Living Out Faith: Love, Respect, and Generosity

Devotional

Day 1: Respecting Authority as a Spiritual Discipline

Respecting our parents is foundational to honoring all forms of authority. This principle extends to our government, workplace, and church. Submission to authority, though challenging, is a vital part of our spiritual growth and obedience to God. When we honor earthly authorities, we are ultimately honoring God, who has placed these authorities in our lives. This respect is not about blind obedience but about recognizing the order and structure God has established for our well-being and growth.

In our daily lives, this means showing respect to our parents, obeying laws, and honoring our leaders at work and in the church. It also means submitting to God's authority in all areas of our lives. This can be difficult, especially when we disagree with those in authority or when they fail us. However, our submission is ultimately to God, and He calls us to trust Him even in these challenging situations. [30:36]

Romans 13:1-2 (ESV): "Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment."

Reflection: Think of a specific authority figure in your life whom you find difficult to respect. How can you show them honor and respect this week as an act of obedience to God?

Day 2: Cultivating a Heart of Life-Giving

Jesus calls us to go beyond the physical act of not murdering to addressing the anger and contempt in our hearts. We are called to be life-givers, valuing every person as made in the image of God, and to use our words and actions to build others up. This means that our interactions should reflect the love and grace of Jesus, even when we are hurt or angry.

Anger and contempt can be destructive forces in our lives and relationships. They can lead to bitterness, broken relationships, and even physical harm. Jesus teaches us to deal with these emotions at their root, seeking reconciliation and peace. By doing so, we become agents of life and healing in a world that desperately needs it. [42:33]

Ephesians 4:31-32 (ESV): "Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you."

Reflection: Is there someone you are harboring anger or contempt towards? How can you take a step towards reconciliation and being a life-giver in that relationship today?

Day 3: Seeing Others with Respect and Purity

The commandment against adultery includes lustful thoughts, urging us to treat others with respect and not as objects for our gratification. We are called to be ruthless in eliminating lust from our lives and to see others as eternally valuable. This means guarding our hearts and minds against impure thoughts and actions and treating others with the dignity they deserve as God's creation.

Lust devalues people and reduces them to mere objects for our pleasure. It distorts our relationships and leads to a host of other sins. Jesus calls us to a higher standard, one that honors the intrinsic worth of every person. By doing so, we reflect His love and purity in our interactions. [45:48]

1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 (ESV): "For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God."

Reflection: Are there areas in your life where you struggle with lustful thoughts or actions? What practical steps can you take to guard your heart and mind and treat others with respect and purity?

Day 4: Embracing Generosity and Trusting God's Provision

Stealing reflects a lack of trust in God's provision. We are called to be givers, not takers, trusting that God will meet our needs. Generosity reflects our faith in God's sufficiency and His ability to provide for us. When we give, we acknowledge that everything we have comes from God and that He is more than able to supply all our needs.

Generosity is not just about giving money but also about giving our time, talents, and resources to bless others. It is a reflection of God's generous nature and a way to show His love to the world. By being givers, we demonstrate our trust in God's provision and our commitment to His kingdom. [49:09]

2 Corinthians 9:6-8 (ESV): "The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work."

Reflection: In what ways can you practice generosity this week? How can you trust God more fully to provide for your needs as you give to others?

Day 5: Cultivating Contentment and Rejoicing in Others' Blessings

Coveting leads to envy and discontent. Instead, we are called to rejoice in the blessings of others, recognizing that God has chosen to bless them in particular ways. This attitude fosters a spirit of gratitude and contentment in our own lives. When we focus on what others have, we miss out on the unique blessings God has given us.

Contentment is a choice to trust in God's goodness and provision. It is about being grateful for what we have and celebrating the successes and blessings of others. By doing so, we free ourselves from the destructive cycle of envy and embrace a life of joy and gratitude. [54:32]

Hebrews 13:5 (ESV): "Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'"

Reflection: Is there someone whose blessings you find yourself envying? How can you intentionally rejoice in their blessings and cultivate contentment in your own life today?

Sermon Summary

### Summary

Today, we explored the second part of the Ten Commandments, focusing on how we are called to live out our faith in our horizontal relationships with others. We began by reflecting on the transformative power of the gospel and how it calls us to live not just by avoiding sin but by embodying the love and grace of Jesus Christ. Jesus summarized the commandments into two: loving God and loving our neighbor. This morning, we delved into the latter, examining how the commandments guide us in our interactions with others.

We discussed the importance of honoring earthly authorities, starting with our parents, as a foundational principle for respecting all forms of authority. This respect extends to our government, workplace, and even within the church. We acknowledged that submission to authority can be challenging, but it is a vital part of our spiritual growth and obedience to God.

Next, we examined the commandment "Do not murder," emphasizing that Jesus calls us to go beyond the physical act to address the anger and contempt in our hearts. We are called to be life-givers, valuing every person as made in the image of God. Similarly, the commandment against adultery was expanded to include lustful thoughts, urging us to treat others with respect and not as objects for our gratification.

We then moved on to the commandments against stealing, lying, and coveting. These commandments remind us to be givers, not takers, to speak truth in love, and to rejoice in the blessings of others rather than envying them. Each of these principles challenges us to live out our faith authentically and generously, reflecting the character of Christ in our daily lives.

In conclusion, the Ten Commandments are not just a list of prohibitions but a call to a transformed life through the power of the Holy Spirit. They invite us to evaluate our hearts and live in a way that honors God and loves others well. If you find yourself struggling with any of these commandments, remember that Jesus offers grace and the power to change. Let us seek His help and walk in His ways, knowing that His grace is sufficient for us.

###

Key Takeaways

1. Givers**: Jesus calls us to go beyond the physical act of not murdering to addressing the anger and contempt in our hearts. We are called to be life-givers, valuing every person as made in the image of God, and to use our words and actions to build others up. [42:33]
3. Treating People with Respect: The commandment against adultery includes lustful thoughts, urging us to treat others with respect and not as objects for our gratification. We are called to be ruthless in eliminating lust from our lives and to see others as eternally valuable.

4. Being Givers, Not Takers: Stealing reflects a lack of trust in God's provision. We are called to be givers, not takers, trusting that God will meet our needs. Generosity reflects our faith in God's sufficiency and His ability to provide for us.

5. Rejoicing in Others' Blessings: Coveting leads to envy and discontent. Instead, we are called to rejoice in the blessings of others, recognizing that God has chosen to bless them in particular ways. This attitude fosters a spirit of gratitude and contentment in our own lives.

### [42:33]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[21:31] - Introduction and Context
[22:18] - Transformed by the Gospel
[23:31] - Loving God and Loving Neighbor
[24:25] - Expanded Obedience
[25:53] - The Rich Young Ruler
[27:28] - The Ten Commandments
[29:10] - Honor Your Father and Mother
[30:36] - Honoring Earthly Authorities
[32:18] - Submission to Government
[34:14] - Submission in Work and School
[36:00] - Submission in the Church
[39:29] - The Challenge of Pastoral Ministry
[41:03] - Do Not Murder
[42:33] - Anger and Contempt
[44:24] - Do Not Commit Adultery
[45:48] - Treating People with Respect
[47:33] - Be a Giver, Not a Taker
[49:09] - Trusting God's Provision
[50:53] - Be a Truth Speaker
[52:50] - Desire Good for Others
[54:32] - Rejoicing in Others' Blessings
[55:57] - Evaluating Our Hearts
[57:40] - Invitation and Prayer

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What are the specific commandments listed in Exodus 20:12-17 that guide our interactions with others?
According to Matthew 22:36-40, how did Jesus summarize the commandments?
In Romans 13:1-2, what is the reason given for submitting to governing authorities? [32:18]
How does the sermon describe the deeper meaning behind the commandment "Do not murder"? [24:25]

Interpretation Questions

Why is honoring our parents considered foundational for respecting all forms of authority? How does this principle extend to other areas of life such as government and workplace? [30:36]
How does Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:21-22 expand the understanding of the commandment "Do not murder"? What does it mean to address the anger and contempt in our hearts? [42:33]
What does it mean to be a "life-giver" according to the sermon, and how can this principle be applied in our daily interactions? [42:33]
How does the sermon explain the connection between coveting and a lack of trust in God's provision? What are the implications of this for our spiritual growth? [49:09]

Application Questions

Reflect on your relationship with your parents. How can you better honor them, and how might this practice help you respect other forms of authority in your life? [30:36]
Think of a recent situation where you felt anger or contempt towards someone. How can you address these feelings in a way that aligns with Jesus' teaching on being a life-giver? [42:33]
In what ways can you be more mindful of treating others with respect and not as objects for your gratification? What steps can you take to eliminate lustful thoughts from your life? [45:48]
Identify a specific area where you have been more of a taker than a giver. How can you shift your mindset and actions to reflect generosity and trust in God's provision? [49:09]
Recall a time when you felt envious of someone else's blessings. How can you cultivate a spirit of gratitude and contentment in your own life, rejoicing in the blessings of others? [54:32]
How can you practice speaking truth in love in your interactions this week? Think of a specific person you need to have an honest conversation with and plan how you will approach it. [52:50]
Reflect on the sermon’s message about submission to authority. What is one practical step you can take to better submit to the authorities in your life, whether at home, work, or church? [32:18]

Sermon Clips

### Quotes for Outreach

1. "Rather it is that we have been so transformed and we're in this process of sanctification by the power of the Holy Spirit, how then must we live? How is God calling us to live as followers of Jesus Christ? Not thou shalt not, but who have you called us to be? Because the blood of Jesus Christ has cleansed us from all sin and unrighteousness." (29 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "I'm convinced for my life and for our church that Jesus is not looking at the external facade, but he's looking at our heart and our motives behind the actions. What does it mean to be transformed by the gospel of Jesus Christ that we would love him and that we would love others in such a way?" (21 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "Stealing simply says this above all else, I don't trust God to meet my needs. Isn't that what it says? I don't trust God to meet my needs, and we take what is not ours. Whether it's taking something from the office that's not ours, taking something from a friend that's not ours, taking time on the clock that's not ours, whatever it is, taking what's not ours because we don't believe our God's sufficient to meet our needs." (35 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "The 10 commandments are not a fine line to be walked of what can we get away with not breaking the law, but rather how can we live by the spirit? Because listen to me, it is only through the power of the spirit that we are going to live rightly before God. And we're still going to get things wrong, but at least then we can respond to repentance and know that we can get up and follow Jesus Christ because his grace. And his mercy are new each morning." (27 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "There's hope in the savior, Jesus Christ, who died on the cross. He died on the cross for my sin because he knew I couldn't keep the 10 commandments. And so he bore all my sin and all my shame so that I could be forgiven in right relationship with God the Father, and then empowered by the spirit to live and love the world that is around me." (35 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

### Quotes for Members

1. "And yet, I think what we as followers of Jesus are really called to do is to understand that we've been transformed by the gospel of Jesus Christ. We have the spirit, the seal of our salvation. The salvation living in us. And rather than how close to the line that can we get to not do the bad things, right? Rather it is that we have been so transformed and we're in this process of sanctification by the power of the Holy Spirit, how then must we live? How is God calling us to live as followers of Jesus Christ? Not thou shalt not, but who have you called us to be? Because the blood of Jesus Christ has cleansed us from all sin and unrighteousness." (29 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "I'm convinced for my life and for our church that Jesus is not looking at the external facade, but he's looking at our heart and our motives behind the actions. What does it mean to be transformed by the gospel of Jesus Christ that we would love him and that we would love others in such a way? And so the primary text that we have is simply, very quickly, the last of the Ten Commandments. And it says this, and you probably know these. Honor your father and your mother so that you may have long life in the land that the Lord your God is giving you." (21 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "When we look at this turning point, he moves on from honoring your father and mother and not submitting to authorities to this next line, which says, do not murder. And we think it's so easy, like do not murder. This is an easy one. Check. I'm not a murderer. Yet in Matthew 5, verses 21 and 22, Jesus turns to the disciples and to the crowd that is around him, and he says, you've heard it said, do not murder. Yet I'm going to say, if you have anger in your heart, that you have committed murder." (35 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "Stealing simply says this above all else, I don't trust God to meet my needs. Isn't that what it says? I don't trust God to meet my needs, and we take what is not ours. Whether it's taking something from the office that's not ours, taking something from a friend that's not ours, taking time on the clock that's not ours, whatever it is, taking what's not ours because we don't believe our God's sufficient to meet our needs. That's stealing in a nutshell. But God calls us to be different. The world is full of takers that will take and take and take and take and take as much as you will give, and yet God has called us to live differently. He's called us to be givers and not takers." (35 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "The 10 commandments are not a fine line to be walked of what can we get away with not breaking the law, but rather how can we live by the spirit? Because listen to me, it is only through the power of the spirit that we are going to live rightly before God. And we're still going to get things wrong, but at least then we can respond to repentance and know that we can get up and follow Jesus Christ because his grace. And his mercy are new each morning. We're able to walk in it. When we read the 10 commandments, it's an opportunity for us as followers of Jesus to simply evaluate our hearts." (27 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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