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FIRE FIGHTERS: Division and Discord


Icebreaker:
What is the nicest thing someone has ever done for you?
What is the nicest thing you have ever done for someone?

Overview:
I saw a billboard on a church that read: “Do for one person what you wish you could do for everyone.” I may not be able to give everyone a gift or shower everyone with love, but I can do it for one person. The Apostle Paul instructed Titus that we should be ready for “every good work” and “show perfect courtesy toward all people.” Division and discord are breaking out all around us trying to snuff out the fire of the Spirit! To keep the blaze of the Holy Spirit burning, we need to treat others with the goodness and loving kindness of God, even if we start small.

Discussion:
Read Titus 3:1-11.

Causes of division and discord:

Quetta’s testimony:  
A few years ago, I suffered a fractured relationship with another person in our church because of an action they took in which they felt justified. I felt justified as well and overreacted. Consequently, I lost joy and peace in my relationship with the Lord. During a revival many weeks later, I fell on my knees at the altar praying for peace and joy to return and asking God what to do. When I stood and turned, the person was standing facing me and I heard a soft, sweet voice in my ear whisper, “This is your problem.” Our relationship was restored and so was my peace and joy. He will always answer, but we must be quiet and listen.

What causes division and discord?
How can words be used to hurt? Heal?
What has happened to gentleness and courtesy?
How can our past damage our future relationships?

How to keep the fire burning:


Pastor Tommy’s testimony:
After Hurricane Frances in Florida, we had to move out of our home and move into a tiny apartment since we had removed all the carpeting in our house. My mom’s home had been destroyed by the hurricane. While cleaning out her home, I found in a random place a picture of my dad holding me. In the picture, I am 6 or 7 years old and dressed in cowboy pajamas! As I drove away from our home, I felt the peace that passes all understanding. I keep that picture in my office.

How does the Holy Spirit guide us?
What is our part in healing broken relationships?
How can we show love and care for others?
What good works are you inspired to do?

“That there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another.” 1 Corinthians 12:25 ESV.
Prayer:
Pray for gentleness, kindness and caring attitude.

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