(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 right person.

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

Maintain athe right heart.

"Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus". (1 Thessalonians 5:18) 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

I. Learn the right lesson.

A. Learning is part of living.

1. Life is a schoolroom. Stay awake and you will learn.

2. It is all right to look at someone else's paper.

3. Ask questions, but to the right people.

B. Learn the lessons which are worth holding on to.

1. Learn the truths which survive problems.

a. Love even when you con't want to.

b. Forgive even when you don't think you need to.

c. Give even when you don't think you're able to.

d. Believe even when it seems foolish.

e. Serve even when it's inconvenient.

2. Learn the truths which survive time.

C. Learn what is really important; don't forget it.

Outline from Pastor Bjorklund's February 7, 2010 message