Character Development

Fruit of the Spirit

Introduction

“So we continue to preach Christ to each person, using all wisdom to warn and to teach everyone, in order to bring each one into God’s presence as a mature person in Christ.” -Colossians 1:28

“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” – 2 Peter 3:18

“For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope-the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ” –Titus 2:11-13

Who is this program meant to reach? “Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.” – 1 John 2:6 We are all called to be “ambassadors for Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:20) and to live “…according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). Therefore, to do that we are all called to live a life that is pleasing to God by striving to be Christ-like.

What does a Christ-like character building program look like? “Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ.” –Ephesians 4:12 This is a program that is founded in Christian principles that train and equip us to live a life based on Christ’s teachings. There is no better example of the behavior of Christ than in the Fruit of the Spirit.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” –Galatians 5:22-23

This program will take a close look at each individual fruit by defining the character trait, finding the importance of each trait, determining what that looks like in our lives, and applying it to real life situations that we encounter on a daily basis. Teachers help students by: praying for students, living an authentic life with Christ-like character, and encouraging students to seek Christ for help with this change.

Why should we focus on character building? We are to “become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” – Ephesians 4:13. Christ –like character should be the goal of all Christian education. It is the essence behind spiritual growth. Jesus discusses in his Sermon on the Mount that eternal rewards in Heaven will be based on the character we have here on Earth. So the importance of teaching Christ-like character is great in that we need to not only teach this information to the students, but to also help create and inspire real life change.

Rick Warren states, “When we understand how God uses circumstances to develop character, we are able to respond correctly when God places us in character-building opportunities.” Character building begins in the classroom, but it is developed in real life situations. Providing a sound base and

demonstrating such character, will help teachers equip students to replicate the kind of behavior Christ has demonstrated and wants each of us to have.

We are all given a choice. Every day we encounter character-building situations where we can either give into our selfish tendencies or we can choose to display Christ-like behavior. It is in these choices that we are able to develop a strong character that is pleasing to God.

A more thorough study into this topic can be found in 2 Peter 1:5-11.

How do we go about doing this? First step is to acknowledge that we are unable to do this on our own. This is more than self-improvement; it is a commitment to real life change. A change that will require the help of God, not self, and a humble attitude that will allow the Holy Spirit to work in and through us. This will create a real change that takes us from practicing Christ-like behavior to actually living it with the right motivation and attitude. God has given us the Holy Spirit to live in us so that we are able to become who He has called us to be.

The second step is to establishing a sound program that depends on defining good character, determining how to acquire these traits, and establishing the purpose behind developing good character.

- Defining Good Character: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” –Hebrews 13:8 Good character is defined by God’s unchanging character. It does not change based on the ever changing society that we live in today. If the principals of the program are established in the Bible and based on the traits of Jesus, as opposed to society’s definition, we will instill in children a sound education that can be referred to by anyone and will always be the same.

- Acquiring Christ-like Traits: “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness” -2 Peter 1:3 Through the Holy Spirit, we are able to make a real change that happens from the inside out. This is not merely a self-improvement idea, but rather a commitment to make a permanent life change that will only come about through the help of God and the Holy Spirit.

- What is the purpose? “Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” -1 Corinthians 10:31What is the motivation behind the change? Are we doing it simply because it is a lesson at school or church? Are we doing it because we want to appear holy? Or are we authentic in our desire to become more like Christ? Are we doing this for the glory of God? Are we doing this to store treasures in Heaven? Are we doing this to please our Heavenly Father?

Once a sound program has been established, it will be taught to the teachers and then the teachers will reproduce the training in the classrooms. However, because this Christ-like character is a life change, these principles will become integrated into the daily life of the home. This can be done through incorporating this behavior into the house rules, referenced when dealing with discipline, and made visible throughout the home (actions of staff, handouts, posters, basis of all lessons).

Fruit of the Spirit

Love

Main Discussion Point: God loves us!

Bible Verse: For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life. –John 3:16

Bible Story: Luke 19:1-10 English Standard Version (ESV)

Jesus and Zacchaeus

19 He entered Jericho and was passing through. 2 And behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus. He was a chief tax collector and was rich.3 And he was seeking to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was small in stature. 4 So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was about to pass that way. 5 And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.” 6 So he hurried and came down and received him joyfully. 7 And when they saw it, they all grumbled, “He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner.” 8 And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold.” 9 And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Suggested Discussion Points:

- How is loved portrayed in this story?- How is this story relevant to what you experience today?- God calls us to love ALL people. It is easy to love the loveable, but what about the

unloveable or the people in need? Jesus did not pick and choose who He loved. He died for all of us.

- God challenges us to love others just as He loves us. What does that look like to you?

Fruit of the Spirit

Joy

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23

Bible Verse: “Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” – Nehemiah 8:10

Bible Concept: We do not find joy in possessions, activities or people; but rather in God’s goodness, protection, and love. We should be joyful in all circumstances.

Bible Story: Luke 15: 11-32 (NIV)

The Parable of the Lost Son

11 Jesus continued: “There was a man who had two sons. 12 The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them. 13 “Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. 14 After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. 16 He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything. 17 “When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! 18 I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ 20 So he got up and went to his father. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. 21 “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate. 25 “Meanwhile, the older son was in the field. When he came near the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 So he called one of the servants and asked him what was going on. 27 ‘Your brother has come,’ he replied, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.’ 28 “The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. 29 But he answered his father, ‘Look! All these years I’ve been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!’ 31 “‘My son,’ the father said, ‘you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. 32 But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’”

Suggested Discussion Points:

Why do you think the son wanted to leave home?Where did the son go to find joy?Did the son find joy where he went?How did the father feel when the son left? When he returned?

What brings you joy?Where is the best place to look for joy?

Key Points:

Jesus told a story about a son who wanted his share of the family property so he could go and live on his own. This son thought that he would be happier living away from home and doing his own thing. The Bible tells us that he went to a foreign country and spent his money on wild living. Eventually, when he ran out of money, he had to get a job feeding pigs. He ended up being so hungry that he wished he could eat the pig food. He began to think that living at home might not be so bad after all. At last, he did return home. He humbly apologized and said, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son” (Luke 15:21). His father welcomed him with hugs and kisses and had a big fest. Jesus told this story to illustrate how much God loves people and how readily He forgives those who confess their wrongdoing. The life lesson we can learn from this story is that as long as we go looking for joy and satisfaction anywhere other than God, we will never be satisfied.

We generally feel happy when things are going the way we want or when we are doing an enjoyable activity. When people say they are feeling happy they are often looking forward to having fun, or they have recently experienced something pleasurable. Joy and happiness are not the same. Happiness is a feeling, but joy is a way of thinking or looking at life. Happiness is an emotion or something we experience; joy is an attitude or a mindset we choose to have in all circumstances, good or bad, because we trust that God loves us and is always with us.

It is easier to choose joy when our attitude is influenced by our relationship with Jesus. The Bible teaches us that joy is found in the forgiveness of our sin, obeying God’s Word, being in God’s presence and in knowing that we will be with Him in heaven someday. All these things are possible because of Jesus (Romans 5:10-11). The world teaches us that happiness is found in having lots of money or possessions, in being well liked by others, in doing fun and exciting things, and enjoying good food and entertainment. The Bible teaches us that a belief in God changes the way we look at everyday situations, because it helps us understand what is truly important in life.

Fruit of the Spirit

Peace

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23

Bible Verse: “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” John 14:27

Bible Concept: True peace comes from God and is made possible through Christ.

Bible Story: Matthew 8:23-27

Jesus Calms the Storm

23 Then he got into the boat and his disciples followed him. 24 Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. 25 The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!” 26 He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. 27 The men were amazed and asked, “What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!”

Suggested Discussion Points:

How do you feel when there is a storm outside?How do you think you would feel if you were outside in the storm?What does it feel like when we are at peace?What would it look like if the world was at peace?

Key Points:

The world’s view of peace includes an end to war, to feel calm and relaxed, or to have no conflict with anyone. All people long for peace, whether it is to stop the fighting or to not have any worry. However, war is never going to end for ever no matter how hard we try. Taking a nap might help us feel more peaceful for a moment, but conflict will come back eventually. But as a Christian, we have God’s peace available to us. His is a peace that is greater than anything the world offers. His peace can calm the storms! If we abide in Christ, we can experience the perfect peace that comes only from God.

Philipians 4:4-7 “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

True peace goes beyond our understanding. So how are we supposed to find true peace? Through prayer! Romans 5:1 tells us: “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Our relationship with Christ Jesus is one of peace. Peace ultimately comes from God and is available to us through the Holy Spirit’s work inside of us.

We are also called to live in peace with others. Romans 12:18 states: “if possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” This could mean putting aside your own feelings and opinions for the sake of promoting peace. Are you a peace-maker?

We can experience the peace of God through the storms of life when we remember who He is, that He keeps His promises, He is in control over every part of our lives, and we have His Spirit within us who is producing the fruit of the peace. There is nothing that can ever compare to the perfect peace of God.

Fruit of the Spirit

Patience

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23

Bible Verse: “We pray that you will be strengthened with all His glorious power so that you may have great endurance and patience.” Colossians 1:11

Bible Concept:

Through God’s power, we can be patient

A wise person is patient

Christ is patient so more people can be saved; He is our example.

Bible Story: James 5:7-9 (NIV)

The Patient Farmer

7 Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. 8 You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. 9 Don’t grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door!

Suggested Discussion Points:

How long does it take for a crop to grow?

What would happen if the farmer tried to harvest the crop too early?

What would happen if the farmer got tired of waiting and ploughed the field before it had a chance to rain?

What kind of crop would God like to see growing in our lives?

What might prevent our lives from being frutful?

Key Points:

Colossians 1:11, “We pray that you will be strengthened with all His glorious power so that you may have great endurance and patience.” (NLT, NIV)

1 Timothy 1:16, “But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life.” (NIV)

2 Peter 3:15, “ Bear in mind that our Lord’s patience (in reference to His second coming, read in context) means salvation, just as our dear brother Paul also wrote you with the wisdom that God gave him.” (NIV)

Proverbs 19:11, “A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.”

Patience can be defined as going through something very hard without getting angry or complaining. What is the opposite of patience? (Impatience) When do you feel impatient? The Bible tells us that if we are saved, the Holy Spirit is living inside of us, and we can be patient people. This does not mean that we will be patient all the time, but as we come to know God more and more, we can change! Patience can become part of the kind of person we are. With the Spirit living inside of us, He gives us the power to be patient.

Proverbs 19:11 reminds us that a wise is patient. When someone wrongs them, they patiently forgive that person. Also, it is really tough to be patient sometimes, but Colossians 1:11 tells us that God’s glorious power gives us strength to be patient. Not only does God give us strength to be patient, but He also shows us how to be patient. Second Peter 3:15 explains that Jesus is patiently waiting to come back to earth so that all people will have a chance to know Him and be saved (in context). So, God is patient in a general way with all people, but also in a very specific way with each of us. In I Timothy 1:16 Paul says that he was shown mercy so that God’s perfect patience would be put on display. Paul, like all of us, did not deserve to be saved. He had offended God badly over and over again, but God was patient with him and still saved him.

When we are struggling to be patient with another person, we should remember God’s patience toward us. As sinners, we have offended God. So, God had every right to be angry with us, but instead He showed just how awesome His patience is by saving us! Think of how He could have punished you, but instead in His patience, he poured out His mercy and love. This s not just when we are saved either. Every day we still wrong God and He still is patient with us. May that truth sink deep into our herts and motivate us to be patient with others!

Fruit of the Spirit

Kindness

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23

Bible Verse: “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32

Bible Concept: If we are saved, the Holy Spirit is living inside of us, and we can be people who overflow with kindness!

Bible Story: Luke 5:17-26 (NIV)

Jesus Forgives and Heals a Paralyzed Man

17 One day Jesus was teaching, and Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there. They had come from every village of Galilee and from Judea and Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was with Jesus to heal the sick. 18 Some men came carrying a paralyzed man on a mat and tried to take him into the house to lay him before Jesus. 19 When they could not find a way to do this because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and lowered him on his mat through the tiles into the middle of the crowd, right in front of Jesus.20 When Jesus saw their faith, he said, “Friend, your sins are forgiven.” 21 The Pharisees and the teachers of the law began thinking to themselves, “Who is this fellow who speaks blasphemy? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” 22 Jesus knew what they were thinking and asked, “Why are you thinking these things in your hearts? 23 Which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’? 24 But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.” So he said to the paralyzed man, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” 25 Immediately he stood up in front of them, took what he had been lying on and went home praising God. 26 Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, “We have seen remarkable things today.”

Suggested Discussion Points:

Who brought the paralyzed man to see Jesus?

Have you ever done something kind for a friend?

Have you ever shared something with someone who needed it more than you?

Why did Jesus heal the paralyzed man? To bring praise to Himself or to honor God?

When you do kind things, who deserves the praise for your kindness?

Key Points:

Titus 3:3-5a- 3 At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4 But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy.

This verse helps us to discover one of the most important things about kindness-God is our example! He is a God of great kindness, and one of the main ways we see His kindness is through

His forgiveness. What picture can we draw to help us remember where kindness comes from? (Cross)

Ephesians 4:32- Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

This verse commands us to be kind! It tells us to be kind as God is kind to us through His forgiveness! What could we draw a picture of to help remind us to be kind to one another? (Hands for doing)

Proverbs 3:3- Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck,write them on the tablet of your heart.

We are supposed to bind kindness around our necks and write it on our hearts! This means kindness is supposed to be part of who we are! It is with us wherever we go. What can we draw to help us remember this verse? (Heart for being)

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.

We are not supposed to be kind just because we are commanded to, but we are to love kindness, to think of it with joy! We are to want to be kind! What could we draw to help us remember this verse? (Brain for knowing-having a cognitive desire for kindness)

What do we learn about kindness based on these verses? Kindness is what we do, what we say, and what we think. We are to be kind, to love kindness, and to learn kindness from our only perfect example, our God!

When we are struggling to be kind to another person, we should remember God’s great kindness toward us. God showed just how great His kindness is by saving us! In His kindness, He offers everyone here complete forgiveness! Every day we still sin against God, and He continues to be kind to us. Let’s show the kindness to others that God has shown to us! This is possible only if we abide in Him, if we get to know Him more and more through praying, learning His Word, and following Him.

Fruit of the Spirit

Goodness

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23

Bible Verse: “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9

Bible Concept: Goodness does not just mean being good, but doing good and pushing others to do good

Bible Story: Luke 10:25-37 (NIV)

The Parable of the Good Samaritan

25 On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 26 “What is written in the Law?” he replied. “How do you read it?” 27 He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’[a]; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ 28 “You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “Do this and you will live.” 29 But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” 30 In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. 31 A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. 32 So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. 34 He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. 35 The next day he took out two denarii[c] and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’ 36 “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” 37 The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”

Suggested Discussion Points:

How do you feel when you see someone else is hurt?

What do you do?

Why did the Levite or priest not stop to help the injured person?

Who did stop and why do you think they decided to help?

What would Jesus have done?

Can you think of a time when you might be tempted to avoid helping someone?

If a mean kid got hurt, would you laugh and think, “Serves him right!” or would you offer to help?

Can you think of anyone in your neighborhood who needs your help?

Key Points:

Psalm 25:7, “Remember not the sins of my youth or my transgressions; according to your steadfast love remember me, for the sake of your goodness, O Lord!”

God is good. It is a key part of who He is that we have to believe and cling to. We see His goodness displayed to us in many ways. What aspect of God’s goodness does this verse tell us about? (Forgiveness, forgetting our sins). God does not have to forgive us of the many sins we commit, but in His great love and goodness, He does.

Psalm 31:19, “Oh, how abundant is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you and worked for those who take refuge in you, in the sight of the children of mankind!”

Zechariah 9:16-17a, “On that day the Lord their God will save them, as the flock of his people; for like the jewels of a crown they shall shine on his land. For how great is his goodness, and how great his beauty!”

If we are believers, God has promised His goodness to us. This means that whatever happens in our lives, however horrible or bad it may seem, God ultimately intends it for our good. And because He is completely good, it is impossible for Him to do anything not good. When you see and go through terrible times, you have to learn to cling to this truth. Our God is good, all of the time, and the things we think are intended for our harm, He intends for our good.

Galatians 6:9, “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” And read Ephesians 2:10, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

God has created us to do good. Doing good may be difficult and challenging, but it is also rewarding. We grow more like Christ, we learn how to be compassionate and loving to the poor and needy. We experience the love of people we may have never talked to before.

Fruit of the Spirit

Gentleness

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23

Bible Verse: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:28-29

Bible Concept: God gently leads us, like a Shepherd with his sheep.

Bible Story: Acts 9:36-42

In the city of Joppa, there was a very special woman named Dorcas. Dorcas cared for people in many ways. She loved to help the poor. She had the gift of being able to sew, and so she made clothes for people who could not afford to make their own. People could not just go to a store and buy clothes back then. Only very rich people could buy clothes. And Dorcas had to sew by hand because there were no sewing machines. She worked very hard to ease some of the difficulties others had. Dorcas wanted to help others because she loved Jesus. When we love Jesus, we want to do nice things for others.

One day, Dorcas got very sick, and then she died. The people she had helped were very unhappy. After carrying her to an upstairs room, they called Peter, one of the people who had walked with Jesus when he was alive, and was now a leader in the church. Peter was preaching nearby, and some men went to

get him. Peter went with the men to the house where Dorcas lay. Some of the women who were there showed the garments Dorcas had made, and talked about how much they missed her. Peter told everyone to leave the room. Then he knelt beside the body of Dorcas and said Tabitha, rise (her name was Tabitha in Hebrew). Dorcas opened her eyes and sat up. Peter held out his and she took it and stood up. Peter then took Dorcas down to her friends. The people were very happy that Dorcas was alive again. They knew that the God who had healed Dorcas loved them too.

Suggested Discussion Points:

How did Dorcas show gentleness?

Who else in the story showed gentleness?

How can you show gentleness for others?

Key Points:

Hebrews 12:4-11 (NIV) 4 In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. 5 And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says,

“My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you,6 because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”[a]

7 Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? 8 If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. 9 Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! 10 They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. 11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

Psalm 23

A psalm of David.

1 The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,3 he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley,[a]

I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever

Isaiah 40:11 - He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.

The Bible compares Jesus to a shepherd. He leads gently and carries His lambs close to His heart. He guides us to “paths of righteousness”. This means that when we follow Jesus, He will lead us to do what is right.

Galatians 6:1, “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.”

As brothers and sisters in Christ, we are to correct and confront each other when we see sin. This verse shows us that we are to do it with a spirit of gentleness. Instead of saying “You are such a sinner! You are horrible”, we should say, “I have seen this sin in your life. It hurts me to see you in this sin because I care about you. God loves you and desires for you to repent.” Gentleness is not keeping your faith to yourself, but proclaiming the Gospel with gentle words, in a respectful way. Likewise, we should show respect for those who have authority over us and listen to what they have to say. If we are disobedient, we should ask for forgiveness.

We are challenged to show gentleness in our lives. We can do this by being obedient, showing manners, doing kind things for others, and caring for the sick. We can also refrain from getting into fights, rejecting violence to problems, and seeking to be the peacemaker.

Fruit of the Spirit

Faithfulness

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23

Bible Verse: “But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.” Psalm 86:15

Bible Concept: Our God is a faithful God!

Bible Story: Matthew 25:14 (NIV)

The Parable of the Bags of Gold

14 “Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them. 15 To one he gave five bags of gold, to another two bags, and to another one bag, [a] each according to his ability. Then he went on his journey. 16 The man who had received five bags of gold went at once and put his money to work and gained five bags more. 17 So also, the one with two bags of gold gained two more. 18 But the man who had received one bag went off, dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money. 19 “After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them. 20 The man who had received five bags of gold brought the other five. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with five bags of gold. See, I have gained five more.’ 21 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ 22 “The man with two bags of gold also came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with two bags of gold; see, I have gained two more.’ 23 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ 24 “Then the man who had received one bag of gold came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘I knew that you are a hard man, harvesting where you have not sown and gathering where you have not scattered seed. 25 So I was afraid and went out and hid your gold in the ground. See, here is what belongs to you.’ 26 “His master replied, ‘You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed? 27 Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest. 28 “‘So take the bag of gold from him and give it to the one who has ten bags. 29 For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. 30 And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’

Suggested Discussion Points:

Why was the master happy with the first two servants?

Why was he unhappy with the third servant?

How can we be faithful servants to God?

What talents has God given you?

How can you use your talents to honor God?

Key Points:

Psalm 100:5, “For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.” (ESV)

Psalm 89:1, “I will sing of the steadfast love of the LORD, forever; with my mouth I will make known your faithfulness to all generations.” (ESV)

We know that God’s faithfulness is to all generations, but what does this verse tell us to do? As God’s people, we should be using our mouths to tell everyone about who God is, about His faithfulness!

1 Samuel 12:24, “Only fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things he has done for you.” (ESV)

The Bible tells us in many, many verses to be faithful to our God. One of the main ways the Fruit of faithfulness is displayed in our lives as believers is by our faithfulness to Him. So how do we show faithfulness to God? (Worshipping Him, obeying His Word, knowing His Word, praying to Him, etc.)

Psalm 37:3, “Trust in the LORD, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness.” (ESV)

So the Bible tells us that faithfulness is part of who we are as we abide in Christ. What does this verse tell us about faithfulness? What do you think it means to “befriend” faithfulness? When you make a new friend, you have to spend time and energy making the friendship grow. You have to cultivate a friendship, like you would grow a plant. We are to cultivate faithfulness within ourselves. This means intentionally being faithful to your family, your friends, and to our God. This also means praying for faithfulness to overflow in your heart, studying faithfulness in Scripture, and getting to know our faithful God who is our only perfect example of faithfulness!

Fruit of the Spirit

Self-Control

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23

Bible Verse: “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.” Proverbs 25:28

Bible Concept:

Bible Story: Luke 4:1-13

The Devil Tempts Jesus

4 Now Jesus, full of [and in perfect communication with] the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness 2 for forty days, being tempted by the devil. And He ate nothing during those days, and when they ended, He was hungry. 3 Then the devil said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, command this stone to turn into bread.” 4 Jesus replied to him, “It is written and forever remains written, ‘MAN SHALL NOT LIVE BY BREAD ALONE.’” 5 Then he led Jesus up [to a high mountain] and

displayed before Him all the kingdoms of the inhabited earth [and their magnificence] in the twinkling of an eye. 6 And the devil said to Him, “I will give You all this realm and its glory [its power, its renown]; because it has been handed over to me, and I give it to whomever I wish. 7 Therefore if You worship before me, it will all be Yours.” 8 Jesus replied to him, “It is written and forever remains written, ‘YOU SHALL WORSHIP THE LORD YOUR GOD AND SERVE ONLY HIM.’” 9 Then he led Jesus to Jerusalem and had Him stand on the pinnacle (highest point) of the temple, and said [mockingly] to Him, “If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down from here; 10 for it is written and forever remains written,‘HE WILL COMMAND HIS ANGELS CONCERNING YOU TO GUARD and PROTECT YOU,’ 11 and,‘THEY WILL LIFT YOU UP ON their HANDS, SO THAT YOU DO NOT STRIKE YOUR FOOT AGAINST A STONE.’”12 Jesus replied to him, “It is said [in Scripture], ‘YOU SHALL NOT TEMPT THE LORD YOUR GOD [to prove Himself to you].’” 13 When the devil had finished every temptation, he [temporarily] left Him until a more opportune time.

Suggested Discussion Points:

Tell me about a time when you were really, really hungry.

How badly do you want to eat when you are just starving?

Can you imagine how hungry Jesus must have been after not eating for 40 days?

If you had not eaten for 40 days and you had the power to turn stone into bread, would you?

Jesus had all the power in the world and Satan tempted him to show it off, but Jesus didn’t. How

did Jesus resist temptation?

How can we use Scripture to help us maintain self-control?

Key Points:

Satan tempted Jesus for forty days with food, power and the opportunity to use His power to honor Himself instead of God. When Jesus was tempted, He used Bible verses to stand up against Satan. The Bible tells us that Jesus was filled with the Holy Spirit which helped Jesus display self-control.

Self-control is being in charge of your feelings, actions, and thoughts. So, basically, having self-control is making yourself do something that is not easy or doing something you really do not want to do. It is showing kindness to someone who has just hurt your feelings. It is obeying your mom right away when she asks you to do something. It is waiting for something patiently even when you want it really bad because you know something greater will happen. As a person who never sinned, Jesus practiced self-control perfectly! Just like with every other Fruit of the Spirit, He is our model. A lot of times self-control goes beyond just making ourselves do what is right and good. It also involves fighting against a desire or temptation to sin.

When we have no self-control, we are like a city with no walls. This means we have no protection against temptation. When it comes to us, like an enemy, it overpowers us, and we give in to all types of sin, like anger, disobedience, meanness, selfishness, unkindness, and many, many more! We are not able to say “No!” to temptation like Jesus, but always say “Yes.” Our lives become a mess of sin and chaos. We have no peace, just like this city that is a pile of rubble after enemies have constantly invaded and destroyed it.

References:

http://rickwarren.org/devotional/english/develop-the-character-of-christ

http://trainbibleteachers.com/teach-character.htm

http://ministry-to-children.com/peace-bible-lesson/

http://www.kidsofintegrity.com/lessons/patience/bible-stories

http://ministry-to-children.com/patience-bible-lesson-for-children-fruit-of-the-spirit/

http://ministry-to-children.com/kindness-bible-lesson-fruit-of-the-spirit/

http://ministry-to-children.com/goodness-bible-lesson-fruit-of-the-spirit/

http://www.kidsofintegrity.com/lessons/kindness/bible-stories

http://ministry-to-children.com/gentleness-bible-lesson-fruit-of-the-spirit/

http://www.kidsofintegrity.com/lessons/gentleness/bible-stories

http://www.charactercincinnati.org/Faith/Qualities/Gentleness/charactermaterialforchildren.htm

http://www.kidsofintegrity.com/lessons/faithfulness/bible-stories

http://ministry-to-children.com/faithfulness-bible-lesson-fruit-of-the-spirit/

http://www.kidsofintegrity.com/lessons/self-control/bible-stories

http://ministry-to-children.com/self-control-bible-lesson-fruit-of-the-spirit/