Introductory Thoughts
The Bible clearly teaches that no believer is sinless. As such, each believer experiences times when he is rebuked of the Lord. It is a natural part of the Christian life. At the same time, there will be circumstances which will bring about rebuke from other believers (Ecclesiastes 7:5). These are healthy elements of Christian growth. Yet, the goal of every believer should be one where he lives a life beyond rebuke. Paul’s desire for the Philippian believers was that they “may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation” (Philippians 2:15). He then admonished Timothy to keep God’s commandment “without spot” and “unrebukeable” (1 Timothy 6:14).
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): If someone points out to us that we could do better in some areas of our lives, we should be grateful to him or her. The Lord wants us to live so others will know that we love and serve Him (Matthew 5:16). Read what He says about those who dont receive rebuke (Proverbs 10:17b; Proverbs 12:1b).
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(For everyone): How should we respond when rebuked by the Lord? How should we respond when rebuked by someone who loves the Lord and has wisdom?
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What are some measures we could take to insure that we are without rebuke? How could 1 Corinthians 11:31 assist us in this endeavor?
Prayer Thoughts
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Thank the Lord for those who love you enough to rebuke you.
- Ask the Lord to help you receive rebuke in a godly manner.
Song
AFFLICTIONS, THOUGH THEY SEEM SEVERE
