Lesson 8 “Wisdom for Righteous Living” addresses various aspects of wisdom and righteous living according to biblical teachings, particularly through the analysis of Psalms and other scriptures. The central focus is on how obeying God’s commandments and trusting in His word can lead to a fulfilled and blessed life.

Psalm 119 is presented as an outstanding chapter emphasizing the importance of adhering to God’s commandments and highlighting the blessings that come from it. It emphasizes not just following external actions but having a deep devotion and seeking after God with all one’s heart.

The power of God’s word is illustrated through Jesus’ temptations in the desert, where he resisted the devil by applying God’s word. This demonstrates the strength and blessings that come from a heart obedient to God’s law.

Human transience and limitation are reflected in Psalms like 90 and 102, emphasizing the urgency of gaining wisdom and living in accordance with God’s will. The hope of redemption through Jesus Christ is also highlighted, providing a source of comfort and security amidst life’s struggles.

The role of divine trials in the lives of believers is illuminated in various Psalms, emphasizing that these trials serve to strengthen faith and prepare for the fulfillment of God’s promises. It is also noted that rejecting God’s instruction can have serious consequences.

Psalms 1, 112, and 128 offer insight into the blessings promised to those who honor the Lord. These blessings include personal success, influence, offspring, peace, and prosperity.

In conclusion, it is emphasized that the cross and sacrifice of Jesus guarantee the fulfillment of God’s promises. These promises offer comfort, hope, and security for believers in their daily lives.

Overall, Lesson 8 provides a profound exploration of wisdom, righteous living, and the importance of trusting in God’s word for a fulfilled and blessed life. It encourages readers to listen to God’s commandments, seek wisdom, and grow in faith to experience the abundant blessings that God has in store for His people.

The connection of Lesson 8 with our daily lives and faith is manifold and profound. The principles of wisdom for a righteous way of life conveyed in this lesson have direct implications on our daily behavior and spiritual development.

Firstly, the emphasis on keeping God’s word in our hearts and following His commandments reminds us that our faith should not only be theoretical but also practical. It challenges us to align our decisions, actions, and words with the teachings of the Bible.

Secondly, the understanding that divine trials serve to strengthen our faith and prepare us suggests that difficulties and challenges in our lives should not be viewed as random but as opportunities to deepen our dependence on God.

Thirdly, the hope of redemption and reconciliation through Jesus Christ reminds us that our faith has implications not only for this life but also for eternity. This influences our perspective on suffering, losses, and challenges in life and provides us with hope and comfort amidst difficulties.

Lastly, the emphasis on the blessings of a righteous way of life encourages us to lead a life of fidelity and devotion, where we can experience and share God’s blessings not only for ourselves but also for others. Our relationship with God and our behavior in everyday life should be inseparably connected, and Lesson 8 encourages us to nurture and deepen this connection.

1.How can God’s Word become the source of one’s delight and not merely instruction? How is feeding on God’s Word related to abiding in Jesus Christ, the Word (John 1:1; John 15:5, 7)?

God’s Word can become a source of joy by not merely considering it as mere instruction but actively integrating it into our lives. When we receive God’s Word with an open heart and apply it in our daily lives, we experience the immeasurable joy that springs from it. This joy stems not only from knowing God’s commandments but from the living relationship with Him that grows through the study and implementation of His Word.

Embracing the Word of God is inseparably linked to abiding in Jesus Christ, who is the Word, as clearly stated in John 1:1: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” When we abide in the Word of God, we also abide in the living relationship with Jesus Christ, who embodies the Word. Through this connection with Christ, we can bear fruit, as emphasized in John 15:5: “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” And in verse 7, it further states: “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”

Therefore, by embracing God’s Word and living in communion with Jesus Christ, we not only find joy and fulfillment but also the power to bear fruit and grow in faith. It is this deep connection with the living Word of God that enables us to lead a life that honors God and brings blessings to others.

2.What happens when people consciously and constantly reject God’s teaching (Psalm 81, Psalm 95)? Why do you think that happens?

When people consciously and continuously reject God’s teaching, as described in Psalms 81 and 95, it has serious consequences for them and their relationship with God. In Psalm 81, the image of the people of Israel is used, who rebel against God’s instruction and are disobedient to Him. This rejection leads to a state of hardening of the heart and turning away from God’s blessings. Similarly, Psalm 95 illustrates the consequences of stubbornly rejecting God’s word, resulting in God’s displeasure and exclusion from His place of rest.

There are various reasons why people might consciously reject God’s teaching. Some do so out of rebellion and pride, wanting to go their own way and refusing to submit to God’s authority. Others might reject God’s teaching because they do not want to accept the consequences of their actions or succumb to the temptation of unbelief, considering the word of God irrelevant or outdated. Sometimes, this happens out of ignorance or a lack of understanding of the truth of the Gospel.

In any case, the conscious and continuous rejection of God’s teaching leads to spiritual hardening of the heart and a loss of blessings and fellowship with God. It is important for us to take the warnings of Scripture seriously and humbly submit to God’s authority in order to receive His blessings and guidance in our lives.

3.Why can the way of the wicked sometimes appear more desirable than the counsel of the righteous (Psalm 141)? That is, how do we deal with the apparent fact that oftentimes the wicked seem to be doing very well?

The path of the wicked may sometimes seem more desirable than the counsel of the righteous for various reasons. On one hand, this could be because the path of the wicked is often associated with immediate pleasures and worldly successes. The wicked may seem to enjoy material wealth, power, and worldly pleasures, which may appear attractive at first glance.

Furthermore, it may seem that the wicked escape punishment and face no consequences for their actions. This can create the impression that the path of righteousness and faith does not pay off and that it is easier to choose the path of least resistance.

It is important to recognize that the apparent prosperity of the wicked is often superficial and temporary. Psalms like Psalm 37 or Psalm 73 remind us that ultimately, God will hold the wicked accountable, and their apparent happiness is short-lived.

To deal with the apparent fact that the wicked often seem to prosper, it is important to place our trust in God and rely on His word. We should not be deceived by outward appearances but trust that God is just and that His plan for us offers long-term blessings and true fulfillment, even if we have to endure difficulties along the way. Ultimately, it is the deep inner joy and peace that we experience through a life in communion with God that makes the path of righteousness and faith something far more desirable.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-8-wisdom-for-righteous-living-8-6-summary/

This episode focuses on two more missionary families, the Appels and Longways, who committed to nearly life-long service in the mission field, serving in the Far East (especially China) and the Middle East.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/mission-150-episode-35-lives-of-service-in-the-far-east/

8.5 Blessings of Righteous Living

Read Psalm 1:1–3; 112:1–9, and 128. What blessings are promised to those who honor the Lord?

Psalms 1, 112, and 128 provide profound insights into the blessings promised to those who honor the Lord. They reveal the rich reward for a life of godliness and faithfulness.

In Psalm 1, the righteous are described as a tree planted by streams of water, yielding fruit, and whose leaves do not wither. This metaphor illustrates the deep connection with God and the source of all blessings that result from this relationship. In contrast, the wicked are depicted as chaff, without stability and without a future. The righteous, however, are firmly rooted in God, have a place in His presence, and hope for eternal life.

Psalm 112 describes the blessings of the God-fearing in the form of prosperity, influence, and posterity. The righteous not only experience personal success but also radiate light and prosperity to others. Their integrity and generosity make them a blessing to their surroundings, and their legacy endures.

In Psalm 128, sitting under one’s own vine and fig tree is portrayed as a symbol of peace and prosperity. These images represent the blessings of the messianic kingdom, where peace and abundance reign. Peace over Jerusalem symbolizes the hope of the coming Messiah, who will redeem the world and restore peace.

The New Testament confirms this hope for the fulfillment of blessings for the God-fearing through Christ’s return and the creation of a new world. While the righteous already experience many blessings in this life, the complete fulfillment of God’s favor awaits them in His eternal glory.

In summary, these Psalms show us that those who honor the Lord will be rewarded with abundant blessings, both in this world and the next. Their faithfulness and devotion will not only bring personal success but also bring light and blessing to the world, ultimately being fulfilled in the fullness of God’s grace when His kingdom is fully restored.

In the New Testament, there are many promises about what God has in store for us. Why is the cross and what happened there the guarantee that these promises will be fulfilled? How can we draw comfort from these promises even now?

The cross and what happened there are the guarantee that God’s promises will be fulfilled, for several reasons:

1. Atonement for sin: At the cross, Jesus Christ took upon Himself the sins of the world and through His substitutionary sacrifice, atoned for sin. Thus, He paved the way for the forgiveness of our sins and bridged the gap between God and humanity.

2. Redemption and reconciliation: Through His sacrificial death, Jesus redeemed us and reconciled us with God. As a result, we are no longer slaves to sin but can live as children of God in communion with Him.

3. New life: The cross symbolizes Jesus’ death and resurrection. Through His death and resurrection, we have the opportunity to live a new life in communion with God. This new life is brought about by the Holy Spirit within us, who guides, comforts, and strengthens us.

4. God’s faithfulness and promises: Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross bears witness to God’s boundless love for us and His faithfulness to His promises. If God did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things? (Romans 8:32).

From these promises, we can draw comfort now by:

• Experiencing forgiveness and reconciliation: Through the cross, we can find forgiveness for our sins and live in communion with God.

• Hope for eternal life: The promises of the New Testament give us hope for eternal life with God, free from pain, suffering, and death.

• God’s presence and support: Through the Holy Spirit, whom Jesus has sent to us, we experience God’s presence and support in all situations.

• Security in God’s love: Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross is the ultimate proof of God’s love for us. In difficult times, we can remember this and find comfort in the assurance that God will never leave us or forsake us.

Overall, the cross is a central event that has forever changed our relationship with God and gives us the opportunity to experience His promises now and hope for their full fulfillment in eternity.

The connection between the blessings of a righteous lifestyle and our everyday lives as well as faith is profound and life-changing. Psalms 1, 112, and 128 provide a glimpse into the blessings promised to those who honor the Lord, and these blessings have direct effects on our daily lives and our faith. Firstly, these Psalms show us that a life of godliness and faithfulness brings not only spiritual but also practical blessings. The righteous are blessed with a fruitful and fulfilling life characterized by closeness to God and dwelling in His presence. These blessings manifest in various aspects of our everyday lives:

1. Personal growth: Through faith in God and aligning with His Word, we are encouraged and empowered to thrive in our personal growth. A life of godliness leads to inner peace, stability, and growth in character and spirituality.

2. Family and community: The blessings of a righteous lifestyle also impact our relationships. A family that honors the Lord will be blessed with peace, unity, and harmony. Likewise, in our community, we can be a blessing and serve others through our sincerity and generosity.

3. Professional success: The God-fearing individual will also be blessed in their professional life. Through integrity, diligence, and godliness, they can succeed in their work and view it as a service to the Lord and others.

4. Eternal hope: The Psalms also depict hope for eternal life with God. This hope provides us with comfort and assurance, even in life’s challenges and trials.

The promises of God in the New Testament, mediated through the cross and the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, complement these blessings and give them deeper meaning and security. The cross is the guarantee that God’s promises will be fulfilled, and we can draw comfort from these promises even now.

In our everyday lives, we can rely on God’s promises to find hope, comfort, and security. We can grow in our relationship with God, be successful in our relationships and professions, and have the assurance that our faithfulness to God is not in vain. Ultimately, the blessings of a righteous lifestyle show us that a life of godliness and faithfulness brings rich blessings not only in heaven but also here on earth.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-8-wisdom-for-righteous-living-8-5-blessings-of-righteous-living/

8.4 Deceitfulness of the Wicked Way

Read Psalm 141. What does the psalmist pray for?

Psalm 141 is a heartfelt prayer for protection against internal and external temptations. The psalmist finds himself not only exposed to the schemes of the wicked (Psalm 141:9–10), but also feeling the temptation to behave like them. The first point of attack is control over one’s own speech, and the psalmist implores that the Lord may guard the door of his lips (Verse 3, ESV). This imagery refers to the guarding of city gates, which protected the city from intruders in biblical times.

The temptation also lies in whether the child of God follows the counsel of the righteous or is swept away by the allurements of the wicked (Verses 4–5). The psalmist describes his heart as the main battleground, for it is there that the actual struggle takes place. Only through persistent prayer, characterized by complete trust and devotion to God, can the child of God be preserved from temptation (Verses 1–2).

Psalm 141 reminds us that believers are engaged in a continual spiritual battle, both inwardly and outwardly. It underscores the importance of seeking God’s protection and guidance in the face of temptation, as well as the necessity of maintaining self-control and vigilance in our words and actions. Ultimately, it is through trust in God and persistent prayer that we can resist the allurements of sin and remain steadfast in our faith.

Read Psalm 1:1 and 141:4. How is the progressive and deceitful nature of temptation depicted here?

Psalm 141:4 and Psalm 1:1 offer insight into the progressive and deceitful nature of temptation. In Psalm 141:4, the progressive character of temptation is highlighted. First, the heart inclines toward evil, then it commits evil deeds, and finally it indulges in the allurements of the wicked by viewing their evil deeds as desirable. The language in Hebrew emphasizes the repetitive nature of this action, illustrating how temptation gradually gains strength and seduces the human heart.

Similarly, Psalm 1:1 depicts the progressive nature of temptation. It begins with someone associating with the wicked, then walking in the path of sinners, and finally sitting in the company of scoffers. The gradual progression from associating with the wicked to actively participating in their deeds illustrates how temptation is subtle and seductive, leading us to turn away from God’s path.

These Psalms emphasize the importance of being aware of the progressive nature of temptation and being careful not to fall into its trap. They remind us that only through complete dependence on God and the wisdom He provides can we resist the influence of temptation. Furthermore, they highlight the significance of the words we speak in the midst of temptation and the voices to which we listen.

It is important to recognize that the ultimate justification of the children of God is yet to come, as hinted at in both Psalms. Therefore, believers are called to patiently trust in God and wait for His wisdom as they resist the allurements of temptation.

The texts from Psalm 141 and Psalm 1 offer us a profound insight into the ongoing and cunning nature of temptation, which also manifests in our daily lives of faith.

1. Awareness of Temptations: The Psalms remind us that we are engaged in a constant spiritual battle, affecting us both internally and externally. It is important that we are aware of this fact and remain vigilant to resist the temptations that could lead us away from God’s path.

2. Self-Control and Vigilance: Our words, thoughts, and actions are constantly under the influence of temptation. Therefore, it is crucial that we exercise self-control and vigilance to resist the allurements of sin. By relying on God and surrendering to His guidance, we can combat temptation and remain steadfast in our faith.

3. Community and Support: We need the support and encouragement of our faith community to stand against temptations. Through collective prayer, reading the Bible, and mutual encouragement, we can be strengthened to resist the temptations of the evil path and stay on the path of righteousness.

4. Trust in God: Ultimately, we must trust in God and patiently wait for His wisdom as we confront temptations. God is our refuge and strong support in the midst of temptation, and through our dependence on Him, we can withstand the cunning attacks of the enemy.

Overall, these Psalms show us that the ongoing and cunning nature of temptation is also present in our daily lives of faith. However, through self-control, vigilance, community, and above all, our trust in God, we can resist temptations and remain steadfast in our faith.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-8-wisdom-for-righteous-living-8-4-deceitfulness-of-the-wicked-way/

8.3 The Lord’s Test

Read Psalm 81:8–9; 95:7–11, and 105:17–22. What does divine testing entail in these verses?

In the given Bible verses, we find various examples of divine testing that illuminate a central aspect of faith and the relationship between God and His people.

In Psalm 81:8–9 and 95:7–11, reference is made to the event at Meribah, where the people of Israel tested God by doubting His faithfulness and power. This episode illustrates how human disobedience and doubt can strain the relationship with God. Although the people did not pass God’s test, God continues to show His grace and help, even when they are in trouble. This underscores the importance of trust and obedience to God in seeking His guidance and assistance.

Psalm 105:17–22 sheds light on a different type of divine testing, illustrated by the example of Joseph. Here, it becomes clear that God’s tests serve to strengthen and purify faith. Joseph’s trust in God’s promises was tested, but through the trial, his faith was cleansed and strengthened. This shows that God’s intention behind trials often lies in preparing us for the fulfillment of His promises and strengthening our faith.

It is important to emphasize that divine tests are not meant to punish us, but rather to shape and strengthen us. Through trials, we learn to trust our faith and rely on God’s guidance. However, persistent disobedience and doubt can lead to hardening of the heart and impair our relationship with God.

Ellen White highlights an important aspect in her quote from the “Testimonies for the Church”: Rejecting God’s instruction can not only harden the heart and conscience but also influence and corrupt the faith of others. This underscores the serious consequences of disobedience and doubt towards God.

Overall, these Bible passages show that divine tests play an important role in the life of a believer by strengthening faith, solidifying trust in God, and preparing us for the fulfillment of His promises. It is therefore crucial that we recognize the lessons from these trials and strengthen our faith through obedience and trust in God.

What experiences have you had with how sin hardens the heart? Why should this thought drive us to the cross, where we can find the power for obedience?

Experience shows that sin can harden the heart by initiating a gradual process of habituation and desensitization. If someone repeatedly violates God’s commandments or consciously persists in sinful behavior, this can lead to the dulling of the conscience and insensitivity of the heart to God’s voice. This process can result in a person becoming increasingly less receptive to the convincing power of the Holy Spirit and instead remaining in a state of spiritual numbness.

Sin can also lead to a state of self-righteousness, where a person elevates themselves above God and sets their own judgment above divine law. This leads to a hardening of the heart towards the truth and love of God.

The thought that sin hardens the heart should drive us to the cross because it is at the cross that we find the solution to our sins. Jesus Christ, who died on the cross for our sins, offers us forgiveness, healing, and liberation from the power of sin. Through His sacrificial death on the cross, He opens the way for us to reconcile with God and renew our hearts through the Holy Spirit.

By coming to the cross and confessing our sins, we can find the power for obedience that we need to lead a life that pleases God. Through faith in Jesus Christ and acceptance of His grace, we can open our hearts again to the love of God and overcome the hardening influences of sin.

The connection between the hardening of the heart by sin and our everyday life in faith is extremely significant and present in many aspects of our daily lives.

1. Decisions and Behavior: In our daily lives, we face countless decisions that influence our relationship with God and other people. If our heart is hardened by sin, we may tend to make decisions that align with our own selfish desires and needs, rather than following God’s will. Our actions and behavior may be characterized by selfishness, greed, pride, and other sinful inclinations, leading us away from God’s commandments.

2. Relationships: The hardening of the heart can also affect our interpersonal relationships. If we are hardened by sin, we may struggle to show love, forgiveness, and compassion. Our relationships may be characterized by mistrust, hostility, and unforgiveness, leading to conflicts and separations.

3. Spiritual Growth: The hardening of the heart can also hinder our spiritual growth and closeness to God. If we are blinded by sin, we may struggle to hear God’s voice and recognize His guidance in our lives. Our prayer time and Bible reading may become superficial, and we may isolate ourselves from fellowship with other believers.

4. Mercy and Grace: The realization that sin hardens the heart should lead us to appreciate even more the mercy and grace of God. We should be humble and recognize that we are all sinners in need of God’s grace. This should lead us to a life of gratitude and dedication to God, as we strive to live according to His will and free ourselves from the power of sin.

Overall, the connection between the hardening of the heart by sin and our everyday life in faith underscores the need for a constant struggle against sinful inclinations in our lives and a continuous pursuit of a deeper relationship with God and a life that aligns with His will.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-8-wisdom-for-righteous-living-8-3-the-lords-test/