July 19, 2014
This week’s study is based on,
‘Lust’
How would you explain in a sentence or two what lust is? Share and discuss your answer with your group.
A. The Source of Lust.
Lust comes from ‘The World’, ‘Our Flesh’ and ‘The Devil’.
Read and discuss what the following passages say:
· 1John 2:15-16.
· James 1:14-15.
· Mark 7:20-23.
· Matthew 5:27-28.
B. Let’s have a look of the story of David and Bathsheba.
Read 2nd Samuel 11:1-12:14.
In the episode with Bathsheba, David allowed himself to fall deeper and deeper into sin. Let’s see the downhill progression as he allowed sin to control him.
· David abandoned his purpose by staying home from war. 11:1.
· He focused on his own desires. 11:2.
· When temptation came, he looked into it instead of turning away from it. 11:3.
· He sinned deliberately. 11:4.
· He tried to cover up his sin by deceiving others.11:6-15.
· He committed murder to continue the cover-up. 11:15,17.
· Eventually David’s sin was exposed 12:9 and punished.12:10-14.
· The consequences of David’s sin were far-reaching, affecting many others. 11:17, 12:11, 14:15.
David could have chosen to stop and turn from evil at any stage along the way. But once sin get’s started, it is difficult to stop. The deeper the mess, the less we want to admit having caused it. It’s much easier to stop sliding down a hill when you are near the top than when you are half way down. The best solution is to stop sin before it starts.
What lessons have you learned/been reminded of as you looked at this man’s fall and the consequences when he lusted after another man’s wife? Discuss with each other in your group.
C. Here is some practical advice about dealing with sexual desires. (taken from Danny’s message)
1. Desire is an alarm.
Like a parking sensor. Action needs to be taken to avoid a collision.
2. Recognize you are vulnerable.
Everyone who breathes is vulnerable. Never think you’re invincible!
Read Galatians 6:1b, 1st Corinthians 10:12.
3. Watch your input.
Tv, dvd, internet, radio, other people, etc. You can become who you spend the most time with. Read Romans 12:1-2.
Pornography is a high issue among in our western culture. 80% of Christian men struggle with it to varying degrees.
4. Dress thoughtfully.
Girls, for our sake and our thoughts, please help us!
5. Think consequences.
We cannot sow to our sinful nature thinking we will get away with it! Galatians 6:7.
You might think it is not harmful, but it will cost you your life as you know it now, your marriage/family, reputation, job, children, what others say of you behind your back etc. Enjoying sex outside of marriage, could even forfeit you when you meet that perfect 10/10 dedicated Christian you have been waiting and praying for.
6. Satisfy each other in marriage.
Read Proverbs 5:15-20. See also the responsibilities of husbands and wives to meet each other’s needs. 1st Corinthians 7:3-5.
7. Tell someone else.
Accountability is paramount. Proverbs 27:17.
8. Run away.
Whatever you do please do ‘A Joseph’ and run. Genesis 39:9-12.
9. Rely on God’s Spirit.
Live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. Galatians 5:16.
Give everything to God. Psalm 37:5.