3.6 Summary
Being Pleasing to God – Living in His Love and Grace
Lesson 3 demonstrates what it means to lead a life that pleases God and how we can live in close relationship with Him through faith, love, and dedication. God’s joy over us and His grace are at the center of this lesson.
3.1 More Valuable Than You Can Imagine
The Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11–32) and Zephaniah 3:17 illustrate God’s unconditional love and mercy. God rejoices exuberantly when people return to Him—regardless of their faults. This joy challenges us to act with love and compassion, without envy or self-righteousness.
3.2 Rejoicing with Enthusiasm
God not only feels love but also active joy over His people (Zephaniah 3:17). Like the father in the Parable of the Prodigal Son, God runs to us when we repent. His joy motivates us to forgive others with enthusiasm and celebrate reconciliation.
3.3 Pleasing God?
God takes pleasure in people who live with sincerity, love, and righteousness (Isaiah 43:4; Psalm 149:4; Proverbs 15:8–9). He does not seek empty rituals but a genuine, humble heart.
3.4 Living Stones
Through Jesus Christ, we are living stones in God’s building (1 Peter 2:4–6). Our faith is not passive but active. God shapes us and empowers us to offer spiritual sacrifices that please Him (Hebrews 11:6).
3.5 A Valuable Goal
The story in Mark 9:17–29 vividly shows that God does not expect perfect faith. Even honest, albeit weak, trust is sufficient. Jesus accepted the father’s small faith and effected healing.
Overall Conclusion:
God does not demand perfect faith but an honest heart that seeks Him. His joy in us is based on His infinite love and grace. As living stones, we are called to carry God’s love and righteousness into the world. Our valuable goal is to please God through our faith, actions, and love.
Lesson 3 not only shows us what it means to live pleasingly to God but also challenges us to actively integrate these principles into our daily lives. God’s love, grace, and joy in us should inspire us to consciously align our daily lives with His will.
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Accept and Share Unconditional Love (3.1)
God loves us unconditionally, as demonstrated in the Parable of the Prodigal Son. This love challenges us to meet others with love, patience, and mercy.
In Daily Life:
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Forgive people, even when it’s difficult.
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Approach others, even if they have made mistakes.
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Show compassion instead of judging.
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Live Joy and Enthusiasm in Faith (3.2)
God actively rejoices over us. This joy should reflect our faith—lively, enthusiastic, and contagious.
In Daily Life:
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Live your faith with joy, e.g., through praise and gratitude.
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Celebrate reconciliation when relationships are restored.
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Encourage others and acknowledge their successes.
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Lead a Life of Sincerity and Righteousness (3.3)
God seeks sincerity, not mere outward piety. Our hearts and actions should align with His will.
In Daily Life:
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Be honest and authentic in relationships.
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Stand up for justice and support the vulnerable.
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Make decisions that are driven by love and compassion.
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Recognize Our Calling as Living Stones (3.4)
We are living stones in God’s building—each of us has a significant role in God’s plan.
In Daily Life:
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Actively use your gifts and talents to help others.
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Take responsibility in the church or community.
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Consciously understand yourself as part of God’s grand plan.
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Act with Honest Faith (3.5)
God does not expect perfect faith but an honest heart. Even small faith can achieve great things.
In Daily Life:
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Speak honestly with God about doubts in prayer.
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Show trust even when the path is unclear.
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Take courageous small steps in faith, even in uncertainty.
Overall Connection to Daily Life:
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Live in Trust: Trust God despite uncertainties and doubts.
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Practice Neighborly Love: Accept and love others as God loves us.
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Act Justly: Treat others fairly and respectfully.
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Share Joy: Make God’s joy visible in everyday life.
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Actively Participate: Take responsibility and help build God’s kingdom through concrete actions.
Conclusion:
Living pleasingly to God means accepting His love and actively reflecting it in our lives. It requires faith, sincerity, and compassion in our interactions with others. Our faith should motivate us to act courageously and lovingly, use our gifts, and take small steps to grow closer to God. A life in God’s love and grace is the most valuable goal we can pursue. An honest heart and even the smallest faith are enough to let God’s love and grace work in your life.
