Focus Scripture:
1 John 1:7
- ESV: “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.”
- NIV: “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.”
Opening Prayer (5 minutes):
“Heavenly Father, we thank You for bringing us together today. We ask that You guide our hearts and minds as we open Your Word. Help us to learn how to walk in the light, with integrity and honesty in all that we do. Cleanse us from anything that hinders our fellowship with You and with each other. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Introduction to Topic (5-10 minutes):
Topic: Walking in the Light: A Life of Integrity and Honesty
Introduction: In a world full of deceit, temptations, and dishonesty, walking in the light of God is a call to live with integrity and truthfulness. The Bible calls us to be men of honesty, transparency, and righteousness. Living in the light is not only about being honest with others but also being honest with ourselves and with God. This lesson focuses on what it means to walk in the light and how it impacts our relationships, faith, and daily actions.
Bible Verses for Discussion (20 minutes):
Proverbs 10:9
- ESV: “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.”
- NIV: “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.”
Ephesians 5:8-9
- ESV: “For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true).”
- NIV: “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth).”
Psalm 25:21
- ESV: “May integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for you.”
- NIV: “May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope, Lord, is in you.”
Colossians 3:9-10
- ESV: “Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.”
- NIV: “Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.”
Discussion Questions (15-20 minutes):
- What does it mean to walk in the light in your daily life, both at work and at home?
- Can you think of a time when choosing integrity was difficult, but you knew it was the right path? How did it impact your relationship with God and others?
- How does living in the light help build stronger relationships with those around us, including our families and friends?
Life Application (10 minutes):
Walking in the light means making a conscious effort to live with honesty, transparency, and integrity in every aspect of life. This week, assess areas of your life where you may be tempted to compromise your integrity. Whether in your workplace, at home, or in your personal thoughts and actions, commit to walking in the light by choosing honesty and righteousness. Share your commitment with a fellow believer and encourage one another in this journey.
Reflection and Encouragement (5-10 minutes):
Living a life of integrity and honesty may not always be easy, but it is essential for a healthy relationship with God and with others. When we walk in the light, we are freed from the chains of deceit and sin. God’s Word assures us that walking in integrity brings security and blessings, even when the path seems challenging. Be encouraged that God is with you, guiding you to live in His light, and that through this, you will experience deeper fellowship with Him and others.
Closing Verse:
Psalm 119:105
- ESV: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
- NIV: “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
Closing Prayer (5 minutes):
“Lord, we thank You for the truths that have been revealed through Your Word today. Help us to be men who walk in the light, living lives of integrity and honesty in all we do. Strengthen us as we face the daily challenges that tempt us to walk in darkness. May Your Word continue to be a light to our path, guiding us toward righteousness. We trust in You and ask for Your strength to be with us as we go into the week ahead. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Takeaway Challenge:
Identify one situation this week where you are tempted to take a shortcut or be less than truthful. Instead, choose integrity and transparency, trusting God to bless your obedience. Share your experience with someone from the group for encouragement and accountability.