Function Over Fashion

glancing or gazing…?

• We dishonor God by action or neglect.
• David (2 Samuel 11:2-3) chose to take Bathsheba’s beauty and curiously commit to something ugly.
• We all have a choice to either gaze or glance.

Every turn is an opportunity to honor or dishonor God?

Honestly, which do we do most often?

Gather your group’s input and explain your answer?

“People don’t need friendly churches, people need friends.” – Rick Warren

· For decades, church leaders have struggled to program the church.

· What was key to you being here today…? (building/friend/pastor/family)

What did you need more?

a. Church membership?

b. A relationship with God?

How did your group fare? (a or b)

Playgrounds and Playmates…

• Children require constant attention.
• Parents often have to steer their children away from dangerous places/influences.

How were those around you influenced this week past?

What kept your focus this week – the important or the urgent?

Give a group consensus!

How can my glances remain innocent?

How will I steer clear of dangerous places/people this coming week?

How will I focus on the important and not be distracted by the urgent?

How's your fruit inspection today...?

Fruit Inspection Time – Worship / Service / Character

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. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

Galatians 5:22-26

How is my [God-ward] Fruit?

The first three have to do with God and my life -- Worship

Love – Is God’s unmerited care real in my life?

Joy – Do I have assurance of God’s care through any circumstance?

Peace – In my life, do I have the peace that only comes from God?

How is my [man-ward] Fruit?

The second three have to do with others and my life -- Service

Patience – Do I bravely endure or do I quit often?

Kindness – Is there a level of kindness in me that is “above the norm”?

Goodness – From this kindness, is “love in action” a reality in my life?

How is my [self-ward] Fruit?

The final three have to do with me and my life -- Character

Faithfulness – Which am I… “Mr. Dependable” or “Mrs. Flaky”?

Gentleness – How do I use power and authority over others?

Self-control – Can you depend upon yourself not to blow up?