Below are the quotes that were used in the video.
There are times in life when we must decide whether to focus on our fears or to focus on our faith in Christ and God's promises that He has made to us. If we focus on our fears, we may feel like "grasshoppers” (Num. 13:33). A focus on our faith lets us more clearly see the 'fruits' of our discipleship. This week in our reading we look at some of my favorite stories in the Old Testament that can help us to strengthen our faith and prepare us for the snakelike attacks of the adversity.
President Ezra Taft Benson: “When we put God first, all other things fall into their proper place or drop out of our lives. Our love of the Lord will govern the claims for our affection, the demands on our time, the interests we pursue, and the order of our priorities. We should put God ahead of everyone else in our lives.” (Apr. 1988, 3; or Ensign, May 1988, 4 )
Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf: “The Lord organized the Church in a way that offers each member an opportunity for service, which, in turn, leads to personal spiritual growth. …
“You may feel that there are others who are more capable or more experienced who could fulfill your callings and assignments better than you can, but the Lord gave you your responsibilities for a reason. There may be people and hearts only you can reach and touch. Perhaps no one else could do it in quite the same way.” (“Lift Where You Stand,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2008, 56).
Problems for Moses
Problem Solution
Challenges to Prophetic Authority
President Harold B. Lee: “I want to bear you my testimony that the experience I have had has taught me that those who criticize the leaders of this Church are showing signs of a spiritual sickness which, unless curbed, will bring about eventual spiritual death.” (Conference Report, Oct. 1947, 67).
“Your safety and ours depends upon whether or not we follow the ones whom the Lord has placed to preside over His Church.” (Conference Report, Oct. 1970, 153).
President Boyd K. Packer: “The Lord’s house is a house of order. The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that ‘it is contrary to the economy of God for any member of the Church, or any one [else], to receive instruction for those in authority, higher than themselves’ [Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 21].
“You may receive revelation individually, as a parent for your family, or for those for whom you are responsible as a leader or teacher, having been properly called and set apart.
“If one becomes critical and harbors negative feelings, the Spirit will withdraw. Only when they repent will the Spirit return. My experience is that the channels of inspiration always follow that order. You are safe following your leaders” (“Personal Revelation: The Gift, the Test, and the Promise,” Ensign, Nov. 1994, 61).
What did Joshua & Caleb do so that they did not have a ‘grasshopper mentality?
President Thomas S. Monson: “So much in life depends on our attitude. The way we choose to see things and respond to others makes all the difference. To do the best we can and then to choose to be happy about our circumstances, whatever they may be, can bring peace and contentment.” (“Living the Abundant Life,” Ensign, Jan. 2012, p. 4)
President Thomas S. Monson: “We can’t direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails. For maximum happiness, peace, and contentment, may we choose a positive attitude.” (“Living the Abundant Life,” Ensign, January 2012, p. 4)
S. Michael Wilcox: “The choice between two basic but opposing approaches—faith versus fear—influences our lives more markedly than any other (see Mark 4:40). These approaches are as old as mankind and are amply found in the scriptures. Perhaps the best example can be found in the story of the spies Moses sent into Canaan after the exodus of the children of Israel from Egypt.” (https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/2002/03/the-12-spies?lang=eng)
S. Michael Wilcox: “The people had a choice. Would they direct their attention to the large cluster of grapes and the hope of future harvests in the land the Lord had promised them, or would they focus on the words of the 10 faithless leaders about the height of the walls and the difficulties they might face in conquering the land? The people mourned and wept that night. They talked of returning to Egypt and rebelling against Moses. In vain, Caleb and Joshua tried to kindle some faith in their hearts by assuring them, “If the Lord delight in us, then he will bring us into this land and give it us. … Only rebel not ye against the Lord, neither fear ye the people of the land. … The Lord is with us: fear them not” (Num. 14:8–9). The people chose fear instead of faith, taking up stones to kill Caleb and Joshua.” (https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/2002/03/the-12-spies?lang=eng)
S. Michael Wilcox: “There are times when we may hear two conflicting reports of what lies before us in life. We have to decide whether to focus on the difficulties in obeying a certain commandment of the Lord or to focus on the “fruits,” remembering the promises He extends to those who trust in Him. Whether we are paying tithing, accepting a Church calling, or dealing with personal challenges in our families, at work, or obtaining an education, we simply must not let the “height of the walls” and the power of opposing forces make us feel “as grasshoppers” (Num. 13:33). The Lord will help us conquer our fears, surmount our obstacles, and enjoy the blessings of faithfulness to His gospel. If we will keep our eyes on the harvest, not on the obstacles before us, we become grape gatherers instead of wall watchers.” (https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/2002/03/the-12-spies?lang=eng)
President Gordon B. Hinckley: “We see some around us who are indifferent concerning the future of this work, … who speak of limitations, who express fears. … With doubt concerning its past, they have no vision concerning its future. … I invite every one of you, wherever you may be as members of this church, to stand on your feet and with a song in your heart move forward, living the gospel, loving the Lord, and building the kingdom.” (https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/2002/03/the-12-spies?lang=eng)
Thomas S. Monson: “We may at times find ourselves surrounded by others and yet standing in the minority or even standing alone concerning what is acceptable and what is not.
“Do we have the moral courage to stand firm for our beliefs, even if by so doing we must stand alone? …
“May we ever be courageous and prepared to stand for what we believe, and if we must stand alone in the process, may we do so…
“…courageously, strengthened by the knowledge that in reality we are never alone when we stand with our Father in Heaven.” (“Dare to Stand Alone,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2011, 60, 67).
“This incident, taken together with other scripture, creates a number of questions. Did Moses really sin against the Lord? Was that the reason Moses was not permitted to enter the Promised Land? Did Moses really assume glory to himself, or was he simply angry with the lack of faith exhibited by the children of Israel? Was this one error enough to cancel out years of great faith, obedience, and devotion? At least two other Old Testament passages indicate that Moses did sin in striking the rock at Meribah (see Numbers 27:12-14; Deuteronomy 32:51-52). Other passages, however, help to clarify the matter. Deuteronomy 3:26 and 4:21 indicate that the Lord told Moses that the reason he could not enter the Promised Land was that the Lord was angry with him "for your sakes" (emphasis added). This statement could imply that there were reasons other than the error of Moses for the prohibition. Two other facts strengthen this supposition. First, both Moses and the higher priesthood were taken from Israel because of the people's unworthiness, not Moses' (see D&C 84:23-25). Second, Moses was translated when his mortal ministry was finished (see Alma 45:19). In other words, Moses was privileged to enter a land of promise far greater than the land of Canaan. He had finished his calling in mortality, and a new leader was to take Israel into the Promised Land. And, Moses was translated—hardly a punishment for sinning against God.” (CES Old Testament Student Manual: Genesis-2 Samuel, 208)
“The miracle of healing associated with the "serpent of brass . . . put . . . upon a pole" has intrigued many generations. The symbol of the American Medical Association (serpent entwined around a pole) derived from this incident. Jesus used the symbolism to refer to his own resurrection (John 3:14-15), and Book of Mormon prophets also likened the incident to the life-giving resurrection of Jesus Christ. (Hel. 8:14-16; 1 Ne. 17:41.) Some archaeologists who believe in the Book of Mormon have wondered if the titles for God used by early middle-American cultures (such as Quetzalcoatl, 'birdserpent') might not have originated when Jesus Christ (whose resurrection was symbolized by the serpent raised up by Moses) appeared to them by descending out of heaven like a bird.” (Daniel H. Ludlow, A Companion to Your Study of the Old Testament, 181.)
President Boyd K. Packer: “We don’t have to listen to them or pay heed to them—we have our agency. But there is a lesson in scripture to consider.
“The children of Israel entered the land of Edom. It was infested with serpents and snakes, the bite of which was so painful and so dangerous that they called them fiery, flying serpents. They cried for deliverance.
“‘. . . And Moses prayed for the people.
“‘And the Lord said unto Moses, Make thee a fiery serpent, and set it upon a pole: and it shall come to pass, that every one that is bitten, when he looketh upon it, shall live.
‘And Moses made a serpent of brass, and put it upon a pole, and it came to pass, that if a serpent had bitten any man, when he beheld the serpent of brass, he lived.’ ( Num. 21:7–9 .)
“‘How silly,’ some must have said. ‘How can such a thing cure me? I’ll not show my stupidity by paying any attention,’ and some would not look. . . .
“And today many say, ‘How silly! How could accepting Christ save me?’ They will not turn their heads to look nor incline their ears to hear. They ignore the great witness that comes from these conferences.
We ought to, indeed we must, heed the counsel of these men, for the Lord said, ‘What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same.” (In Conference Report, Oct. 1968, pp. 75–76.)
Introducing Balaam
As the children of Israel came to the end of their wanderings in the wilderness, the inhabitants in the land of Canaan became very nervous. For good reason!
Balak was a king in the land of Moab. He sought for help from a man named Balaam to curse the children of Israel so they would not overtake him or his people.
Balaam was a prophet who believed in the God of Israel to the degree that he could be influenced by the Spirit. Apparently Balaam's abilities were well known, and that is why Balak, king of Moab, wanted Balaam's help. Balak offered Balaam great riches, cattle, and honor if Balaam would do this.
How did Balaam respond the first time that Balak asked for Balaam's help? (Numbers 22:1-14. )
Balak Didn't Give Up
However, it appears that Balaam's heart wasn't in the right place. In 2 Peter 2:15, we learn that Balaam "loved the wages of unrighteousness." Also, something remarkable happened to Balaam on his way to Moab that lets us know the Lord wasn't pleased with what was in Balaam's heart.
Read Numbers 22:22-35. What principle being taught stands out most to you?
Balaam's Prophecies
Numbers 23 and 24 contain an account of three separate times that Balak tried to get Balaam to curse the children of Israel. Instead, three separate times, Balaam spoke the words the Lord commanded him to. These words included important prophecies.
In the End, Tragedy for Balaam...and Israel
In the battle with the Midianites, Balaam was slain. From words that Moses spoke later, we learn that Balaam had most likely told those who were living in the land of Canaan that the way to weaken and destroy Israel was to get them to be immoral (see Num. 31:1-16). He taught them to:
As a result, many of them began worshipping false gods and were sexually immoral. The Lord commanded that those who were not faithful to him be slain. Also, a plague came as a result of their wickedness and 24,000 died (see Num. 25:1-9).
Elder Bruce R. McConkie: “I wonder how often some of us get our direction from the Church and then, Balaam-like, plead for some worldly rewards and finally receive an answer which says, in effect, if you are determined to be a millionaire or to gain this or that worldly honor, go ahead, with the understanding that you will continue to serve the Lord. Then we wonder why things don't work out for us as well as they would have done if we had put first in our lives the things of God's kingdom. . .
"And don't we all know people who, though they were once firm and steadfast in testimony, are now opposing the Lord's purposes and interests on earth because money and power have twisted their judgment of what should or should not be?
"Balaam, the prophet, inspired and mighty as he once was, lost his soul in the end because he set his heart on the things of this world rather than the riches of eternity.” ("The Story of a Prophet's Madness," New Era, Apr. 1972, 7).
Thought Questions:
Teaching Thoughts:
President Ezra Taft Benson: “When we put God first, all other things fall into their proper place or drop out of our lives. Our love of the Lord will govern the claims for our affection, the demands on our time, the interests we pursue, and the order of our priorities. We should put God ahead of everyone else in our lives.” (Apr. 1988, 3; or Ensign, May 1988, 4 )
Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf: “The Lord organized the Church in a way that offers each member an opportunity for service, which, in turn, leads to personal spiritual growth. …
“You may feel that there are others who are more capable or more experienced who could fulfill your callings and assignments better than you can, but the Lord gave you your responsibilities for a reason. There may be people and hearts only you can reach and touch. Perhaps no one else could do it in quite the same way.” (“Lift Where You Stand,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2008, 56).
Problems for Moses
- Numbers 11:4-6 Desire for meat to eat
- Numbers 11:14-15 Burden too heavy for Moses
- Numbers 11:24-28 Joshua dislikes that others prophesy
- Numbers 12:1-2 Miriam and Aaron want authority
- Numbers 16:1-3, 9-12 Some seek priestly offices
Problem Solution
- Numbers 11:4-6 11:18-20, 32-34 – Miracle of the quail
- Numbers 11:14-15 11:16-17 - Calling of the 70
- Numbers 11:24-28 11:29 - all can have the spirit of prophecy
- Numbers 12:1-2 12:4-15 - Prophets like Moses preside
- Numbers 16:1-3, 9-12 16:23-30 - Swallowed into pit (Hell)
Challenges to Prophetic Authority
- Joshua – “Prophets delegate too much.”
- Miriam – “Prophets fail to give power to those who have gifts and abilities.”
- Korah (Levite Priest) – “Prophets unnecessarily restrict power. I want to be a _________.”
President Harold B. Lee: “I want to bear you my testimony that the experience I have had has taught me that those who criticize the leaders of this Church are showing signs of a spiritual sickness which, unless curbed, will bring about eventual spiritual death.” (Conference Report, Oct. 1947, 67).
“Your safety and ours depends upon whether or not we follow the ones whom the Lord has placed to preside over His Church.” (Conference Report, Oct. 1970, 153).
President Boyd K. Packer: “The Lord’s house is a house of order. The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that ‘it is contrary to the economy of God for any member of the Church, or any one [else], to receive instruction for those in authority, higher than themselves’ [Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 21].
“You may receive revelation individually, as a parent for your family, or for those for whom you are responsible as a leader or teacher, having been properly called and set apart.
“If one becomes critical and harbors negative feelings, the Spirit will withdraw. Only when they repent will the Spirit return. My experience is that the channels of inspiration always follow that order. You are safe following your leaders” (“Personal Revelation: The Gift, the Test, and the Promise,” Ensign, Nov. 1994, 61).
What did Joshua & Caleb do so that they did not have a ‘grasshopper mentality?
- Listened to the promises of God (the land was given to Israel (13:1).
- Listened to the prophet to “be ye of good courage.” (13:20)
- Combined faith in God’s promises and their positive attitudes – “Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are able to overcome it.” (13:30)
- Encouraged others – “Rebel not against the LORD … The LORD is with us: fear them not.” (14:9)
- Had the “Spirit with him.” (14:24)
- “Followed me [the LORD] fully.” (14:24)
President Thomas S. Monson: “So much in life depends on our attitude. The way we choose to see things and respond to others makes all the difference. To do the best we can and then to choose to be happy about our circumstances, whatever they may be, can bring peace and contentment.” (“Living the Abundant Life,” Ensign, Jan. 2012, p. 4)
President Thomas S. Monson: “We can’t direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails. For maximum happiness, peace, and contentment, may we choose a positive attitude.” (“Living the Abundant Life,” Ensign, January 2012, p. 4)
S. Michael Wilcox: “The choice between two basic but opposing approaches—faith versus fear—influences our lives more markedly than any other (see Mark 4:40). These approaches are as old as mankind and are amply found in the scriptures. Perhaps the best example can be found in the story of the spies Moses sent into Canaan after the exodus of the children of Israel from Egypt.” (https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/2002/03/the-12-spies?lang=eng)
S. Michael Wilcox: “The people had a choice. Would they direct their attention to the large cluster of grapes and the hope of future harvests in the land the Lord had promised them, or would they focus on the words of the 10 faithless leaders about the height of the walls and the difficulties they might face in conquering the land? The people mourned and wept that night. They talked of returning to Egypt and rebelling against Moses. In vain, Caleb and Joshua tried to kindle some faith in their hearts by assuring them, “If the Lord delight in us, then he will bring us into this land and give it us. … Only rebel not ye against the Lord, neither fear ye the people of the land. … The Lord is with us: fear them not” (Num. 14:8–9). The people chose fear instead of faith, taking up stones to kill Caleb and Joshua.” (https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/2002/03/the-12-spies?lang=eng)
S. Michael Wilcox: “There are times when we may hear two conflicting reports of what lies before us in life. We have to decide whether to focus on the difficulties in obeying a certain commandment of the Lord or to focus on the “fruits,” remembering the promises He extends to those who trust in Him. Whether we are paying tithing, accepting a Church calling, or dealing with personal challenges in our families, at work, or obtaining an education, we simply must not let the “height of the walls” and the power of opposing forces make us feel “as grasshoppers” (Num. 13:33). The Lord will help us conquer our fears, surmount our obstacles, and enjoy the blessings of faithfulness to His gospel. If we will keep our eyes on the harvest, not on the obstacles before us, we become grape gatherers instead of wall watchers.” (https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/2002/03/the-12-spies?lang=eng)
President Gordon B. Hinckley: “We see some around us who are indifferent concerning the future of this work, … who speak of limitations, who express fears. … With doubt concerning its past, they have no vision concerning its future. … I invite every one of you, wherever you may be as members of this church, to stand on your feet and with a song in your heart move forward, living the gospel, loving the Lord, and building the kingdom.” (https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/2002/03/the-12-spies?lang=eng)
Thomas S. Monson: “We may at times find ourselves surrounded by others and yet standing in the minority or even standing alone concerning what is acceptable and what is not.
“Do we have the moral courage to stand firm for our beliefs, even if by so doing we must stand alone? …
“May we ever be courageous and prepared to stand for what we believe, and if we must stand alone in the process, may we do so…
“…courageously, strengthened by the knowledge that in reality we are never alone when we stand with our Father in Heaven.” (“Dare to Stand Alone,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2011, 60, 67).
“This incident, taken together with other scripture, creates a number of questions. Did Moses really sin against the Lord? Was that the reason Moses was not permitted to enter the Promised Land? Did Moses really assume glory to himself, or was he simply angry with the lack of faith exhibited by the children of Israel? Was this one error enough to cancel out years of great faith, obedience, and devotion? At least two other Old Testament passages indicate that Moses did sin in striking the rock at Meribah (see Numbers 27:12-14; Deuteronomy 32:51-52). Other passages, however, help to clarify the matter. Deuteronomy 3:26 and 4:21 indicate that the Lord told Moses that the reason he could not enter the Promised Land was that the Lord was angry with him "for your sakes" (emphasis added). This statement could imply that there were reasons other than the error of Moses for the prohibition. Two other facts strengthen this supposition. First, both Moses and the higher priesthood were taken from Israel because of the people's unworthiness, not Moses' (see D&C 84:23-25). Second, Moses was translated when his mortal ministry was finished (see Alma 45:19). In other words, Moses was privileged to enter a land of promise far greater than the land of Canaan. He had finished his calling in mortality, and a new leader was to take Israel into the Promised Land. And, Moses was translated—hardly a punishment for sinning against God.” (CES Old Testament Student Manual: Genesis-2 Samuel, 208)
“The miracle of healing associated with the "serpent of brass . . . put . . . upon a pole" has intrigued many generations. The symbol of the American Medical Association (serpent entwined around a pole) derived from this incident. Jesus used the symbolism to refer to his own resurrection (John 3:14-15), and Book of Mormon prophets also likened the incident to the life-giving resurrection of Jesus Christ. (Hel. 8:14-16; 1 Ne. 17:41.) Some archaeologists who believe in the Book of Mormon have wondered if the titles for God used by early middle-American cultures (such as Quetzalcoatl, 'birdserpent') might not have originated when Jesus Christ (whose resurrection was symbolized by the serpent raised up by Moses) appeared to them by descending out of heaven like a bird.” (Daniel H. Ludlow, A Companion to Your Study of the Old Testament, 181.)
President Boyd K. Packer: “We don’t have to listen to them or pay heed to them—we have our agency. But there is a lesson in scripture to consider.
“The children of Israel entered the land of Edom. It was infested with serpents and snakes, the bite of which was so painful and so dangerous that they called them fiery, flying serpents. They cried for deliverance.
“‘. . . And Moses prayed for the people.
“‘And the Lord said unto Moses, Make thee a fiery serpent, and set it upon a pole: and it shall come to pass, that every one that is bitten, when he looketh upon it, shall live.
‘And Moses made a serpent of brass, and put it upon a pole, and it came to pass, that if a serpent had bitten any man, when he beheld the serpent of brass, he lived.’ ( Num. 21:7–9 .)
“‘How silly,’ some must have said. ‘How can such a thing cure me? I’ll not show my stupidity by paying any attention,’ and some would not look. . . .
“And today many say, ‘How silly! How could accepting Christ save me?’ They will not turn their heads to look nor incline their ears to hear. They ignore the great witness that comes from these conferences.
We ought to, indeed we must, heed the counsel of these men, for the Lord said, ‘What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same.” (In Conference Report, Oct. 1968, pp. 75–76.)
Introducing Balaam
As the children of Israel came to the end of their wanderings in the wilderness, the inhabitants in the land of Canaan became very nervous. For good reason!
Balak was a king in the land of Moab. He sought for help from a man named Balaam to curse the children of Israel so they would not overtake him or his people.
Balaam was a prophet who believed in the God of Israel to the degree that he could be influenced by the Spirit. Apparently Balaam's abilities were well known, and that is why Balak, king of Moab, wanted Balaam's help. Balak offered Balaam great riches, cattle, and honor if Balaam would do this.
How did Balaam respond the first time that Balak asked for Balaam's help? (Numbers 22:1-14. )
Balak Didn't Give Up
However, it appears that Balaam's heart wasn't in the right place. In 2 Peter 2:15, we learn that Balaam "loved the wages of unrighteousness." Also, something remarkable happened to Balaam on his way to Moab that lets us know the Lord wasn't pleased with what was in Balaam's heart.
Read Numbers 22:22-35. What principle being taught stands out most to you?
- When your donkey is more obedient to God than you are, you should probably change your ways
- God cares about us enough to send warnings when we are headed in the wrong direction
- When we react with anger, we might want to ask ourselves if we're really in tune with the Spirit of God
Balaam's Prophecies
Numbers 23 and 24 contain an account of three separate times that Balak tried to get Balaam to curse the children of Israel. Instead, three separate times, Balaam spoke the words the Lord commanded him to. These words included important prophecies.
- Numbers 23:8-12 – Israel will be blessed and prosper
- Numbers 23:17-24 – God will fulfill all His words and Israel will “rise up as a great lion.”
- Numbers 24:15-19 – The Messiah – “A Star out of Jacob, and a Scepter shall rise out of Israel.”
In the End, Tragedy for Balaam...and Israel
In the battle with the Midianites, Balaam was slain. From words that Moses spoke later, we learn that Balaam had most likely told those who were living in the land of Canaan that the way to weaken and destroy Israel was to get them to be immoral (see Num. 31:1-16). He taught them to:
As a result, many of them began worshipping false gods and were sexually immoral. The Lord commanded that those who were not faithful to him be slain. Also, a plague came as a result of their wickedness and 24,000 died (see Num. 25:1-9).
Elder Bruce R. McConkie: “I wonder how often some of us get our direction from the Church and then, Balaam-like, plead for some worldly rewards and finally receive an answer which says, in effect, if you are determined to be a millionaire or to gain this or that worldly honor, go ahead, with the understanding that you will continue to serve the Lord. Then we wonder why things don't work out for us as well as they would have done if we had put first in our lives the things of God's kingdom. . .
"And don't we all know people who, though they were once firm and steadfast in testimony, are now opposing the Lord's purposes and interests on earth because money and power have twisted their judgment of what should or should not be?
"Balaam, the prophet, inspired and mighty as he once was, lost his soul in the end because he set his heart on the things of this world rather than the riches of eternity.” ("The Story of a Prophet's Madness," New Era, Apr. 1972, 7).
Thought Questions:
- Do you have any talents or abilities that, if not used carefully, might place you in a position such as Balaam was? He wouldn't have been offered all of that money if he hadn't had his particular gifts.
- Have you decided for yourself what your priorities in life are? Are the Lord and your covenants with Him at the top of that list?
- Have you had any experiences already during which you have learned the truth, "No man can serve two masters" (Matt. 6:24)?
Teaching Thoughts:
- .How can you respond to those who criticize prophets.
- How can you overcome a ‘grasshopper mentality?”
- “Faith vs. Fear” – how do you not focus on the “height of the walls” but on the promises of God?
- What would you include in your ‘Spiritual Snakebite” kit?
- Use thought questions to deepen understanding and allow for truths to sink deeper into our hearts.