7 Stupid Things - Study Guide by Lifetogether Ministries

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PERSONAL WISDOM GUIDE

DR. BEAU ADAMS

PROVERB S

seven stupid things PERSONAL WISDOM GUIDE

DR. BEAU ADAMS

Copyright 2016 by Community Bible Church ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Published by Community Bible Church Copyright and use of the curriculum template is retained by Brett Eastman. Unless otherwise noted, all scripture quotes are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW LIVING TRANSLATION®. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 and 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ISBN 9781945589386 Printed in the United States of America

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SevenPERSONAL Stupid Things WISDOM GUIDE INTRODUCTION BY BEAU ADAMS 04 USING THIS WORKBOOK (Read this first) 06 OUTLINE FOR EACH SESSION 07 09 Part 1: Wisdom with my friends Stupid Thing: Following the wrong crowd 22 Part 2: Wisdom with my mind Stupid Thing: Believing we know it all 30 Part 3: Wisdom with my body Stupid Thing: Choosing immorality 40 Part 4: Wisdom with my time Stupid Thing: Allowing myself to become lazy 50 Part 5: Wisdom with my money Stupid Thing: Living in debt 61 Part 6: Wisdom with my words Stupid Thing: Refusing to control my tongue 71 Part 7: Wisdom with my emotions Stupid Thing: Failing to control anger APPENDICES Frequently Asked Questions 82 Small Group Agreement 86 Small Group Calendar 87 Spiritual Partners 88 Memory Verse Cards (Clip and Review) 89 SMALL GROUP LEADERS 91 Hosting an Open House 92 Leading for the First Time 93 Leadership Training 96 Prayer and Praise Report 97 Small Group Roster 98 Notes

BEAU ADAMS

Thanks for being part of a group at Community! I hope this focus on God’s wisdom for living impacts you as much as it did me. We have all done things we regret, but God is forgiving and loving. He is faithful to help us get back on our feet and get moving in the right direction. I encourage you to be open and supportive with others in your group as you seek God’s wisdom for friendships, families and all of life’s challenges. I am praying that God will use this study to bring people closer together as we experience God’s work in our lives and look for opportunities to reach out to others. I am praying for God’s powerful presence in your group and in your life!

Using This Workbook

(Tools to Help You Have a Great Small Group Experience!)

Notice in the Table of Contents there are three sections: (1) Sessions; (2) Appendices; and (3) Small Group Leaders. Familiarize yourself with the Appendices. Some of them will be used in the sessions themselves.

If you are facilitating/leading or co-leading a small group, the section Small Group Leaders will give you some experiences of others that will encourage you and help you avoid many common obstacles to effective small group leadership.

Use this workbook as a guide, not a straitjacket. If the group responds to the lesson in an unexpected but honest way, go with that. If you think of a better question than the next one in the lesson, ask it. Take to heart the insights included in the Frequently Asked Questions pages and the Small Group Leaders section.

Enjoy your Small Group experience.

Pray before each sessionâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;for your group members, for your time

Read the Outline for Each Session on the next pages so that you

together, and for wisdom and insights.

understand how the sessions will flow.

Outline of Each Session A typical group session for the “Seven Stupid Things” study will include the following sections. Read through this to get a clear idea of how each group meeting will be structured:

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSES. Each session opens with a Memory Verse that emphasizes an important truth from the session. This is an optional exercise, but we believe that memorizing scripture can be a vital part of filling our minds with God’s will for our lives. We encourage you to give this important habit a try. The verses for our seven sessions are also listed in the appendix.

INTRODUCTION. Each lesson opens with a brief thought that will help you prepare for the session and get you thinking about the particular subject you will explore with your group. Make it a practice to read these before the session. You may want to have the group read them aloud.

SHARE YOUR STORY.

The foundation for spiritual growth is an intimate connection with God

and His family. You build that connection by sharing your story with a few people who really know you and who earn your trust. This section includes some simple questions to get you talking—letting you share as much or as little of your story as you feel comfortable doing. Each session typically offers you two options. You can get to know your whole group by using the icebreaker question(s), or you can check in with one or two group members, your spiritual partner(s), for a deeper connection and encouragement in your spiritual journey.

HEAR GOD’S STORY. In this section, you’ll read the Bible and listen to teaching, in order to hear God’s story—and begin to see how His story aligns with yours. When the study directs you to, you’ll pop in the DVD and watch a short teaching segment. You’ll then have an opportunity to read a passage of scripture, and discuss both the teaching and the text. You won’t focus on accumulating information but on how you should live in light of the Word of God. We want to help you apply the insights from scripture practically and creatively, from your heart as well as your head. At the end of the day, allowing the timeless truths from God’s Word to transform our lives in Christ should be your greatest aim.

STUDY NOTES. This brief section provides additional commentary, background or insights on the passage you’ll study in the Hear God’s Story section.

CREATE A NEW STORY God wants you to be a part of His Kingdom, and to weave your story into His. That will mean change. It will require you to go His way rather than your own. This won’t happen overnight, but it should happen steadily. By making small, simple choices, we can begin to change our direction. This is where the Bible’s instructions to “be doers of the Word, not just hearers” (James 1:22) comes into play. Many people skip over this aspect of the Christian life because it’s scary, relationally awkward, or simply too much work for their busy schedules. But Jesus wanted all of His disciples to know Him personally, carry out His commands, and help outsiders connect with Him. This doesn’t necessarily mean preaching on street corners. It could mean welcoming newcomers, hosting a short-term group in your home, or walking through this study with a friend. In this study, you’ll have an opportunity to go beyond Bible study to biblical living. This section will also have a question or two that will challenge you to live out your faith by serving others, sharing your faith, and worshiping God.

FOR ADDITIONAL STUDY. If you have time and want to dig deeper into more Bible passages about the topic at hand, we’ve provided additional passages and questions, which you can use either during the meeting, or as homework. Your group may choose to read and prepare before each meeting in order to cover more biblical material. Or, group members can use the additional study section during the week after the meeting. If you prefer not to do study homework, this section will provide you with plenty to discuss within the group. These options allow individuals or the whole group to expand their study while still accommodating those who can’t do homework or are new to your group.

DAILY DEVOTIONS. Each week on the Daily Devotions pages, we provide scriptures to read and reflect on between sessions. This provides you with a chance to slow down, read just a small portion of scripture each day, and reflect and pray through it. You’ll then have a chance to journal your response to what you’ve read. Use this section to seek God on your own throughout the week. This time at home should begin and end with prayer. Don’t get in a hurry. Take enough time to hear God’s direction.

Part 1:

Wisdom with my friends

Stupid Thing: Following the wrong crowd Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Psalm 119:105

Psychologists tell us there are actually two kinds of peer pressure: positive and negative. We’re all familiar with negative peer pressure. Since we were kids we’ve been warned to resist the pressure to drink, do drugs, and make other bad choices. But positive peer pressure is just as real. In fact, researchers have found that when people spend time with a group that works hard in school or on the job, exercises together, or even worships and studies the Bible together (like the group you’re in now!), they are more likely to value the same things. We are all unique individuals, but this research means we are also influenced by who we spend time with, and we’ll see in this week’s study that the Bible tells us exactly the same thing. As we begin our study of the wisdom of Proverbs and what it teaches us about life, we’ll look at why we so often follow the crowd, and how we can follow God’s way instead.

Share your story Each of us has a story. The events of our life have shaped who we are. God knows your story, and He intends to redeem it, and to use every struggle and every joy to ultimately bring you to Himself. When we share our stories with others, we give them the opportunity to see God at work. When we share our stories, we also realize we are not alone. We realize we have common experiences and thoughts, and that others can understand what we are going through. Your story can encourage someone else, and telling it can lead to a path of freedom for you and for those you share it with. Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer, in which you invite God to give you insight as you study. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. Before you start this first meeting, get contact information for every participant. Take time to pass around a copy of the Small Group Roster on page 97, a sheet of paper, or one of you pass your Study Guide, opened to the Small Group Roster. Ask someone to make copies or type up a list with everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s information and email it to the group during the week. Then, begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking.

• What brought you here? What do you hope to get out of this group?

• Tell the group about a time, perhaps as a child or teenager, when you were tempted to follow the crowd.

• Whether your group is new or ongoing, it’s always important to reflect on and review your values together. A Small Group Agreement with the values we’ve found most useful in sustaining healthy, balanced groups can be found on page 86. We recommend that you choose one or two values, ones you haven’t previously focused on or have room to grow in, to emphasize during this study. Choose ones that will take your group to the next stage of intimacy and spiritual health.

• If your group is new, welcome newcomers. Introduce everyone. You may even want to have name tags for your first meeting.

• We recommend you rotate host homes on a regular basis and let the hosts lead the meeting. Studies show that healthy groups rotate leadership. This helps to develop every member’s ability to shepherd a few people in a safe environment. Even Jesus gave others the opportunity to serve alongside Him (Mark 6:30-44). Look at the FAQs in the Appendix for additional information about hosting or leading the group.

• The Small Group Calendar on page 87 is a tool for planning who will host and lead each meeting. Take a few minutes to plan hosts and leaders for your remaining meetings. Don’t skip this important step! It will revolutionize your group.

Watch the DVD Use the Notes space provided on pages 98 to record key thoughts, questions and things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear God’s Story section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion. 12

Hear God’s Story Read Proverbs 1:10-18.

10 My child, if sinners entice you, turn your back on them! 11 They may say, “Come and join us. Let’s hide and kill someone! Just for fun, let’s ambush the innocent! 12 Let’s swallow them alive, like the grave; let’s swallow them whole, like those who go down to the pit of death. 13 Think of the great things we’ll get! We’ll fill our houses with all the stuff we take. 14 Come, throw in your lot with us; we’ll all share the loot.” 15 My child, don’t go along with them! Stay far away from their paths. 16 They rush to commit evil deeds. They hurry to commit murder. 17 If a bird sees a trap being set, it knows to stay away. 18 But these people set an ambush for themselves; they are trying to get themselves killed. • What are some ways that sin can be enticing? What lies does Satan tell us so that we’ll follow him?

• What is the payoff or reward that the sinners offer? (verse 13)

• What temptations in your life ended up only being fun in the short-term?

• What is the irony of choosing a path opposed to God’s ways? (verse 18)

Study notes Most people know Jim Lovell as the lead astronaut for the Apollo 13 mission to the moon, but he began his career as a pilot in the Navy. As a young pilot, Lovell experienced some tense moments during a night flight when his jetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s navigation system failed. There were miles of blackness and ocean between him and the aircraft carrier he was supposed to land on, yet he could not rely on any of the familiar technology he used for altitude, distance, direction, speed, or vision. As his jet sped though the darkness, Lovell made an unusual decision. With the navigation system completely shut down, he also turned the cockpit lights off, surrounding himself with total darkness. He held the jet steady and hoped the blackness of the night would help him see the lights of the landing strip on the aircraft carrier. Miraculously, his decision paid off. A few minutes after darkening the cockpit, he saw a bright glowing trail in the water that led to... his aircraft carrier. He found out later that hundreds of thousands of tiny sea creatures which illuminate in the dark had churned to the surface of the water in the wake of the mighty Navy ship. By following this glowing path, Lovell successfully piloted his plane back to the safety of the landing strip. We can depend on all kinds of things to help us navigate our lives, but the opinions of others and the customs of our culture will not always lead us in the right direction. We have all faced times when we feel like our navigation systems have gone dark. God promises to light our pathways and lead us in the right direction as we follow him.

Create a new story God wants you to be part of His kingdom, and to weave your story into His. That will mean change by going His way rather than your own. This won’t happen overnight, but it should happen steadily. By starting with small, simple choices, we begin to change our direction. The Holy Spirit helps us along the way by giving us gifts to serve the body, offering us insights into scripture, and challenging us to love not only those around us but those far from God. In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you’ve learned. • Why is it so difficult to turn our back on negative influences? Why is it so important to feel included and accepted?

• Pastor Beau mentions different kinds of gangs that people want to be part of, but the church should be THE group that everyone wants to join and where everyone is welcome. What are some ways you could help our church grow toward this vision?

• What does it mean to fear God? How does fear of God and respect for his ways help us make better choices?

• Do you have friends who sharpen you and make you better? If not, what are some ways you could begin cultivating this kind of friendship?

• Take a look at the Circles of Life diagram below and write the names of two or three people you know who need to know Christ. Commit to praying for God’s guidance and an opportunity to share with each of them. Perhaps they would be open to joining the group. Share your lists with the group so you can all be praying for the people you’ve identified.

• Think of someone you can begin going deeper with in an intentional way. You might choose a person in this group or someone else in your life, such as a family member, a roommate, a college buddy, or a neighbor.

• How will you incorporate the Bible into your life this week? Can you commit to spending time in daily prayer or study of God’s Word (use the Daily Devotions section to guide you)? Tell the group how you plan to follow Jesus this week, and then, at your next meeting, talk about your progress and challenges.

• Stack your hands just as a sports team does in the huddle. Commit to taking a risk by going deeper in your group and in your relationships with each other.

• Ask your group members how you can pray for them this week. Invite everyone to share, but don’t force the issue. Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 96.

• Close your meeting with prayer.

For additional study If you feel God nudging you to go deeper, take some time before the next meeting to dig into His Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session’s theme on your own and jot your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. A great way to gain insight on a passage is to read it in several different translations. You may want to use a Bible app or website to compare translations. Read James 4:1-4. • This is a pretty bold passage! How does this teaching from James complement this week’s study from Proverbs 1?

• If we want something, what is the way we should seek it?

• What does it mean to be a friend of the world?

Read James 1:12-15. • What is our reward for choosing God’s way?

• Where does temptation come from? Why does God allow it?

• Temptation (feelings and thoughts) lead to sinful actions, which lead to death. Think about times you have given into temptation. How did you feel? What steps do you take now to avoid straying from God’s path in those areas of your life?

Daily Devotionals DAY 1 Read Mark 12:29-30.

Jesus replied, “The most important commandment is this: ‘Listen, O Israel! The LORD our God is the one and only LORD. And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’

REFLECT:

How does living this way make it easier to choose the things of God? What is one

way you could begin loving God more this week with your heart, soul, mind, or strength?

DAY 2 Read Proverbs 25:26.

If the godly give in to the wicked, it’s like polluting a fountain or muddying a spring.

REFLECT: God can forgive and redeem all things, but this verse is teaching us about the consequences of sin. When we choose to give in to sin, we are “polluting” the beauty he wants to create in our lives.

DAY 3 Read Hebrews 4:15.

This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin.

REFLECT: Of course we will never be perfect like Jesus, but it’s a good reminder that no matter what temptation we experience, Jesus faced it first, and successfully turned his back on it.

DAY 4 Read Psalm 46:1.

God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.

REFLECT: When the wrong crowd beckons us to leave the right path, we are not alone. God is our constant help. Ask him to give you his strength in the challenges you face.

DAY 5 Read Jeremiah 10:7.

Who would not fear you, O King of nations? That title belongs to you alone! Among all the wise people of the earth and in all the kingdoms of the world, there is no one like you.

REFLECT: As we close this week, take a few minutes to reflect on the greatness of God. The more we know him and fear him, the less appealing sin becomes!

DAY 6 Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

Part 2:

Wisdom

with my mind Stupid Thing: Believing we know it all Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Philippians 2:3

A few years ago, Ken Jennings set the world record for winning the most money and for having the longest winning streak on the game show Jeopardy. In 74 games, Jennings managed to win over $4 million dollars. If anyone seemed to literally have all the answers, it was Ken Jennings. Yet after 74 games, a woman named Nancy Zerg beat Jennings by answering a question in the Business & Industry category. Even Jennings, a master of trivia and a man who knew tons of information, ultimately didn’t know it all. In fact, no matter how much we study, no matter what we experience, none of us knows everything and none of us is always right. If we’re honest with ourselves, we don’t have to compete on a game show to know we can be wrong. Yet all of us struggle with pride, and the Bible has much to say about this sin. In this week’s session, we’ll explore why pride is so dangerous, and how we can cultivate a humility 22

that pleases God.

Share Your Story As we said last week, when we share our stories with others, we give them the opportunity to see God at work. Your story is being shaped, even in this moment, by being part of this group. In fact, few things can shape us more than community. When we share our stories, we can encourage someone else, and learn. We experience the presence of God as He helps us be brave enough to reveal our thoughts and feelings. Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking: • Share something you learned from your Daily Devotions this past week.

• Share an accomplishment or achievement you’re proud of. Is pride always wrong?

• In the last session we asked you to write some names in the Circles of Life diagram. Who did you identify as the people in your life who need to meet Jesus? Go back to the Circles of Life diagram on page 16 to help you think of various people you come in contact with on a regular basis who need to know Jesus more deeply. Consider ideas for action and make a plan to follow through on one of them this week.

• Pair up with someone in your group. (We suggest that men partner with men and women with women.) This person will be your spiritual partner for the rest of this study. He or she doesn’t have to be your best friend. Instead, this person will simply encourage you to complete the goals you set for yourself during this study. Following through on a resolution is tough when you’re on your own, but it makes all the difference to have a partner to cheer you on.

Watch the DVD Watch the DVD for this session now. Use the Notes space provided on pages 98 to record key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember or follow up on. After you finish watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear God’s Story section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion. 24

Hear God’s Story: Read Proverbs 2:1-8.

1 My child,[a] listen to what I say, and treasure my commands. 2 Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. 3 Cry out for insight, and ask for understanding. 4 Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures. 5 Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God. 6 For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. 7 He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity. 8 He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him. • What does it mean to treasure God’s commands? How is this the opposite of being prideful?

• How do we pursue money, treasure, and wealth? What would it look like to pursue God’s wisdom that way?

• Why does God give the “treasure of common sense” to those who live with honesty?

• What are some ways God has guarded your path and protected you when you have followed him?

Study notes This week we talked about developing an appetite for God’s word so we can learn more about God and direct our lives with his wisdom. Pastor Beau mentioned that this can be a habit that builds over time, and that you can start by just reading a chapter or even a few verses each day. If you’ve never read the Bible much before, it can seem overwhelming, but a great way to begin is by reading the “Essential 100.” These are 100 chapters from Genesis to Revelation that can give you the big picture perspective of scripture. Visit https:// www.bible.com/reading-plans/25-the-essential-100 to learn more, and ask someone in your group to hold you accountable for getting started this week!

Create a New Story In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you’ve learned. • How does being impressed with our own wisdom keep us from paying attention to God’s wisdom?

• Pastor Beau says humbling ourselves is saying “You’re God and I’m not.” It sounds so simple – why is this often so difficult?

• How is humility the antidote to pride? How does it bring healing?

• When have you experienced the discipline of God?

What did you learn?

• Here are some simple ways to connect with God.

Tell the group which ones you plan to try this week,

and talk about your progress and challenges when you meet next time.

• Prayer. Commit to personal prayer and daily

connection with God. You may find it helpful to write your prayers in a journal.

• Daily Devotions. The Daily Devotions provided in each session offer an opportunity to read a short Bible passage five days a week during the course of our study. In our hurry-up world, we often move too quickly through everything, even reading God’s Word! Slow down. Don’t just skim, but take time to read carefully and reflect on the passage. Write down your insights on what you read each day. Copy a portion of scripture on a card and tape it somewhere in your line of sight, such as your car’s dashboard or the bathroom mirror. Or text it to yourself! Think about it when you sit at red lights or while you’re eating a meal. Reflect on what God is saying to you through these words. On the sixth day summarize what God has shown you throughout the week. • Ask your group members how you can pray for them this week. Invite everyone to share, but don’t force the issue. Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 96. • Close your meeting with prayer.

Daily Devotionals DAY 1 Read Romans 12:3

Because of the privilege and authority God has given me, I give each of you this warning: Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us.

REFLECT:

This passage doesn’t suggest we should think badly of ourselves or never

consider our own needs. God created us and he wants us to take joy in who he’s made us to be! Instead, these verses remind us to think of ourselves with humility and with God’s perspective, remembering that he is God and we are not.

DAY 2 Read Philippians 2:3.

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves.

REFLECT: How does being proud hinder us from truly loving others? Ask God to remove your pride and replace it with true love that honors God and looks to the interests of others.

DAY 3 Read Romans 12:9.

Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. 10 Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.

REFLECT: The more we grow in real love for other people, the more we move away from pride. Honoring others makes it easier for us to stop thinking only about ourselves!

DAY 4 Read 1 John 2:16.

For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world.

REFLECT:

God created us to love his creation and to have healthy pride in our own

accomplishments. How is this different from the cravings and pride in this passage?

DAY 5 Read Colossians 3:12.

Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.

REFLECT: Humility is one of the character qualities God wants to help us develop, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a trait we need to grow in if we are to develop healthy relationships with others. As we close this week, take some time to ask God to help you show humility and patience with the people in your life.

DAY 6 Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

Part 3:

Wisdom

with my body Stupid Thing: choosing immorality

Drink water from your own well — share your love only with your wife. Proverbs 5:15

C.S. Lewis once compared sex and food. He wrote, “There is nothing to be ashamed of in enjoying your food: there would be everything to be ashamed of if half the world made food the main interest of their lives and spent their time looking at pictures of food and dribbling and smacking their lips.” His point is that when food, and our enjoyment of it, is kept in the proper boundaries, it is one of the wonderful parts of life. But if we become overly obsessed with food or use it outside of the way it was intended, it becomes something that can harm us. The same is true of sex. The world has taken sex and transformed it from one of God’s great gifts into something that has the potential to hurt us and hurt others. When we keep sex as part of a marriage relationship, it is a gift from God that brings joy. But when we step outside of those boundaries, we damage our relationships with others and with God. This week, we’re tackling the tough subject of what it means to pursue wisdom with our bodies and the negative consequences 30

of ignoring God’s teaching about morality.

Share Your Story Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. Sharing personal stories builds deeper connections among group members. Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking. • Share something you learned from your Daily Devotions this past week.

• What are some ways our culture encourages promiscuity and adultery?

• Sit with your spiritual partner. If your partner is absent or you are new to the group, join with another pair or someone who doesn’t yet have a partner. If you haven’t established your spiritual partnership yet, do it now. (See Share Your Story in Session Two on page 23.)

Watch the DVD Use the Notes space provided on pages 98 to record key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear God’s Story section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion.

Hear God’s Story Use the following questions to guide your discussion of the teaching and stories you just experienced on the DVD and the Bible passage below. Read Proverbs 5:1-6.

1 My son, pay attention to my wisdom; listen carefully to my wise counsel. 2 Then you will show discernment, and your lips will express what you’ve learned. 3 For the lips of an immoral woman are as sweet as honey, and her mouth is smoother than oil. 4 But in the end she is as bitter as poison, as dangerous as a double-edged sword. 5 Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to the grave. 6 For she cares nothing about the path to life. She staggers down a crooked trail and doesn’t realize it.

• What are some of the dangers immorality can lead to?

• Describe some things that might be part of the path to life. For instance, the path to life might include being trusted by your family, or peace in your relationship with God. How do immoral choices lead you away from that path?

• In a few weeks we will talk more about the power of words. What do we learn from this passage about the connection between what we say, what we listen to, and the choices we make?

• How can choosing immorality cause us to lose in other areas of life?

Study notes Some people have an “animal” view of sex, thinking it is a biological need that can be met as long as both participants are consenting adults, and it has little to do with emotions or intimacy. Others take a “devil” view, thinking sex is inherently wrong. But there’s also a biblical view. The book of Song of Songs makes it abundantly clear that God is a big fan of sex between a married couple. According to this book, it’s neither an animal act without feelings nor a sinful act that should cause shame. The Hebrew people understood this better than we do. The weddings of Jewish people at the time Song of Songs was written were great celebrations of the start of the couple’s new journey as husband and wife, and this unapologetically included celebrating the physical consummation of the relationship. In fact, sometimes parts of the Song of Songs were read during the wedding feasts! Part of understanding God’s Word and applying it to life is celebrating the good, not just avoiding the bad. As Pastor Beau talked about on this week’s video, scripture commands married people to find joy and blessing in their physical relationship. Like everything God created, sex is good if we follow his wisdom.

Create a New Story God wants you to be part of His Kingdom and to weave your story into His. That will mean change. It will require you to go His way rather than your own. This won’t happen overnight, but it should happen 34

steadily. By making small, simple choices, we can begin to change our direction. The Holy Spirit helps us along the way, by giving us gifts to serve the body, offering us insights into scripture, and challenging us to love not only those around us but those far from God. In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned in this session. • Pastor Beau began by saying this session might cause you to experience a little pain or feel uncomfortable. Did that happen? How might that pain save you from greater pain later?

• How is the path to immorality a series of small choices instead of one big decision?

• Share a time when you learned wisdom because you experienced the negative consequences of a bad decision. Looking back, how would discernment have helped you make a better choice?

• We avoid immorality by choosing to do positive things instead. What are some positive decisions you can make or some new boundaries you can put in place to protect yourself from going down the wrong path?

• What steps will you take this week to grow in your relationship with God? If you’ve focused on prayer in past weeks, maybe you’ll want to direct your attention to scripture this week. If you’ve been reading God’s Word consistently, perhaps you’ll want to take it deeper and try memorizing a verse. Tell the group which one you plan to try this week, and talk about your progress and challenges when you meet next time.

• Ask your group members how you can pray for them this week. Invite everyone to share, but don’t force the issue. Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 96.

• Close your meeting with prayer.

For Additional Study Bible passages related to this session’s theme. Jot down your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. You may event want to use a Bible website or app to look up commentary on these passages. If you like, share what you learn with the group the next time you meet. Read 1 Corinthians 6:15-20 • How do our bodies belong to Christ? How are we united with him?

• How is sexual sin different from other sins?

• What price did God pay for you? How does this teaching about the value of our bodies influence your thinking about sex?

Read 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8. • Much like our own time, the Roman culture was full of promiscuity, prostitution, and adultery. How might they have reacted to this call for purity and self-control?

• How should we define sexual immorality? Is it only the physical act of sex, or are there other ways to violate the marriage covenant?

• How does premarital sex hurt or take advantage of someone? What about adultery?

Daily Devotionals DAY 1 Read Ephesians 5:5.

You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God.

REFLECT:

All of us have sinned, and none of us is good enough on our own. If you have

something you need to confess and you need to start going a different direction, take that to God today. He wants to show you grace and he will help you move forward in his wisdom.

DAY 2 Read Hebrews 13:4.

Give honor to marriage, and remain faithful to one another in marriage. God will surely judge people who are immoral and those who commit adultery.

REFLECT:

How can you act in ways that will honor your marriage and/or the marriages of

other people?

DAY 3 Read Colossians 3:5.

So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world.

REFLECT: How do things like lust and immorality lead us away from God? How should our lives change when God is shaping our decisions?

DAY 4 Read 1 Thessalonians 4:7.

God has called us to live holy lives, not impure lives.

REFLECT:

Remember, sex is not “impure.” Instead, it’s a gift to be enjoyed in marriage.

But we can make choices with our sexuality that distance us from God. As him to help you move toward holiness!

DAY 5 Read Psalm 103:11-12.

For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.

REFLECT:

We began this week of devotionals with an invitation to a fresh start with God,

and we end with a reminder of his grace. Ask God for his forgiveness and believe he is faithful to this promise and has forgotten your mistakes.

DAY 6 Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

Part 4:

Wisdom with my time

Stupid Thing: allowing myself to become lazy Lazy people take food in their hand but don’t even lift it to their mouth. Proverbs 19:24

Nike launched it’s “Just Do It” marketing campaign in 1988. Over the next ten years, the company increased its share of the sports shoe business from 18% to 43% in the United Sates and grew from millions to billions in profits internationally. People around the world fell in love with this slogan and its no-nonsense attitude to getting things done. However, we are not always as enthusiastic about applying this slogan to our own lives. It’s easy to wear a t-shirt that says “Just Do It.” It’s something else to actually get started and get it done! We all struggle with laziness and sometimes we put off doing the important things, but the Bible tells us again and again that it’s important to work hard. Avoiding laziness honors God, and it’s also the prescription for a successful, joyful life. This week, we’ll look at what God’s word has to tell us about laziness and diligence, and how we can be people of purpose, with or without that t-shirt.

Share Your Story Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer, in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. As we have said in previous lessons, sharing our personal stories builds deeper connections among group members. Your story may be exactly what another person needs to hear, and your listening to others’ stories is an act of love and kindness to them that could help them grow spiritually. Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking. • Share something you learned from your Daily Devotions this past week.

• What’s something you tend to procrastinate? Why do you put it off?

• Sit with your spiritual partner. If your partner is absent or if you are new to the group, join with another pair or someone who doesn’t yet have a partner. If you haven’t established your spiritual partnership yet, do it now. Share one prayer request and one thing you want to thank God for. Spend some time praying about what you’ve shared. (See Share Your Story in Session Two on page 23.)

• Take some time for each person to share about how they’re doing on the challenge of inviting the people on the Circles of Life to church or your small group. What specific conversations are you praying about for the weeks to come?

Watch the DVD Watch the DVD for this session now. Use the Notes space provided on pages 98 -102 to record key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember or follow up on. After you finish watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear God’s Story section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion.

Hear God’s Story Read Proverbs 24:30-34.

30 I walked by the field of a lazy person, the vineyard of one with no common sense. 31 I saw that it was overgrown with nettles. It was covered with weeds, and its walls were broken down. 32 Then, as I looked and thought about it, I learned this lesson: 33 A little extra sleep, a little more slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest— 34 then poverty will pounce on you like a bandit; scarcity will attack you like an armed robber. • At first glance, laziness and lack of common sense seem like two different things. What is the connection between them?

• The Bible teaches that rest and taking care of ourselves are good things. What’s the difference between this kind of rest and the extra sleep of the lazy person?

• How are poverty and lack portrayed in this passage? How do they rob the lazy person?

Study Notes One of the passages in the “For Additional Study” section this week is from 2 Thessalonians. There are two letters to the Thessalonians in the New Testament, and in both of them Paul addresses concerns and questions about the second coming of Jesus. (You can read these passages in 1 Thessalonians 4:13 – 5:11 and 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12.) It’s possible that one reason some people in the Thessalonian church weren’t working was they expected Jesus to return at any time. Why work for the future when there might not be a future?

Of course, this is the opposite of “accepting the task,” and it’s why Paul both worked among them and reminds them of his hard work. We can always find excuses for laziness, and like the Thessalonians we could even claim that as believers we should slack our responsibilities. Although it’s true that Jesus could return at any time, it’s also true that he has called us to be diligent and hardworking until that day.

Create a New Story • How is it possible to be busy and lazy? What is an area of life where you have left important things undone?

• React to the statement that laziness always harms you. How have you experienced that in your own life? How have you experienced laziness harming others?

• What opportunities has God set up for you that you are not pursuing?

• What’s a task that you’ve been putting off? What would it take to accept the task this week?

• Each of you in the group has different gifts and abilities. And every small group has tasks and roles that need to be done. How could you serve this group: with hospitality or prayer, by organizing an event, research or study of a topic, by worshipping or inviting new people?

• Spend some time praying about those you know who might respond to a simple invitation: to come to a church service, to join your small group, or even to just have coffee and talk about spiritual matters. Ask the Holy Spirit to bring to mind people you can pray for. • Groups grow closer when they serve together. How could your group serve someone in need? You may want to visit a shut-in from your church, provide a meal for a family who is going through difficulty, or give some other practical help to someone in need. If nothing comes to mind, spend some group time praying and asking God to show you who needs your help. Have two or three group members organize a serving project for the group, and then do it! • Ask your group members how you can pray for them this week. Invite everyone to share, but don’t force the issue. Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 96. • Close your meeting with prayer.

For Additional Study Take some time between now and our next meeting to dig into God’s Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session’s theme on your own. Jot down your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. You may even want to use a Bible website or app to look up commentary on these passages. If you like, share what you learn with the group the next time you meet. Read Matthew 25:14-30. • Why did the third servant bury the money instead of investing it?

• Why do you think the master gave different amounts to each servant?

• It’s easy to see the applications of this story to money. How does this parable apply to the way we steward our time?

Read 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13. â&#x20AC;˘ The apostle Paul wrote this letter to the church in Thessalonica. How did he conduct himself while living and ministering among them?

â&#x20AC;˘ How does Paul indicate that laziness is a choice? (verse 10)

â&#x20AC;˘ What are some other issues that laziness can lead to? (verse 11)

Daily Devotions DAY 2 Read Colossians 3:17

And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.

REFLECT:

Our lives reflect Christ, so our attitudes toward our work and our responsibilities

should honor him. Ask God to help everything you do give glory to him.

DAY 2 Read Proverbs 18:9.

A lazy person is as bad as someone who destroys things.

REFLECT:

How is laziness a form of destruction? Are there things you are tearing down be-

cause you are refusing to build them up?

DAY 3 Read Hebrews 12:11

No discipline is enjoyable while it is happeningâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.

REFLECT:

God disciplines us because he loves us. Is God disciplining you in some area?

What can you learn from this?

DAY 4 Read Proverbs 14:23.

Work brings profit, but mere talk leads to poverty!

REFLECT: We all like to talk about our dreams for the future, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s much harder to buckle down and get to work! What have you been talking about that you need to start doing?

DAY 5 Read Genesis 2:15

The Lord God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to tend and watch over it.

REFLECT:

From the very beginning, God designed us to work and be productive. Reflect on

everything you have learned this week and ask God to show you how to apply his wisdom so you can avoid laziness.

DAY 6 Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

Part 5:

Wisdom with my money Stupid Thing: living in debt

Wisdom and money can get you almost anything, but only wisdom can save your life. Ecclesiastes 7:12

In 1870, John D. Rockefeller helped launch the Standard Oil Company. Over the next forty years, he built Standard Oil into the biggest business in the world, and he became the richest man in the world. At one point a reporter asked him, “Mr. Rockefeller, how much money is enough?” And Rockefeller famously replied, “Just a little bit more.” If one of the richest men in our country’s history felt the need for more, it’s certainly understandable that we would, too. We constantly want the newest, the latest, the biggest, the fastest, and the best. However, these things come at a price, and pursuing more possessions has left many of us drowning in debt. Ironically, the “stuff” we thought would bring us such happiness now enslaves us as we work long hours to pay our creditors and struggle to save for the future. 50

God gives us all good things for our enjoyment, but he also calls us to be good managers of our blessings and use them in ways that will build his kingdom. Confronting our debt and changing our habits is hard, but it’s the path to true freedom in our finances.

Share Your Story Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer, in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. Telling our personal stories builds deeper connections among group members. Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking. Sharing our stories requires us to be honest. We can help one another be honest and open by creating a safe place, so be sure your group is one where confidentiality is respected, where there is no such thing as “stupid questions,” and where you listen without criticizing one another. • Share something you learned from your Daily Devotions this past week.

• Do you enjoy shopping? What’s your favorite thing to buy?

• Sit with your spiritual partner. If your partner is absent or if you are new to the group, join with another pair or someone who doesn’t yet have a partner. If you haven’t established your spiritual partnership yet, do it now. Answer this question: how has being in this group impacted your personal relationship with God? (See Share Your Story in Session Two on page 23.)

Hear God’s Story Read Matthew 6:19-21, 24.

19 “Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. 21 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. 24 “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money. • How do we store up treasure in heaven?

• Put verse 21 in your own words. Do you agree with this statement?

• How might we try to serve both God and money? What are possible results?

• What is the difference between choosing to serve and being enslaved?

Study Notes Because money is such a big issue, a number of studies and surveys have been conducted in recent years to determine how couples are spending, talking, and thinking about their finances. If you’re married (and if you’re brave!), take some time to read and discuss these with your spouse. • 91% of Americans in committed relationships agree it is important to discuss their partner’s financial history before marriage, but 25% say they avoid talking about finances. (2011 Lawyers.com Couples and Money survey)

• 12% of the general population claims they’ve never talked about money with their spouse. (American Express Spending & Saving Tracker)

• 31% admitted to lying to their spouses about money. (Online poll by Forbes Woman and National Endowment for Financial Education)

• 29% of those surveyed admit they have withheld information from their partner about spending on items like clothes, electronics and entertainment. Yet 40% agree that honesty about finances is more important than honesty about fidelity! (Lawyers.com survey)

• One-third of couples said finances were the most stressful part of their relationship. Sex was 11%, children 9% and in-laws 4%. (American Express survey)

• Those who said money wasn’t important to them scored 10-15% better in stability and other measures of relationship quality than couples where one or both are materialistic, according to a Brigham Young University study published in Science Daily.

Create a New Story God wants you to be part of His kingdom and to weave your story into His. That will mean change. It will require you to go His way rather than your own. This won’t happen overnight, but it should happen steadily. By making small, simple choices, we can begin to change our direction. The Holy Spirit helps us along the way by giving us gifts to serve the body, offering us insights into Scripture, and challenging us to love not only those around us but those far from God. In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned in this lesson. • If you have “bad debt,” how is it affecting your relationships? How is it affecting your future?

• How does debt enslave us?

• Do you find it encouraging to know that Christ can bring us freedom from debt, or do you find it discouraging to consider the time and effort it will take?

• What are some areas of life where you feel content with what you have? What are some areas where you struggle with contentment?

• Do you give back to God on a regular basis? Do you share with others? If not, what’s holding you back?

• Spend some time praying about those you know who might respond to a simple invitation: to come to a church service, to join your small group, or even just to have coffee and talk about spiritual matters. Ask the Holy Spirit to bring to mind people you can pray for.

• A strong group is made up of people who are all being filled up by God, so that they are empowered to love one another. What specific steps will you take this week to connect with God privately, so He can “fill you up?” If you’ve focused on prayer in past weeks, maybe you’ll want to direct your attention to Scripture this week. If you’ve been reading God’s Word consistently, perhaps you’ll want to take it deeper and try memorizing a verse. Tell the group which one you plan to try this week. Then, at your next meeting, talk about your progress and challenges.

• Ask your group members how you can pray for them this week. Invite everyone to share, but don’t force the issue. Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 96.

• Close your meeting with prayer.

For Additional Study Take some time between now and our next meeting to dig into God’s Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session’s theme on your own. Jot down your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. You may even want to use a Bible website or app to look up commentary on these passages. If you like, share what you learn with the group the next time you meet. Read Luke 12:13-21. • What are some of the kinds of greed Jesus might have been referring to in verse 15? What is the connection between greed and debt?

• Was it wrong for the rich man to have so many crops? What is he guilty of in this parable?

• Does considering your mortality change the way you look at your finances?

Read Philippians 4:11-13. • Does contentment come naturally?

• How do your circumstances affect your contentment?

• What is the “secret” Paul has learned to being content?

Daily Devotions DAY 1 Read Hebrews 13:5.

Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.”

REFLECT: Does the promise of God’s presence in your life make it easier for you to choose contentment?

DAY 2 Read James 1:17

Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.

REFLECT:

We can trust God to be faithful in providing for our needs. As you apply this week’s

teaching, remember that he has blessed you in the past and he will continue to bless you as you seek his wisdom in managing your money.

DAY 3 Read Proverbs 11:25.

The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.

REFLECT: How have you been blessed and refreshed by giving to God’s work?

DAY 4 Read Psalm 37:21

The wicked borrow and never repay, but the godly are generous givers.

REFLECT:

Are there unpaid debts that are keeping you from being generous? What is one

step you can take this week to eliminate those debts?

DAY 5 Read Psalm 23:1.

The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.

REFLECT:

How does the Lord “shepherd” you? As we close this week, thank him for the way

he provides for you each day, and for the wisdom he offers in his word.

DAY 6 Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

Part 6:

Wisdom with my words

Stupid Thing: refusing to control my tongue The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences. Proverbs 18:21

The old rhyme, recited by school children for decades, tells us, “Sticks and stones can break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” In reality, of course, we know nothing could be further from the truth. Words have huge power to not only hurt us in the moment, but to cause longterm rifts in our relationships. However, the opposite is also true. Just as we can use our words to hurt others, we can also use them to heal and help the people we love. In this session we’ll look at how why our words matter, how we can repent of the times when we have used words to wound, and what it means to bless others with the words we speak into their lives.

Share Your Story Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer, in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. As we have said in previous lessons, sharing our personal stories builds deeper connections among group members. Your story may be exactly what another person needs to hear to encourage or strengthen them. And your listening to others’ stories is an act of love and kindness to them that could help them grow spiritually. Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking. • Share something you learned from your Daily Devotions this past week.

• When is it most difficult for you to control what you say?

• Take some time for each person to share about how they’ve done with inviting the people on the Circles of Life to church or your small group. What specific conversations are you praying about for the weeks to come?

Watch the DVD Watch the DVD for this session now. Use the Notes space provided on pages 98 - 102 to record any key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember or follow up on. After you finish watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear God’s Story section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion.

Hear Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Story Read James 3:2-8.

2 Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way. 3 We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. 4 And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong. 5 In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. 6 And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself.[a] 7 People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, 8 but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison.

â&#x20AC;˘ Why does James say the ability to control the tongue means a person has the ability to control himself completely?

• What does it mean that the tongue “makes grand speeches”?

• Verse 8 says no human can tame the tongue. Who can? How can we access His power in this area?

• This passage focuses on some negative uses of the tongue, but consider how the inverse is also true. If our words can spark a fire, how can our words also multiply into great results?

Study Notes James is known for being quite plainspoken, even blunt, in the biblical book that bears his name, but he’s also good at using real-life examples to explain his ideas. In the passage we studied today, he used two objects—the bit in the mouth of a horse and the rudder of a boat—as metaphors for the way our small tongues (and the way we use them) can direct the course of our entire lives. The bit in a horse’s mouth is attached to the bridle and reins and allows the rider to communicate with the animal (ironically, by pressing against its tongue). When used correctly, the bit does not hurt the horse but the rider can skillfully use just a small bit of pressure to change the horse’s direction. Likewise, the rudder of a ship is very small compared to the bulk of the entire vessel, but when someone turns the rudder it changes the water pressure on both sides of the boat and causes it to turn. This passage is full of harsh warnings about how we speak, but it’s also full of hope—if our words can cause damage comparable to fire and poison, they also have great power to do good. Just as we can use the bit of a horse or the rudder of a ship to cause a big change, the challenge is to use our tongues to change our lives and the lives of others for the better. 65

Create a New Story How has God changed your story during this seven-week study? What new things is He asking you to do? What truth has transformed your heart? Think about specific steps you want to take to live a new story, to walk more closely with God so you can be part of His story, engaged in His kingdom. • Why are words so powerful? What are some areas of life that can be ruined by our words?

• Why does changing our words begin with a change in our hearts? How does ingesting God’s word help with this process?

• Are you willing to assess the damage you’ve done with your words? Are you open to confessing what you learn to God? If so, share your decision with the group and ask them to hold you accountable. (That means they will ask you about it next week!)

• Think of at least one person you can bless with your words this week. What can you say that will be a gift to that person?

• Ask your group members how you can pray for them this week. Invite everyone to share, but don’t force the issue. Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 96.

• Close your meeting with prayer.

For Additional Study Explore the Bible passages related to this session’s theme on your own, jotting your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. You may even want to use a Bible website or app to look up commentary on these passages. Read Matthew 12:34-37. • What does it mean that we speak from the overflow of our hearts? How have you found this to be true in your own life?

• What kind of good things should we be storing up? How do we do that?

• In verses 36 and 37, an “empty” word is a word spoken without thought. Why is God so concerned about every word we speak?

Read Colossians 3:8-10. • There are many different ways we can hurt others with our words. What are some of the different categories of sinful words described here?

• Remember that telling lies is also a way of using our words to sin. Why does this passage tell us not to lie?

• What is our new nature as Christians?

Daily Devotions DAY 1 Read Proverbs 28:13.

People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy.

REFLECT:

As Pastor Beau said this week, you can deny the damage your words have

caused, but you will never find healing or growth that way. This week, admit the mistakes you’ve made and receive the forgiveness of our loving God.

DAY 2 Read Proverbs 12:18.

Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.

REFLECT:

Consider a time when someone else’s words healed your spirit in some way.

What did they say? How did they say it? Why was it so meaningful to you?

DAY 3 Read Proverbs 15:23.

Everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!

REFLECT: We’ve focused a lot this week on the pain we can cause by saying the wrong thing, but consider the joy that can come from speaking life-giving words. Ask God to give you opportunities to say the right thing at the right time, and then be alert to how he answers you.

DAY 4 Read Proverbs 16:24.

Kind words are like honeyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.

REFLECT: How can your encouraging or affirming words positively affect the people in your life? Ask God to help you find opportunities to encourage your children, your spouse, your friends, or your colleagues today.

DAY 5 Read Proverbs 29:20.

There is more hope for a fool than for someone who speaks without thinking.

REFLECT:

Why does hasty speech make us more hopeless than a fool?

DAY 6 Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

â&#x20AC;&#x192; 70

Part 7:

Wisdom with my EMOTIONS Stupid Thing: FAILING TO CONTROL ANGER People with understanding control their anger; a hot temper shows great foolishness. Proverbs 14:29

There is no shortage of things to make us angry. From politics around the world to the people we live with, from the driver who cuts you off in traffic to the colleague who interrupts you in every conversation, there is always a person or a problem to make us mad. We can’t control what other people do and say, but we can control our response to them. Like many things God calls us to do, this isn’t easy. But like everything he asks us to do, he has promised to work in our hearts and minds to make it possible. We will all feel angry at times, but this week we’ll learn how to deal with our anger in ways that can honor God and change our relationships.

Share Your Story Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer, in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. As we have said in previous lessons, sharing our personal stories builds deeper connections among group members. Your story may be exactly what another person needs to hear to encourage or strengthen them. And your listening to others’ stories is an act of love and kindness to them that could help them grow spiritually. Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking. • Share something you learned from your Daily Devotions this past week.

• What has surprised you most about this group? Where did God meet you over the last seven weeks?

â&#x20AC;˘ Take time in this final session to connect with your spiritual partner. What has God been showing you through these sessions? What positive changes has your partner noticed in you? Check in with each other about the progress you have made in your spiritual growth during this study. Make plans about whether you will continue your relationship after the group has concluded.

Watch the DVD Watch the DVD for this session now. Use the Notes space provided on pages 98 - 102 to record any key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember or follow up on. After you finish watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Story section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion. 73

Read Ephesians 4:26-27, 30-32.

26 And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 for anger gives a foothold to the devil. 30 And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own,[e] guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. • Which of the commands in this passage do you find most difficult to put into practice in your relationships?

• We may not always be able to resolve a conflict on the same day it happens (before the sun goes down) but the idea is that we should not let things fester and get worse. How could this give the devil a foothold?

• How can actions that come from anger bring sorrow to the Holy Spirit?

• What does it mean to forgive the way Christ forgave us?

On the video, Pastor Beau mentioned that one key to controlling our anger is reflecting on what’s really causing it. Psychologists have told us for years that anger is not a primary emotion. In other words, when we feel angry we are also probably experiencing hurt, disappointment, grief, resentment, or even fear. This doesn’t mean the anger isn’t valid. After all, the pain or loss or sadness may be very real. However, it does mean that we have to take the time to consider what we’re feeling and why. We also have to find the courage to reflect on our anger, because it’s often more comfortable for us to feel anger than to feel the primary emotion behind it. This week, take some time to track your anger and what triggers it. Here in this notebook or in a journal, write down the moments you felt angry and why. Can you dig down to the primary emotions behind your anger?

Create a New Story How has God changed your story during this six-week study? What new things is He asking you to do? What truth has transformed your heart? Think about specific steps you want to take to live a new story, to walk more closely with God so you can be part of His story, engaged in His kingdom. • What are some relationships or some areas of life where you struggle the most to control your anger?

• Why does managing our anger begin with making a decision to manage it? Why is that first step so important?

• How does anger lead to many other kinds of sin?

• What happens if you suppress your anger? What are some better ways to release your anger?

• As this is the last meeting in this study, take some time to celebrate the work God has done in the lives of group members. Have each person in the group share some step of growth they have noticed in another member. (In other words, no one will talk about themselves. Instead, affirm others in the group.) Make sure each person gets affirmed and noticed and celebrated— whether the steps they’ve made are large or small.

• If your group still needs to make decisions about continuing to meet after this session, have that discussion now. Talk about what you will study, who will lead, and when you will meet.

• Review your Small Group Agreement on page 86 and evaluate how well you met your goals. Discuss any changes you want to make as you move forward. If you plan to continue to meeting, and your group starts a new study, this is a great time to take on a new role or change roles of service in your group. What new role will you take on? If you are uncertain, maybe your group members have some ideas for you. Remember you aren’t making a lifetime commitment to the new role. It will only be for a few weeks. Maybe someone would like to share a role with you if you don’t feel ready to serve solo.

• Close by praying for your prayer requests and take a couple of minutes to review the praises you have recorded over the past five weeks on the Prayer and Praise Report on page 96. Spend some time thanking God for all He’s done in your group during this study.

For Additional Study Explore the Bible passages related to this session’s theme on your own, jotting your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. You may even want to use a Bible website or app to look up commentary on these passages. Read James 1:19-21. • Are you quicker to listen or quicker to speak and become angry?

• Why doesn’t anger lead to righteousness? What does it lead to instead?

• What is the connection between evil influences in our lives and being quick to anger?

Read Romans 12:1-2. • What are some things God has done for you? Why does that mean we can trust him with our lives and our hearts?

â&#x20AC;˘ What does it mean to be a living sacrifice?

â&#x20AC;˘ How are we transformed by God? What benefit does this transformation ultimately lead to?

Daily Devotions DAY 1 Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-5.

Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged.

REFLECT:

Which of these qualities of love do you most need to grow in? Remember, God is

standing by to give you wisdom and to change your heart. Ask him to help you!

DAY 2 Read Proverbs 19:11

Sensible people control their temper; they earn respect by overlooking wrongs.

REFLECT:

This verse doesn’t mean you don’t have boundaries or you’re a doormat who lets

everyone hurt you. Instead, it’s a reminder that not every small issue is worth turning into a huge conflict. How are you reacting to the wrongs in your life? Are there situations where you need to think more before you react?

DAY 3 Read Proverbs 26:21.

A quarrelsome person starts fights as easily as hot embers light charcoal or fire lights wood.

REFLECT:

How does a tendency toward arguing light fires of anger? Ask God to make you a

person who seeks peace instead of quarrels.

DAY 4 Read Romans 12:18.

Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.

REFLECT:

How can you be a person of peace as you go through your day today? Pray for

God to help you and give you his wisdom in each situation.

DAY 5 Read Ecclesiastes 7:9.

Control your temper, for anger labels you a fool.

REFLECT:

Not only can anger lead us to sin, it can also make us look foolish! As we close

this week, ask God to help you apply the five parts of controlling your anger so you can live a life of wisdom.

DAY 6 Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

appendices

resources

to make your small group experience even better!

frequently asked questions WHAT DO WE DO ON THE FIRST NIGHT OF OUR GROUP? Like all fun things in life—have a party! A “get to know you” coffee, dinner, or dessert is a great way to launch a new study. You may want to review the Group Agreement (page 86) and share the names of a few friends you can invite to join you. But most importantly, have fun before your study time begins.

WHERE DO WE FIND NEW MEMBERS FOR OUR GROUP? This can be troubling, especially for new groups that have only a few people or for existing groups that lose a few people along the way. We encourage you to pray with your group and then brainstorm a list of people from work, church, your neighborhood, your children’s school, family, the gym, and so forth. Then have each group member invite several of the people on his or her list. Another good strategy is to ask church leaders to make an announcement or allow a bulletin insert. No matter how you find members, it’s vital that you stay on the lookout for new people to join your group. All groups tend to go through healthy attrition (the result of moves, releasing new leaders, ministry opportunities, and so forth) and if the group gets too small, 82

could be at risk of shutting down. If you and your group stay open, you’ll be amazed at the people God sends your way. The next person just might become a friend for life. You never know!

HOW LONG WILL THIS GROUP MEET? Most groups meet weekly for at least their first seven weeks, but every other week can work as well. We strongly recommend that the group meet for the first six months on a weekly basis if at all possible. This allows for continuity, and if people miss a meeting they aren’t gone for a whole month. At the end of this study, each group member may decide if he or she wants to continue on for another study. Some groups launch relationships for years to come, and others are stepping-stones into another group experience. Either way, enjoy the journey.

CAN WE DO THIS STUDY ON OUR OWN? Absolutely! This may sound crazy, but one of the best ways to do this study is not with a full house but with a few friends. You may choose to gather with another couple who would enjoy some relational time (perhaps going to the movies or having a quiet dinner) and then walking through this study. Jesus will be with you even if there are only two of you (Matthew 18:20).

WHAT IF THIS GROUP IS NOT WORKING FOR US? You’re not alone! This could be the result of a personality conflict, life stage difference, geographical distance, level of spiritual maturity, or any number of things. Relax. Pray for God’s direction, and at the end of this seven-week study, decide whether to continue with this group or find another. You don’t typically buy the first car you look at or marry the first person you date, and the same goes with a group. However, don’t bail out before the seven weeks are up—God might have something to teach you. Also, don’t run from conflict or prejudge people before you have given them a chance. God is still working in your life, too!

WHO IS THE LEADER? Most groups have an official leader. But ideally, the group will mature and members will rotate the leadership of meetings. We have discovered that healthy groups rotate hosts/leaders and homes on a regular basis. This model ensures that all members grow, give their unique contribution, and develop their gifts. This study guide and the Holy Spirit can keep things on track even when you rotate leaders. Christ has promised to be in your midst as you gather. Ultimately, God is your leader each step of the way.

HOW DO WE HANDLE THE CHILDCARE NEEDS IN OUR GROUP? Very carefully. Seriously, this can be a sensitive issue. We suggest that you empower the group to openly brainstorm solutions. You may try one option that works for a while and then adjust over time. Our favorite approach is for adults to meet in the living room or dining room and to share the cost of a babysitter (or two) who can watch the kids in a different part of the house. This way, parents donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be away from their children all evening when their children are too young to be left at home. A second option is to use one home for the kids and a second home (close by or a phone call away) for the adults. A third idea is to rotate the responsibility of providing a lesson or care for the children either in the same home or in another home nearby. This can be an incredible blessing for kids. Finally, the most common solution is to decide that you need to have a night to invest in your spiritual lives individually or as a couple and to make your own arrangements for childcare. No matter what decision the group makes, the best approach is to dialogue openly about both the problem and the solution.

OUR PURPOSE To provide a predictable environment where participants experience authentic community and spiritual growth.

OUR VALUES GROUP ATTENDANCE To give priority to the group meeting. We will call or email if we will be late or absent. (Completing the Group Calendar on page ??? will minimize this issue.)

SAFE ENVIRONMENT To help create a safe place where people can be heard and feel loved. (Please, no quick answers, snap judgments, or simple fixes.)

RESPECT DIFFERENCES To be gentle and gracious to fellow group members with different spiritual maturity, personal opinions, temperaments, or â&#x20AC;&#x153;imperfections.â&#x20AC;? We are all works in progress.

CONFIDENTIALITY To keep anything that is shared strictly confidential and within the group, and to avoid sharing improper information about those outside the group.

ENCOURAGEMENT FOR GROWTH To be not just takers but givers of life. We want to spiritually multiply our life by serving others with our God-given gifts.

SHARED OWNERSHIP To remember that every member is a minister and to ensure that each attender will share a small team role or responsibility over time.

ROTATING HOSTS/LEADERS AND HOMES To encourage different people to host the group in their homes and to rotate the responsibility of facilitating each meeting. (See the Group Calendar on page ???.) 85

OUR EXPECTATIONS • REFRESHMENTS/MEALTIMES

• CHILDCARE

• WHEN WE WILL MEET (DAY OF WEEK)

• WHERE WE WILL MEET (PLACE)

• WE WILL BEGIN AT (TIME)

AND END AT

• WE WILL DO OUR BEST TO HAVE SOME OR ALL OF US ATTEND A WORSHIP SERVICE TOGETHER. OUR PRIMARY WORSHIP SERVICE TIME WILL BE

• DATE OF THIS AGREEMENT

• DATE WE WILL REVIEW THIS AGREEMENT AGAIN

• WHO (OTHER THAN THE LEADER) WILL REVIEW THIS AGREEMENT AT THE END OF THIS STUDY

GROUP CALENDAR Planning and calendaring can help ensure the greatest participation at every meeting. At the end of each meeting, review this calendar. Be sure to include birthdays, socials, church events, holidays, and mission/ministry projects.

DATE LESSON HOST HOME DESSERT/MEAL LEADER

1/ 15

Steve and Lauraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Joe

Bill

SPIRITUAL PARTNERS’ CHECK-IN Briefly check in each week and write down your personal plans and progress targets for the next week (or even for the next few weeks). This could be done before or after the meeting, on the phone, through an e-mail message, or even in person from time to time.

WEEK 1

My Name:

Spiritual Partner’s Name:

Our Plans:

Our Progress:

WEEK 2 Our Plans:

Our Progress:

WEEK 3 Our Plans:

Our Progress:

WEEK 4 Our Plans:

Our Progress:

WEEK 5 Our Plans:

Our Progress:

WEEK 6 Our Plans:

Our Progress:

WEEK 7 Our Plans:

Our Progress:

MEMORY VERSE CARDS PART ONE

PART TWO

Your word is a lamp to guide my

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to

feet and a light for my path.

impress others. Be humble,

Psalm 119:105

thinking of others as better than yourselves. Philippians 2:3

PART THREE

PART FOUR

Drink water from your own

Lazy people take food in their

well— share your love only

hand but don’t even lift it to

with your wife.

their mouth.

Proverbs 5:15

Proverbs 19:24

PART FIVE

PART SIX

Wisdom and money can get you

The tongue can bring death or

almost anything, but only

life; those who love to talk will

wisdom can save your life.

reap the consequences.

Ecclesiastes 7:12

Proverbs 18:21

PART SEVEN People with understanding control their anger; a hot temper shows great foolishness. Proverbs 14:29 89

CLIP AND REVIEW THE MEMORY VERSES ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THIS PAGE.

Small Group Leaders Key resources to help your leadership experience be the best it can be.

HOSTING AN OPEN HOUSE If you’re starting a new group, try planning an “open house” before your first formal group meeting. Even if you have only two to four core members, it’s a great way to break the ice and to consider prayerfully who else might be open to joining you over the next few weeks. You can also use this kick-off meeting to hand out study guides, spend some time getting to know each other, discuss each person’s expectations for the group and briefly pray for each other. A simple meal or good desserts always make a kick-off meeting more fun. After people introduce themselves and share how they ended up being at the meeting, have everyone respond to a few icebreaker questions: • What is your favorite family vacation? • What is one thing you love about your church/our community? • What are three things about your life growing up that most people here don’t know? Next, ask everyone to tell what he or she hopes to get out of the study. You might want to review the Small Group Agreement and talk about each person’s expectations and priorities. Finally, set an open chair (maybe two) in the center of your group and explain that it represents someone who would enjoy or benefit from this group but who isn’t here yet. Ask people to pray about inviting someone to join the group over the next few weeks. Hand out postcards and have everyone write an invitation or two. Don’t worry about ending up with too many people. You can always have one discussion circle in the living room and another in the dining room after you watch the lesson. Each group could then report prayer requests and progress at the end of the session. You can skip this kick-off meeting if your time is limited, but you’ll experience a huge benefit if you take the time to connect with each other in this way.

LEADING FOR THE FIRST TIME • SWEATY PALMS ARE A HEALTHY SIGN.

The Bible says God is gracious to the

humble. Remember who is in control. The time to worry is when you’re not worried. Those who are soft in heart (and sweaty palmed) are those whom God is sure to speak through.

• SEEK SUPPORT. Ask your leader, co-leader, or close friend to pray for you and prepare with you before the session. Walking through the study will help you anticipate potentially difficult questions and discussion topics.

• BRING YOUR UNIQUENESS TO THE STUDY. Lean into who you are and how God wants you to uniquely lead the study.

• PREPARE. PREPARE. PREPARE.

Go through the session several times. If you are

using the DVD, listen to the teaching segment and Leadership Lifter. Consider writing in a journal or fasting for a day to prepare yourself for what God wants to do. Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare.

• ASK FOR FEEDBACK SO YOU CAN GROW.

Perhaps in an email or on cards

handed out at the study, have everyone write down three things you did well and one thing you could improve on. Don’t get defensive. Instead, show an openness to learn and grow.

• PRAYERFULLY CONSIDER LAUNCHING A NEW GROUP. This doesn’t need to happen overnight, but God’s heart is for this to take place over time. Not all Christians are called to be leaders or teachers, but we are all called to be “shepherds” of a few someday.

• SHARE WITH YOUR GROUP WHAT GOD IS DOING IN YOUR HEART. God is searching for those whose hearts are fully his. Share your trials and victories. We promise that people will relate.

• PRAYERFULLY CONSIDER WHOM YOU WOULD LIKE TO PASS THE BATON TO NEXT WEEK. It’s only fair. God is ready for the next member of your group to go on the faith journey you just traveled. Make it fun, and expect God to do the rest.

LEADERSHIP TRAINING 101 Congratulations! You have responded to the call to help shepherd Jesus’ flock. There are few other tasks in the family of God that surpass the contribution you will be making. As you prepare to lead, whether it is one session or the entire series, here are a few thoughts to keep in mind. We encourage you to read these and review them with each new discussion leader before he or she leads.

1. REMEMBER THAT YOU ARE NOT ALONE. God knows everything about you, and He knew that you would be asked to lead your group. Remember that it is common for all good leaders to feel that they are not ready to lead. Moses, Solomon, Jeremiah and Timothy were all reluctant to lead. God promises, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). Whether you are leading for one evening, for several weeks, or for a lifetime, you will be blessed as you serve.

2. DON’T TRY TO DO IT ALONE. Pray right now for God to help you build a healthy leadership team. If you can enlist a co-leader to help you lead the group, you will find your experience to be much richer. This is your chance to involve as many people as you can in building a healthy group. All you have to do is call and ask people to help. You’ll probably be surprised at the response.

3. JUST BE YOURSELF. IF YOU WON’T BE YOU, WHO WILL? God wants you to use your unique gifts and temperament. Don’t try to do things exactly like another leader. Instead, do them in a way that fits you! Just admit it when you don’t have an answer, and apologize when you make a mistake. Your group will love you for it, and you’ll sleep better at night!

4. PREPARE FOR YOUR MEETING AHEAD OF TIME.

Review the

session and the leader’s notes, and write down your responses to each question. Pay special attention to exercises that ask group members to do something other than engage in discussion. These exercises will help your group live what the Bible teaches, not just talk about it. Be sure you understand how an exercise works, and bring any necessary supplies (such as paper and pens) to your meeting. If the exercise employs one of the items in the appendix, be sure to look over that item so you’ll know how it

works. Finally, review “Outline for Each Session” so you’ll remember the purpose of each section in the study.

5. PRAY FOR YOUR GROUP MEMBERS BY NAME.

Before you begin your

session, go around the room in your mind and pray for each member by name. You may want to review the prayer list at least once a week. Ask God to use your time together to touch the heart of every person uniquely. Expect God to lead you to whomever He wants you to encourage or challenge in a special way. If you listen, God will surely lead!

6. WHEN YOU ASK A QUESTION, BE PATIENT.

Someone will eventually

respond. Sometimes people need a moment or two of silence to think about the question. Keep in mind, if silence doesn’t bother you, it won’t bother anyone else. After someone r esponds, affirm the response with a simple “thanks” or “good job.” Then ask, “How about somebody else?” or “Would someone who hasn’t shared like to add anything?” Be sensitive to new people or reluctant members who aren’t ready to say, pray or do anything. If you give them a safe setting, they will blossom over time.

7. PROVIDE TRANSITIONS BETWEEN QUESTIONS. When guiding the discussion, always read aloud the transitional paragraphs and the questions. Ask the group if anyone would like to read the paragraph or Bible passage. Don’t call on anyone, but ask for a volunteer, and then be patient until someone begins. Be sure to thank the person who reads aloud.

8. BREAK UP INTO SMALLER GROUPS EACH WEEK OR THEY WON’T STAY. If your group has more than seven people, we strongly encourage you to have the group gather sometimes in discussion circles of three or four people during the Hear God’s Story or Change Your Story sections of the study. With a greater opportunity to talk in a small circle, people will connect more with the study, apply more quickly what they’re learning and ultimately get more out of it. A small circle also encourages a quiet person to participate and tends to minimize the effects of a more vocal or dominant member. It can also help people feel more loved in your group. When you gather again at the end of the section, you can have one person summarize the highlights from each circle. Small circles are also helpful during prayer time. People who are unaccustomed to praying aloud will feel more comfortable trying it with just two or three others. Also, prayer requests won’t take as much time, so circles will have more time to actually pray. When you gather back with the whole group, you can have one person from each circle briefly update everyone on the prayer requests. People are more willing 94

to pray in small circles if they know that the whole group will hear all the prayer requests.

9. ROTATE FACILITATORS WEEKLY. At the end of each meeting, ask the group who should lead the following week. Let the group help select your weekly facilitator. You may be perfectly capable of leading each time, but you will help others grow in their faith and gifts if you give them opportunities to lead. You can use the Small Group Calendar to fill in the names of all meeting leaders at once if you prefer.

10. ONE FINAL CHALLENGE (FOR NEW OR FIRST TIME LEADERS): Before your first opportunity to lead, look up each of the five passages listed below. Read each one as a devotional exercise to help yourself develop a shepherdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heart. Trust us on this one. If you do this, you will be more than ready for your first meeting. Matthew 9:36 1 Peter 5:2-4 Psalm 23 Ezekiel 34:11-16 1 Thessalonians 2:7-8, 11-12

PRAYER AND PRAISE REPORT PART 1 PRAYER REQUEST: PRAISE REPORT: PART 2 PRAYER REQUEST: PRAISE REPORT: PART 3 PRAYER REQUEST: PRAISE REPORT: PART 4 PRAYER REQUEST: PRAISE REPORT: PART 5 PRAYER REQUEST: PRAISE REPORT: PART 6 PRAYER REQUEST: PRAISE REPORT: PART 7 PRAYER REQUEST: PRAISE REPORT:

LIFE GROUP ROSTER NAME: EMAIL: PHONE NO.: NAME: EMAIL: PHONE NO.: NAME: EMAIL: PHONE NO.: NAME: EMAIL: PHONE NO.: NAME: EMAIL: PHONE NO.: NAME: EMAIL: PHONE NO.: NAME: EMAIL: PHONE NO.: NAME: EMAIL: PHONE NO.: NAME: EMAIL: PHONE NO.:

NOTES

100

NOTES

101

NOTES

102

seven stupid things

God wants the absolute best

for your life, and His Word is a treasure map for finding it. Sadly, we often fail to follow the map. We either ignore it, thinking we have a better way, or we avoid it because His plan simply seems too hard.

PERSONAL WISDOM GUIDE

In Seven Stupid Things We Do to Mess Up Our Lives, Beau Adams identifies seven of the biggest mistakes we make when we turn away from Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s instruction. He then offers insights from scripture-all illustrated with examples from real life--to point us back to Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s path. With practical teaching focused on the wisdom of Proverbs, this Bible study will help your group tackle tough topics and apply the Bible to real life while deepening relationships with God and with one another.

Study guide intended to be used with the DVD

Part 1: Stupid Thing:

Wisdom with my Friends Following the wrong crowd

Part 5: Wisdom with my Money Stupid Thing: Living in debt

Part 2: Wisdom with my Mind Stupid Thing: Believing we know it all

Part 6: Wisdom with my Words Stupid Thing: Refusing to control my tongue

Part 3: Wisdom with my Body Stupid Thing: Choosing immorality

Part 7: Wisdom with my Emotions Stupid Thing: Failing to control anger

Part 4: Wisdom with my Time Stupid Thing: Allowing myself to become lazy

lifetogether