Sensitivity - Biblical Character Curriculum

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SENSITIVITY

Sensitivity is exercising my senses so I can perceive the true spirit and emotions of those around me.

Sensitivity in Scripture The Character of God

with promptings from the Holy Spirit. It is our choice whether or not we heed these promptings. In Hebrews 3:7–12, we are warned not to harden our hearts or resist His voice: “Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, Today if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts . . . .) Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.”

•  Our heavenly Father knows us intimately and understands everything about us. (See Psalm 139:1–3.) •  Because of Jesus’ temptations here on earth, He identifies with our struggles and weaknesses. (See Hebrews 4:14–16.) •  The Holy Spirit is sensitive to our spirit and emotions, even praying for us when we do not know how to pray ourselves. (See Romans 8:26–27.)

3. Exercise Sensitivity Toward One Another. As we grow in Christ—Who came to earth and humbled Himself for us—we begin to think like Him and see others and their needs. Are they shy or sitting alone? Could we start a conversation with them? Are they left out because they are young? Could we include them in the making of special memories? Are they rejoicing in an accomplishment? Could we rejoice with them? Forgetting ourselves, encouraging others, and caring for those around us are results of letting Christ rule in our hearts and minds. (See Philippians 2:5–7.)

•  Because of the consolation of Christ and the affection of the Spirit, we are empowered and commanded to be sensitive to one another. (See Philippians 2:1–2.) •  Experiencing God’s comfort in our trials enables us to see and understand the needs of others. (See II Corinthians 1:3–4.)

Key Concepts 1. The Definition of Sensitivity. Sensitivity is exercising my senses so I can perceive the true spirit and emotions of those around me. Do I observe others and am I concerned for them? For example, if my sister seems sad, would I ignore her or jump to conclusions about her? In being sensitive to her, I would take time to listen carefully to her and try to understand why she is sad. If someone is behaving in an irritating way, being sensitive means seeking to understand and discern why the person is behaving that way. Insensitive people only care about how the other person’s actions affect him; they react to the person rather than trying to understand him.

Sensitivity in My Life

2. Exercise Sensitivity Toward the Lord. The Lord speaks to us through the Bible and

•  I Peter 3:8—What opportunities have I had today to demonstrate this verse?

•  Matthew 7:12—Do I treat others the way I want to be treated?

•  Ephesians 4:31–32—What should my underlying attitude be toward others regardless of whether or not they are sensitive to me? •  I Thessalonians 5:19—What are reasons that I might "quench the Spirit" (ignore His still, small voice) in my life?

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©2017 Institute in Basic Life Principles • iblp.org

•  Matthew 9:36–38—Am I aware of others as Jesus was, and do I respond the way He commanded?


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