“Because the days are evil” (Eph. 5:15-21)
 
If we think and act following the trend of the evil days, we are also part of the evil days. When we come into a conflict with the world and respond the way worldly people do, fighting fire with fire, we stop being lambs and become wolves. 
But if we trust in the Word of God and think and act from the perspective of God’s kingdom, the difficult situation can be the opportunity to shine God’s righteousness.
That is not easy to do. So the Word of God encourages us: “Be very careful, then, how you live-- not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil” (Eph 5:15-16).
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For LifeNet groups and personal reflection:
 
1) It is said the devil manipulates us through a spirit of Greed, Disloyalty, Independence, Immorality, Covering up or concealment, and Fear. Describe how these spirits are working in our society.

2) Read Luke 4:1-13. Jesus received devil’s temptation in three ways. Can you recognize those temptations in your life? What was it? How did you respond?

3) The biblical Sabbath has four elements: stopping, resting, delighting and contemplating. You may plan to have “Sabbath time” in this week. Just remain in his presence calmly and quietly. Don’t try to make something happen. Enjoy “Sabbath.” (suggested scripture: Ps 84; Is 40:27-31; Ps 32)

NLIF is an international church in Yangon. Come and join our English Sunday worship service.

“Harmony of Lights” (Eph 5:3-14)
 
We are placed in each place as children of light. When we thank God, and praise God, others will see “light” there.
Our life will make harmony with “goodness, righteousness and truth.” And through us “goodness, righteousness and truth” will echo in the darkness.
Some of you may feel, “I’m not that good. I’m broken. I’m so weak. How can I shine?” It’s okay, friend. Jesus is the light, and he is in us. The light will shine through the cracks of the jar of clay (2 Cor 4:7).
When we are connected with the Lord, turn our hearts to the Lord and live with Him, the Lord who is light will shine through us. Let us live as children of light.
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For Lifenet groups and personal reflection:
 
1) Four areas where we should avoid are mentioned (vv.3-4). Which one do you need to be especially careful about?
 
2) There are three areas where we need to be aware of as children of the light (vv.10-14). Which one is most challenging for you? How will you overcome? What help do you need, and where will you receive the help?
 
3) Imagine a picture: your life is making harmony with “goodness, righteousness and truth.” And “goodness, righteousness and truth” are echoing in the darkness. What does God speak to you? What is your response?
 
4) You may think of one thing you can give thanks to God every morning this week. Remember it when you face challenge, difficulty, or what makes you stressed in the day, and praise the Lord intentionally. Before you go to bed, take a little time to reflect on your day, and give thanks to the Lord.

NLIF is an international church in Yangon. Come and join our English Sunday worship service.

2 Corinthians 1:8-11; 4:7-18
Audio (mp3)
 
What does the promise of resurrection mean to you? For Paul it meant everything central to his faith and life. He said we are "rescued by the God who raises the dead." Paul looked at his suffering through the eyes of faith.
 
Life is Hello, and also Goodbye. But Jesus' death is a Goodbye, followed by a Hello of His resurrection. "Goodbye" is not the final word for believers in Christ.
 
Lessons from Paul's faith in 2 Cor. 1:8-11

• We need to learn how to cope with suffering and not be defeated by it.
• We need to lean on God in our distress and need.
• We need to experience God's comfort.
• We need to experience the power of God's resurrection (Phil. 3:10).

 
Resurrection Hope for Today
We easily fail to see the good and resurrection in the midst of suffering. However, it makes us grow to be stronger, to let go of "my own way/expectation, and to follow His good plan/will.
Though our bodies are wasting away, we are being renewed day after day.
 
Where do you need to experience resurrection in your life today?
In your faith? In your marriage? In your family? A friend? Job or ministry? In your self-perception or aim?
Pray for resurrection by admitting how hopeless you feel.
There is no promise for a particular outcome. Our part is pray; our hope is in what God can do. For we serve a God of resurrection.
 
 
Come join us at our English service of the International Church in Yangon!

“Imitators of God” (Eph. 4:25-5:2)
 
By the cross of Christ, we became God’s children. We are imitators of God, made in the image of God. So we show His nature and His love. Jesus is the reason why we can live like that. The Holy Spirit is the assurance why we can live like that. We remain in him, and trust in him daily, moment by moment. We will not give the devil a foothold in words, in emotions, and in thoughts. We will put on Christ. Being entirely wrapped up in the love of Christ. As imitators of God, let us walk in His love and grace, as children redeemed by Jesus’ cross.
Read more... 
 
For LifeNet groups and personal reflection
1) The examples of where the devil may get his foothold in our mind are listed in vv. 25-31. Which one is your weak point? How will you protect it?
2) “You are God’s child, and were created in His image. You are already deeply loved by God, and made alive in His love.” What does it mean to you? How does this truth encourage you? What is your response?
3) Imagine that you are entirely covered in the love of Christ, and stay there in quietness. What thought comes into your mind? How does this truth encourage you? What is your response?
4) Read Ps. 139:23-24. You may ask the Holy Spirit to show you if any part of your heart is broken, and invite the Holy Spirit for healing and restoration. Imagine that Jesus received your pain and wounds on the cross, and that he is removing the bitter root from your mind.

NLIF is an international church in Yangon. Come and join our English Sunday worship service.
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