Justification - Matters of the Heart

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Last Sunday Discovery Point: 
Justification - Matters of the Heart
Today we started a new series about God justifying us to receive salvation and eternal life. We learned that “justification” means being made and seen as perfect through the eyes of God. Because we sin there must be a way for God to save us (or be justified). Thankfully, He provided the way through Jesus’ death and resurrection! And God cares more about our hearts than outward appearances. He desires for us to be people of honesty, integrity, and love. While obeying Him certainly has importance, we should obey Him because our hearts are changed and not because we want to look good in front of others. Our hearts matter to God, and when we are truly changed by the Spirit our obedience will reflect the love and sacrifice of Christ. (Scriptures used: Romans 2:17-24, 28-29)

Memory Verse:

“The Lord does not look at things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7b NIV 

Suggested Parent/Child Activity:

Make a list of sins and Godly characteristics with your child (the list may be as long or as
short as you desire). Then go down the list and ask your child to cross out every sin and
circle every obedient action. Talk with him or her about God’s desire for us to never have
sin inside our hearts because He made a way (through Jesus) for us to be justified (made
perfect) and have a relationship with Him. Encourage your child to work toward increasing
Godly desires in his or her heart by praying, reading the Bible, and choosing obedience
because it brings honor to God and not to gain the attention of others.

Daily Prayer:

Thank You, God, for justifying and loving us! Show us how to choose what You desire instead of outward attention. And please help us seek Your praise and not praise from others. Thank You for Jesus’ example and for His sacrifice. Amen.

Reminders:

Coming Sunday Discovery Point: Justification - God's Faithfulness Matters
Coming Sunday Chairperson: Nicole
Coming Sunday Power point manager: Jacky