“But the fruit of the Spirit is … peace”

Day 1: “Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

Think of a time when you had to ask for forgiveness from someone, or when you had to extend forgiveness to someone. Why is it hard to ask for forgiveness? Why is it hard to extend forgiveness?
Read Matthew 18:21-35. What does this passage teach us about how God has forgiven us? How does remembering how God has forgiven us enable us to extend forgiveness to others? How do you think it help us to be able to ask for forgiveness from others?
Pray that God would enable you to see the depth of his forgiveness to you. Pray for God’s help to “forgive as the Lord forgave you (Colossians 3:13).” Is there anyone in your life whom God is calling you to forgive?

Read Philippians 4:2-9. Where in this passage is “peace with others” discussed? Where in this passage is “peace within” discussed?
The anxieties of life can often feel overwhelming, and out of our control. Paul suggests prayer as the alternative to being anxious. Prayer may not always automatically or immediately banish anxiety, but how do you think that prayer might help us to be less anxious and to experience more of God’s peace in our heart and mind?
What we think about affects our outlook on all of life and how we live (vv 8-9). What can we remember about God’s character that might help us in the area of anxiety?
What are of your life can you commit to prayer?

Words are often a source of conflict in relationships. Proverbs 12:18 says, “The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” Can you remember a time when you said something that you later regretted because of it’s hurtfulness? Or can you think of a time when someone else’s words were hurtful or damaging to you?
Read Ephesians 4:29-35. How are we told NOT to speak? How are we instructed to speak? What other attitudes should we have/not have that might affect how we speak to others?
Ask God for his help to speak only in ways that build up those around you.