Masks

We had a great first OHF Fall Bible study meeting both on Tuesday and Thursday! Our topic was Masks- removing them and becoming authentic in our faith so that we can not only heal but bring others to Christ.

Here was the Lifework in case you missed it!:
Life Work:

Removing the Mask and Becoming Authentic Believers

Scripture Memory Verse:

“No one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, he puts it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light. For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open."

Luke 8:16-17 (NIV)

Life Work Assignments:

1.) Think about your own masks. Be honest and real with yourself as you look at what you are hiding behind and why. Start praying specifically about those things and ask God to help remove the mask.

2.) What are some practical ways you can remove your mask? Do you need to share with a struggle you have with a friend who sees you as “having it all together”? Do you need to do something that may make you appear weak in the eyes of another? Do you need to stop doing something that is perpetuating a false image of who you are? Write those things down and give yourself a date to complete them by. Ask a trusted friend to help keep you accountable.

3.) Consider the idea that the things we conceal are often things that God can use for His glory. In our weakness, He is made strong. Think about how God has or can use your weaknesses. Is there someone you can minister to or comfort, who is going through a similar situation that you once faced? Can accepting your weakness bring you into a deeper reliance and closer relationship with God? Write a prayer THANKING God for your weaknesses and how they can bring you nearer to Him.

4.) Authentic Christianity should be one of our goals in our Christian walk. We don’t want to be “Sunday Christians” (acting the “right” way on Sunday, but no other day of the week), especially amongst our military communities because time is of the essence. The military community is a mission field and we are the missionaries! If we don’t show authenticity to this special group of people, who will? For the military member, knowing Christ before going into the valley of the shadow of death can make the difference between life and death. For their families, having the hope of Christ before facing loved ones in those dark valleys can be the difference between hope and despair. Your life is an example, whether it be a good one or a bad one depends upon you! Look at your own Christian life. Are you authentic? Do you act the same, no matter what the crowd? Do you find yourself “hiding” your faith in some circles? Or do you find your regular day-to-day words and actions directly disputing the convictions you claim? Honestly take a look at this in your own life and write out specific ways you need to be more authentic in your beliefs and actions. Then, do it!