Preview: An in-depth study of the fruits of the spirit. This is the tenth lesson in a thirteen-part series on this subject.
Scripture Reading: I Samuel 17:17-37.
Memory Verse: II Chronicles 20:15.
1. Discuss David’s source of faith and courage from the foregoing Scriptures.
2. What was David’s testimony of God’s unlimited power and faithfulness? I Samuel 17:40-47.
3. Why could David not fight with Saul’s armor and weapons? I Samuel 17:38-39.
Note: David could only use the weapon that he was skilled in from daily experience, coupled with his faith in God’s promises. Many times we fail in our witnessing to others because we have not practiced daily with our only spiritual weapon; the sword of the spirit, which is the Word of God. Read Ephesians 6:16-17.
4. How was David rewarded for his faith in God? I Samuel 17:48-58.
5. What will God give to all who put their trust in Him? Proverbs 3:1-10, Proverbs 3:24-26, Ephesians 3:14-21.
Note: As a young shepherd boy David had recognized God’s hand in his victory over the bear and lion. He had spent many hours trusting and meditating on God’s promises. His mustard seed of faith had grown into a mighty faith that gave him the victory over Goliath. We also can have victory over the giants in our lives if we will fully trust the battle to the Lord and be faithful in obedience to Him.
6. What is required of a Christian soldier? II Timothy 2:1-7, I Corinthians 16:13-14.
7. What are the Christian soldier’s armor and weapons? Ephesians 6:10-18.
Note: A careful study of this armor reveals that each piece represents Jesus Christ. He is man’s only hope of salvation and eternal victory. He is the only doorway to God. Read John 10:7-9.
8. When did God make this provision for man’s redemption? John 3:16, Revelation 13:8, I Peter 1:18-20.
9. Was Jesus Christ in the creation of the world? Discuss. 1:1-14, John 8:58, Colossians 1:15-18.
Note: Jesus did not come into existence as a baby in a manger. He was the Creator of all things under the direction of God the Father. Before the foundation of the world was laid, Christ was God’s Lamb slain for man’s redemption. Even though the fulfillment took place thousands of years later, when God made the promise, it was as good as done. Read Romans 4:16-17.
10. How can we hinder God’s blessings by our lack of faith? Matthew 13:53-58.
Note: Without faith in God through Jesus Christ man has no hope of salvation.
To Be Continued…
Other Lessons* in this series:
The Fruit of the Spirit - A Tree Planted By the Rivers of Water: Part 1 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Love: Part 2 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Joy: Part 3 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Peace: Part 4 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Long-suffering: Part 5 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Gentleness: Part 6 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Goodness: Part 7 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Faith: Part 8 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Faith: Part 9 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Faith: Part 10 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Meekness: Part 11 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Temperance: Part 12 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit in Review: Part 13 of 13
*Lessons in a series may not necessarily be in the same category.