The Mid-Week Update!!!

Lesson Recap

 This week we transitioned from our lessons on 'character' to our new study on 'decisions'.  We discussed what goes into making a decision, and the difference between conscious and subconscious decisions. We looked at the process of making a decision, which involves thought (mind), weighing consequences (heart and mind), and action (heart).

What do the following verses tell us about making decisions?

Thoughts:

Pr 14:15

1 Chr 28:9

Mind:

Rm 8:7

Rm 12:2

Rm 14:13

Heart:

Ex 25:2

2 Cor 9:7

Ex 35:21

1 Ki 3:9

Pr 10:8

Pr 16:23

Pr 23:19

Pr 27:19

1 Tim 3:1

Looking at these verses we see a lot goes into decisions we make!

We started our new unit with some biblical context regarding the death of King Solomon, and the transition of power to his son Rehoboam.  His poor decision ended up dividing the kingdom into two nations. He was approached by an assembly of Israelite leaders led by Jeroboam.  They pleaded with Rehoboam to lighten the harsh policies of Solomon.  On bad advice from his young counselors, Rehoboam refused.  The result of this was a rebellion, and the division of the kingdom into two nations.  Jeroboam became king in the Norther Kingdom.  To unify these tribes he built calf -shrines on the northern and soutern boundries.  For his idolatry, God judged Jeroboam, declaring his family would be eliminated from Israel.  In 1 Kings 14:21-31 we find a description of the 17 year reign of Rehoboam in the Southern Kingdom.  He continued the policy of Baal worship in the land.  He was forced to surrender treasures from the temple to the invading king of Egypt.  He also was involved in numerous skirmishes with Jeroboam and the Northern Kingdom.

Anatomy of a Grave Decision -1 Kings 12:3-24

Take Time, When Possible 3-5

Thinks of a time you made a hasty decision  What might have changed hod you taken time to make the decision? In Rehoboam's case, the people wanted an immediate decision, but the King asked them to give him some time.  His example shows a good decision.

Seek Advice 6-8

King Rehoboam asked the people to leave him alone so that he could seek advice. Who do you usually turn to when you face a tough choice?  Rehoboam turned to both elders from Solomon's reign and to young men he grew up with.  What qualities should we seek in those we consult for advice?

Weigh Effects With Great Care 16-21

King Rehoboam refused to heed wise counsel.   This resulted in stricter policies, which caused people to rebel.  It resulted in the stoning of one of his officers, and his own humiliation in a near death experience.  All of Israel was affected by his decision.  How can we avoid making decisions that might harm other people or hinder God's work?  Let God's Word be your guide.  You might no find detailed responses, but God's character is consistent.  By following the guiding principles in Scripture, we can reach the right decision.

Listen to God 22-24

After the people in the Northern Kingdom rebelled against Rehoboam, they chose Jeroboam as king.  Rehoboam attempted to reclaim the nothern tribes.  He responded by listening to God's warning through the prophet, Shemaiaih.

So.  How do we apply good decision-making  principles?

• Take your time.  Avoid snap decisions when possible.
• Seek Godly advice.  Evaluate the pros and cons.
• Make time to listen to God.

SPOT Super Sunday

 

...was just that!  All who came had a great time of fellowship, game-watching...and laughing at commercials!  Many thanks to the LaRowe's for hosting the party. 

Big CHILLi Dinner

The envelope for donations and the sign-up sheet will remain in the SPOT folder up until the week before we have to serve our youth!  On Saturday, March 19th we will then cook and serve a chili dinner at the Big Chill!  What a great way to minister to our kids!

Trivia Night

...is Saturday, March 5th.  Sign up as an individual or as a table and join the fun!  We will also be providing a basket for the silent auction.  What type of basket you ask?  We will have a sheet in the upcoming SPOT folder with some of the choices for you to vote on!  Keep your eyes peeled!  Remember that all proceed go towards our youth mission trips.

Prayer Requests

• Continued prayers for Zenobia.
• Susan's great aunt passed away last week.