Having Healthy Values

Having healthy values

“But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.  What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things.  I consider them rubbish that I may gain Christ and be found in him…” – Philippians 3:8-9a

Why are values important?
•         We live out what we believe and value
•         The fruit of the world’s values is bad

“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked.  A man reaps what he sows.  The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.” – Galatians 6:7-8

What does God value?
•         Relationship – loving God & people
•         Responsibility – acting in faith, trust
•         Reconciliation – providing hope

“He has showed you, O man, what is good.  And what does the LORD require of you?  To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” – Micah 6:8

How to learn God’s values…
•         Scripture
•         Socialization w/in community of believers
•         Intentional encouragement
–        Storytelling
–        Memorization/movement
–        Re-enactment/celebration
–        Music & other arts
•         Putting values into practice

“Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock…But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand.” – Jesus quoted in Matthew 7:24,26

Encouragement
•         Head – learn & evaluate
•         Heart – be encouraged and embrace
•         Hands – live out and experience God
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.  Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” – Galatians 6:9-10