New Hope Podcast

Merry Christmas! Enjoy some Q & A with Pastor Mike and Daved!

Homework: Read the Christmas Story.

Other ideas for Traditions to make this Christmas more meaningful:

1. The nativity–don’t just set it up, read the story. Maybe move it around the house.

2. Find movies that are fun, sentimental, but they also remind you of the why.

a. A Christmas Carol

b. Even Elf or Christmas Vacation

3. Shut off all the entertainment and play games

4. Give Jesus the first gift

5. Fast a meal!

6. Use decorations that remind you of the life of Christ (more than family, connect toJesus)

7. Share stories about God’s Work

Homework: Read Chapter 12!

1. Our best growth happens on the battlefield

2. Just because no one has done it does not mean it can't be done. Think outside the box.

3. Take responsibility for my own sin and mistakes.

4. Take the High Road - don't let how others treated you diminish your future.

5. Godly loyalty is a great thing.

6. Be a Worshipper.

Lessons from David:

1. You will be criticized… His brothers criticized him…you’ve got to learn how to deal with it. 

2. Boundaries are ok.

3. Give honor without excusing sin.

4. Don’t give in to pressure for revenge.

5. You need a community.

6. Process with God.

The Ideal Test: Is this in harmony with God's Word?

The Integrity Test: Would I want everyone to know about this decision I'm making?

The Improvement Test: Will this make me a better person?

The Independence Test: Could this begin to control and dominate my life?

The Influence Test: Will this harm other people?

The Investment Test: Is this the best use of my time?

10 Second rule: Just do the next thing you're reasonably certain Jesus wants you to do. (And do it immediately before you change your mind!)

8 Questions For Godly Decisions:

1. Is there sin in my life?

2. is it in agreement with scripture?

3. Is there a sense of peace?

4. What do 2-3 authorities on the subject say?

5. What do 2-3 mature Christians say?

6. Is there a pattern of preperation?

7. Is there provision?

8. (If Marrie) Does my spouse agree?

Homework: Read Ruth!

Homework: Figure out where you are on this list and focus in on it this week.

1. Be ruthless about maintaining your relationship with God.
2. Regularly ask God if you’re rebelling against Him.
3. Ask God to let you get caught before it gets worse.
4. Ask God to deliver you if you’re stuck.