(Pastor Larry used an outline. The bolded, underlined words are the ones filled in during the message.)

"Always be joyful. Keep on praying. No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. Do not scoff at prophecies, but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good. Keep away from every kind of evil." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-22 NLT)

Introduction:

It takes a level of maturity to realize there are times in life where others know more than you do. We need to be able to step back and listen to someone else.

The ability to listen and follow directions may not make you feel powerful, but it could mean you are wise.

Have the right attitude.

"Always be joyful." (1 Thessalonians 5:16) NLT

Talk to the rright person.

"Never stop praying." 1 Thessalonians 5:17) NLT

Do the right thing.

"Do not stifle the Holy Spirit." 1 Thessalonians 5:19) NLT

Listen to the right words.

"Do not scoff at prophecies." (1 Thessalonians 5:20) NLT

Learn the right lessons.

"But test everything that is said, Hold on to what is good. (1 Thessalonians 5:21) NLT

I. Live the right way.

"Stay away from every kind of evil. (1 Thessalonians 5:22) NLT

Exodus 20:1-17	Proverbs 6:16-19	Galatians 5:19-21
Luke 18:18-23		Matthew 22:36-40

A. Your life affects more than just you.

1. There are places you just don't go.

2. There are things you just don't do.

3. There are things we just don't look at.

B. Your example is watched by more people than you think.

1. Would others know you are a Christian?

2. Would others want to be a Christian?

3. Will Others see Christ?

Lesson:

It is absolute selfishness to thing "I'm noat hurting anyone but myself." It's not just the one stepping on the landmine that gets hurt.

Outline from Pastor Bjorklund's February 14, 2010 message