Establish Pattern of the Mature Disciple

6.5. Establish Pattern of the Mature Disciple

Perspective

( Eccl. 12:13-14 ; 1 Pet. 1:17 ; 1 John 4:11,19 ; Heb. 12:5-10 ; Phil. 2:12-13 )
Successfully facing and dealing with specific problems is only the beginning of living a godly life. Focus must remain on God's standards for continuing toward Christ-likeness. Accordingly, one must evaluate the whole of one's life constantly conforming to God's standards.

Hope

( Isa. 40:8 ; Acts 10:34-35 ; John 14:21 ; John 15:10-11 ; 1 John 3:22 ) God's
standards are always consistent and are never subject to the whim of the moment. They
are the same for all individuals, in all cultures, and at all age levels, regardless of personality or background. Keeping God's commandments, having reverence and awe of
God, is the key to fruitfulness.

( Ps. 145:17 ; Jer. 29:11-17 ; Deut. 11:8-9 ; James 1:22-25 ) God's plan for you
are for your benefit and have as their goal your maturity in Christ. If you keep God's commandments, He will bless you; otherwise, you will be subject to discipline.

( Matt. 11:28-30 ; Josh. 1:8-9 ; Ps. 103:1-5 ; Isa. 40:29-31 ; Eph. 1:13-14 ; Phil.
2:12-13 ) God's standards are not burdensome for He will strengthen, uphold, and keep
you from stumbling as you walk in His ways, cooperating with the changes He is
accomplishing in your life.

Change

( Rom. 13:1-3 ; Rom. 13:12-14 ; Eph. 6:10-18 ) Put-off deeds of darkness, put-on
the Lord Jesus Christ and make no provision for fleshly lusts. Put on the full armor of God to withstand the schemes of the devil.

( Rom. 5:3-5 ; Matt. 5:10-12 ; 1 Pet. 4:12-19 ; 1 Pet. 3:13-17 ) Do not be surprised
at trials, even if they seem fiery. Instead, rejoice because God uses them to develop
Christlike maturity in your life. Be prepared to be reviled and to suffer persecution. You will be blessed when you do.

( Gal. 5:22-23 ; Eph. 1:4 ; Eph. 4:1,17 ; Eph. 6:9 ; Col. 3:12-24 ; 1 Tim. 4:7-8 ; 2
Pet. 1:2-10 ) Establish and maintain biblical standards that will encourage you and your children toward godliness. Identify godly traits that need to be developed along with corresponding biblical responsibilities and activities which will demonstrate Christlikeness.