"Divine Destiny - The Story of Esther" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

The Lord invites us to seek his favor! The simplest definition of God’s favor is His “demonstrated delight.” When the favor of God is upon us, it gives us advantages in life that we can‘t create on our own. One of the people in the Bible who walked in God’s favor was Esther: an Israelite orphan who became queen of a foreign empire. Esther learned that faithfulness brings God’s favor. This favor turns our trials into blessings, and puts us into positions to succeed with God and Man.

Main Passages

16 And when Esther was taken to King Ahasuerus, into his royal palace, in the tenth month, which is the month of Tebeth, in the seventh year of his reign, 17 the king loved Esther more than all the women, and she won grace and favor in his sight more than all the virgins, so that he set the royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti.
- Esther 2:16-17

52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.
- Luke 2:52

Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. 4 So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man.
- Proverbs 3:3-4

Discussion Questions

1. Our faithfulness is a key to experiencing God’s Favor. Do you feel you’ve been faithful in everything God has given you? Is there anything you could be more faithful with?

2. Are there any situations in which you need God’s favor right now?

3. How can you use God’s favor in your life to be a blessing to others?

Family Discussion

1. To have courage means to stand up for what you believe in. What does courage mean to you? And where can you get it from?

"Struggles of the Prophet of Fire" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

The story of Elijah is encouraging because the Bible says that he was a man just like us (James 5:17). He displayed great strength, but the Bible is also transparent about his weaknesses. He felt isolated. He was burned out. He was struggling with his mental health. In the end, God delivered Elijah from his own weakness and unbelief. Elijah’s impact continued and he invested in the next generation. Four observations from Elijah’s life can help us experience the same breakthrough:

1. Rest must be a priority.

2. We need to connect, and reconnect, with God.

3. Return to what God called you to do

4. Recognize your key relationships.

Main Passages

4 But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness and came and sat down under a broom tree. And he asked that he might die, saying, “It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life, for I am no better than my fathers. 5 And he lay down and slept under a broom tree. And behold, an angel touched him and said to him, “Arise and eat.” 
- 1 Kings 19:4-5

11 And he said, “Go out and stand on the mount before the Lord.” And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. 12 And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper. 13 And when Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. And behold, there came a voice to him and said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”
- 1 Kings 19:11-13

14 He said, “I have been very jealous for the Lord, the God of hosts. For the people of Israel have forsaken your covenant, thrown down your altars, and killed your prophets with the sword, and I, even I only, am left, and they seek my life, to take it away.” 15 And the Lord said to him, “Go, return on your way to the wilderness of Damascus. And when you arrive, you shall anoint Hazael to be king over Syria. 16 And Jehu the son of Nimshi you shall anoint to be king over Israel, and Elisha the son of Shaphat of Abel-meholah you shall anoint to be prophet in your place.
- 1 Kings 19:14-16

Discussion Questions

1. What stood out to you from the Main Thought and Passages above, or from last week’s Worship Service?

2. Who or what do you turn to for help and relief when you’re struggling? Why?

3. Of the four things we learn from Elijah’s life, which one is most applicable to you right now?

Family Discussion

1. Sometimes we are asked to do things we don’t want to, like helping you younger brother/sister clean up their toys. Was there ever a time you were helping family or friends to do something good for them but you didn’t get rewarded like you thought you would?

"Positioned for Providence" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Difficulty and desperation happen in our lives. The worst-case scenario might even occur in spite of our best efforts. In situations like these, we might feel like God is silent. We don’t know what He’s doing. Yet we need to seek God even when we don’t see Him. When we do, we often discover that God is moving providentially on our behalf. The word “providence” describes the way God uses people, events, and other things in the world to accomplish his purposes. In His providence, God moves through people and circumstances discreetly (instead of directly) to accomplish his purposes.

We can learn three things from the Book of Ruth about positioning ourselves to experience God’s providence. First, our motives and actions need to serve God -  instead of “idols” like an unhealthy need for comfort or control. Second, we also need to have the right attitude toward our role in God’s story. We need to work hard and do our part. Finally, we need to do the right things by living and acting with integrity. These things position us to experience God’s providential favor and purpose for our lives.

Main Passages

16 But Ruth said, “Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you. For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God.
- Ruth 1:16

3 So she set out and went and gleaned in the field after the reapers, and she happened to come to the part of the field belonging to Boaz, who was of the clan of Elimelech.
- Ruth 2:3

28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good,[h] for those who are called according to his purpose.
- Romans 8:28

Discussion Questions

1. What stood out to you from the Main Thought and Passages above, or from last week’s Worship Service?

2. Have you ever witnessed God move providentially in your life? How do you need to see God move now?

3. Of the three things we learn from the Book of Ruth about experiencing God’s providence, which one is most applicable to you right now?

Family Discussion

1. Ruth made a promise and she kept it even if things around her changed. Have you ever made a promise but didn’t keep it? What happened?

" Your Giant Ain’t Jack" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

The story of David and Goliath is one of the most familiar stories in the Bible. It’s been taught in every Sunday school class, and used by every sports broadcaster. The illustration of David vs. Goliath is usually conjured up when there’s a big difference between two opposing teams or individuals. It’s the classic tale of an undisputed champion and an underdog. Although Goliath was twice his size and had more combat experience, David ran toward the giant and defeated him. There was one element that switched the odds in David’s favor: He trusted in God, who has never lost a battle, and trusted in his promises. David’s faith in God was bigger than Goliath.

Main Passages

21 And Israel and the Philistines drew up for battle, army against army. 22 And David left the things in charge of the keeper of the baggage and ran to the ranks and went and greeted his brothers. 23 As he talked with them, behold, the champion, the Philistine of Gath, Goliath by name, came up out of the ranks of the Philistines and spoke the same words as before. And David heard him.
24 All the men of Israel, when they saw the man, fled from him and were much afraid. 25 And the men of Israel said, “Have you seen this man who has come up? Surely he has come up to defy Israel. And the king will enrich the man who kills him with great riches and will give him his daughter and make his father's house free in Israel.” 26 And David said to the men who stood by him, “What shall be done for the man who kills this Philistine and takes away the reproach from Israel? For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?” 27 And the people answered him in the same way, “So shall it be done to the man who kills him.”
- 1 Samuel 17:21-27

11 Then Samuel said to Jesse, “Are all your sons here?” And he said, “There remains yet the youngest, but behold, he is keeping the sheep.” And Samuel said to Jesse, “Send and get him, for we will not sit down till he comes here.” 12 And he sent and brought him in. Now he was ruddy and had beautiful eyes and was handsome. And the Lord said, “Arise, anoint him, for this is he.” 13 Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers. And the Spirit of the Lord rushed upon David from that day forward. And Samuel rose up and went to Ramah.
- 1 Samuel 16:11-13

37 And David said, “The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” And Saul said to David, “Go, and the Lord be with you!”
- 1 Samuel 16:37

for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. 
- 1 John 4:4

Discussion Questions

1. What stood out to you from the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. Are there any situations in your life that make you feel like an underdog because the odds are stacked against you?

3. Jesus makes us into giants! What are some of His promises that might address the situations you’re in right now? Use this opportunity to share scriptures with each other. You can use Bible apps or Google to help you if you need to look for some.

Family Discussion

1. How would you feel if you went into a battle against a giant who was 9ft tall, wore an armor, and had a sword? Would you feel scared? Or would you feel like David, unafraid and ready for battle because your faith in God and why?

"Journey of Great Faith" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Moses is a central figure in the Bible. Most of us know him for leading God’s people out of slavery in Egypt toward freedom in the Promised Land. We might know him for the Ten Commandments. But there’s so much more to the story of Moses. His life is a display of faith: from the time he was born, to the time of his death. Just like our own journeys through life, Moses made excuses, experienced difficulties, and had extreme failures. But he fulfilled God’s purpose with greatness because of great faith! This great faith trusts God beyond our comfort zones, overcomes limitations and failures, and finishes strong.

Main Passages

11 But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?”
- Exodus 3:11

23 By faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months after he was born, because they saw he was no ordinary child, and they were not afraid of the king’s edict. 24 By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. 25 He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. 26 He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward. 27 By faith he left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw him who is invisible. 28 By faith he kept the Passover and the application of blood, so that the destroyer of the firstborn would not touch the firstborn of Israel. 29 By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land; but when the Egyptians tried to do so, they were drowned.
- Hebrews 11:23-29

10 And there has not arisen a prophet since in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face, 11 none like him for all the signs and the wonders that the Lord sent him to do in the land of Egypt, to Pharaoh and to all his servants and to all his land, 12 and for all the mighty power and all the great deeds of terror that Moses did in the sight of all Israel.
- Deuteronomy 34:10-12

Discussion Questions

1. What stood out to you from last Sunday’s online Worship Service?

2. God uses great faith to help us overcome limitations and failures. Have you seen that in your life, or in the lives of those around you?

3. What’s one area in your life in which you’ve settled into a personal comfort zone? How might God be calling you out of that and into a new process? Remember to finish strong!

Family Discussion

1. In the time of Moses, the people of Israel had to rely on Moses to talk to God for them. But through Jesus we can now have access to talk God. What have you talked to God about lately?

2. Having faith means doing something even if you’re afraid. What’s something you’ve done that you were afraid to do but did it anyway?

Into the Unknown

Main Thought

We’ll find ourselves going “into the unknown” - or navigating unfamiliar, unprecedented circumstances - throughout our lives. Noah, from the Book of Genesis, can teach us four things to help us navigate the unknown and come out of it. First, we need consistency with God. We can’t lose our consistency in the chaos. Instead, we should bring God into our storms by reading His Word and praying regularly. Second, a clear word from God can give us direction when circumstances make things unclear. The third thing we need is community. It’s easy to find people to agree with us; we need people who are willing to build with us. Finally, we need to persevere. We must continue to do as God commanded. We can continue in faith because our ultimate confidence is secured by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Main Passages

“Noah walked with God.” 

- Genesis 6:9

13 And God said to Noah, “I have determined to make an end of all flesh, for the earth is filled with violence through them. Behold, I will destroy them with the earth... 18 But I will establish my covenant with you, and you shall come into the ark, you, your sons, your wife, and your sons' wives with you… 22 Noah did this; he did all that God commanded him.

- Genesis 6:13, 18, 22

6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. 7 By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.

- Hebrews 11:6-7

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. Do you feel like you might be going “into the unknown,” or navigating something unprecedented in your life?

3. We can learn four things from Noah’s life about going into the unknown and coming out on the other side. Which one of those things is most relevant to your life right now?

"A Long Way Off" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

In the story of the Prodigal (or Lost) Son, there are three characters. A rebellious son, a self-righteous son, and a father who loves them both. The younger, rebellious son tried to control his life by breaking all the rules. The eldest, self-righteous son tried to gain control by keeping all the rules. Both sons missed the mark. Both of them were lost and in need of reconciliation. “Reconciliation” can be defined as the restoration of friendly relations. The drama caused by these two sons can cause us to lose sight of the main character of the story: the loving father. His extravagant love is the true source of reconciliation. We need to be reconciled to our Heavenly Father, and we need reconciliation in our world.

Main Passages

11 And he said, “There was a man who had two sons. 12 And the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.’ And he divided his property between them. 13 Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living. 14 And when he had spent everything, a severe famine arose in that country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. 16 And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything. 

17 “But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father's hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! 18 I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.”’ 20 And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. 21 And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22 But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. 23 And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. 24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to celebrate. 

25 “Now his older son was in the field, and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 And he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. 27 And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has received him back safe and sound.’ 28 But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, 29 but he answered his father, ‘Look, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command, yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him!’ 31 And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. 32 It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.’”
- Luke 15:11-33

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. Which son do you identify with more at this point of your life: the rebellious son, or the self-righteous son? What makes you say that?

3. People need to be reconciled to God. Then, the love we receive from God can help us bring reconciliation to our world. How can you help someone be reconciled to God on a personal level?

Family Questions

1. In this parable entitled the Prodigal Son, Jesus teaches us about the unconditional love that the father has for His children, you and I. It did not matter how either of the two sons hurt or disrespected the father, he still went out to his child to reconcile, or to restore friendly relations between. As we had been taught in previous weeks, the love that God has for us is the same love we should show to others. Is there someone, a sibling, a friend, or classmate, that you need to reconcile with? If so, who and how might you take the first step toward making that relationship friendly again?

"What Do I Do?" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Our world isn’t perfect. People cry out for justice. In a Biblical sense, justice can be thought of as an equal experience and application of God’s standard. We don’t experience God’s standard equally. We aren’t all loved, treated, or celebrated the way we should be as often as we should be. Injustice exists - and God cares deeply about these injustices! He addressed specific injustices directly in His Word. But His first move in addressing injustice - and creating positive change - is adjusting the human heart. When God moves our hearts in the right direction, our heads and hands start to move the same way. It’s Jesus who ultimately transforms our hearts, reconciles us to God, and calls us to bring forth reconciliation too. Three key phrases help us on this journey. Act justly (or seek justice). Love mercy. Walk humbly with your God.

Main Passages

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
- Micah 6:8

34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.
- John 13:34

5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: 6  Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; 7  rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!
- Philippians 2:5-8

Discussion Questions

1. Pick one of the three key phrases: “Act justly (or seek justice),” “love mercy,” or “walk humbly with God.” Explain what that phrase means to you.

2. Is God adjusting your heart to align with His? How so?

3. How can you address an injustice in the world? It could be anything you’ve seen on a personal level, or even an international level. Will you take that step of faith?

Family Discussion Questions

1. One definition of injustice is lack of fairness. Has there even been a time where you’ve ever said to yourself or someone else “it isn’t fair.” What happened in that situation and how can God help you through it if it happens again?

2. Have you every done something you knew it was bad but your parents or teachers didn’t punish you for it? That’s is an example of mercy. Can you think of a time where you needed to or should have shown mercy to a sibling or friend? If so, what happened?

"Crossing the Line" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

In the parable of the “Good Samaritan,” a scribe (or teacher of the law) asked Jesus how he could inherit eternal life. Jesus replied with, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind.” Then, Jesus added: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” The scribe then followed up with a second question. “And who is my neighbor?” Jesus told him a story. It was about a Jewish man who went traveling, then was beaten, robbed, and left to die. You’d expect another Jew, especially a priest, to be the hero. But a priest and a Levite walked past him. A Samaritan - who the Jews would have despised for his race - stopped to help the wounded man. The Samaritan loved His neighbor.

We should not ask, “Who is my neighbor?” The real question is: “Will you go out of your way to be a good neighbor?” Will you serve others, even if you don’t like them or agree with them? Will you try to listen and understand? Will you cross the line of your comfort zone to be the kind of neighbor that Jesus wants us to be? 

Main Passages

30 In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. 31 A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. 32 So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. 34 He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. 35 The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’ 36 “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” 37 The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”
- Luke 10:30-37

13 You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. 14 For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” 15 If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.
- Galatians 5:13-15

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Main Passages above, or from last week’s Worship Service?

2. Have you recently seen examples of people “devouring one another,” as described in Galatians 5? Have you contributed to that? How can you love God and create positive change in those situations?

3. How can you love and serve neighbors who need your help?

Family Questions

1. What did you learn about being a good neighbor from the parable of the good Samaritan?

2. Do you witness others (classmates/friends/family) treated different because of the way they look or where they are from? How can you be a good neighbor to those people?

"Catch Me If You Can" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Virtually everyone wants good things to happen to them. Psalms 23 teaches us that goodness, and God’s Mercy, can follow us! Goodness and mercy will follow us as long as we follow God. God wants us to pursue Him passionately, as if we were chasing Him. Following God like this won’t make bad things go away; however, God can bring good out of even the worst situations. We can ultimately follow God with confidence because we’ll witness his goodness in this life and the next.

Main Passage

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.  3 He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
- Psalm 23:1-6

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
- James 1:17

“Jesus says I am the good shepherd, He laid his life down for his sheep. Because of what Jesus did on the cross, we can be assured that we will continue to dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
- John 10:11 

Questions

1. What stood out to you from last week’s worship experience, or in the Main Thought and Passages above? 

2. How have you seen God’s “goodness and mercy” in your life recently?

3. Are you facing any difficulties in life? What good thing are you believing for God to do in or through your difficulties?

"In the Battle" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Our lives are often interrupted by “battles.” Circumstances, events, and even other people can restrict our ability to move forward. We might not be able to leave these battles physically, but we leave emotionally and spiritually when we give up. Yet we shouldn’t leave our battles until we’ve seen what God wants us to receive in our battles! God can bless us in our battles, and the Enemy is powerless to stop Him. God can prepare us in our battles. God can even use us to bless others in our battles. We can receive these things when we follow God forward, which means making a daily decision to seek Him and do His will.

Main Passage

“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
- Psalm 23:5

11 When Saul and all Israel heard these words of the Philistine, they were dismayed and greatly afraid. 
- 1 Samuel 17:11

36 Your servant has struck down both lions and bears, and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be like one of them, for he has defied the armies of the living God.” 
- 1 Samuel 17:36

Questions

1. Our enemies or “battles” are the things that cause us to feel restricted, cramped or distressed. (Based on the Hebrew word for “enemies” in Psalm 23.) What’s one battle you’re facing right now? 

2. God can bless us (physically and spiritually), prepare us, and use us in our battles. Do you see any of those things happening in your life? What makes you say that?

3. We can receive in our battles when we make a daily decision to seek God and do His will. What might God be calling you to do in the middle of your battles?

"God's Presence in the Valley" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

We all love the “mountain top” moments of life. Getting into the school we want, getting a job, or starting a family are experiences we love to have and share. But it’s impossible to go from one mountain peak to the next. In order to reach the next peak, we need to go through a valley. Valleys represent periods of hardship or suffering. These are the moments that leave us feeling weary, hurt, or overwhelmed. But it’s important to remember that these valleys are temporary. God also promises to be with us in our valleys. He guides us and protects us as we walk with Him. We can seek God for the strength to persevere, and direction for our next destination.

Main Passage

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. - Psalm 23:4

 18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” - Matthew 28:18-20

Questions

1. Think about a valley that you’ve gone through. What’s one thing that helped you get through that valley?

2. What’s the next “mountain top” moment you’d like to experience or achieve? How can you seek God for protection and guidance on the way there?

3. Do you know anyone who’s walking through a valley of their own? How can you help them, or even introduce them to God as they walk through it?

Mother's Day, 2020

Main Thought

Many of us have faced unique difficulty over the last few months. Seasons of difficulty are inevitable on this side of heaven, and our weaknesses are often exposed in these seasons. But God’s grace is enough to get us through! We need to remain in God’s grace. As we do, God partners with us and turns our weaknesses into strengths. We are then empowered to love, live, and serve more effectively.

Main Passage

9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 10 That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. - 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. - James 1:2-3

12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. - James 1:12

Questions

1. What stood out from last week’s Worship Experience, the Main Thought, or Main Passages above?

2. Think about your Mom, a Grandmother, or a Mother Figure in your life. What’s a “strength” or skill you’ve learned from her that has helped you recently?

3. Think about a “weakness” of yours that has been exposed in the aftermath of COVID-19. It could be a character flaw, a lack of skill or knowledge, etc. What is it? How can you partner with God to turn this into a strength?

"Project: Restoration" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Houses. Cars. Restaurants and hotels. All of these things are built in pristine condition. Then, these things fail. Fixing them can be hard work! Yet some restorations are so incredible that the finished product is even greater than the original. Our souls are prone to fail too. (In Psalms 23, the word “soul” refers to the core of our entire being - both our physical and immaterial parts.) But God restores us when we’re broken. In Him, we find that we grow and improve all the time. God designed us, so He knows how to transform us into the best versions of ourselves. God then leads us into His righteousness and plans as we seek to glorify Him.

Main Passage

3 He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
- Psalm 23:3

Questions

1. What activities “restore your soul?” How can God help restore your soul when you feel broken? 

2. Restoration shows on T.V. typically add new features to things like houses and cars. What new or improved features would you like to add to your life? Would you like to learn a new idea, develop a skill, or build your character? 

3. Would your “new and improved” personal feature serve God? If so, then how?

"Living Backwards" Discussion Guide

Warm-Up

What was your favorite part of our last online Worship Experience?

Main Thought

God designed us to rest in His unconditional love and acceptance. But we might be living backwards from the way God intended. External pressures to provide and perform push us to work without God’s love and empowering grace. Unfortunately, this leads to a Cycle of Works. A Cycle of Works often creates stress, depression, and burnout. Our hope to escape this cycle comes from Jesus! Jesus accomplished more than anyone else - in less time - with a rested heart. How? Jesus lived in a Cycle of Grace, the way that God intended us to live. Here’s what the Cycle of Grace looks like in our lives:

1. Acceptance: Acknowledging God’s love and acceptance before we do anything for Him, which we receive through Jesus Christ.

2. Sustenance: Engaging in practices that replenish us with love (for God and others) and grace for life.

3. Significance: Allowing the grace flowing to us to move through us, as we act in accordance with our God-given identity and call.

4. Work: Answering God’s call, free from the emotional pressure to provide and perform - because we’ve rested in our identity as God’s children.

Main Passage

2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. 
- Psalm 23:2

28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 
- Matthew 11:28-29

but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
- Romans 5:8

Questions

1. God wants us to work hard; Jesus worked hard. But we can work hard without pressure and performance anxiety. Do you think that describes your life? Why or why not?

2. Which part of the Cycle of Grace do you think you need the most? How can you incorporate that in your life?

"Is God Your Guide or Your Ride?" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

We currently find ourselves in unfamiliar times and territory. We need divine guidance more than ever. It’s natural to turn to God for direction. We can approach him in one of two ways. First, we can approach God like GPS navigation: we choose our own destination, and hope He helps us get there. Second, we can approach Him as our shepherd. We allow him to choose the destination, because He knows what’s best for us and is faithful to get us there. 

Main Passage

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. - Psalm 23:1

4 “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? -  Luke 15:4

My sheep hear my voice, I know them and they follow me. - John 10:27

Questions

1. Did anything stand out to you from the online Worship Experience? If so, what?

2. Do you tend to approach God as your GPS, or as your shepherd - who sets the destination and guides the way? What makes you say that?

3. What direction might God be calling you in next? What’s one practical step you can take in that direction?

"The Sign of the Promise" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

The Book of Exodus describes the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. God commanded them to cover their doorposts with the blood of a lamb as they prepared for a final miracle of deliverance. This blood was a sign of God’s promise. They acted in faith based on God’s promise and escaped their place of fear. Jesus, the Lamb of God, came approximately 1500 years after the Israelites were delivered. Jesus delivered us from sin and death - He proved that through His resurrection. His blood allows us to experience God’s promises. If we have genuine faith in Christ and His promises, it will generate action in our lives, guide us out of fear, and guarantee eternal life with Him.

Main Passage

The blood will be a sign for you on the houses where you are; and when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No destructive plague will touch you when I strike Egypt.
- Exodus 12:13

 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. 
- James 2:17

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 
- John 1:29

Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought or Main Passages above?

2. What do you believe about Jesus? (For example: Was he a myth, a normal man, or the Messiah?) Do you think your belief in Jesus reveals itself in your daily life?

3. Are there any actions that you’re hesitant to take in your walk with God, or in quest to learn more about Him? Why? BONUS: If you’ve recently taken a step of faith and can encourage everyone, then please share!

Application: 

1. If you feel that God is calling you to act in faith on something - and you’ve processed this decision through His Word, prayer, and community - then act! Reach out to Christ-centered community for support.

"Fear Doesn't Belong Here!" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Fear doesn’t belong here! A spirit of fear does not come from God, so it does not belong in the lives of God’s children. It can be hard to spot the spirit of fear. For that reason, it’s helpful to remember the effects that God’s Holy Spirit should produce in us. Then we can recognize a spirit of fear in contrast. Here are some effects that the Holy Spirit produces in us, compared against the effects that the spirit of fear produces in us.

1. Power: Service vs. Self-Preservation

2. Love: Upward and Outward vs. Inward

3. “Self-Control”: Peace vs. Panic 

If we can recognize the spirit of fear in our lives, then we can replace it with God’s Holy Spirit! We do this by approaching God in faith and believing that He’ll reward us for seeking Him. We also experience the Holy Spirit’s presence when we exercise our love for God practically. This includes things like spending time with God in prayer, by reading the Bible, and helping others follow Him. Following Jesus in faith allows us to experience God’s presence in our lives, and eventually throughout eternity. Jesus overcame mankind’s greatest fear - the fear of death - through His resurrection. If we know that Jesus loves us, and we’re reminded of His love and His resurrection by the Spirit, then fear will lose its grip on us.

Main Passage

for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
- 2 Timothy 1:7

13 Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. 14 By the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, guard the good deposit entrusted to you.
- 2 Timothy 1:13-14

13 By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. 14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. 15 Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. 18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear…
- 1 John 4:13-15, 18

Questions

1. What can we learn about God in the Main Passages above?

2. Given the effects of fear vs. the effects of the Holy Spirit listed above, do you notice any ways in which you might have been acting in fear? How so?

3. What do you need to do to experience the Holy Spirit’s presence in your life?

Application: 

1. We can experience God’s presence as we “go” in faith, and help others follow Him. Do that this week by inviting at least one person to watch our Easter Worship experience on Sunday, April 12, 2020!

"Carriers" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

In our world today, in which everyone has been affected by the spread of the coronavirus, people are afraid that they may be near someone who’s carrying the virus. People are carrying fear with them. The world desperately needs to see people who are “carriers” of faith! If you’re a Believer, then God has chosen you to carry faith - for your benefit and for the benefit of those around you. We can learn to carry faith by imitating godly people who are fruitful in spirit and discipleship. Faith moves through us as we choose to be models and examples to others. By living out our faith and sharing it with others, we’ll see faith begin to spread everywhere.

Main Passage

3 We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. 4 For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake. 6 You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. 7 And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. 8 The Lord’s message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere.

- 1 Thessalonians 1:3-8

Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Main Passages above?

2. What’s one lesson you’ve learned from a godly mentor that you have applied to your life?

3. Think about the people who have noticed your walk with God. How can you model or share your faith in this season?

Application: 

1. Be a carrier of faith!

"Is it Well?" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

In the current COVID-19 crisis, people are focused on meeting their “external needs.” But we have “internal needs” too. These needs originate in our soul (or “inner being,” as it’s described in Hebrew). Our souls need rest, which we find when we disconnect from the world’s distractions and connect to God in prayer and in His Word. Our souls also need to be led. We do that by pausing our negative thoughts, replacing them with God’s Word, and acting in obedience. Finally, our souls need hope! A Believer’s hope in God is secure. The world cannot take away our relationship with Jesus Christ, or the promise of eternity with Him.

Main Passage

23 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. 3  He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6  Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

- Psalm 23:1-6

28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

- Matthew 11:28-30

33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

- John 16:33

Questions

1. What can we learn about God from Psalm 23?

2. What do you need most right now: rest, leadership for your soul, or hope? Why?

3. God can meet our internal needs. What can you do to receive the rest, leadership, or hope that He has for you?

Application: 

1. Look for ways to be a blessing, and to share God’s love in this season with wisdom. Remember: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.”