Like a tree

Psalm 1
1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

2 his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

4 The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.

5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.

6 For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

This morning is house is quiet except for the soft meows of Cocoa Puff. Now, there is one more gentle cat. She lets the girls drag her around in what I know has to be the most uncomfortable positions and just bides her time until she can escape under the bed or some other secret hiding place. Who says cats aren't smart? Not me.

Today in SS we will be talking about our actions, good and bad. Here are some of the questions. I know I'll be thinking more on these today as we continue our studies in Genesis and today in chapter 32.

1. Why do we make matters worse rather than solve them?

2. Describe a time when your actions caught up with you and created big problems. What do you wish you had done before this point?

3. What messengers have you sent ahead to prepare you for a threatening situation? What clues got you ready for what you were about to face? Why do you thing Esau chose to bring 400 men along with him?

4. How are your past mistakes affecting your present and future possibilities? What is God's path out of that predicament? What other paths compete for your attention, offering false solutions?

5. How do you keep from making things worse when feeling regretful about a past action or series of actions?

6. Describe a time in your life when you come to terms with your own sin and mistakes. Was this process easy or hard?

7.In two or three sentences rewrite Genesis 32:9-12 as if it were your prayer to God.

8. How has God helped you to accept what comes? What has He taught you over time?

9. Is it always right to admit fault, no mater how the other person might receive the admission? Why; what else should I do?

10. Whey do you think Jacob saw the face of God in his reunion with Esau? Where have you seen God's touch?

11. The amazing truth is that dealing with our sin sets us free. The justification and fear are what enslave. We know this, but we don’t act upon it. Why?
12. Sin is sneaky. It is often the little things that trap us. Give examples in your life.

13. What person will embrace you as you deal with the sin you have done or are doing?

The key to freedom from our own sin, guilt, and brokenness is found when we practice godly humility. Let God show you what to do about past wrongs, and how to heal relationships.

Powerful heavy questions this morning. I'm just thankful that we have a Savior that we can go to for help with anything, the big and the small issues.

Hope your Sunday is a good one with rest in preparation for days ahead.