March 6, 2022 It’s Complicated // Week 4
“When they came to Marah, they could not drink the water of Marah because it was bitter; therefore it was named Marah. And the people grumbled against Moses, saying, “What shall we drink?” And he cried to the Lord, and the Lord showed him a tree, and he threw it into the water, and the water became sweet.” Exodus 15:23-25
Turning Bitterness into Sweetness
Critical People.
“To avoid criticism, do nothing, say nothing, be nothing.” - Aristotle
How to bring sweetness: Give Grace
When they hurled their insults at him [Jesus], he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. 1 Peter 2:23
Who I am matters more than what they think.
Often you do nothing.
Sometimes you respond carefully.
Occasionally you listen and make a change.
Hypocrites.
Outwardly you look like righteous people, but inwardly your hearts are filled with hypocrisy and lawlessness. Matt 23:28 NLT
If you think God needs you to fix everyone, Your God is too small!
How to bring sweetness: Give Honor
“Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.” 1 Peter 2:17
Controlling People.
Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. “Never, Lord!” he said. “This shall never happen to you!” Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.” Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. Matthew 16:21
How to bring sweetness: Give Gentle Correction.
…I could not address you as people who live by the Spirit but as people who are still worldly—mere infants in Christ. 1 Cor 3:1
…if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. Gal 6:1 NLT
Discussion Questions:
What are some toxic traits that have been normalized in society?
Can you remember a time when you were criticized?
How could you have given grace?
Do you find yourself trying to please people more than God?
How can you bring Honor into some toxic places in your life?
What can you do to be more gentle in correcting people?
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