GODLY SORROW
The sinful nature of man and the righteous nature of God.
Introduction
Welcome to this workbook designed to help you grow in your Christian faith. Over the next 30 minutes, you will engage with Scripture, reflect on its meaning, and take action steps to deepen your understanding and relationship with God.
Session Outline
Scripture Reading (15 minutes)
Reflection Questions (10 minutes)
Action Points (5 minutes)
1. Scripture Reading (15 minutes)
a. Romans 3:23-26 (NIV)
"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished—he did it to demonstrate his righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus."
b. Psalm 51:16-17 (NIV)
"You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise."
c. Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV)
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
2. Reflection Questions (10 minutes)
Take a few moments to reflect on the following questions. Write your thoughts in the space provided.
a. What do these passages reveal about God’s nature?
Your thoughts:
b. How do these scriptures challenge the way you view sin and justification?
Your thoughts:
c. In what ways can you relate to having a "broken and contrite heart"? How does this resonate with your personal experience?
Your thoughts:
d. What burdens do you feel you are carrying that Jesus invites you to lay down?
Your thoughts:
3. Action Points (5 minutes)
Choose at least one action point from the list below to implement this week. Write down your commitment.
a. Prayer Commitment:
Spend 5 minutes each day in prayer, thanking God for His grace and asking Him to help you understand your identity in Christ.
b. Journal Reflection:
Write a brief journal entry reflecting on a time you felt burdened and how you experienced God's grace in that situation.
c. Share with Someone:
Talk to a friend or family member about what you've learned from these passages and how they can also find rest in Christ.
d. Scripture Memorization:
Memorize Matthew 11:28-30. Write it down and place it somewhere you will see it daily.
Closing Prayer
Take a moment to pray, asking God to help you internalize what you've learned today and to guide you in living out these truths in your daily life.
Additional Resources
Devotional Books: Consider reading daily devotionals that focus on grace and forgiveness.
Bible Study Groups: Join a local group or online community to discuss faith and growth with others.
Thank you for engaging with this workbook. May you continue to grow in your faith and experience the fullness of life that Christ offers!