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Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
Ephesians 6:10-12
Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place… Ephesians 6:13-14
Q: How do I put on the breastplate of righteousness?
A:
Three Ways to Guard Your Heart
Focus on
Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. Eph 1:4
God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Cor 5:21
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:1-2
Focus on
I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. Eph 3:16-17a
Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy. Eph 4:21-24
Focus on
Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Eph 5:18-20
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Please read Ephesians 6:10-14. What do you think it means to be strong in the Lord? What difference does it make when you’re strong in the Lord versus strong in yourself?
2. Please read Proverbs 4:23. What did you learn about guarding your heart this weekend? Where have you been struggling and maybe let your guard down?
3. Please read Romans 8:1-2, 2 Corinthians 5:21 and Ephesians 1:4. What do these verses tell you about how God sees you? How can focusing on how God sees you shift your thinking and help you guard your heart?
4. Please read Ephesians 3:16-17a, 4:21-24 and 5:18-19. What role does the Holy Spirit play in helping you guard your heart? How do you struggle with relying on the Holy Spirit’s power instead of your own?
LIFE AT TLC
BAPTISM CLASS
This Weekend, after services • Join us in the church office lobby to learn about getting baptized at TLC!
CHICKEN & WAFFLES
7/29 & 30 • Enjoy this delicious combo after the services!
ON CAMPUS BAPTISMS
7/30 • Come witness and celebrate with us, outside after the services. Email val@tlc.org if you want to be baptized!
SUMMER AT TLC
Grab a Summer at TLC card on your way out for a list of upcoming events!
NEW TO TLC?
Fill out a welcome card or go to tlc.org/new
• Get a gift bag at info desk
• Come to the AFTER SERVICE AFTER PARTY (follow signs)
Need help? tlc.org/help
Need prayer? tlc.org/prayer
To give: tlc.org/give