ASSURED ELECTION
Foundations for Faith
Introduction
This workbook is designed to help you secure a solid foundation in your Christian faith through scripture readings, reflection, and actionable steps. Set aside approximately 30 minutes to engage with the material, pray, and reflect on your growth in faith.
Session Overview
Focus: Self-Control and Spiritual Growth
Scripture Readings:
2 Peter 1:5-11
Galatians 5:16-26
Goals:
Understand the importance of self-control as a fruit of the Spirit.
Reflect on how self-control impacts your Christian walk.
Identify actionable steps to develop self-control in your life.
Scripture Reading
1. 2 Peter 1:5-11 (NKJV)
“But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Reflection Questions:
What does Peter mean by adding self-control to your faith?
How do you understand the relationship between self-control and the other virtues listed?
In what ways can a lack of these virtues affect your spiritual life?
2. Galatians 5:16-26 (NKJV)
“But I say, walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh... But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.”
Reflection Questions:
What does it mean to "walk in the Spirit" in your daily life?
How does self-control manifest as a fruit of the Spirit in your actions?
Can you identify situations in your life where self-control is challenged?
Action Points
1. Pray for Self-Control
Spend a few minutes in prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to cultivate self-control in your life. Consider the areas where you struggle the most and invite God's help into those situations.
2. Set a Personal Goal
Identify one specific area in your life where you wish to practice self-control. Write it down and set a realistic goal. For example:
Eating habits: “I will limit sugary snacks to once a week.”
Time management: “I will spend at least 15 minutes daily in prayer or scripture reading.”
3. Reflect and Journal
Spend some time journaling about your reflections from the scripture readings and how self-control plays a role in your faith. Consider these prompts:
How has your understanding of self-control changed?
In what ways can you see the Spirit at work in your life?
4. Share with a Friend
Reach out to a friend or fellow believer and share what you've learned about self-control. Encourage each other and hold each other accountable in your spiritual journeys.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Help us to cultivate self-control in our lives as we grow closer to You. May we reflect Your love and grace in all we do. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Additional Resources
Suggested Reading: "The Fruit of the Spirit" by John Stott
Memory Verse: Galatians 5:22-23 – "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control..."
Conclusion
Remember, growth in faith is a continuous journey. Regularly engaging with scripture and reflecting on its truths will help you cultivate a deeper relationship with God and strengthen your walk in faith. Keep pressing on!