discipleship | 1.5 page studies
Fruits of Obedience

Say: "Last time we looked at all the things that can happen as we live life on our own terms apart from God according to the Bible.  This week we want to look at the benefits and advantages of living life as God desires." 

Say: "Let's read these passages together.  As we do, think about all the reasons and benefits to us as we live a righteous life and do things God's way." 

Suggestion: Feel free to brainstorm other practical areas stimulated by these passages as to why we should live a right life.

As you read each passage, one at a time, make a list.  Once again, have different people in your group read different passages and discuss.  Discuss one passage at a time.  For visibility and emphasis, write down the feedback on a chalkboard, large pad of paper on an easel or a regular sheet of paper using a thick marker.

*The text of each passage is at the end of this lesson for easy reference as you print of this lesson.  Below the scripture references are other ideas to bring up in case they were not mentioned.

  • Proverbs 14:30,  16:20-21,  18:12,  19:16
  • Philippians 4:6-7
  • Galatians 4:16, 22-24
  • Ephesians 1:18-20
  • Galatians 6:9
  • 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
  • Colossians 2:6-7,  3:12-17
  • 1 Timothy 2:1-2,  4:8,  6:6

Ask: "Out of all the benefits to being righteous and doing the right things, which one's are most important to you?"  Ask as a follow-up question: "How will this change your life?"  "What changes do you want to make to your life?"

Scripture References

Proverbs 14:30,  16:20-21,  18:12,  19:16

29  A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly.
30  A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.

20  Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD.
21  The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction.

12  Before his downfall a man's heart is proud, but humility comes before honor.

16  He who obeys instructions guards his life, but he who is contemptuous of his ways will die.

Philippians 4:6-7

6  Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
7  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Galatians 5:16, 22-24

16  So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.

22  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
23  gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
24  Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires.

Ephesians 1:18-20

18  I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints,
19  and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength,
20  which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms,

Galatians 6:9

9  Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

4  Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
5  It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
6  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
7  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Colossians 2:6-7,  3:12-17

6  So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him,
7  rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

12  Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
13  Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
14  And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
15  Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
16  Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.
17  And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

1 Timothy 2:1-2,  4:8,  6:6  

1  I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone--
2  for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.

8  For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.

6  But godliness with contentment is great gain.

Other ideas for living a right life (to add to your list):

Reasons for Being Righteous and Doing Things God's Way:

  1. Gives you a sense of peace, well being
  2. The Lord will bless you
  3. You will be doing His will
  4. You will not ruin your life
  5. You will not miss the way
  6. Guards your life - spiritually, emotionally, mentally
  7. Give you honor
  8. You will prosper
  9. You will be blessed, happy, content, satisfied
  10. You will be discerning
  11. You will have nothing to fear
  12. You will reduce anxiety in your life
  13. You'll be wise in heart
  14. You understand that everyone is important
  15. God sees everything
  16. According to the Bible, we know how things will end up
  17. We invest for the future.  There are consequences
  18. We can be an example to others
  19. God has our best interest in mind.  He does have a plan
  20. Not doing things His way brings death
  21. You fully release God's power in your life
  22. Your prayer life will also have power

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