1. As 2020 is coming to an end, many are wondering what kind of year 2021 will be. 2. This year has had its challenges, but the Lord has blessed us abundantly. 3. We can be assured that 2021 will have its challenges, but we can also be assured of God's continued blessings. 4. In Psalm 34:11 David calls upon us to "hearken" to him. 5. According to vs.12, David's instructions are for those who "desire life," those who "love many days," and those who want to "see good." 6. In other words, David is teaching us how 2021 can be a good year. 7. In our lesson we are concentrating on a similar list of instructions presented in 1 Peter 3:8-12.
Discussion:
I. WE LEARN FROM VS.8 THAT WE MUST:
A. be "all of one mind" (Romans 12:16) B. have "compassion one of another" (Romans 12:15) C. "love as brethren" (Romans 12:10a) D. "be pitiful" (Ephesians 4:32) E. "be courteous" (Philippians 2:3-4).
II. ACCORDING TO VS.9, WE MUST AVOID RENDERING "EVIL FOR EVIL, OR RAILING FOR RAILING"
A. Similar instructions are given in Romans 12:17a and 1 Thessalonians 5:15. B. Let us follow the Lord's example (1 Peter 2:21-23). C. Those who do so will "inherit a blessing."
III. WE ARE TAUGHT IN VS.10 TO AVOID SINNING WITH OUR TONGUES
A. We are to refrain our tongues "from evil" (1 Peter 2:1). B. We are to refrain from speaking "guile" [deceit].
IV. IN VS.11 WE ARE TAUGHT TO:
A. "eschew [turn away from] evil, and do good" (1 Thessalonians 5:22) B. "seek peace, and ensue it" (Romans 12:18; Matthew 5:9).
Conclusion:
1. Following these instructions will enable us to "love life, and see good days" throughout 2021. 2. In closing, vs.12 contains 2 points of information that will encourage us to practice the instructions given by David and Peter. a. First, the Lord is present to help those who do His will. b. Second, His face is against those who do evil.
