Lesson 3 - Thinking the Truth about Others

What meant the most to you from this chapter or helped you think more accurately about God’s character and the truth of His Word?

What offered you the greatest challenge or blessing, and why?

Playing Mind Games
Mark any thoughts you regularly entertain about other people.

___ “I don’t think he/she means what he/she said.”

___ “I wonder what I’ve done wrong.”

___ “I wonder what he/she thinks about me.”

___ Other ways you second-guess people’s motives or messages:


Understanding the Principle of Love
Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-8.
What truths in these verses could help you with your nagging thoughts about what other people are thinking?


Putting the Principle of Love to Work
How will asking yourself “What is true?” help you stop second-guessing your relationships?


Understanding the Principle of a Clear Conscience
Read Matthew 18:15.
How can obedience to this command assist you in your relationships?

What is the similar command in James 4:17?

If no one comes to you with a personal issue, what can you assume?

Putting the Principle of a Clear Conscience to Work
How does remembering the wisdom of Proverbs 28:1 help you proceed in your relationships?


Applying God’s Principles to Your Thoughts
Consider what we’ve learned from Philippians 4:8 and what the guidelines “true” and “real” offer for your thoughts. What can you do, and what can God do to keep you from torturing yourself with unfounded (and, therefore, probably inaccurate) thoughts about what other people are thinking and feeling?


What will you do the next time you find yourself being suspicious, exaggerating, guessing, or making assumptions about someone’s behavior?


How would your relationships improve if you accepted people’s words at face value? Can you think of one specific instance where this would have helped?


Tapping into the Power of God’s Word
Read Hebrews 4:12.
How is the Word of God described?


What is God’s Word able to do?


How does the Bible help you in your thought process?


What must you do to tap into this power?


Loving God…Even More
Read this section in your book again. As you consider the contents of this chapter and God’s amazing love for you, what can you do this week, in obedience to Christ…

…to think on the truth?
…to train your thoughts?
…to love God with all your mind?

Think on these things.