BCIC Alertness Sample

Alertness Being aware of that which is taking place around me so that I can have the right response to it

“Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.”

MARK 14:38

A YOUNG MAN OVERHEARS A DEADLY PLOT “And when Paul’s sister’s son heard of their lying in wait, he went and entered into the castle, and told Paul.”

ACTS 23:16

SPIRITUAL GIFT:

BIBLICAL CHARACTER ILLUSTRATED CURRICULUM Illustrated in Scripture, Illustrated in Life

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CONTENTS

Biblical Character Illustrated Curriculum Illustrated in Scripture “The testimony of the LORD is sure, making

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wise the simple” (Psalm 19:7b). Biblical

Introduction

character is illustrated in this curriculum

2 How to Use This Curriculum

through both artwork and lessons from

3 Goals and Objectives

the lives of people in God’s Word. We most

4 Character Quality Overview

often benefit from the positive examples

5 Alertness in Scripture

of faithful men and women. “For whatso-

6 Lesson 1:

Keep My Eyes and Ears Open

patience and comfort of the scriptures

8 Memory Verse: Mark 14:38

might have hope” (Romans 15:4). There were

9 Activity: Spot the Differences

also people in the Bible who are repre-

Recognize and Heed Warnings

11 Bible Story: The Decision: To Flee or Not to Flee?

12 Memory Verse: Hebrews 2:1 13 Activity: Watch Out!

14 Lesson 3:

Sharpen My Spiritual Senses

16 Memory Verse: John 8:31–32 17 Activity: Crossword Puzzle

Lesson 4:

sentations of poor character, and we can learn from their lives as well. “Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted” (I Corinthians 10:6). We would

15 Bible Story: Simeon and Anna’s Long-Awaited Discovery

Beware of Lies

19 Bible Story: The Liar in the Garden 20 Memory Verse: Colossians 2:8 21 Activity: Defeating Satan’s Lies

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written for our learning, that we through

7 Bible Story: A Young Man Overhears a Deadly Plot

10 Lesson 2:

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ever things were written aforetime were

be wise to learn from the testimonies God has given us in Scripture.

Illustrated in Life “Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). Hearing the Word of God causes us to grow in faith.

This curriculum offers many practical applications of God’s Word to everyday life. “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). As God enables

Additional Resources

us to act in faith, our lives as believers will

22 Alertness GEMs

illustrate His character to others.

23 Journal and GEM

Mine

24 Hymn Sheet Music: “Sound the Battle Cry” 26 Hymn History: “Sound the Battle Cry”

by William F. Sherwin 27 Explaining Salvation to a Child 28 Reproducible Coloring Pages 32 Recommended Resources

The character of God is illustrated in Scripture.

May it also be illustrated in our lives.

Character Quality Overview What Is Alertness?

Read aloud and discuss what alertness means and how it applies to life.

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he operational definition of alertness is “being aware of that which is taking place around me so that I can have the right response to it.” God tells us to be watchful and to look out for relationships, property, or resources that the enemy may try to kill, steal, or destroy. Alertness involves intentionally observing what is happening around you. For example, an alert person will notice the sadness or excitement of others, will sense the right time to speak, and will recognize potential dangers such as poison ivy, a stray dog, or an approaching storm. When a potential problem has been perceived, alertness becomes effective when we follow up with an appropriate response, such as offering a glass of water, removing a harmful object, or reporting what was seen. Alertness leads to opportunities to express other qualities, such as kindness, hospitality, and initiative.

The opposite of alertness is unawareness. A Standing watch from a tower, a lookout person lacking protects the lives of the townspeople by awareness does sounding an alarm when danger is sighted. not pay attention to his surroundings and to the people around him.

His unawareness could be due to being absorbed in an activity or preoccupied with his own needs and desires. Distractions and daydreaming divert his focus and rob him of opportunities. In other situations, a person may notice concerns or signs of potential

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danger, yet choose to dismiss the warnings with the thought, “It’s fine.” His unresponsiveness may be a result of irresponsibility, selfishness, or laziness.

Beware of the consequences of unawareness! The unwary and unresponsive person may suffer loss or unknowingly put himself or others in harm’s way.

Alertness involves the use of all five senses: sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch. Through these senses, God provides for your enjoyment and protection. For example, God designed food to develop a bad taste and texture to warn you when it is spoiled. Your God-given ability to smell scents can warn you when food may be burning! God has also given If unaware of his surroundings, a mouse may fall prey to danger when he ventures you ears so you outside of his home! can hear when someone calls out, “Stop!” or “Be careful!” if they see danger, such as an icy patch or a car approaching as you are about to cross the street. Our senses enable us to be alert to our surroundings. Just as God has given us physical senses to detect danger, He also gives discernment to help Christians detect and avoid the enemy’s traps. This spiritual awareness enables believers to guard their hearts and stay in fellowship with God. When we put our trust in the Lord, He will give us grace to remain vigilant and give us strength to resist the devil. (See Psalm 91:1–4, I Peter 5:8–9.)

Alertness in Scripture

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ALERTNESS KEY VERSE

s you read and study God’s Word, you will

“Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into

see Who He is! Be willing to be changed by

temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but

Him so Christ can be seen through your life and

the flesh is weak.” MARK 14:38

others will glorify God.

The Character of God

Alertness in My Life

We see examples of alertness in God’s character in the following ways:

Now let’s examine some ways God wants us to live out alertness daily.

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God searches the earth for those who fully rely on Him, and He is ready to be strong on their behalf.

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(See II Chronicles 16:9.)

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God is aware of every hair on your head and every word you speak.

(See Proverbs 22:3.)

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(See Luke 12:7, Psalm 139:3–4.)

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God saw and heard of the Israelites’ affliction in Egypt and intervened to save them.

Jesus was alert to Satan’s attacks, even in His physically weakened condition.

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Jesus asked His disciples to be watchful with Him during His time of deep distress.

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Jesus was alert to others’ motives and answered carefully when enemies tried to ensnare Him.

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The Holy Spirit knows the present and the future, and warns believers of coming deceptions.

(See I Timothy 4:1–2.)

What is my responsibility if I see danger approaching someone else?

(See Ezekiel 33:3–6.)

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(See Mark 12:13–17.)

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What is one protection against Satan’s schemes?

(See II Corinthians 2:10–11.)

(See Matthew 26:38.)

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Why should I beware of philosophies that are not supported in the Bible?

(See Colossians 2:8.)

(See Matthew 4:1–11.)

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What is the enemy of my soul seeking to do, and how can I counteract that?

(See I Peter 5:8–9, Ephesians 6:10–18.)

(See Exodus 3:7–8.)

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What should I do if I become aware of potential danger in my path?

What event did Jesus say that I should be watching for, and how can I prepare?

(See Matthew 24:42, Luke 12:37.)

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What danger do I avoid if I am alert in prayer?

(See Matthew 26:41.)

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GOD ENABLES ME TO

Keep My Eyes and Ears Open

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INTRODUCTION

eeping your eyes and ears open can help you

be alert to what is happening around you. As you observe and listen, you may find opportunities to serve and prevent problems. For example, if you notice that some lights were accidentally left on, turn them off to avoid wasting electricity. If you hear water dripping, alert your dad before significant water damage occurs. When you see that the paper towel roll is almost empty, set out a new roll. You may see someone crying and offer them a hug or a tissue.

As you are alert, you may foresee danger or overhear important information.

Take appropriate action or notify the right person, but don’t eavesdrop, gossip, or spy on people. Rather, use your eyes and ears to serve and protect others.

A Young Man Overhears a Deadly Plot

ALERTNESS Being aware of that which is taking place around me so that I can have the right response to it 6

BIBLE STORY

LESSON 1

A Young Man Overhears a Deadly Plot

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he Apostle Paul had determined to travel to Jerusalem to celebrate the Day of Pentecost. Upon

Keep My Eyes and Ears Open

in anger, casting off their cloaks and throwing dust into the air. Guards ushered Paul inside. The next day,

his arrival, he reported to the church, who rejoiced

the Roman captain held a hearing before the Jewish

in the spread of the Gospel. However, not everyone

council to understand Paul’s offense. However, the

appreciated Paul’s message of salvation through Jesus

Jewish council became upset, and once again the

Christ for both Jews and Gentiles. Some Jews in the

soldiers had to rescue Paul and secure him within

Temple recognized Paul and wrongly assumed he

the fortress. That night, what would God say to Paul?

was violating a Jewish custom and tried to kill him!

Would the angry Jews relent now that Paul was in

Roman soldiers rushed to the scene and took Paul into

Roman custody? What would they do the next day?

custody. As he was being led into the Roman fortress,

What vital message would God send through a young

Paul asked to speak to the angry mob. Everyone

person who was keeping his eyes and ears open?

listened attentively—until he mentioned God’s call

Let’s read the Bible story in Acts 23:11–33 and then discuss the following questions.

to the Gentiles. Upon hearing that, the crowd erupted

1. Who plotted to harm Paul? What vow did they make? (See Acts 23:12–13.)

How can you respond when others conspire against you, even though you are in God’s will?

(See I Peter 4:19.)

2. How did the men intend to trap Paul?

(See Acts 23:14–15.)

Is danger always obvious? What senses has God given you to help you detect both overt and subtle dangers? (See Proverbs 20:12.) What distractions may hinder your alertness?

3. Who heard of the plot, and whom did he tell first? (See Acts 23:16.)

Would your parents consider you to be observant?

How can you grow in your awareness of what is happening around you?

4. What did Paul do when he heard the report?

(See Acts 23:17–18.)

When you become aware of danger, what actions might you take? Why is it important to tell an authority about the danger instead of ignoring it or remaining silent?

5. Did Paul’s nephew give the chief captain all of the important details? (See Acts 23:19–21.)

Why is it important to relay details accurately? If you ever need to call 911, what details should you give the dispatcher?

6. What instructions did the chief captain give to the boy? (See Acts 23:22.)

Why is it important to not give confidential details to those who are not part of a problem or solution? (See Proverbs 11:13.) When might it be best to keep silent?

7. How did Paul escape the danger?

(See Acts 23:23–25, 31–33.)

Do you thank God for His protection and care for you? (See Lamentations 3:22–23.)

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Operational Definitions of Character Qualities ALERTNESS vs. Unawareness

ATTENTIVENESS vs. Unconcern

AVAILABILITY vs. Self-Centeredness

BOLDNESS vs. Fearfulness

CAUTIOUSNESS vs. Rashness

COMPASSION vs. Indifference

CONTENTMENT vs. Covetousness

Being aware of that which is taking place around me so that I can have the right response to it

Showing the worth of a person by giving undivided concentration to his words and emotions

Making my own schedule and priorities secondary to the wishes of those I am serving

Confidence that what I have to say or do is true and right and just in the sight of God

Knowing how important right timing is in accomplishing right actions

Investing whatever is necessary to heal the hurts of others

Realizing that God has provided everything I need for my present happiness

Mark 14:38

Hebrews 2:1

Acts 4:29

Proverbs 19:2

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M

Philippians 2:20–21

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P

G

I John 3:17

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I Timothy 6:8

G

CREATIVITY vs. Underachievement

DECISIVENESS vs. Double-mindedness

DEFERENCE vs. Rudeness

DEPENDABILITY vs. Inconsistency

DETERMINATION vs. Faintheartedness

DILIGENCE vs. Slothfulness

DISCERNMENT vs. Judgment

Approaching a need, a task, or an idea from a new perspective

The ability to finalize difficult decisions based on the will and ways of God

Limiting my freedom in order not to offend the tastes of those God has called me to serve

Fulfilling what I consented to do even if it means unexpected sacrifice

Purposing to accomplish God’s goals in God’s time regardless of the opposition

The God-given ability to understand why things happen

James 1:5

Romans 14:21

Visualizing each task as a special assignment from the Lord and using all my energies to accomplish it

Romans 12:2

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O

M

Psalm 15:4

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O

II Timothy 4:7–8

Colossians 3:23

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I Samuel 16:7

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DISCRETION vs. Simplemindedness

ENDURANCE vs. Giving Up

ENTHUSIASM vs. Apathy

FAITH vs. Unbelief

FLEXIBILITY vs. Resistance

FORGIVENESS vs. Rejection

GENEROSITY vs. Stinginess

The ability to avoid words, actions, and attitudes that could result in undesirable consequences

The inward strength to withstand stress to accomplish God’s best

Fervently expressing with my soul the joy of my spirit

Visualizing what God intends to do in a given situation and acting in harmony with it

Not setting my affections on ideas or plans that could be changed by God or others

Clearing the record of those who have wronged me and allowing God to love them through me

Realizing that all I have belongs to God and using it for His purposes

Hebrews 11:1

Colossians 3:2

Ephesians 4:32

Proverbs 22:3

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I Thessalonians 5:16, 19

Galatians 6:9

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E

E

S

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II Corinthians 9:6

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GENTLENESS vs. Harshness

GRATEFULNESS vs. Unthankfulness

HOSPITALITY vs. Loneliness

HUMILITY vs. Pride

INITIATIVE vs. Unresponsiveness

JOYFULNESS vs. Self-Pity

JUSTICE vs. Corruption

Showing personal care and concern in meeting the needs of others

Making known to God and others in what ways they have benefited my life

Cheerfully sharing food, shelter, and spiritual refreshment with those God brings into my life

Recognizing and doing what needs to be done before I am asked to do it

Delighting in fellowship with the Lord regardless of my circumstances

Personal responsibility to uphold God’s unchanging laws

I Corinthians 4:7

Hebrews 13:2

Recognizing that without the help of God and others my achievements in life would not have been possible

Romans 12:21

Psalm 16:11

Micah 6:8

I Thessalonians 2:7

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G

S

O

James 4:6

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S

M

LOVE vs. Selfishness

LOYALTY vs. Unfaithfulness

MEEKNESS vs. Anger

OBEDIENCE vs. Willfulness

ORDERLINESS vs. Disorganization

PATIENCE vs. Restlessness

PERSUASIVENESS vs. Contentiousness

Giving to others’ basic needs without having as my motive personal reward

Using difficult times to demonstrate my commitment to God and to those He has called me to serve

Yielding my personal rights and expectations to God

Eagerly yielding to God’s Word rather than following my own will

Preparing myself and my surroundings so I will achieve the greatest efficiency

Guiding vital truths around another’s mental roadblocks

Psalm 62:5

II Corinthians 10:5

I Corinthians 14:40

Accepting a difficult situation from God without giving Him a deadline to remove it

I Corinthians 13:3

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O

John 15:13

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P

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Romans 5:3–4

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II Timothy 2:24

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PUNCTUALITY vs. Tardiness

RESOURCEFULNESS vs. Wastefulness

RESPONSIBILITY vs. Unreliability

REVERENCE vs. Disrespect

SECURITY vs. Anxiety

SELF-CONTROL vs. Self-Indulgence

SENSITIVITY vs. Callousness

Showing high esteem for other people and their time

Wise use of that which others would normally overlook or discard

Knowing and doing what both God and others are expecting from me

Luke 16:10

Romans 14:12

Structuring my life around that which is eternal and cannot be destroyed or taken away

Instant obedience to the initial promptings of God’s Spirit

Ecclesiastes 3:1

Awareness of how God is working through the people and events in my life to produce the character of Christ in me

Exercising my senses so I can perceive the true spirit and emotions of those around me

Proverbs 23:17–18

John 6:27

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G

O

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Galatians 5:24–25

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M

Romans 12:15

SINCERITY vs. Hypocrisy

THOROUGHNESS vs. Incompleteness

THRIFTINESS vs. Extravagance

TOLERANCE vs. Prejudice

TRUTHFULNESS vs. Deception

VIRTUE vs. Impurity

WISDOM vs. Natural Inclinations

Eagerness to do what is right, with transparent motives

Knowing what factors will diminish the effectiveness of my work or words if neglected

Not letting myself or others spend that which is not necessary

Acceptance of others as unique expressions of specific character qualities in varying degrees of maturity

Earning future trust by accurately reporting past facts

The moral excellence and purity of spirit that radiate from my life as I obey God’s Word

Seeing and responding to life’s situations from God’s frame of reference

G Philippians 2:2

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I Peter 1:22

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T P— Prophet

Proverbs 18:15

S— Server

Luke 16:11

G T—Teacher

E— Exhorter

Ephesians 4:25

P G— Giver

II Peter 1:3–5

O— Organizer

E

Proverbs 9:10

M— Mercy

Revealing the character of Christ through the stories in His Word.

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