Praise & Appreciation

Immanuel Baptist Richmond

Sermons App

Praise & Appreciation

Proverbs 27:2, 21

October 28, 2018 • Michael Wilburn

Application Questions:

How are praise and flattery distinguished from one another? Why is it appropriate to praise but inappropriate to flatter?

Why did Jesus say, “Woe to you when all men speak well of you, for so did their father’s to the false prophets” (Luke 6:26)?

How does praise test a person’s character like a crucible or a furnace (see Proverbs 27:21)?

Is it appropriate to praise yourself? Should you present yourself in the best possible light in a job interview, new relationship, or online profile?

An Excellent Wife

December 30, 2018 • Michael Wilburn

Application Questions: What three contemporary ways can a Christian woman replicate specific Proverbs 31 principles? Where does the Proverbs 31 woman find motivation for her good works? What is the root, cause, or source for such altruism? Read Proverbs 31:30 and answer the following question: How important is physical beauty as compared to spiritual wisdom? Who is the closest example of feminine virtue in your life? Share her story with someone this week.

This Day…That Day

December 23, 2018 • Michael Wilburn

APPLICATION QUESTIONS: How do today’s actions influence tomorrow’s outcomes? List things the Bible values as eternal. As it applies to your past ask the following questions: Do I embrace, take care of, and have gratitude for my current situation? Do I take responsibility for the world that has been both given to me and created by me? Do I bring my past to bear on my present? As it applies to your future ask the following question: Who am I to serve? Where am I to be? What burden am I called to bear? How am I to influence? All things considered, what is one biblical principle living wisely today?

Livable Wisdom

December 16, 2018 • Michael Wilburn

Application Questions: What are the limits of self-understand or self-awareness? Do these leave you capable or incapable of knowing God? Read the five questions in Proverbs 30:4. What ultimate, existential question would you add to the list? Is it humanly possible to answer these without God? How do you define the doctrines of biblical inspiration and inerrancy? What Scripture texts would you list alongside Proverbs 30:5-6? Does God know what is needful for you? Do you trust him? Have you experienced his provision? Do you pray confidently out of your need?