June 7 – 13, 2008

HUMILITY IS SURRENDER TO GOD’S WORD

In this lesson, you will learn the definition of “humility.” Jesus is our example of submission to God, and God’s Word is His will.

I. The definition of “humility” according to James 4:6-7.

A. James 4:6 – “But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: ‘God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.’” God’s grace is His help, His favor, His strength, His ability; all that He has given to us freely, not on the basis of our achievements or accomplishments but on the basis of His nature, which is love. 

B. James 4:7 – “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”

II. Jesus is our example of humility and surrender to God – Philippians 2:5-11.

A. “[Jesus] made Himself of no reputation taking the form of a bondservant…He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.

III. God’s Word is His will.

A. John 17:17 – “Sanctify them by Your truth, Your word is truth.”

B. Matthew 4:4 – “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.”

C. You need to know God’s Word so you can know His will. When you know God’s Word, you have the basis for the revelation of His will in your life. The Word of God is a compass for your life; it tells you the right way to go.

IV. The goal of doing the Word of God.

A. When things happen to you, contrary from God’s will, it is because of lack of knowledge of the Word of God or violation of the Word.

B. This is the goal of doing the Word of God. 1 Timothy 1:5 – “Now the purpose of the commandment is love from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from sincere faith.”

V. Surrender to the will of God.

A. Read the words of Jesus on surrendering to the will of God.

1. John 5:19,30, 8:28, 12:49.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

• Share an example of God’s grace (help, favor, strength, and ability) in your life.
• When did you learn that God’s Word is His will?
• How has the Word of God been a compass in your life?

BE A DOER OF THE WORD

This week make it your goal to get into the Bible, the Word of God, on a regular basis.

SCRIPTURE MEMORY VERSE: James 4:6-7 – “But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: ‘God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.’ Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”