From the Inside Out
A Grace Filled Life
Grace to live a godly life (1|3)
Pages 97-103
1 Peter 3:9 (NIV) Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.
Galatians 5:22-26 The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking, and envying each other.
Why do you think many people still respond to Jesus’ teachings by trying harder instead of surrendering to grace? What changes when we finally admit we can’t save ourselves?
When have you experienced coming to “the end of yourself”, realizing your own efforts weren’t enough, and how did that experience deepen your understanding of grace?
How can understanding the Holy Spirit’s role bring hope and perseverance in that struggle?
In what areas of your life have you seen the Holy Spirit help you say “no” to sin and “yes” to godliness? How does that strengthen your confidence in God’s transforming power?