Virtuous Woman - Serving & TeamworkSample

Humility

Character Goal:Humility is recognizing our own sinfulness before God, obeying God and submitting to His will knowing He desires good for us.

Biblical Character: The Sinful Woman

Scripture Readings: Luke 7:36-50; Luke 18:9-14

• Whose house did Jesus go to for dinner?
• Who learned about Jesus being at the Pharisee’s house?
• Upon entering the house, who does the“sinful woman” approach? What does this tell us about Jesus?
• What does she do while in Jesus’ presence? What do you think moved her to act toward Him in this way?
• What character trait does she possess that allows her to worship Jesus in spite of her past sins and who was around?
• What things can try to keep us from worshiping Jesus? Why?
• How did the Pharisee view the woman and her actions toward Jesus? What does this tell us about him?
• How does Jesus respond to her actions toward Him? What does this tell us about Jesus and the kind of people He receives?
• How do you think the Pharisee viewed himself? How do you think the woman viewed herself? How does Jesus compare how the two relate to Him? (See vv.44–47) What does this teach us about pride versus humility?
• Because of her humble attitude, what three things does Jesus say to the woman?
• To whom does Jesus tell the parable in Luke 18?
• Who went up to the temple to pray?
• Describe the two and how they prayed to God.
• How do you think the Pharisee and the tax collector each viewed himself before God?
• Which of the two men went home “justified,” or made right before God? Why?
• What does Jesus teach us about humility and about those who exalt themselves in this parable?
• As an athlete, can you be humble and confident? Why or why not?
• How are athletes viewed who exalt themselves versus athletes who display humility?
• As a female athlete, how can you display humility toward your team and during competition?
• What does this story teach you about God? Women? How can you apply these truths to your life?
• What is one thing I learned from this story that I can apply to my life before the next lesson?

Training for Godliness

What is the first word you think of when you think of a famous athlete? Fierce? Strong? Tough? It is probably not humble (although there are a few out there.) In the story from today’s lesson, we see Jesus forgive the humble woman who sees her need for Him but oppose the pride of the Pharisee. Remember, Luke 18:14 says, “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” What are some character traits you can work on that will ensure a spirit of humility when you compete? Here are a few ideas to get you started: Be open to correction. Encourage your teammates for the things they do well. Don’t be a sore loser or gloat as a winner. Recognize your limitations. Respect coaches and officials. Give glory to God for all your athletic accomplishments but most especially for His gift of salvation.

Core Truths:

• God doesn’t need what we can do for Him. We need what He can do for us. Pride separates us from God.
• Humility brings us near to God.
• Our own righteousness cannot save us.
• Only by humbly seeking God can we experience forgiveness, faith, and peace.

Memory Verse: “She extends her hands to the spinning staff, and her hands hold the spindle.” – Proverbs 31:19.