Message: “Living Out Our Faith Every Day” from Joe Summers

Joe Summers - June 22, 2025

Living Out Our Faith Every Day

Lesson Title: Living Out Our Faith Every Day: Applying Christian Principles Daily Objective: To help believers understand how to integrate biblical principles into work, school, and leisure, demonstrating Christ-like character in all areas of life. Memory Verse: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord…” (Colossians 3:23) Proverbs 16:3 – "Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will succeed." Introduction - Opening Discussion: "How do you currently seek to live out your faith in everyday situations?" - Key Verse: - Colossians 3:17 (NLT) – "And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father." Main Point: Christianity is not just for Sundays—it’s a daily walk with God that influences every decision. What is a part-time Christian? "If someone followed you for a week, would they see Christ in your everyday life?" Our objective today is to learn how to reflect Christ at home, in school/work, and during leisure time. What Is a Christian Lifestyle? Definition: Living according to the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. Scriptures: • Micah 6:8 – “To act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” • Romans 12:1-2 – “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice… do not conform to this world…” Key Principles: • It’s about who we are and how we behave when no one is watching. • Involves integrity, kindness, purity, and obedience to God. Example: • Daniel (Daniel 1:8) – chose not to defile himself with the king’s food, even when no one from home was watching. --- Living a Christian Life at Home Scriptures: • Ephesians 6:1-4 – Children obey your parents… Fathers, do not provoke your children… • Proverbs 15:1 – “A gentle answer turns away wrath.” Key Points: • Honor and respect within the family. • Use kind words and show forgiveness. • Helping with chores and responsibilities as an act of love. Example: • Choosing not to argue back during a family conflict but responding gently and respectfully. At Work (Colleagues, Ethics, Excellence) New Testament: Colossians 3:23-24 – "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord..." Discussion: How can we honor God in our jobs, even in difficult workplaces? At School (Integrity, Influence, Learning) - Old Testament: Daniel 1:8,17 – Daniel’s commitment to excellence and purity. - New Testament: 1 Timothy 4:12 – "Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example..." - Discussion: How can students live out faith in secular environments? Scriptures: • Colossians 3:23-24 – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart…” • Philippians 2:14-15 – “Do everything without grumbling… so that you may shine like stars…” Key Points: • Honesty in schoolwork or job performance (no cheating, gossiping, or stealing credit). • Being a friend to those who feel left out. • Praying before tests, asking God for wisdom (James 1:5). Example: • A student refusing to join in when others bully someone; instead, they offer friendship In Free Time (Entertainment, Relationships, Rest) - Old Testament: Psalm 1:1-3 – Avoiding ungodly influences and delighting in God’s Word. - New Testament: 1 Corinthians 10:31 – "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." - Discussion: How can we ensure our leisure time aligns with godly values? Practical Application Key Verse: James 1:22 – "Do not merely listen to the word… Do what it says." Scriptures: • 1 Corinthians 10:31 – “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” • Psalm 1:1-2 – “Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked…” Key Points: • Use your free time to build your faith (read, pray, serve). • Be mindful of the media and entertainment you consume. • Your hobbies can glorify God if you do them with the right heart. Example: • Encouraging prayer before and after playing a game of soccer. Overcoming Challenges - Common Struggles: Peer pressure, compromise, burnout. - Encouraging Scriptures: - Joshua 1:9 (OT) – "Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God is with you." - Philippians 4:13 (NT) – "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Practical Action Steps • Start and end your day with prayer. • Make small choices daily that reflect Christ (attitude, words, time use). • Write down one way each day you can show love to God and others. • Ask: “Would Jesus approve of how I’m spending this moment?” Conclusion and Call to Action (5 minutes) • A Christian lifestyle is not just a label—it’s a daily decision. • Quote Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before others…” • "This week, choose one area—home, school/work, or free time—to intentionally live more like Jesus."