The Time Is Now - Developing A Lifestyle Of Prayer

strength and in the company of His people. • Do your part to keep the group from mediocrity. The group, as a whole, tends toward the least committed person. Help hold others up. • Remember that faithfulness, even in things we consider small, is a key to greater bless­ ings from God.

2. Read the teachings ofjesus in Luke 16·10 andMatthew 25:21. T7Jink of some exam­ ples where yourfaithfulness might lead to even greater opportunities in the future.

C. Positive habits and behaviors are the focus of accountability. Don't focus on sin and failure. Not only is this less effective motivation, but failure isn't measurable. If you focus positively on good habitual behaviors, you can measure your success, and you'll know when you're reaching your goals. You'll also find that, with a focus on right behavio1; sins and failures take care of themselves.

3. From the following passages, summarize the kind of emphasis that leads to genuine growth and spiritual success:Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:1-3; Matthew 6:33.

D. Faithful, fruitful living is the goal; accountability is only the method. You don't practice piano in order to practice, but to enjoy the fruit of playing well. Account­ ability is not the end, but the means to holy living. Should you set goals and be accountable if you don't enjoy it? Sure, because it produces frnit. Frankly, spiritual disciplines can sometimes be dry as dirt. But it's not the disciplines that we get the charge out of. We're working toward spiritual fruit, changed lives, minist1y impact, a growing relationship with God, joy and satisfaction from accomplishing some­ thing worthwhile. Lift your eyes and take the long view past the method to the goal-the kingdom of God ruling under every roof and in every heart, including yours.

4. Suppose a friend of yours read 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 and said, "Boy, is this guy legalistic, or what?"How wouldyou respond?