Bible Studies for Life Sunday School Lesson for Aug. 9

A HUMBLE ATTITUDE

1 Corinthians 3:18–4:7

There is a trend that has been around for several years that involves a blessing at a coffee shop or fast-food restaurant drive-through. The practice is simple. You ask the cashier for the amount owed by the person in line behind you and pay for their meal. I have been on both the giving and receiving ends of this kind gesture, and it is an enjoyable experience. It is a great way to do some good without receiving recognition.

If you are feeling extra creative, have some business cards printed and ask the cashier to give them to the recipient of your gift. The cards can read, “Someone from so-and-so church paid for your meal, but Jesus paid for your sins. Come see us!” This way, everyone can be a witness and Jesus’ love is shared. As hard as it is to believe, some in our churches only serve in order to receive recognition from others. This lack of humility is the symptom of a great and arrogant pride in a person’s life. Our reward as Christians has not yet been seen or realized. What we do for others is an outpouring of who we are and whose we are.

Believers have no room for boasting because we belong to God. (3:18–23)

Have you ever stopped to consider how much you have learned about God and life since you thought you knew it all? Yes, God is patient with us and gracious, giving us the benefit of experience and time to teach us. The temptation to boast should diminish as we grow older. It is not that we are less important than before; rather, the longer we live, the more we realize God’s goodness and His vastness.

When you live in the realization that God has no need of any of us yet still chooses to use us, gratitude and humility should follow.

Stay faithful to the work God has given you. (4:1–5)

Paul reminds us in these verses who he is working for. This reminder would serve us all well, whether we are employed or volunteering in our local churches. You may receive a paycheck from a church, but it is the heavenly Father to whom we should give our highest obedience and reverence. Too often in ministry, distractions can lead to discouragement. Distractions are persistent while serving Christ, and they can lead you away from the calling God has on your life.

To remain faithful, you must remain focused. You are of little good to God, to yourself or to the people you are called to serve if you are not committed to giving your talents, time and tasks to Him in service.

Don’t take credit for what God has done. (6–7)

We would be wise to follow the example of Paul’s ministry. He was persistent in pointing others to Christ. Though not perfect, Paul wanted Jesus to be on display in his ministry and life. Paul suffered both physically and mentally but in his estimation, it was all worth it if it meant someone came to Jesus for salvation. Whether it is drive-through coffee you paid for, a small group you teach or a sermon you’ve preached, each is an opportunity for God to do amazing things. Be sure to thank Him when He does.