Workbook
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - INVISIBLE IMPOSTERS

thelordismyshepherd invisibleimposters7

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The ways the spirit of the world tries to lead us astray.

Introduction

In this workbook, we will explore the contrast between the wisdom of God and the wisdom of the world, particularly focusing on the concept of the "Lord is my Shepherd" and the invisible imposters, especially the spirit of the world. Through scripture readings, reflections, and action points, you will deepen your understanding of how to embrace God’s true guidance and overcome worldly influences.

Time Needed: Approximately 30 minutes

Part 1: Scripture Reading and Reflection

1. Read 1 Corinthians 2:12-16 (NIV):

"What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us. This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, explaining spiritual realities with Spirit-taught words. The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit. The person with the Spirit makes judgments about all things, but such a person is not subject to merely human judgments. ‘For who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?’ But we have the mind of Christ."

Reflection Questions:

  1. What does this passage say about the difference between the spirit of the world and the Spirit of God?

  2. How does the wisdom of God differ from human wisdom according to this passage?

  3. What does it mean to have "the mind of Christ," and how can this affect our daily lives?

Part 2: Understanding the Spirit of the World

2. Read 1 Corinthians 1:22-25 (NIV):

"Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength."

Reflection Questions:

  1. How does this passage describe the expectations of Jews and Greeks regarding spiritual insight?

  2. What does Paul mean by saying that "Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God"?

  3. How can the concept of "the foolishness of God" be a challenge to human wisdom?

Part 3: Action Points

3. Identify the "Invisible Imposters" in Your Life

Based on the teachings discussed, reflect on and identify any "invisible imposters" in your life—such as worldly wisdom or expectations—that might be affecting your relationship with God. Consider the following:

  1. In what ways might the spirit of the world be influencing your faith journey?

  2. Are there areas where you are seeking a "pain-free" relationship with God or looking for signs and wonders for assurance?

Action Points:

  1. Prayer and Confession: Spend a few minutes in prayer, confessing any reliance on worldly wisdom or expectations. Ask God to reveal His wisdom to you and to help you trust in His process.

  2. Scripture Meditation: Choose one of the key scriptures from above and meditate on it throughout the week. Ask the Holy Spirit to deepen your understanding of this passage.

  3. Faith in Weakness: Identify a current struggle or challenge in your life where you need to embrace weakness, fear, and trembling as Paul described. Write down practical steps to lean on God's strength and wisdom in this area.

  4. Seek Spiritual Discernment: Commit to seeking the mind of Christ in your decisions and actions. Ask for the Spirit’s guidance in your daily choices and be open to divine wisdom over worldly reasoning.

Conclusion

In embracing the wisdom of God over the wisdom of the world, we align ourselves with the true Shepherd, the Lord, who leads us in paths of righteousness. Through weakness, fear, and trembling, we find His strength and wisdom, revealing to us a greater mystery and glory prepared for those who love Him.

Prayer:

"Heavenly Father, I thank You for the wisdom You provide through Your Spirit. Help me to see and understand Your ways, not through the lens of the world but through Your divine revelation. Strengthen my faith to trust in Your plan and guidance, and reveal to me the deeper truths of Your love and purpose. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Feel free to use this workbook as a guide in your personal study or share it with others who are looking to grow their faith. May it help you and those you support to deepen your relationship with God and overcome the influences of the world.