Then here are some questions to discuss:
Read Genesis 4:9. The word “guardian” here is the translation of the Hebrew word “shamar” which means “to protect, to care for, to watch over”. When Cain answered God, “Am I my brother’s shamar?”, God surely would have answered “yes” because He had told humans that they were the “shamar” of all creation (Gen. 2 :15). What do you think it means to be the “shamar” of our brothers and sisters in the church?
Read Luke 10:27-28. After this passage, we find the story of the good Samaritan. Taking care of those you know is one thing, but taking care of those you don’t know… that’s a whole different story! How can we apply this verse in our daily lives? How can we love our neighbor?
Read Matthew 18:15 and James 5:19-20. We read here that if our brother or sister does something contrary to the will of God, that we must tell them. Why does the Bible tell us to do this? Are you comfortable doing this?
We can’t just tell everyone everything bad they do either! When should we talk? And how should we go about doing it the right way?
This is especially true for singles! The enemy uses isolation so much to lead God’s children into sin and devastation. Think about a single friend of yours at church or in your circle… what could you do to be their “shamar” in their singleness?
Read Matthew 7:1-5. Does this passage contradict the other two verses? What’s the difference then? Do we have to be perfect to “correct” others?
In James 2:15-17 it is written that we should not only pray for needs, but also do something concrete to help. The phrase: “I will pray for you” is very beautiful, looks very spiritual, but it is not enough. Why?
Sometimes we can’t help. Either we do not have the financial means or we do not have the physical capabilities or we do not have a solution. So how can we be a “shamar” if we can’t do anything concrete?
God also does not ask us to be the Savior of everyone. How do we know whether or not we should get involved in this or that situation? What are the signs that we can no longer help?
Read Psalms 121:7-8. The same word, “shamar,” is also used by God to describe His role with us. Have you ever noticed God’s protection? How does God care for you?
Some prayer points to conclude:
Take the time to thank God for his protection and provision;
Ask the Holy Spirit to show us who we should help, and how to help them;
… And of course, please pray for Passion374! Thank you!
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