Study Guide / Outline

Section 1: Introduction

• Description: The session opens by revisiting the concept of being composed of spirit, soul, and body, with each aspect having specific tools for growth.
• Main Points:
  • Recap of previous sessions: Praying in tongues for the spirit, fasting for the body.
  • Introduction to the current focus: Understanding and managing the mind and emotions.

Section 2: Emotions – Understanding and Management

• Description: This section deals with the nature of emotions and their strong link to thoughts.
• Main Points:
  • Emotions are closely linked to our thoughts and are often directed by dominant thoughts.
  • The connection between the heart and mind is highlighted, with a focus on not leaning solely on understanding or feelings.
  • The concept of neural pathways in the brain is introduced, emphasizing how repeated thoughts and reactions can solidify emotional responses.
  • Key emphasis on not being driven by emotions but rather making conscious choices based on God’s word.

Section 3: The Deception of the Heart

• Description: This part discusses the potential deceptiveness of emotions and the heart.
• Main Points:
  • Warning against the phrase “follow your heart” and the unreliability of emotions.
  • Importance of checking emotions with God’s word to avoid deception.
  • The heart can be deceitful and can lead to incorrect judgments and actions.
  • Emphasis on not living or speaking based on how one feels but rather on biblical truths.

Section 4: Discernment and Emotional Maturity

• Description: Focuses on developing emotional maturity and the ability to discern wisely.
• Main Points:
  • The relationship between treasure (values) and the heart is discussed.
  • Emotional responses often align with what is valued or focused upon in life.
  • Call for mature handling of emotions, moving away from childlike, impulsive responses.
  • The importance of discipline in managing emotions and making decisions based on spiritual truths rather than feelings.

Section 5: Conclusion and Prayer

• Description: Concludes with a call to not be led by emotions but by God’s word and prayer for strength and guidance.
• Main Points:
  • Encouragement to rely on God’s word for direction rather than emotions.
  • Prayer for guidance and strength to overcome emotional impulsiveness and to align with God’s will.

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Scriptures Referenced:

• Proverbs 3:5 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart.
• Proverbs 28:26 – Trusting in one’s own heart is foolish.
• Jeremiah 17:9 – The heart is deceitful.
• Proverbs 16:32 – Value of being slow to anger.
• Luke 12:34 – Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
• 1st Corinthians 13:11 – Putting away childish things.
• Galatians 4:1 – Heir as a child and servant.
• Proverbs 4:23 – Keeping the heart with all diligence.