

5.b. How do you prepare for what the Lord calls “My Sabbaths” or “My rest” (Exodus 31:13; Hebrews 4:5)? Mark 15:42; Luke 23:54, 56.

Note: “On Friday let the preparation for the Sabbath be completed. See that all the clothing is in readiness and that all the cooking is done. Let the boots be blacked and the baths be taken. It is possible to do this. If you make it a rule you can do it. The Sabbath is not to be given to the repairing of garments, to the cooking of food, to pleasure seeking, or to any other worldly employment. Before the setting of the sun let all secular work be laid aside and all secular papers be put out of sight. Parents, explain your work and its purpose to your children, and let them share in your preparation to keep the Sabbath according to the commandment.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 355, 356.

“Those who neglect to prepare for the Sabbath on the sixth day, and who cook food upon the Sabbath, violate the fourth commandment, and are transgressors of God’s law.” Spiritual Gift, vol. 3, 253, 254.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    What is the purpose of labor?

2    What is part of the fourth commandment?

3    When should we begin to appreciate labor?

4    What happens if we are not productive during the week?

5    Describe the nature of the Christian and his or her rest on God’s holy day.

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Bible Study Guides – Problems to Overcome Part 2

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July 18 – 24, 2021

Key Text

“He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful” (Matthew 13:22).

 Study Help: Counsels on Stewardship, 133–140.

Introduction

“All money lovers … will one day cry in bitter anguish: ‘Oh, the deceitfulness of riches! I have sold my soul for money.’ ” Testimonies, vol. 3, 544, 545.

Sunday

1 DECEPTION

1.a. How does Satan often pervert the heart and the mouth of people who take business advantages? Jeremiah 6:13; Acts 5:3, 4.

 1.b. How earnestly did King David struggle against deceit? Psalms 52:2, 3; 101:7; 120:2; Proverbs 30:8.

 1.c. As faithful stewards must often be in contact with deceitful people, what prayer should they send up to the throne of grace? Psalm 43:1, last part.

1.d. How does God often permit a deceitful person to be the victim of his or her own tricks? Psalm 7:14–16.

Monday

2 DISHONESTY

2.a. How is a dishonest person described? Proverbs 6:12, 13, 14, 16–19.

2.b. How does the Lord consider those who are dishonest in their financial transactions? Deuteronomy 27:17–19; Proverbs 11:1; 20:23.

Note: “The accounts of every business, the details of every transaction, pass the scrutiny of unseen auditors, agents of Him who never compromises with injustice, never overlooks evil, never palliates wrong. …

“Against every evildoer God’s law utters condemnation. He may disregard that voice, he may seek to drown its warning, but in vain. It follows him. It makes itself heard. It destroys his peace. If unheeded, it pursues him to the grave. It bears witness against him at the judgment. A quenchless fire, it consumes at last soul and body.” Education, 144, 145.

2.c. What will happen to gain that is acquired dishonestly? Proverbs 13:11; 15:27; 21:6.

Note: “This is a question that demands consideration by every parent, every teacher, every student—by every human being, young or old. No scheme of business or plan of life can be sound or complete that embraces only the brief years of this present life and makes no provision for the unending future. Let the youth be taught to take eternity into their reckoning. Let them be taught to choose the principles and seek the possessions that are enduring—to lay up for themselves that ‘treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth;’ to make to themselves friends ‘by means of the mammon of unrighteousness,’ that when it shall fail, these may receive them ‘into the eternal tabernacles’ (Luke 12:33; 16:9 RV).” Education, 145.

Tuesday

3 INJUSTICE

3.a. What is the command regarding partiality? Leviticus 19:15.

Note: “Do not show partiality to one or more, and neglect other of your brethren because they are not congenial to you. Beware lest you deal harshly with those who you think have made mistakes, while others, more guilty and more deserving of reproof, who should be severely rebuked for their unChristlike conduct, are sustained and treated as friends.” The Review and Herald, March 12, 1895.

3.b. What does the faithful steward relate to disadvantaged persons? Psalm 82:2–4.

Note: “God requires that His people should not allow the poor and afflicted to be oppressed. If they break every yoke and release the oppressed, and are unselfish and kindly considerate of the needy, then shall the blessings promised be theirs. If there are those in the church who would cause the blind to stumble, they should be brought to justice; for God has made us guardians of the blind, the afflicted, the widows, and the fatherless. The stumbling block referred to in the word of God does not mean a block of wood placed before the feet of the blind to cause him to stumble, but it means much more than this. It means any course that may be pursued to injure the influence of their blind brother, to work against his interest, or to hinder his prosperity.

“A brother who is blind and poor and diseased, and who is making every exertion to help himself that he may not be dependent, should be encouraged by his brethren in every way possible. But those who profess to be his brethren, who have the use of all their faculties, who are not dependent, but who so far forget their duty to the blind as to perplex and distress and hedge up his way, are doing a work which will require repentance and restoration before God will accept their prayers. And the church of God who have permitted their unfortunate brother to be wronged will be guilty of sin until they do all in their power to have the wrong righted.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 519, 520.

Wednesday

4 POOR COMPANY

4.a. While the Lord is our great Counselor, from whom may we seek counsel on this earth? Proverbs 13:20.

Note: “The only safe course for the youth is to mingle with the pure, the holy, and thus natural tendencies to evil will be held in check. By choosing for their companions such as fear the Lord, they will seldom be found disbelieving God’s word, entertaining doubts and infidelity. The power of a truly consistent example is very great for good.” In Heavenly Places, 172.

4.b. What is the benefit of not counselling with ungodly persons? Proverbs 14:7; 2 Thessalonians 3:6.

Note: “Let the youth choose the influence of, and become associated with, men and women of bad principles and practices, … and they are polluted. Silent and unconscious influences weave their sentiments into their lives, become a part of their very existence, and they walk on the very brink of a precipice and sense no danger. They learn to love the words of the smooth tongued, the honeyed words of the deceiver, and are restless, uneasy, and unhappy unless they are carried to the pinnacle of someone’s flattery. … To walk in the counsel of the ungodly is the first step toward standing in the place of sinners and sitting in the seat of the scornful.” In Heavenly Places, 172.

“It is wrong for Christians to associate with those whose morals are loose. An intimate, daily intercourse which occupies time without contributing in any degree to the strength of the intellect or morals is dangerous. If the moral atmosphere surrounding persons is not pure and sanctified, but is tainted with corruption, those who breathe this atmosphere will find that it operates almost insensibly upon the intellect and heart to poison and to ruin. It is dangerous to be conversant with those whose minds naturally take a low level. Gradually and imperceptibly those who are naturally conscientious and love purity will come to the same level and partake of and sympathize with the imbecility and moral barrenness with which they are so constantly brought in contact.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 125.

Thursday

5 THE FUTILITY OF ACQUIRING RICHES

5.a. How much of our earthly riches do we retain when we die? Psalm 49:16, 17; Ecclesiastes 5:13–15; 1 Timothy 6:7.

5.b. What can we take with us to the great judgment of humanity? Matthew 16:26; Proverbs 11:4.

 Note: “The redeemed will be welcomed to the home that Jesus is preparing for them. There their companions will not be the vile of earth, liars, idolaters, the impure, and unbelieving; but they will associate with those who have overcome Satan and through divine grace have formed perfect characters. Every sinful tendency, every imperfection, that afflicts them here has been removed by the blood of Christ, and the excellence and brightness of His glory, far exceeding the brightness of the sun, is imparted to them. And the moral beauty, the perfection of His character, shines through them, in worth far exceeding this outward splendor. They are without fault before the great white throne, sharing the dignity and the privileges of the angels.

“In view of the glorious inheritance that may be his, ‘what shall a man give in exchange for his soul’ (Matthew 16:26)? He may be poor, yet he possesses in himself a wealth and dignity that the world could never bestow. The soul redeemed and cleansed from sin, with all its noble powers dedicated to the service of God, is of surpassing worth; and there is joy in heaven in the presence of God and the holy angels over one soul redeemed, a joy that is expressed in songs of holy triumph.” Steps to Christ, 126.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    What are the results of a deceptive communication?

2    How does dishonesty affect the one who deceives?

3    How do faithful stewards treat others in their financial dealings?

4    Who is the faithful steward’s financial counselor?

5    What should remind us of the temporal nature of material wealth?

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Bible Study Guides – Problems to Overcome Part I

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July 11 – 17, 2021

Key Text

“For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work” (James 3:16).

Study Help: Testimonies, vol. 5, 242–248.

Introduction

“Whether we recognize it or not, we are stewards, supplied from God with talents and facilities, and placed in the world to do a work appointed by Him.” Education, 137.

Sunday

1 ENVY AND KINDRED SINS

1.a. What was the origin of pride, envy, and ambition for position—and their bitter results. Isaiah 14:12–15.

 Note: “It was pride and ambition that prompted Lucifer to complain of the government of God, and to seek the overthrow of the order which had been established in heaven. Since his fall it has been his object to infuse the same spirit of envy and discontent, the same ambition for position and honor, into the minds of men.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 403.

1.b. Describe a carnal mind—a candidate for the second death? 1 Corinthians 3:3; Romans 8:6, 7; James 3:14–16.

Note: “If you open your heart to envy and evil surmising, the Holy Spirit cannot abide with you. Seek for the fullness that is in Christ.” Testimonies, vol. 8, 191.

1.c. How does envy affect your personality and well-being? Job 5:2; Proverbs 14:30; 27:4.

Note: “The envious man diffuses poison wherever he goes, alienating friends and stirring up hatred and rebellion against God and man. He seeks to be thought best and greatest, not by putting forth heroic, self-denying efforts to reach the goal of excellence himself, but by standing where he is and diminishing the merit due to the efforts of others.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 56.

Monday

2 COVETOUSNESS

2.a. What do we learn about covetousness from the experience of Achan? Joshua 7:20–26.

Note: “The deadly sin that led to Achan’s ruin had its root in covetousness, of all sins one of the most common and the most lightly regarded. While other offenses meet with detection and punishment, how rarely does the violation of the tenth commandment so much as call forth censure. The enormity of this sin, and its terrible results, are the lessons of Achan’s history.

“Covetousness is an evil of gradual development. Achan had cherished greed of gain until it became a habit, binding him in fetters well-nigh impossible to break. While fostering this evil, he would have been filled with horror at the thought of bringing disaster upon Israel; but his perceptions were deadened by sin, and when temptation came, he fell an easy prey.

“Are not similar sins still committed, in the face of warnings as solemn and explicit? We are as directly forbidden to indulge covetousness as was Achan to appropriate the spoils of Jericho. God has declared it to be idolatry. We are warned, ‘Ye cannot serve God and mammon’ (Matthew 6:24). ‘Take heed, and beware of covetousness’ (Luke 12:15). ‘Let it not be once named among you’ (Ephesians 5:3). We have before us the fearful doom of Achan, of Judas, of Ananias and Sapphira. Back of all these we have that of Lucifer, the ‘son of the morning,’ who, coveting a higher state, forfeited forever the brightness and bliss of heaven. And yet, notwithstanding all these warnings, covetousness abounds.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 496, 497.

2.b. What should be our relationship with those who are controlled by the spirit of covetousness? Ephesians 5:5; 1 Corinthians 5:11.

2.c. What other sinners besides covetous persons will be kept out of the kingdom of God? 1 Corinthians 6:10.

Tuesday

3 GREED

3.a. As envy and covetousness take root in the heart, what follows? Job 5:2.

Note: “The Scriptures describe the condition of the world just before Christ’s second coming. James the apostle pictures the greed and oppression that will prevail. He says, ‘Go to now, ye rich men, … ye have heaped treasure together for the last days. Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabbaoth. Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton. Ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter. Ye have condemned and killed the just; and he doth not resist you’ (James 5:1–6). This is a picture of what exists today. By every species of oppression and extortion, men are piling up colossal fortunes, while the cries of starving humanity are coming up before God.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 170.

3.b. What often happens when wealth is selfishly retained by their greedy owners? Ecclesiastes 5:13, 14.

3.c. How do wicked people reveal what is in their heart and mind? Psalm 10:3.

Note: “Men in their blindness boast of wonderful progress and enlightenment; but to the eye of Omniscience are revealed the inward guilt and depravity. The heavenly watchers see the earth filled with violence and crime. Wealth is obtained by every species of robbery, not robbery of men only, but of God. Men are using His means to gratify their selfishness. Everything they can grasp is made to minister to their greed. Avarice and sensuality prevail. Men cherish the attributes of the first great deceiver. They have accepted him as God, and have become imbued with his spirit.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 14, 15.

Wednesday

4 PRIDE

4.a. The concept of pride is highly valued in this world. How does Scripture describe pride? Proverbs 16:5, 18.

4.b. What will the Lord do to the proud? Proverbs 15:25; Luke 18:14. Describe what the servant of the Lord was shown regarding the outcome of the proud.

Note: “I saw that God hates pride, and that all the proud, and all that do wickedly shall be stubble, and the day that cometh shall burn them up.” Testimonies, vol. 1, 132.

4.c. Rather than pride, what is seen in the life of the faithful steward? James 4:6.

Note: “All who study the life of Christ and practice His teaching will become like Christ. Their influence will be like His. They will reveal soundness of character. They are established in the faith, and will not be overcome by the devil because of vanity and pride. They seek to walk the humble path of obedience, doing the will of God. Their character exerts an influence that tells for the advancement of the cause of God and the healthful purity of His work. …

“In these thoroughly converted souls the world has a witness to the sanctifying power of truth upon the human character. Through them Christ makes known to the world His character and will. In the lives of God’s children is revealed the blessedness of serving the Lord, and the opposite is seen in those who do not keep His commandments. The line of demarcation is distinct. All who obey God’s commandments are kept by His mighty power amid the corrupting influence of the transgressors of His law. From the lowliest subject to the highest in positions of trust, they are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.” Evangelism, 315, 316.

Thursday

5 THE LOVE OF MONEY

5.a. What will the love of money bring you? 1 Timothy 6:10; Ecclesiastes 5:10.

Note: “The Bible condemns no man for being rich, if he has acquired his riches honestly. Not money, but the love of money, is the root of all evil. It is God who gives men power to get wealth; and in the hands of him who acts as God’s steward, using his means unselfishly, wealth is a blessing, both to its possessor and to the world. But many, absorbed in their interest in worldly treasures, become insensible to the claims of God and the needs of their fellow men. They regard their wealth as a means of glorifying themselves. They add house to house, and land to land; they fill their homes with luxuries, while all about them are human beings in misery and crime, in disease and death. Those who thus give their lives to self-serving are developing in themselves, not the attributes of God, but the attributes of the wicked one.” The Ministry of Healing, 212, 213.

5.b. What is the top priority in the life of every faithful steward? 1 Corinthians 2:2; Matthew 6:33; Luke 9:25.

Note: “When the sinner reaches the cross, and looks up to the One who died to save him, he may rejoice with fullness of joy; for his sins are pardoned. Kneeling at the cross, he has reached the highest place to which man can attain.” The Review and Herald, April 29, 1902.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    How will envy impact your stewardship?

2    What kind of association should you have with persons who do not follow the principles of faithful stewardship?

3    What is the result of living a greedy life?

4    What is the basis of your financial decisions?

5    Explain the danger of becoming preoccupied with material goods.

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Bible Study Guides – Qualities of Genuine Stewardship

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July 4 – 10, 2021

Key Text

“Thou art my portion, O Lord: I have said that I would keep Thy words” (Psalm 119:57).

Study Help: Child Guidance, 150–168.

Introduction

“All that we possess, our mental and physical powers, all the blessings of the present and the future life, are delivered to us stamped with the cross of Calvary.” The Review and Herald, December 14, 1886.

Sunday

1 CONTENTMENT

1.a. What should we realize about all of our earthly possessions? Job 1:21.

 Note: “All things belong to God. Men may ignore His claims. While He bountifully bestows His blessings upon them, they may use His gifts for their own selfish gratification; but they will be called to give an account for their stewardship.

“A steward identifies himself with his master. He accepts the responsibilities of a steward, and he must act in his master’s stead, doing as his master would do were he presiding. His master’s interests become his. The position of a steward is one of dignity because his master trusts him. If in any wise he acts selfishly and turns the advantages gained by trading with his lord’s goods to his own advantage, he has perverted the trust reposed in him.” Testimonies, vol. 9, 246.

1.b. How can we learn to be content with our earthly possessions? Psalm 37:16; Proverbs 15:16; 1 Timothy 6:8, 17–19.

Note: “We think of Jesus the Creator of all the worlds, and how He came into the world as a poor man. He had not where to lay His head. So poverty is no disgrace. Sin is a disgrace.” The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, 1514.

Monday

2 FAIRNESS

2.a. Since we should be content with our earthly possessions, how should we treat the earthly possessions of others? Deuteronomy 16:19, 20.

Note: “In the last great issue between Christ’s followers and the powers of darkness, Satan offers his bribes to men and women. Some sell themselves for naught; for what shall it profit a man, if he gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”  Manuscript Releases, vol. 19, 243.

“We must feel a special interest in looking upon the things of others—not to covet them, not to find fault with them, not to remark upon them and present them in a false light, but to do strict justice in all things to our brethren and all with whom we have any dealings.” That I May Know Him, 176.

2.b. What does God want us to realize about the evils of partiality? Deuteronomy 24:17; Romans 2:11.

Note: “No distinction on account of nationality, race, or caste, is recognized by God. He is the Maker of all mankind. All men are of one family by creation, and all are one through redemption. Christ came to demolish every wall of partition, to throw open every compartment of the temple courts, that every soul may have free access to God. His love is so broad, so deep, so full, that it penetrates everywhere. It lifts out of Satan’s influence those who have been deluded by his deceptions, and places them within reach of the throne of God, the throne encircled by the rainbow of promise. In Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek, bond nor free.” Prophets and Kings, 369, 370.

“The reason for all division, discord, and difference is found in separation from Christ. Christ is the center to which all should be attracted; for the nearer we approach the center, the closer we shall come together in feeling, in sympathy, in love, growing into the character and image of Jesus. With God there is no respect of persons. …

“The Son of the infinite God, the Lord of life and glory, descended in humiliation to the life of the lowliest, that no one might feel himself excluded from His presence. He made Himself accessible to all. He did not select a favored few with whom to associate and ignore all others.” That I May Know Him, 99.

Tuesday

3 HONESTY

3.a. What blessing is given to all who follow integrity in all their transactions? Proverbs 10:9.

3.b. What should link the actions, the words, and even the thoughts of the faithful steward? Proverbs 12:5, 17; 14:2.

Note: “By the terms of our stewardship we are placed under obligation, not only to God, but to man.” Education, 139.

3.c. How does the Lord consider those who are dishonest in business? Proverbs 16:11; 20:10.

Note: “It is neither the magnitude nor the seeming insignificance of a business transaction that makes it fair or unfair, honest or dishonest. By the least departure from rectitude we place ourselves on the enemy’s ground, and may go on, step by step, to any length of injustice. A large proportion of the Christian world divorce religion from their business.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 337.

“An honest man, according to Christ’s measurement, is one who will manifest unbending integrity. Deceitful weights and false balances, with which many seek to advance their interests in the world, are abomination in the sight of God. Yet many who profess to keep the commandments of God are dealing with false weights and false balances. When a man is indeed connected with God, and is keeping His law in truth, his life will reveal the fact; for all his actions will be in harmony with the teachings of Christ. He will not sell his honor for gain. His principles are built upon the sure foundation, and his conduct in worldly matters is a transcript of his principles. Firm integrity shines forth as gold amid the dross and rubbish of the world. Deceit, falsehood, and unfaithfulness may be glossed over and hidden from the eyes of man, but not from the eyes of God. The angels of God, who watch the development of character and weigh moral worth, record in the books of heaven these minor transactions which reveal character. If a workman in the daily vocations of life is unfaithful and slights his work, the world will not judge incorrectly if they estimate his standard in religion according to his standard in business.” Ibid., 310, 311.

Wednesday

4 HUMILITY

4.a. What is the reward for the humble, faithful steward? Psalm 37:11; Proverbs 22:4; Matthew 18:4.

Note: “Supreme love for God and unselfish love for one another, this is the best gift that the heavenly Father can bestow. Let all believers draw near to God and to one another, that God may draw near to them. No man is to be exalted as supreme. No man is to suppose that he is infallible because he has been enlightened by God and used by Him in bringing souls to the truth. Our endowments are valuable only as they are used as God’s entrusted talents to magnify the truth. The one through whom God works is never to exalt himself, never to seek to rule. As a wise steward, he is to do his work in sincerity and humility. He is to do God service by imparting what he has received, by speaking the truth in love in a clear, decided manner. Thus he is to enlighten others, remembering always that God only can impress the mind and purify the heart.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 21, 275.

4.b. Why is a humble spirit necessary? Proverbs 29:23.

Note: “Love, compassion, and tenderness are to be revealed amongst us. Put on, as the elect of God, mercy and kindness. The sins that were practiced before conversion are to be put off with the old man. With the new man, Christ Jesus, are to be put on ‘kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering’ (Colossians 3:12).

“Those who have risen with Christ to walk in newness of life are the elect of God. They are holy unto the Lord, and are acknowledged by Him as His beloved. As such, they are under solemn covenant to distinguish themselves by showing humility of mind. They are to clothe themselves in garments of righteousness. They are separate from the world, from its spirit, its practices, and they are to reveal that they are learning of Him who says, ‘I am meek and lowly in heart’ (Matthew 11:29). If they realize that they have died with Christ, if they keep their baptismal vow, the world will have no power to draw them aside to deny Christ. If they live the life of Christ in this world, they are partakers of the divine nature. Then, when Christ, who is our life, shall appear, they also will appear with Him in glory.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 19, 236, 237.

Thursday

5 OBEDIENCE

5.a. What characteristics were shown to John the Revelator when he saw the people of God in these last days? Revelation 14:12.

5.b. Identify some specific instructions concerning legitimate business principles? Deuteronomy 5:32, 33; 25:13–15; Luke 11:28.

Note: “There is no branch of legitimate business for which the Bible does not afford an essential preparation. Its principles of diligence, honesty, thrift, temperance, and purity are the secret of true success. These principles, as set forth in the book of Proverbs, constitute a treasury of practical wisdom. Where can the merchant, the artisan, the director of men in any department of business, find better maxims for himself or for his employees than are found in these words of the wise man [Proverbs 22:29; 14:23; 13:4; 23:21; 20:19; 17:27; 20:3; 4:14; 6:28; 13:20; 18:24 quoted]. …

“How many a man might have escaped financial failure and ruin by heeding the warnings, so often repeated and emphasized in the Scriptures. …

“These are principles with which are bound up the well-being of society, of both secular and religious associations. It is these principles that give security to property and life. For all that makes confidence and co-operation possible, the world is indebted to the law of God, as given in His word, and as still traced, in lines often obscure and well-nigh obliterated, in the hearts of men.” Education, 135–137.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    How can you be content with your earthly possessions?

2    How should you treat others in your financial transactions?

3    What blessings will you receive if you are honest in all your transactions?

4    How can humility be manifested in my life in practical ways?

5    Name some benefits pertaining to financial honesty.

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Bible Study Guides – The Steward

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Faithful Stewardship

June 27 – July 3, 2021

Key Text

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5, 6).

Study Help: The Ministry of Healing, 500–502.

Introduction

“That man might not lose the blessed results of benevolence, our Redeemer formed the plan of enlisting him as His co-worker.” The Review and Herald, August 25, 1874.

Sunday

1 COMMITMENT

1.a. What are the foundational principles of faithful stewardship? Luke 16:10, 11, 13.

Note: “If the word of God is cherished as an abiding principle in the heart, and held fast under all and every circumstance, man is brought, with his entrusted capabilities, under [subjection] to the Lord Jesus Christ. His undivided powers, even his thoughts, are brought into captivity to Christ. This is true sanctification. All the parts of the experience blend in complete harmony. He is ‘wanting in nothing.’ He does not keep part to himself, to do with just as he pleases.” In Heavenly Places, 190.

1.b. Explain what a primary priority of the faithful steward is and the chief asset sought. Matthew 6:33.

Note: “[Matthew 6:22 quoted.] Singleness of purpose, wholehearted devotion to God, is the condition pointed out by the Saviour’s words. Let the purpose be sincere and unwavering to discern the truth and to obey it at whatever cost, and you will receive divine enlightenment.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 91.

Monday

2 STEWARDSHIP

2.a. A steward manages another’s property. Name some important things of which we are stewards. Matthew 25:14–30.

 Note: “Those with whom God has entrusted His truth, must possess the same beneficent spirit that Christ manifested. They must adopt the same broad plans of action. They should have a kind, generous spirit toward the poor, and in a special sense feel that they are God’s stewards. They must hold all they have—property, mental powers, spiritual strength—as not their own, but only lent them to advance the cause of Christ in the earth. Like Christ, they should not shun the society of their fellow-men, but should seek it with the purpose of bestowing upon others the heavenly benefits they have received from God.” Gospel Workers, 335.

2.b. Where is wealth to be accumulated and why? Matthew 6:19–21.

Note: “God desires us to choose the heavenly in place of the earthly. He opens before us the possibilities of a heavenly investment. He would give encouragement to our loftiest aims, security to our choicest treasure. He declares, ‘I will make a man more precious than fine gold; even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir’ (Isaiah 13:12). When the riches that moth devours and rust corrupts shall be swept away, Christ’s followers can rejoice in their heavenly treasure, the riches that are imperishable.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 374.

2.c. How are we to handle the wealth entrusted to us by the Master? 1 Timothy 6:18, 19; Proverbs 19:17.

Note: “All should feel that they are not proprietors, but stewards, and that the time is coming when they must give an account for the use they have made of their Lord’s money. Means will be needed in the cause of God. With David they should say: ‘All things come of Thee, and of Thine own have we given Thee’ (1 Chronicles 29:14).” Testimonies, vol. 5, 382.

Tuesday

3 POSITIVE ATTITUDES

3.a. What should the faithful steward consider in the face of difficult times/uncertainty? Philippians 4:13; Romans 8:28.

3.b. What warnings come to faithful stewards with regard to our attitudes and motives? 1 John 2:15, 16.

Note: “Satan is constantly presenting inducements to God’s chosen people to attract their minds from the solemn work of preparation for the scenes just in the future. He is in every sense of the word a deceiver, a skillful charmer. He clothes his plans and snares with coverings of light borrowed from heaven. He tempted Eve to eat of the forbidden fruit by making her believe that she would be greatly advantaged thereby. Satan leads his agents to introduce various inventions and patent rights and other enterprises, that Sabbathkeeping Adventists who are in haste to be rich may fall into temptation, become ensnared, and pierce themselves through with many sorrows. He is wide awake, busily engaged in leading the world captive, and through the agency of worldlings he keeps up a continual pleasing excitement to draw the unwary who profess to believe the truth to unite with worldlings. The lust of the eye, the desire for excitement and pleasing entertainment, is a temptation and snare to God’s people. Satan has many finely woven, dangerous nets which are made to appear innocent, but with which he is skillfully preparing to infatuate God’s people. There are pleasing shows, entertainments, phrenological lectures, and an endless variety of enterprises constantly arising calculated to lead the people of God to love the world and the things that are in the world. Through this union with the world, faith becomes weakened, and means which should be invested in the cause of present truth are transferred to the enemy’s ranks. Through these different channels Satan is skillfully draining the purses of God’s people, and for it the displeasure of the Lord is upon them.” Testimonies, vol. 1, 550, 551.

Wednesday

4 TRUST

4.a. What is promised to those who trust in the Lord? Psalm 32:10; Proverbs 3:5, 6; Psalm 34:22.

Note: “The psalmist says, ‘Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed’ (Psalm 37:3). ‘Trust in the Lord.’ Each day has its burdens, its cares and perplexities; and when we meet how ready we are to talk of our difficulties and trials. So many borrowed troubles intrude, so many fears are indulged, such a weight of anxiety is expressed, that one might suppose we had no pitying, loving Saviour ready to hear all our requests and to be to us a present help in every time of need.” Steps to Christ, 121.

4.b. Name some of the lessons from nature that inspire trust in the Lord. Matthew 6:25–30.

Note: “Consider, says Jesus, how the lilies grow; how, springing from the cold, dark earth, or from the mud of the river bed, the plants unfold in loveliness and fragrance. Who would dream of the possibilities of beauty in the rough brown bulb of the lily? But when the life of God, hidden therein, unfolds at His call in the rain and the sunshine, men marvel at the vision of grace and loveliness. Even so will the life of God unfold in every human soul that will yield itself to the ministry of His grace, which, free as the rain and the sunshine, comes with its benediction to all. It is the word of God that creates the flowers, and the same word will produce in you the graces of His Spirit.

“God’s law is the law of love. He has surrounded you with beauty to teach you that you are not placed on earth merely to delve for self, to dig and build, to toil and spin, but to make life bright and joyous and beautiful with the love of Christ—like the flowers, to gladden other lives by the ministry of love.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 97.

Thursday

5 THANKFULNESS

5.a. What value is placed on people who appear to be lost? Luke 15:8, 9.

Note: “Forgetting our own difficulties and troubles, let us praise God for an opportunity to live for the glory of His name. Let the fresh blessings of each new day awaken praise in our hearts for these tokens of His loving care. When you open your eyes in the morning, thank God that He has kept you through the night. Thank Him for His peace in your heart. Morning, noon, and night, let gratitude as a sweet perfume ascend to heaven.” The Review and Herald, June 2, 1910.

“Have we not reason to talk of God’s goodness and to tell of His power? When friends are kind to us we esteem it a privilege to thank them for their kindness. How much more should we count it a joy to return thanks to the Friend who has given us every good and perfect gift. Then let us, in every church, cultivate thanksgiving to God. Let us educate our lips to praise God in the family circle.” My Life Today, 170.

5.b. For what should we give thanks? Psalms 119:14, 72, 127.

Note: “The glorious possibilities set before Israel could be realized only through obedience to God’s commandments. The same elevation of character, the same fulness of blessing—blessing on mind and soul and body, blessing on house and field, blessing for this life and for the life to come—is possible for us only through obedience.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 305.

Friday         

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    How can you demonstrate commitment to the cause of the gospel?

2    What is the job description of a faithful steward?

3    How does your attitude affect your financial decision-making?

4    What is necessary to put God totally in control of your finances?

5    What do you discover when you count your blessings?

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Recipe – Flaxseed Waffles

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Flaxseed

Flaxseed, also called linseed, has many medicinal properties and contains dietary fiber, antioxidants, omega 3 fatty acids (lignans), minerals, vitamin B Complex, magnesium, zinc, iron, potassium, manganese, thiamine, plant-based protein and folate.

Health benefits include:

  • Improved cardiovascular health
  • Improved immunity
  • Decreased menopausal and hormonal imbalance symptoms
  • Healthier skin and hair
  • Reduced sugar cravings and helps with weight loss

In addition, it can be used in the management of type 2 diabetes, asthma, and regulating blood pressure. It supports digestive health, lowers cholesterol, is an anti-inflammatory and may lower the risk of certain types of cancer. It is also gluten-free.

Flaxseed is best used in ground form since, when eaten whole, it is more likely to pass through the intestinal tract undigested, which means your body doesn’t get all the healthful components.

When used in cooking, flaxseed can be used as an egg substitute or thickener, sprinkled over oats, cereals, yogurt and in smoothies, added to cheese spread or mayonnaise in a sandwich or pressed to make linseed oil.

Recipe – Flaxseed Waffles

Ingredients

2 cups oats

½ cup cornmeal

½ cup cashew pieces

½ cup flaxseed

¼ cup cornstarch or arrowroot powder

½ tsp. salt

2+ cups water

1 Tbsp. apple or orange juice concentrate or 2 tsp. honey or agave syrup or 1 pitted date

Process

Place all in blender and blend until smooth—at least one minute. If necessary, add more water to achieve batter-like consistency.

Pour into hot waffle iron and bake until done.

Serve with your choice of topping.

Seek Righteousness and Be Satisfied

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It is a wonderful feeling to be satisfied. Unfortunately, in this world, many people never experience it. Many, having obtained riches, fame or pleasure, have confessed their lack of satisfaction.

In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus pronounced a blessing on those who are hungry and thirsty. This is the fourth step in the ladder of spiritual progression. He said, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled” (Matthew 5:6). To hunger and thirst after righteousness is the result of the spiritual experience of the first three beatitudes:

  • First the recognition of our spiritual poverty, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (verse 3).
  • This leads to heart sorrow for our spiritual condition because of our sins, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” (verse 4).
  • And that leads us to an experience of meekness or humbleness; the leanness and nakedness of soul causes a crying out after God and His righteousness, “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth” (verse 5).

Jesus said that the soul’s hunger for righteousness will be satisfied. A good appetite is a sign of life and health. If you have ever taken care of someone who is dying, it is very common that they will have no desire for food and will lose their appetite the last few days of their life. Only people who are alive hunger and thirst. A lack of appetite is generally a sign either of sickness or of failing health. Hunger and thirst grow less as life is diminished, but they increase as life increases.

When a person dies, hunger and thirst cease altogether, but a baby who is healthy, has an appetite that seems never to fail because it is growing. A good appetite is a great blessing because it is evidence that you have a normal, healthy body, and that makes life more worthwhile. Those who enjoy their meals have a much more satisfying life than those who eat just because they have to. Hunger and thirst are evidences of growth and development. No person can grow without a good, healthy appetite.

This is true not only in the physical realm, but also in the intellectual realm. It is only those who hunger and thirst for knowledge who continue to grow in wisdom and develop in intellectual power. We owe a great deal in our world today to those with an insatiable appetite for wisdom and knowledge. They have sought out and learned things, invented and discovered things that have changed our world. But many people, if not most, lose their mental appetite early in life, and then they no longer seek wisdom and knowledge; they just go through the motions of living. This is even true of many professional people – ministers, lawyers, teachers, physicians. There are many people who die mentally long before they die physically. This is a great tragedy, but we live in a tragic world.

Matthew 5:6 has a special reference to a person’s spiritual life and appetite. But here you have the very same principles that exist in the physical and intellectual worlds. Hunger and thirst are absolutely essential to spiritual life and growth. The person who has no appetite for spiritual things is spiritually dead and the person who has a poor spiritual appetite is spiritually sick. Only a normal, healthy Christian will have a ravenous appetite for the bread of life and the waters of salvation and will greatly enjoy his spiritual food and drink.

Unfortunately, most professed Christians today suffer from spiritual malnutrition, are spiritually weak and anemic, and it takes but little spiritual food to satisfy them. They are very particular, very picky, about what they eat, when they eat, and who feeds them. Many are kept alive only because they are being spoon-fed, for they do not have appetite and energy enough to feed themselves. This is a pathetic situation, especially when there is a great spiritual banquet spread for all, but this is not only a problem in our time. The apostle Paul addressed this very same situation when he wrote, “By this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil” (Hebrews 5:12–14).

The person who is spiritually proud feels no need. He already feels perfectly satisfied, and therefore, he has no appetite for spiritual things. This was true concerning the Pharisees in the time of Christ. They felt no need, and so they received no benefit from the bread and water of life that Jesus freely offered to anyone who hungered and thirsted for it. Before Jesus was born, Mary, His mother, spoke about this very thing. In Luke 1:53, she said, “He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich He has sent away empty.”

When Jesus told the Jews that He was the bread of life, and only those who would eat His flesh and drink His blood could have eternal life, many were offended. It says they “walked no more with Him” (John 6:66). It was for this reason that the very first blessing in the beatitudes is pronounced upon those who are poor in spirit. These people feel their need and mourn for their spiritual condition. They will become meek, and lowly and gentle, and as they hunger and thirst for something they don’t have, their need will be fulfilled.

We see the same spiritual condition of the Pharisees in Jesus’ time in the Christian church today. The church feels neither hunger nor thirst because it is not poor in spirit. Almost 2,000 years ago, Jesus predicted the condition of the Christian church in the last days, saying: “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit [spew] you out of My mouth. Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked” (Revelation 3:15–17). The church today does not recognize its spiritual poverty and does not mourn over its sins. It is not meek and humble, but rather proud and boastful of its spiritual wealth. It says it is rich and increased in goods and has need of nothing. Because of this, Jesus Christ, the Dispenser of the bread of life, is unable to feed the modern church; it is spiritually sick, has no appetite and does not realize her condition. Christ offers the church an abundance of food, but it feels well-filled and already satisfied.

The Lord describes His people in the last days as being naked and, at the same time, going about as if in a dress parade. The church has no divine covering for its sins, but through its religious rituals, it has provided for itself a garment. The Lord calls these garments filthy rags. “We are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags; we all fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. And there is no one who calls on Your name, who stirs himself up to take hold of You” (Isaiah 64:6, 7, first part).

The Laodicean church thinks it is clothed, although the Lord sees their clothing “as filthy rags.” Jesus says, “Come and buy from Me … white raiment that you may be truly clothed” (Revelation 3:18, literal translation). They must be awakened for He offers them the wedding garment, His robe of righteousness, that will prepare them for heaven.

When Adam and Eve sinned, they were ashamed, because the garment of light that had covered their nakedness had left them. They did not want to appear in front of the Lord naked, so they sewed garments of fig leaves together to clothe themselves. But the Lord did not accept those garments. He provided them with garments made possible only by the death of a symbolic lamb.

The Lord wants to do in a spiritual sense for the modern church as He did for our first parents in a physical sense. He wants us to realize our nakedness, and then He wants to provide us with His righteousness that will cover us so that the shame of our nakedness does not appear (see Revelation 16:15).

Of all human cravings, there are none more powerful than the physical cravings of hunger and thirst. Any person or animal who is hungry or thirsty will make every effort to obtain food and drink. Have you read stories of individuals who could not get food or water for a long period of time? I read of a survivor who said, “I cannot even think about it, even to the present day, without rushing out to the kitchen to get a drink of water. To think of that terrible thirst, was just like a fire inside of me.”

People who have become lost in the desert and have been without water for days, will see what they believe is water, but it is just a mirage. The water of life that Jesus offers is not a mirage. It is a well of living water (John 4:14). And this is our great need in the modern generation, a thirst for the water of life. We need a soul-hunger for the bread of life and thirst for the water of life. Those who hunger and thirst for these are promised that they will be satisfied.

If the modern church could be given a good spiritual appetite, she would not long remain in her present spiritual condition. The Bible records the story when Jesus spoke to the Samaritan woman at the well in Sychar: “Jesus answered and said to her, ‘If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, “Give me a drink,” you would have asked of Him, and He would have given you living water.’ The woman said to Him, ‘Sir, You have nothing to draw with, and the well is deep. Where then do You get that living water?’ … Jesus answered and said to her, ‘Whoever drinks of this water [physical water] will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life’ ” (John 4:10–14).

Jesus said to the Jews in John 6:35, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes on Me will never thirst.” But then He spoke the following mournful words in verse 36: “But I said to you that you have seen Me and yet do not believe.” Friend, do you want something you don’t have or are you like the millions of spiritually proud people of all ages who are perfectly satisfied just the way they are? Jesus said, “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out” (verse 37).

You see, complete satisfaction is promised only to those who hunger and thirst after righteousness. The Lord makes the following invitation: “Ho! Everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat. Yes, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully [diligently] to Me, and eat what is good, and let your soul delight itself in abundance. Incline your ear, and come to Me. Hear, and your soul shall live” (Isaiah 55:1–3, first part).

Complete satisfaction is still available; it’s still waiting in our modern, wretched, poverty-stricken, naked church as soon as we wake up and want something better than what we have. The blessing is pronounced on those who are hungry and thirsty, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they will be filled.” They will be completely satisfied.

If you feel perfectly satisfied right now, it’s time for you to pray and ask the Lord for a hunger and thirst for that which will bring perfect and lasting satisfaction, spiritually and intellectually; that which eventually will lead to eternal life. Jesus, standing and knocking at the door of the modern church, says to the lukewarm, self-satisfied church, Come, I have something for you. He says, “I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see” (Revelation 3:18).

How is it with your life? Jesus says, Obtain gold from Me. Spiritual gold is faith. If you have faith, Jesus said that you can obtain everything you need, everything is possible if you have faith. But also, if you have spiritual gold, you have wealth. Spiritual gold is spiritual wealth. Spiritual wealth is love, which is the bond of perfection (Colossians 3:14). So spiritual gold is faith and love.

We need the white raiment, which is the righteousness of Christ, the righteousness that we must have to enter into the kingdom of heaven; the righteousness that no human being can generate.

We will need eye salve, the spiritual anointing that gives a person the discernment to see the deceptions of Satan, so that he may see sin and hate it and turn from it and have the ability to see the truth and to obey it.

Only Jesus can satisfy the deepest spiritual need of your soul, and He will, if you’ll come to Him. Jesus says these are what you need and you won’t be poor any longer. “Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they will be filled.” Christ is our righteousness. He says, “If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink” (John 7:37 KJV).

(Unless appearing in quoted references or otherwise identified, Bible texts are from the New King James Version.)

Pastor John J. Grosboll is Director of Steps to Life and pastors the Prairie Meadows Church in Wichita, Kansas. He may be contacted by email at: historic@stepstolife.org, or by telephone at: 316-788-5559.

Health – Lung Function

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An important predictor of health and longevity

Lung Function—an important predictor of health and longevity

What is the most accurate predictor of lifespan? It turns out that the biggest clue to longevity is your lung function.

Lung capacity is defined as the maximum amount of air the lungs can hold, while lung function involves the speed with which you can inhale and exhale. Lung function also involves how efficiently your lungs oxygenate the blood, while at the same time removing carbon dioxide.

Both lung function and lung capacity can be measured by a spirometry test. Also known as a pulmonary function test, spirometry measures the lungs’ forced vital capacity (FVC), which involves lung size and exhalation capability, and the FEV1 (forced expiratory volume) which measures how much air can be exhaled in one second.

When lung capacity and function are limited, less oxygen enters the bloodstream, cells and tissues resulting in shortness of breath, reduced endurance and decreased cardiorespiratory fitness.

Because limited lung function causes the heart to work harder, this can lead over time to heart failure and heart attacks.  Other adverse effects include impaired metabolic and digestive functions, problems with cognition and memory, increased inflammation and heightened susceptibility to respiratory infections.

Study: Poor lung capacity can double your risk of premature death

In a 29-year study published in Chest, the peer-reviewed journal of the American College of Chest Physicians, researchers assessed the pulmonary function of 1,194 adults ranging in age from 20 to 89. After adjusting for factors such as age, body mass, blood pressure, education and smoking, the team found that lung capacity was strongly related to all-cause mortality in both men and women.

Men with the poorest lung capacity were a shocking 2.24 times more likely to die from any cause than those with the highest capacity, while women were 1.81 times more likely to die. Concluding that lung capacity and volume is a “strong and independent predictor of both all-cause and disease-specific mortality,” the researchers suggested that this could be used as an important tool for general health assessment.

By the way, this is not the only study linking lung capacity with lifespan. In an earlier investigation known as the Framingham study, researchers found that people with generous lung volume were healthier and lived longer than those with limited lung capacity.

Warning: Too many people experience poor lung health as early as age 30

As with so many other body functions, lung capacity declines with age. Lung tissue becomes less flexible, the diaphragm muscle becomes weaker, and the rib cage may contract, leaving less room for lungs to expand.

In fact, Dr. Adrian Draper, a respiratory consultant at Spire St. Anthony Hospital, reports that lung capacity at age 60 may be only two thirds of what it was at age 30. In addition, diseases such as COPD, asthma and pulmonary fibrosis (scarring) take a toll on lung capacity.

Conventionally speaking, lung function can’t be improved. However, the Lung Health Institute reports that lung capacity – the amount of air available to be used – can be. Increasing lung capacity can provide a wealth of health benefits, including better immune defense against disease, accelerated wound healing, sharpened focus and concentration, improved digestion and more efficient elimination of waste.

Simple lifestyle choices can improve lung capacity

If you still smoke, quitting is the single most important thing you can do to increase lung capacity. If you have tried to quit without success, don’t give up.

As excess fat can push on the chest and interfere with lung function, it can be helpful to shed pounds if you are overweight or obese. In addition, you can support healthy lung capacity by avoiding allergens, environmental toxins, secondhand smoke and dust. Bypass chemical air fresheners in favor of scenting your home with essential oils, and substitute organic cleaning products for harsh cleaners.

Breathing exercises and techniques including coordinated breathing, deep breathing and diaphragmatic breathing can also help restore lung capacity.

Vitamin D which is antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immune system-boosting can be a boon to pulmonary function. Studies reveal that people with COPD who accompany standard rehabilitation measures with increased vitamin D intake show improvement in their ability to exercise.

Regular physical exercise can be highly beneficial for improving lung capacity. Experts recommend interspersing low-intensity activities with high-intensity exercise for maximum benefit. However, before beginning any exercise routine, consult your integrative doctor to work out a program that is safe and effective for you.

Excerpts from www.naturalhealth365.com/lung-function-predicting-longevity-3550.html

Breathing Exercises for Lung Ailments

While there are many different types of breathing exercises, below are a few that may be useful for people with chronic lung diseases and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Pursed Lips Breathing

The pursed lips breathing exercise can be used to address shortness of breath by reducing how hard someone must work to breathe. It promotes relaxation. In addition, pursed lips breathing helps people learn how to control their breathing and can aid in the release of air trapped within the lungs. Pursed lips breathing can be especially useful during strenuous activities.

Relax your neck and shoulders.

Breathe in slowly through your nostrils while you count to two (keeping your mouth closed).

Pucker your lips.

Breathe out slowly and steadily through your mouth while you count to four.

You don’t have to take a deep breath to do pursed lips breathing. The key is to focus on breathing in and out slowly while you count. Pursed lips breathing can be practiced four to five times daily.

Coordinated Breathing

Episodes of shortness of breath can cause anxiety and make you hold your breath. The coordinated breathing exercise helps to prevent you from holding your breath. Coordinated breathing can help during exercise or when you feel anxious.

  • Inhale through your nose. (If you’re exercising, inhale through your nose before starting an exercise).
  • Purse your lips.
  • Exhale through pursed lips during the most challenging part of the exercise.
  • Repeat as needed.

Deep Breathing

When air becomes trapped in the lungs, you may feel increased shortness of breath. While it may seem strange, deep breathing exercises can help prevent air from getting trapped in your lungs. Deep breathing helps you breathe in more fresh air.

  • With your elbows back slightly, sit or stand in a comfortable position.
  • Slowly take a deep breath in.
  • Hold your breath as you count to ten.
  • Exhale slowly until you feel that you have released as much air as possible.

Deep breathing can be performed along with other breathing exercises and up to three to four times a day.

Belly Breathing or Diaphragmatic Breathing

Of the muscles used for normal breathing, the diaphragm is one of the most important. Belly breathing or diaphragmatic breathing helps retrain the diaphragm to work better, so you can breathe more efficiently. Lie on your back with your knees bent or resting on a pillow.

  • Place one hand on your upper chest and the other hand on your belly.
  • Inhale slowly through your nose.
  • As you inhale, focus on feeling the hand on your belly rise and the hand on your chest remaining as still as possible.
  • Exhale slowly through your mouth like you would in pursed lips breathing.
  • As you exhale, focus on feeling the hand on your belly go down first.
  • Repeat as you are able.

Ask your doctor or respiratory therapist to show you how to best perform this exercise and how often you should practice it.

Prevention is the best medicine, and working to keep your lungs healthy is much more efficient than trying to repair them after something goes wrong.

Excerpts from https://lunginstitute.com/blog/best-breathing-exercises-for-copd/

Question – Can I Overcome? How?

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Question: Can I Overcome? How?

Answer:

“Why do we not cling to Jesus, and draw from Him by faith the strength and perfection of His character … ? We are to look to Jesus, and climb up step by step in the work of overcoming … . Man is nothing without Christ. But if Christ lives in us, we shall work the works of God.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 17, 337.

“God has not left us to battle with evil in our own finite strength. Whatever may be our inherited or cultivated tendencies to wrong, we can overcome through the power that He is ready to impart.” Counsels on Health, 440.

“For every soul struggling to rise from a life of sin to a life of purity, … The only remedy for vice is the grace and power of Christ.” Ibid.

“Christ knew that man could not overcome without His help. … He came to bring man moral power, and He would not have man to understand that he has nothing to do, for every one has a work to do for himself, and through the merits of Jesus we can overcome sin and the devil.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 3, 108.

“Every man is free to choose what power he will have to rule over him. None have fallen so low, none are so vile, but that they can find deliverance in Christ. … Those who will consent to enter into covenant relation with the God of heaven are not left to the power of Satan or to the infirmity of their own nature.” The Desire of Ages, 258, 259.

“Now the question for us to decide is, Shall we have connection with Christ and the Father? Shall we accept the help needed?” Manuscript Releases, vol. 3, 109.

“The tempted one needs to understand the true force of the will. This is the governing power in the nature of man—the power of decision, of choice. Everything depends on the right action of the will. … Many will go down to ruin while hoping and desiring to overcome their evil propensities. They do not yield the will to God. They do not choose to serve Him.” The Ministry of Healing, 176.

“Through the right exercise of the will, an entire change may be made in your life. By yielding up your will to Christ, you ally yourself with the power that is above all principalities and powers. You will have strength from above to hold you steadfast, and thus through constant surrender to God you will be enabled to live the new life, even the life of faith.” Steps to Christ, 48.

Nature – The Giraffe

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The giraffe is the world’s tallest mammal. A bull giraffe usually stands about 18 feet tall. Giraffes live over 35 years. Their spots are specific to each individual giraffe, just like a zebra’s stripes or a human’s fingerprints. They are herbivores eating hundreds of pounds of leaves a week and traveling many miles to find enough food.

Giraffes have four stomachs, 230 feet of intestines, an 18-inch tongue and weigh on average 1,800 to 2,500 pounds (female and male respectively), and their lungs can hold 12 gallons of air (for perspective, human lungs hold 1.59 gallons). They can swim, but not very well and they can jump, but with those long legs, why? And speaking of those long legs, the front legs are about 10% longer than the back legs. They can run short, quick distances at 35 mph and sustained distances at 10 mph. Both walking and running, they use a pacing gait, with the legs on each side moving in unison. Giraffes travel in groups of 10–20 giraffes known as towers. They do not sleep for extended periods of time, rather only about 20 minutes, plus several two to three-minute “power naps” a day.

Giraffes have excellent eyesight and, because of their height, they can see a moving object from a mile away. They have no vocal cords, but do communicate using other sounds and gestures. They hum at night although we don’t know why.

Giraffes are known for their long necks and long legs. A giraffe’s heart can be 2 ½ feet long, a powerful pump needed to lift the blood vertically up its long neck against gravity to reach the brain. The heart itself weighs about 25 pounds and beats 150 times per minute. The heart pump is so powerful that when the giraffe bends over to drink, the pressure created because of gravity would be enough to burst the vessels in its brain, resulting in death. However, contained in the neck is a pressure-regulating system known as the rete mirabile (Italian meaning admirable network), made up of valves in the arteries and capillaries in the neck, which restricts the amount of blood that rushes towards the brain when the giraffe lowers its head. While preventing blood from rushing into the giraffe’s brain, it holds a small supply of blood underneath the brain in a “sponge” that gently expands, giving the giraffe more than enough blood to oxygenate its brain without damage while bending over to drink. These valves then reverse process when the giraffe raises its head. Working in this synchronized fashion, these valves keep the blood pressure stable regardless of the position of the neck and head.

The amazing design of this beautiful animal defies the belief that it is a result of evolution. Every part of this creation needs to work collectively at once or it could not survive. The giraffe is another example of creation by a Designer for it has exactly what it needs for its size and its environment.

“I will praise Thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are Thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well” (Psalms 139:14). Praise God, this beautiful creature is also “fearfully and wonderfully made” just as we were.

Adapted from material by Dr. Jobe Martin, D.M.D., TH.M.

Other sources: Wikipedia, livescience.com and africafreak.com