Born For This by Lifetogether Ministries

STEPHEN J. ROBINSON

BORN THIS for

SIX KEYS T O LIVING YOUR PURPOSE

BORN FOR THIS Six Keys To Living Your Purpose

by Stephen J. Robinson

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

Introduction Using This Devotional (Read This First) Outline for Each Session

A natural person who has purchased and personally used this devotional according to its intended purposes is permitted to electronically copy, store, and/or display it in, on, or thorough a mobile device, tablet, computer, or laptop owned by the person who has purchased this devotional, and/or a social media, electronic, and/or e-mail account controlled by the person who has purchased this devotional, provided that all of the following conditions are met: (a) such activities are conducted solely for the purposes of the spiritual growth or biblical knowledge of the person who purchased this devotional, or a reasonable number of personal friends and family members, and not for any commercial purpose or other purpose of exploitation or monetary gain; (b) any portions of this devotional that other persons are permitted to view are only portions also containing the personal notes, observations, and reflections of the person who purchased this devotional, and not solely the original content of this devotional alone; (c) such activities do no circumvent any third-party’s obligation or need to purchase this devotional for their own personal use of this devotional; and (d) such activities do not involve any kind of modification to or misrepresentation of the original content or wording of this devotional as it was originally published and distributed. This limited license may be revoked or modified at any time according to the sole discretion of the copyright owner or COTK Publishing. Published by COTK Publishing. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotes are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW KING JAMES VERSION ®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®. COPYRIGHT © 1973,1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved. Scripture taken form the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE ®. Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 By the Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. ISBN#: 978-1-5323-2779-7 First printing. Submit reprint requests to COTK Publishing. Manufactured in the United States of America.

SESSIONS

Any copying, duplication, reproduction, republication, transmission, broadcasting, public display, distribution, dissemination, or storage in any retrieval system of this devotional, in whole or in part, by any means, method, or medium, is strictly prohibited without the prior, written consent of COTK Publishing, except as next provided.

Session One: Session Two: Session Three: Session Four: Session Five: Session Six:

Born To Know God Born To Grow Born For Generosity Born To Connect Born For Purpose Born To Multiply

04 06 07

10 32 54 76 98 120

APPENDICES FAQ 144 Small Group Guidelines 147 Memory Verse Cards 148 Small Group Host Orientation 150 Prayer and Praise Report 152 Small Group Roster 153

INTRODUCTION TO

BORN for THIS Congratulations! Why congratulations? Well, you’ve just made a great choice – the choice to engage in the Born For This journey. This study will take you on a lifechanging journey to discover and embrace six keys that will help you live your purpose. We are designed for so much more than living, dying, and just trying get through one more day.

I’m looking forward to spending the next six weeks with you. Thank you in advance for your time. I believe your discussions throughout Born For This could be among the most powerful you’ve ever experienced. You very well could be, today, at a turning point in your life. I’ll let you decide that six weeks from now. For this moment, enjoy your time together. Discover your purpose in a whole new way and live in the reality you were Born For This. The best is yet to come,

Allow me to invite you to engage this devotional thoroughly and use it as a tool to discover your purpose and grow in your walk with God. If you haven’t already, join a small group and go through this curriculum in a community of Believers. Let this devotional serve as your roadmap on this six-week journey. What you sow, you will reap. What you plant, you will enjoy. So let me encourage you to sow your best into this series. Make it a priority. Engage. Be a part of all six weekend messages at your Church of the King campus. Find and engage in a small group that works for you. Dive into this devotional and make it a point each and every day to hear from God as you study. Sow your best, and you will reap a harvest. 4

USING THIS

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

1 Enjoy your small group experience. 2 Notice in the Table of Contents there are three sections: (1)

Sessions; (2) Appendices; and (3) Small Group Host Orientation. Familiarize yourself with the Appendices. Some of them will be used in the sessions themselves.

3 If you are hosting or co-hosting a small group, the section Small

Group Host Orientation will give you some experiences of others that will encourage you and help you avoid many common obstacles to effective small group leadership.

4 Use this workbook as a guide, not a straightjacket. 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 FAQ pages and the Small Group Leaders section.

5 Pray before each session—for your group members, for your time together, and for wisdom and insights.

6 Read the “Outline Of Each Session” on the next pages so that you understand how the sessions will flow.

OUTLINE OF EACH

SESSION

typical group session for the Born for This study will include the following sections. Read through this outline to get a clear idea of how each group meeting will be structured:

Memory Verse: Each week you will find a key Bible verse for your group to memorize together. This memory verse will focus on the topic of the week. Checking In: Each small group should begin with group members sharing about what they read during the week in the Born for This devotional. Video Lesson: Enjoy the twenty- to twenty-five minute video lesson with your small group each week. Follow along with the outline in your devotional and fill in the blanks. The small group outline is included in this devotional so each participant can actively engage and learn. Study Notes: This brief section provides additional commentary, background, or insights on the passage for this session. Discovery Questions: Following each video lesson are several questions to help facilitate discussion focused on the weekly topic. These questions spark great discussion. Please do not feel the need to get to all of the questions each week. It’s important that you engage in the discussion during each small group. Putting It Into Practice: Each week you will be given guidance on what readings to do the following week.

Prayer Direction: At the end of each session, you will find suggestions for your group prayer time. Praying as a group is vital to connecting with God and one another. Please make sure you have enough time dedicated to prayer every week. Diving Deeper: 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 those who are new to your group. Daily Devotions and Journal Pages: Daily devotions have been created to lead you on your Born For This journey. Journal pages are included with each devotion so you will have the opportunity to write down what God is saying to you.

let’s begin

Small Group Resources: Additional small group resources are available in the back of this devotional to help both small group hosts and participants. Please take some time to review these resources.

SESSION

ONE BORN TO KNOW GOD Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. 2 CORINTHIANS 5:17

e all wonder sometimes why we are here. We all wonder what life is all about, and where we can find meaning. Sometimes we wonder if we are prioritizing the right things, if what we’re giving our time and energy to is really worth it. Ask around or search online and you will find all kinds of answers. Some would say, “There’s no discernable reason.” Others have said, “We are eternal, we are small versions of God.” Perhaps you have heard, “We are gigantic clumps of cells that, for unknown reasons, one day decided to team up and evolve together.” Others

have said, “The basic purpose of life is to grow.” Fortunately, we have a better source to tell us why we’re here and what life is all about—the Bible. Over the next six sessions, we’re going to learn why we were created, what we can fruitfully build our lives around, and what God has in store for us. As we study and share together, we’ll discover what we were born for. Today, we will discover the ultimate reason we were born directly links to being born again.

CHECKING IN

ach of us has a story. The events of our life— good, bad, wonderful, and—challenging—have shaped who we are. God knows your story, and He intends to redeem it. He will use every struggle and every joy to draw you to Himself. When we share our stories with others, we give them the opportunity to see God at work in our lives. When we share our stories, we also realize we are not alone—that we have common experiences and thoughts, and that others can understand what we are going through. Your story can encourage someone else and sharing it can lead to a path of freedom for you and for those who hear.

Open your group with prayer with a brief, simple prayer. 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 dive into the lesson, get contact information from every participant. Take time to pass around a copy of the Small Group Roster on page 153, or a sheet of paper. Ask someone to make copies of the Roster or to type up a list with everyone’s information and email it to the group during the week. Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking. - Share with the group what

brought you to this small group and what you hope to get out of this study. - As a group review and reflect on the group members’ values. On page 147 is a Small Group Guidelines with the useful values for sustaining healthy, balanced groups. - Rotate who leads the group discussion. Studies show that healthy groups share leadership. This helps to develop every member’s ability to lead a few people in a safe environment. Even Jesus gave others the opportunity to serve alongside Him (Mark 6:30-44). Look at the FAQ in the Appendix for additional information about the group. 13

VIDEO LESSON SESSION 1 Use the notes space below to record key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember from the video teaching. After watching the lesson, read the Discovery Questions in the lesson and discuss among the group. Remember to try to share the responsibilities of leading the discussion each week.

1. You were born to be _______________. John 3:1-6 (NIV) Now there was a Pharisee, a man named Nicodemus who was a member of the Jewish ruling council. 2 He came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the signs you are doing if God were not with him.” 3 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” 4 “How can someone be born when they are old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!” 5 Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. 6 Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit.

1 Peter 1:3 (NIV) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 3. We get a __________________________.

1. born again 2. decision 3. brand-new life

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV) Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

ANSWER KEY

2. It is our _______________ whether or not we’re born again.

STUDY NOTES

Nicodemus, once too afraid of his colleagues to talk to Jesus in public, eventually stood up for Him in court and very noticeably honored Him after His death. Nicodemus did not fully understand Jesus’ teaching during their first encounter, but the message and the meaning of being born again stuck with him – and changed his life.

n the passage we studied on the video, Nicodemus visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus is described as “a man of the Pharisees . . . a ruler of the Jews.” The Pharisees were religious leaders of the Jewish people and were held in high esteem for their study of the Scriptures and their strict adherence to the laws of God. However, over the years, the Pharisees had added many additional regulations to the Law, and they frequently came in conflict with Jesus because of their focus on following the letter of this Law instead of focusing on loving people and loving God. Because of the conflict between the Pharisees and Jesus, it’s not surprising that Nicodemus stole away to visit Jesus secretly. What’s

accompanied him and brought a hundred pounds of myrrh and aloes to prepare the body.

interesting is that this conversation about being born again is not the last time we see Nicodemus in the Gospels. Later, in John 7:4552 we see him trying to defend Jesus before the Sanhedrin, the supreme religious ruling group of the Jews. And in John 19:39, we read that when Joseph of Arimathea received permission to bury Jesus’ body, Nicodemus 17

n this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned from the teaching and the Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you’ve learned.

DISCOVERY QUESTIONS

• Before today, had you heard the term “born again”? If so, what did you think it meant?

• How should our new life, our born-again life, be different from our first life?

• If you have been born again, share one or two ways the Holy Spirit has worked in your life. How has the Spirit of God changed you?

• Why do we have to make a choice to be born a second time? Why does God make it our decision?

• 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. Would they be open to joining the group? Share your list with the group so you can all be praying for the people you’ve identified below.

FAMILY

(immediate or extended)

FAMILIAR

(neighbors, kids’ sports teams, school, and so forth)

FUN

(gym, hobbies, hangouts)

FRIENDS

FIRM (work)

• Also consider someone—in this group or outside it—that you can begin going deeper relationally with in an intentional way. This person might be your mom or dad, a cousin, an aunt or uncle, a roommate, a college buddy, or a neighbor. Choose someone who might be open to “doing life” with you at a deeper level and pray about that opportunity.

• This week how will you interact with the Bible? Can you commit to spending time in daily prayer and 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.

PUTTING IT INTO

PRACTICE

ach week Pastor Steve will challenge you to put into practice what you are learning. These challenges will help you take the concepts you are learning deeper into your life. This week Pastor Steve challenges you to: Commit to Christ Let the first step in your journey be to make a commitment to Christ. Trust Him to lead you. Settle in your heart now to live the abundant life Jesus died to provide you. Attend small group It is important for us to consistently gather over these next six weeks not only to learn the concepts we are being taught but also to discuss them with one another. Your group benefits from your presence, and your input is important. Commit to one another to consistently attend.

devotional. Attending the weekend services will help reinforce what you are learning in the small group study and in the devotional. Commit to not missing a weekend service and try to sit with your small group. Read the daily devotions This devotional is designed to help you take the concepts you are learning deeper into your own life. Each day you will have a short reading to guide your devotional time and help you integrate the concepts into your own life over this six-week journey. Read and engage with the daily devotions for Days 1-7 prior to your next small group meeting.

Attend church The weekend services complement the theme of this small group study and this 21

DIVING DEEPER

f 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.

What does it mean to be reconciled to God? How did Jesus make this reconciliation possible?

What is the ministry of reconciliation that we are called to?

How can you be an ambassador for Christ? How does this calling change the way you think about other parts of your life?

Read 1 Peter 1:3-5. How does Jesus’ resurrection give us a new birth?

What is the “living hope” we have in Christ?

What is the inheritance Jesus has secured for us?

Read 2 Corinthians 5:17-21. What does it mean to be a new creation? 22

DAY 1 Ephesians 1:13-14 In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory. In ancient times, people marked things with a seal to show ownership. In fact, many families had a unique seal they used to sign important papers. Kings also had royal seals that were used to guarantee that letters came from them, to indicate ownership of certain objects, or to protect important items. When we hear the truth of God’s Word and believe in Him, we are sealed in a similar way. Although we do not walk around with a visible image on our skin, this passage reminds us that we are sealed in a way we cannot see. The Holy Spirit in our lives marks us as God’s people, guarantees that we are His, and promises His protection. When we are born again, we are “purchased” by His 24

sacrifice and marked as His until He returns.

DAY 2 Romans 5:6-8 For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

What is God saying to you? __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ What does it mean to you? __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ What action step do you need to take? __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ Bring it to God in prayer. __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________

While the passages we’ve studied this week make it clear that we must choose to be born a second time, it’s also important to remember that we can take no credit for our second birth into Christ. In fact, these verses remind us how far we were from God when He gave His life for us. Incredibly, Jesus chose to die for us “when we were still without strength.” Some versions translate this as “when we were still powerless” or “when we were utterly helpless.” We did nothing and could do nothing to earn God’s love; our new life in Him is entirely because of His sacrifice for us on the cross and the grace He gives to us. Verse 8 makes it clear: “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” If you have not yet accepted

Christ and been born again, remember that you do not have to “clean up your act” or “become a better person” before coming to Jesus. In fact, this Scripture tells us that’s not even possible in our own power! Our job is not to earn His love, but to accept the new life He offers.

DAY 3 1 Peter 1:23-25 (NLT) For you have been born again, but not to a life that will quickly end. Your new life will last forever because it comes from the eternal, living word of God. As the Scriptures say, “People are like grass; their beauty is like a flower in the field. The grass withers and the flower fades. But the word of the Lord remains forever.” We have no guarantees about how long this first life will last. Some of us may live to be 100, but others of us may pass away younger than we want to. All of us know there are no guarantees for our own lives, and throughout Scripture there are reminders of our mortality. As this passage says, our earthly existence is like a piece of grass or a flower, which lives for a little while before withering away. However, our born-again lives are completely different! This life is based on the “eternal, living Word of God,” a Word that says not only that our physical lives are short but that our life in Christ is neverending. When we are born again, we not only experience the peace, hope, and grace of Jesus for today, 26

we receive the promise of a life with Him that will last forever.

DAY 4 Ephesians 2:4-7 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. What does it mean that God “raised us up together,” or that we “sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus”? There’s not room in this short space to unpack all the deep truths of this passage, but it’s easy to see that these verses continue to set forth the themes we’ve studied all week—that God loved us before we loved Him. He saved us even when we were dead in our sin, and He gives us a new life in Jesus. We have been raised up with Him in baptism and someday we will be “raised up” to eternity with Him. This verse ends with a wonderful promise—that for all of eternity

God will continue to show us His grace and His kindness through Jesus. What an amazing gift we receive when we are born again!

DAY 5

DAY 6

John 3:16-17 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.

Ephesians 4:22-24 (NIV) You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

This is one of the most famous passages of Scripture, and if you’ve spent much time in church, you’ve probably heard it before. But did you realize these words are actually part of Jesus’ teaching to Nicodemus in the passage we studied this week? As Jesus shares what it means to be born again and explains His own reason for coming to earth, He tells Nicodemus that it’s all about life: Jesus’ life as the only Son of God, Jesus’ death to save the world, and the everlasting life we can all experience if we believe in Him. Jesus was born so that we can be born again. This is what WE were born for—to fulfill God’s will, plan, and purpose!

It’s strange to think of having an “old self” and a “new self.” After all, your personality doesn’t change the day you accept Christ. You’re still outgoing or shy, artistic or athletic, driven or laid-back. It’s true that in one sense you don’t stop being “you” when you follow Jesus. On the other hand, when we turn to Him we receive the gift of the Holy Spirit, who works in us and through us to change us. Your new self still likes running or reading, but you begin to have new attitudes, thoughts, desires, and goals. Being born again means that now you are holy in God’s sight—and that you are becoming holy by becoming more like Him. Our new life in Christ is for this life AND the life to come!

DAY 7 Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind during your small group meeting for this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

__________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________

SESSION

TWO BORN TO GROW “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” JOHN 10:10

od designed vegetable and fruit seeds to grow and even to multiply. If you’ve ever created a garden, you have probably been amazed at how that dried pea became a tall vine with hundreds of pods, or how that tiny seed transformed into a sprawling plant with dozens of cucumbers.

session, we’ll talk about some practical, biblical ways we can begin to move forward with God, and how we can have the full life we are born for.

God designed us to grow, too, and His Word is filled with instructions on how to flourish in every area of life. However, we often focus on our doubt and discouragement instead of the faith and freedom He longs to give us, and we allow negative thinking and unhealthy patterns to keep us stuck. In this 32

CHECKING IN

s we said last week, when we share our stories with others, we give them the opportunity to see God at work. Our story is being shaped, even in this moment, by being part of this group. In fact, few things can shape us more than community.

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: - What did you learn in your daily devotional time last week?

When we share our stories, we can encourage others and we learn. We experience the presence of God as He helps us to be brave enough to reveal our thoughts and feelings.

- What is an area of your life in which you feel “stuck”?

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

- 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 20 to help you think of various people you come in contact with on a regular basis—people who need to know Jesus more deeply. Consider ideas for action and make a plan to follow through with one action this week.

VIDEO LESSON SESSION 2 Use the notes space below to record key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember from this video teaching. After watching the lesson, talk through the discussion questions with your group.

John 10:10 “…I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” 1. Admit your ____________. Psalm 142:2 I pour out my complaint before Him; I declare before Him my trouble.

4. Open up to _____________. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.

2. Own your ____________. Romans 7:24 O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? 3. Turn from your ___________ and turn to ____________.

1. pain 2. stuff 3. stuff, God 4. others

ANSWER KEY

2 Corinthians 7:10 For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.

STUDY NOTES

n this week’s lesson, Pastor Steve talked about the Israelites’ 38 years of wandering in the desert before God finally allowed them to enter the Promised Land. You can find the account in Numbers 13. In that chapter, we read that Moses sent twelve leaders to explore the Promised Land and prepare to conquer it. But when the twelve returned, only two of the men were eager to move forward and take the land: They gave Moses this account: “We went into the land to which you sent us, and it does flow with milk and honey! Here is its fruit. But the people who live there are powerful, and the cities are fortified and very large. We even saw descendants of Anak

those people; they are stronger than we are.” And they spread among the Israelites a bad report about the land they had explored. They said, “The land we explored devours those living in it. All the people we saw there are of great size. We saw the Nephilim there (the descendants of Anak come from the Nephilim). We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them.” Numbers 13:27-33 The leaders are united in their enthusiasm about the beauty of the land, but ten of them

immediately focus on all the reasons they can’t obey God and capture it: “The cities are too big, the people are too strong, we are not capable of this.” Even after God had miraculously rescued them from Egypt and provided for them on their journey, all but two of the men focused on the reasons they couldn’t move forward. God does not tell us we will never have difficulties, but He does promise to be with us every step of the way on our most challenging journeys. God has created you for an abundant life and promised to help you get there. Will you allow some struggles to stand in your way?

there. The Amalekites live in the Negev; the Hittites, Jebusites and Amorites live in the hill country; and the Canaanites live near the sea and along the Jordan.” Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, “We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it.” But the men who had gone up with him said, “We can’t attack 39

n this section, talk about how you will apply the knowledge you’ve learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to wisely live out what you’ve learned.

DISCOVERY QUESTIONS

• In the video teaching, Pastor Steve said that one reason the Israelites got stuck in the wilderness was their unhealthy patterns: doubting God, giving into fear, and complaining. What unhealthy patterns keep you from moving forward?

• Why is unhealthy thinking so often behind unhealthy living?

• What does it mean to have an abundant life in Christ?

• Why is it so important to “own our stuff”? Why is it important to repent?

• Choose an area of your life you’d like to grow in. This area might be spiritual, physical, emotional, social, or financial. What is one thing you could do this week to move forward?

• Below 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 six 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. In addition, work on memorizing one or more of the weekly verses. To help you commit these Scriptures to memory, copy the verses 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 seventh day summarize what God has shown you throughout the week.

PUTTING IT INTO

PRACTICE

ead and engage in the daily devotions for Days 8-14 prior to your next small group meeting. Review your notes from the small group lesson throughout the week.

Prayer Direction: Share prayer requests as a group, and be sure to write them on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 152. Close your meeting in prayer.

DIVING DEEPER

f you feel God nudging you to go deeper, take some time between now and your next meeting to dig into His Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session’s theme on your own, jotting your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. Want to go deeper? Select a few verses and try paraphrasing them: writing them in your own words. If you like, share them with the group the next time you meet.

Read Psalm 1. What does it mean “to delight in” the Lord?

What “fruit” do people produce when they are rooted in God?

According to this psalm, what is the difference between those who live for God and those who do not?

Read John 15:1-5. Why does God prune the parts of our lives that are already fruitful?

What are some ways we can “remain in” God?

How much can we expect to grow if we distance ourselves from God?

DAY 8

DAY 9

2 Peter 3:18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever!

Luke 2:52 (NLT) Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people.

Growth is not just an intellectual exercise. Although it’s important to grow in knowledge of God and His Word, we must also grow in grace and in love. Jesus, according to John 1:14, came in both grace and truth, and as Christians we are called to grow in both areas. When we grow in grace, we comprehend God’s unmerited favor and His great love for us, which encourages us as we then love others. When we grow in truth, we understand the deep riches of our faith, finding strength in who God is and in His many promises. When we grow in both areas, we are on our way to living the abundant life we’re born for.

We don’t get much information about Jesus as a young man; we’re simply told that He grew intellectually, physically, socially, and spiritually. In this verse we discover that as He became an adult He became wiser, stronger, and more connected in His relationship with God and with the people in His life. This is a simple verse, but it’s a great picture of your own growth. In what areas of life do you need more wisdom? How do you need to grow in your physical health? How can you take a step closer to God through this small group experience? Which relationships with other people do you need to intentionally strengthen? If Jesus was born to grow, we definitely were, too!

DAY 10

DAY 11

Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.

Colossians 2:6-7 As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.

Scientists say that our peripheral vision is black and white, while the rest of our vision is in vibrant color. Whatever we’re looking at in the moment is vivid, but whatever we’re not focused on fades. One of the best ways to get unstuck from unhealthy patterns is to change our focus. When we are committed to God’s kingdom, His ways, His Word, and His righteousness, some of the negative voices from our past fade. When we’re focused on God, we are open to receiving the blessings and the growth He has for us, and we’re not giving our attention to the peripheral issues that have blocked us in the past. There will always be situations that cause struggle, but we get to choose what we focus on. When we’re looking at God, everything else fades.

It’s not enough to simply believe in Jesus. Although that’s a good start, this passage tells us what needs to come next: go deep into the truth of His Word, build on that foundation, and establish your life on Him. Notice that when we do this, we abound—we receive the abundant life Jesus promises. Walking with Jesus and obeying the teaching of these verses is a life-long endeavor. Don’t expect to become a tall spiritual oak tree tomorrow if you are starting with an acorn of faith today! Remember that God promises to be faithful. Take root in Him. He will bring the growth.

DAY 12

DAY 13

Ephesians 4:15 (NLT) Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.

Philippians 3:12-14 Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

Right before this verse, the Apostle Paul is encouraging the Ephesians to pay attention to their teachers, and to resist deceptive teaching and immaturity. Instead, he says, “speak the truth in love” and we will grow to be “more like Christ.” Even when our intentions are good and we truly want to grow, it can be easy to listen to the wrong voices. There will always be false teachers, shallow philosophies, and incorrect teaching competing for our attention. Remember, Christ is our Authority. He is the head of His Church and He is the Source of truth. Begin your growth journey in Him and you will become more like Him!

No matter how much we grow, we won’t reach perfection in this lifetime. However, we press on because Jesus always has more for us: more love, more grace, more blessing, and more growth. As we talked about this week, growing means letting go and even forgetting the patterns and problems of your past. While those issues might be real, they can hold you back and get you stuck. How can you reach forward and press toward the goals God has for you? How is God calling you to a new level of growth?

DAY 14 Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind during your small group meeting for this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

SESSION

THREE BORN FOR GENEROSITY The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself. PROVERBS 11:25

artin Luther said there are actually three conversions for every Christ-follower. First, there is the conversion of the heart—do you love God and want to follow Him? Then there is the conversion of the mind—do you believe in Him and trust His Word? And finally there is the conversion of the purse—do you give to His church and to His purposes? That last one is last for a reason—many of us find it easy to say we love God and believe in Him, but find it much more difficult to take those feelings and turn them into concrete actions.

But we have been made in God’s image, which means we’re born to be generous just as God is generous. From the beautiful world we live in, to the Savior we serve, to the many blessings we enjoy each day, God is a giver who loves to lavish good things on us. In this session, we’ll explore why generosity is so important and how it blesses us to be people who bless others.

CHECKING IN

- Have you ever given more money to something than you thought you could afford? What was the result?

Sharing personal stories builds deeper connections among group members. Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking. - What did you learn in your daily devotional time last week?

VIDEO LESSON SESSION 3 Use the notes space below to record key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember from the video teaching this week. After watching the lesson, read the discussion questions in the lesson and discuss among the group.

1. We were born again to be _____________________. 2. God is incredibly generous with us, and we are created in _________________. Acts 20:35 …‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’

you prosper,’ I am unworthy of all the kindness and faithfulness you have shown your servant. I had only my staff when I crossed this Jordan, but now I have become two camps.”

Proverbs 22:9 He who has a generous eye will be blessed, for he gives of his bread to the poor.

5. God blessed you for a purpose – He blessed you to ____________________.

3. Some of us ___________________ in our blessings.

2 Corinthians 9:11 You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.

Revelation 3:17 “You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’”

1. generous people 2. His image 3. take pride 4. shame 5. be a blessing

Genesis 32:9-10, (NIV) “…O God of my father Abraham, God of my father Isaac, LORD, you who said to me, ‘Go back to your country and your relatives, and I will make

ANSWER KEY

4. The ____________ mindset is just as common as pride.

STUDY NOTES

ast week we talked about how the Israelitesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; fear and doubt kept them stuck in the desert and unable to enter the Promised Land. Interestingly, the Israelites also struggled with giving to God, even though God gave them specific directions on how to give both before and after they took possession of the land (Leviticus 27:30-32, Deuteronomy 12:5-11). The Israelites had been delivered from Egypt, led to the Promised Land, and even guided in battle to take possession of it. God had worked among them in mighty and miraculous ways for many years, but they ignored the past and focused on fear in the present. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to criticize them, but we do the same thing. Sometimes

we feel overwhelmed by our bills and our debts (not to mention our wants!), and we keep every penny we earn to make ends meet. We forget how God has been faithful to us and provided for us in the past. Take a few moments today to think back on your life. How has God been generous with you? Can you trust Him to work in your life and take care of you? 61

G DISCOVERY QUESTIONS

od wants you to be part of His Kingdom—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, you can begin to change your direction. The Holy Spirit helps you along the way, by giving you gifts to serve the church, offering you insights into Scripture, and challenging you to love not only those around you but also those far from God. In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned in this session. • How has God been generous to you? Does that inspire you to be a more generous person?

• What does giving to others give back to you? How does it change you?

• How can our internal attitudes keep us from generosity?

PUTTING IT INTO • Why is guilt an unhealthy response to your blessings? Why is pride an unhealthy response? What is the response God is looking for?

• 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 step you plan to try this week, and talk about your progress and challenges when you meet next time.

PRACTICE

ead and engage with the daily devotions for days 15-21 prior to your next small group meeting. Review your notes from the small group lesson throughout the week.

Prayer Direction: Share prayer requests as a group, and be sure to write them on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 152. Close your meeting in prayer.

DIVING DEEPER

ake some time between now and our next meeting to dig into God’s Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session’s theme. 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.

How can giving be an act of worship?

Read Mark 12:41-44.

What is the promise in verse 8? Does that promise change your attitude toward giving?

Surely the large amounts given by the rich temple-goers will still be used for ministry. It is not that they don’t matter. But why is the widow’s gift more significant? What does this teach us about the kind of giving that pleases God?

Read 2 Corinthians 9:6-11. What does it mean to give cheerfully? Does that word characterize your giving, or do you give reluctantly? (Interesting note: The Greek word used for “cheerful” actually means “with hilarity”).

Why does God “enrich” us? (verse 11) How does generosity result in thanksgiving?

Read a few verses before this passage, and note that right before the passage Jesus is chastising the teachers of the law for wanting to look important and have power. Why do you think Mark followed that teaching with this story? What does the contrast teach us?

DAY 15 Matthew 6:19-21 Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. When we’re young adults just starting out, we may not have very much—a used car, a few boxes of clothes and books, and some hand-me-down furniture. As we get older, get married, and have children, we steadily acquire more things. Over time we buy a house or a condo, a car or two, and maybe even a boat or RV. Of course, all of those things need to be furnished, maintained, cleaned, and insured. The more stuff we have, the more time we spend taking care of it. We all need a place to live and clothes to wear. Our kids need toys and bottles and soccer shoes. But everything we own right now requires some level of attention, and everything we own right now will eventually wear out, rust, or break. The point of this passage is not that having possessions is wrong; it’s that making those possessions our treasures is a problem. God does not care if you 68

have “stuff,” as long as “stuff” does not have you! Instead of paying attention solely to earthly treasures, we should prioritize the treasures we have in Christ: our relationship with Him now and our eternal life to come. These treasures require no insurance or maintenance and focusing on them redirects our hearts toward God.

DAY 16 Ecclesiastes 5:10 He who loves silver will not be satisfied with silver; Nor he who loves abundance, with increase. This also is vanity. How much is enough? Surveys have revealed that every socioeconomic group will answer this question with a number that is more than what they have. From the poorest to the wealthiest, every person says “enough” is just a bit more. Our culture is designed for consumers and there is always a newer model or a latest version. When we love money and the things it can buy, we always want more of both. But when we think in terms of generosity, our “silver” becomes a way to honor God and our abundance gives us opportunities to help others. It is vanity and foolishness to spend our lives in pursuit of more, but blessing others with what we have is what we’re born for.

DAY 17

DAY 18

James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.

Luke 16:10-12 He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. Therefore if you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? And if you have not been faithful in what is another man’s who will give you what is your own?

As we talked about this week, we are able to be generous people because God is generous with us. Everything good in our lives, from the room you’re sitting in right now to the friends in your small group to the beauty of this evening’s sunset, come from a Father who loves to give us good gifts. What’s even better is that we can trust God to be faithful. With Him, there is no “shadow of turning”-He has not only blessed us in the past, but He will continue to bless us in the future. We don’t have to worry that at any moment He will stop caring for us or providing for our needs. When we understand the love of God and the blessings He provides, it frees us to be generous in an entirely new way and to share the good gifts He sends.

We serve a faithful God, and He calls us to be faithful people. We want to be trusted by God, and part of that is proving we are trustworthy by how we manage and steward what God has given us.

What action step do you need to take? __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________

You’ve probably heard it said before that God doesn’t need your money. That’s true – God owns everything, and He can accomplish His purposes however He sees fit. However, the way we handle our finances is an insight into our hearts, and God does want our hearts.

Bring it to God in prayer. __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________

The better we manage what God’s given us, the more God trusts us and the more likely He is to give us more to manage. Are you being faithful with what you have?

DAY 19 Malachi 3:10 “Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be food in My house, and try Me now in this,” says the Lord of hosts, “If I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it.” Tithing is not just about money – it’s really about faith and obedience. God asks us to give the first ten percent of our income as a way to show our faith in His provision and our obedience to His commands. Do we really believe that God will take care of our needs? We say yes when we choose to return a portion of what He’s given us. Tithing is also a test. In Scripture we are told not to test God – except for this passage. God wants to show us how lavishly and faithfully He will care for us! We can never give more than God can give back. Finally, tithing is a blessing. God says that if we follow His instructions on tithing, He will “open the windows of heaven” and bless us. These blessings might be spiritual, relational, or material – 72

and they will always be what God knows we need most. The more we are blessed, the more we can bless others. The more you have to give away – the more generous you can be. Tithing is a way to show faith in God, to obey Him, to trust Him, and to blessed by Him! Will you test Him in this?

DAY 20

to receive – it’s often a bigger blessing for us than for the person we’re helping!

Acts 20:35 I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ We’ve all heard people say “It’s more blessed to give than receive.” At times this seems completely true; if you’re a parent, you know how much joy you receive when your child opens a special gift from you on Christmas morning. At other times this seems harder to believe, especially if our gift of time, money, or energy is a sacrifice.

What action step do you need to take? __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________

However, God is generous and, since we are created in His image, we are designed to be people who give. We have been blessed by God so we can bless others. We should use our time, our talents, and our treasures to bless others because that’s when we’re most like God.

Bring it to God in prayer. __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________

When we learn to give this way, we experience the joy described in this passage as well as the joy of being obedient to God. It’s not only more blessed to give than

DAY 21 Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind during your small group meeting for this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

SESSION

FOUR BORN TO CONNECT But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased. 1 CORINTHIANS 12:18

od is deeply relational. In the beginning of the Bible we read that God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit all worked together to create the world (Genesis 1:26), and the crowning achievement of creation was making human beings. Because we’re made in God’s image, we are also relational. We’re created to have a relationship with Him, but He also wants us to build relationships with each other. A few years ago a group of scientists studied the effects of stress on monkeys. First they shut a monkey in a cage and transported that monkey. After a few minutes of this, they measured the amount of cortisol, a hormone related to stress, in the monkey’s brain. Needless to say, it was off

the charts. But the next step is fascinating: after taking their measurements, the scientists placed a second monkey in the cage and repeated the exact same journey. This time when they evaluated the animals, they discovered that both monkeys had only half the amount of cortisol. When each of the monkeys had a buddy, the difficult experience was only half as stressful. God has wired us the same way. We aren’t meant to endure the difficulties of life alone, and we can’t accomplish His purposes if we live isolated. Instead, we were created to help each other grow, to use our gifts, and to be part of His family. We were born to connect!

CHECKING IN

pen 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 othersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; stories is an act of love and kindness to themand could very well help them to grow spiritually. Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get

people talking. - What did you learn in your daily devotional time last week?

- Have you ever been especially encouraged or blessed by a church you were part of? If so, share it with the group.

- Take some time for each person to share about how theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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?

VIDEO LESSON SESSION 4 Use the notes space below to record key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember from the video teaching. After watching the lesson, read the discussion questions in the lesson and discuss them with your group. Remember to try to share the responsibilities of leading the discussion each week.

1. When we become followers of Jesus we are adopted into His _________________________.

Living (zaō): to be vibrant, alive, strong, and powerful. 2. Living stones must be situated right where they were ______________ to go. 3. You were born for ____________________.

ANSWER KEY

1 Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;

1 Corinthians 12:18-21 But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased. 19 And if they were all one member, where would the body be? 20 But now indeed there are many members, yet one body. 21 And the eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you”; nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” 4. We all have different ____________________. 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. 5. ________________ with the people in your group. 1. spiritual family 2. designed 3. connection 4. gifts and talents 5. go deeper

1 Peter 2:5 You also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

STUDY NOTES

And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, 25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:24-25

he Bible doesn’t just suggest that we build relationships with others—it commands it! In fact, there are a number of passages in the Bible you simply can’t obey if you don’t participate in the life of a church and connect with other believers. Here are just a few of those “one another” verses: Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another. Romans 12:10 . . . through love serve one another. Galatians 5:13

Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Ephesians 4:2 (NLT)

Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous. 1 Peter 3:8

And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:32 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Colossians 3:13 (NIV) 83

DISCOVERY QUESTIONS

• Why do you think the church is referred to as a spiritual family in this week’s session?

• Why does Peter call us “stones”? What does it mean that we are living stones?

• What is the job God has given each of us to do? Why are our relationships with each other so important for this mission?

• What are some of the gifts or talents you bring to our church family? How are you using those gifts?

• This week’s teaching is very clear that each one of us is unique and each one has a significant role to fill. How does this apply to our relationships with each other? What are some ways we can value and appreciate the others in our spiritual family?

PUTTING IT INTO • 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—perhaps with hospitality or prayer, by organizing an event, or inviting new people?

• Spend some time praying about those people 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.

• Groups grow closer when they serve together. Visit www.churchoftheking.com/satserve to learn more about our church service opportunities on the second Saturday of every month. You can make an eternal impact in someone’s life by registering to lead a project or join a team. Consider signing up as a group and serving together!

PRACTICE

ead and engage with the daily devotions for Days 22-28 prior to your next small group meeting. Review your notes from the small group lesson throughout the week.

Prayer Direction: Share prayer requests as a group, and be sure to write them on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 152. Close your meeting in prayer.

DIVING DEEPER

ake some time between now and your 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 Galatians 6:2-5. How does carrying each other’s burdens fulfill the law of Christ? This passage says to both carry other’s burdens and carry our own load. The word for burdens means a weight, something heavy that’s beyond our ability to handle alone, and the word for load means the responsibility of one person. How does that clarify this passage? What is the difference between the two commands?

Read Romans 12:9-21. This passage is full of instructions for living in community with other believers. Which one do you find most challenging?

Why would verses about pride and humility be sandwiched in the middle of this teaching?

What does verse 11 tell us is the key to keeping our spiritual fervor?

What are some ways we can rejoice with those who rejoice? What are ways we can mourn with those who mourn?

DAY 22 Romans 15:5-7 Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus, that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore receive one another, just as Christ also received us, to the glory of God. As we think about being a spiritual family, it’s important to remember what God is calling you to—and what He is not. Being part of God’s family and building relationships with other Christians does not mean you always like the same things, that you want to do everything together, or even that you agree on everything. God has created us uniquely, and He is not trying to build a spiritual family of clones! Being “like-minded” does not mean having all the same opinions. Instead, it means agreeing on the same beliefs: being unified in commitment to following Jesus, serving and loving each other, and sharing Him with others. We are called to be like-minded “according to Christ Jesus,” and 90

our worship of Him should witness to the world about His love and joy. The church is not about uniformity, but about unity—a unity of living stones built on the foundation of an unchanging Savior.

DAY 23 Philippians 2:1-2 Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Today we again see a command that we are to be “of one mind” with other Christians. As we discussed yesterday, we can be like-minded because we share a common love of Christ. But look at what else this passage says: We are called to this mutual love and unity of spirit because it is based on what Christ first did for us. If Jesus has comforted us, we should comfort others. If we have experienced fellowship with God through the Holy Spirit, we should extend that fellowship to other believers. If God has shown us affection and mercy, it is our responsibility—and our privilege— to demonstrate those same attitudes to others. Expressing mutual love is easier said than done, of course, but the God who calls us to grow in a spiritual family has given

us His Spirit to help us and He has modeled a perfect love. As we consider what it means to connect with others, let’s begin by remembering how Christ and the Holy Spirit have connected with us.

DAY 24

What a privilege we have when we become part of His family!

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. Yesterday our devotional mentioned that we are called to comfort others because God first comforted us. This passage expands that idea: We not only have the opportunity to serve those around us this way, we have the responsibility. In fact, this passage says that one of the reasons God shows us His comfort is so that we can share it with others. It is a beautiful picture of a never-ending cycle in which God’s love fills us to overflow with love for others. This will look differently for different people. God has wired us all differently and given us different relationships and gifts. But it does mean that our lives are connected to God and to each other. One way God comforts His people is through His people. 92

DAY 25 Psalm 133:1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!

When we commit to the “unity of the brethren,” and to growing together as a spiritual family, it opens the door for God to multiply our meaning, our effectiveness, and our joy. We look forward to being together and encouraging each other. We find it easier to invite others to church because we know they will experience something good. Therefore, we are able to work together more strategically to reach our neighborhoods, our city, and the world. When we are unified as a family, it is good for us, for those who don’t yet know God, and for the cause of Christ. This is how we express the love of God to the world around us. How can you go deeper with your spiritual family and experience these blessings?

DAY 26 Colossians 3:12-13 (NIV) Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. It’s not always easy to be compassionate, kind, humble, gentle, and patient, and it’s certainly not easy to forgive others! Even when we love our spiritual family and we are growing in the love of God, there are times we want to be impatient, proud, and rude! However, notice the two sources we are to look to when connecting with others. Colossians 3:12 says we are to clothe ourselves with these character traits. We are to put them on the way we would put on a sweater and jeans. We don’t grit our teeth and gut it out—we “put on” God’s temperament and His nature to cover over our rough edges. The second source also comes from God. Again, we do not somehow find forgiveness in our own heart or forgive others 94

because we are spiritual giants. Instead, we remember how much God has forgiven us, and through that realization we find the ability to extend grace to others. God not only created us to be in relationship with other people—He also promised to give us the ability to do it well.

DAY 27 Colossians 3:14-15 But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. We are called to love each other; in fact, this verse says it is the supreme thing we are supposed to do, which completes our unity as a family. In a world that so often experiences turmoil we are called to experience and share God’s peace.. We are called to be thankful people, filled with gratitude for what God has done and what He is doing. As we finish out this week, reflect on how God has blessed you with a spiritual family that is loving, peaceful, and thankful, and then consider how you can pass that blessing along. What can you do to connect with others in the coming weeks?

DAY 28 Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind during our small group meeting for this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

SESSION

FIVE BORN FOR PURPOSE For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell asleep, was buried with his fathers, and saw corruption; but He whom God raised up saw no corruption. ACTS 13:36-37 (NIV)

ordstrom is known for its world-class customer service. They have an unbelievable return policy—they’ll accept something as a return no matter how long ago you bought it, for any reason. They’re also trained in little things, like never pointing where something is, but walking you over to it personally. They’re even famous for doing whatever it takes to make a customer happy. Once a woman complained that she’d lost the diamond out of her wedding ring and began crawling around on the floor looking for it. When one of the employees noticed, he got down on his hands and knees to help her look, and

eventually sat with her and sorted through the dust and dirt in the vacuum cleaner bags until they found it! We may not be called by God to work at a department store, but we are called to be people who serve others in remarkable ways. God created us to serve Him and to serve other people. Throughout Scripture we see this is actually a way not only to grow spiritually but also to experience deep joy and meaning in life. We are born for a purpose: to become more like Him by serving others.

CHECKING IN

pen 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.

- Share a time when you served someone else. This might be a small gesture or a large one. How did the other person react? How did you feel?

Telling personal stories builds deeper connections among group members. Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to start your conversation. - What did you learn in your daily devotional time last week?

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VIDEO LESSON SESSION 5 Use the notes space below to record key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember from the video teaching. After watching the lesson, read the discussion questions in the lesson and discuss them with your group. Remember to try to share the responsibilities of leading the discussion each week.

Mark 10:45 “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” 1. If we are called to be more like Jesus, then we are also called to ________________. Philippians 2:7-8 He made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.

2. ____________ Leadership 3. ____________ Matthew 20:27-28 Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave — just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.

6. The purpose for our lives: love _____ and love __________.

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ANSWER KEY

5. Being a servant does not mean being a ______________.

1. serve others 2. Servant 3. Influence 4. better servant 5. doormat 6. God / others

4. If you want to become a better leader, you become a ______________.

1 John 4:12 (NLT) No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us.

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STUDY NOTES

In verses 12-17, we read, “So when He had washed their feet, taken His garments, and sat down again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.”

ne of the greatest examples of Jesus serving others is found in John 13. Here, Jesus gets down on His hands and knees and washes the feet of His disciples. Verses 3-5 say, “Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God, rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded.” In Bible times, people walked a great deal on dusty roads, usually wearing only sandals, and their feet got very dirty. It was an expected part of hospitality that

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way. But as the story ends, He makes sure they understand how to apply the lesson.

a host would provide water for guests to wash their own feet, but in very wealthy households a slave would perform this service. It was considered one of the most undignified, lowly tasks a servant could do. Because of this, Jesus’ disciples knew their Master had just served and honored them in a significant 105

G DISCOVERY QUESTIONS

od wants you to be part of His kingdom—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, you can begin to change your direction. The Holy Spirit helps you along the way—giving you gifts to serve the Body of Christ, offering you insights into Scripture, and challenging you to love not only those around you but also those far from God. In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned in this lesson. • What does it mean to care about the things God cares about and to want the same things He wants?

• Why does leadership begin with service?

• How do we become “great” through serving others?

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• How did Jesus model this type of servant leadership to us?

PUTTING IT INTO

• Who are some people in your life you could serve? This might be a parent, a spouse, a friend, a colleague, or a neighbor. What are some ways you could serve them the way Jesus is calling you to?

• 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 step you plan to try this week. Then, at your next meeting, talk about your progress and challenges.

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PRACTICE ead and engage with the daily devotions for Days 29-35 prior to your next small group meeting. Review your notes from the small group lesson throughout the week.

Prayer Direction: Share prayer requests as a group, and be sure to write them on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 152. Close your meeting in prayer.

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DIVING DEEPER

What promise is implied in verse 11 to those who serve?

What does the end of this passage remind us about the ultimate goal of our service?

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Read Matthew 25:34-40. What does this passage teach us about how to serve Christ?

What is the reward we are promised for serving this way?

How does serving “the least of these” point to Jesus?

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DAY 30

2 Corinthians 4:5 (NLT) You see, we don’t go around preaching about ourselves. We preach that Jesus Christ is Lord, and we ourselves are your servants for Jesus’ sake.

James 4:10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.

One of the “perks” of being born to serve is that when we do serve others we often experience joy, happiness, and gratitude. This is a wonderful part of how God created us, but our own “warm fuzzy” feelings are not the primary reason we serve. We don’t do good things for others just so we can experience great things ourselves. Instead, as Paul writes in this passage, we are servants for Jesus’ sake—to glorify His name and to extend His mission. It’s not about us, but about Him being Lord. Knowing we’ve obeyed Him by living out our purpose is the best feeling of all!

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Serving others can sometimes be a humbling experience. Sometimes we feel we’re too smart, too educated, or too talented to do something small. Other times the task might be unpleasant or undignified, or we might serve others faithfully only to see someone else get the credit. It can be difficult to serve! But just as Jesus did a humble task by washing His disciples’ feet, we too might be called to do something small, difficult, or easily dismissed. Remember that God sees what we do, and when we are humble in His sight, we will be recognized and rewarded by Him.

DAY 31 Mark 9:35 And He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, “If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all.” Like us, the disciples struggled with the idea of serving others. In Mark 9, we see they were much more concerned with who got to be second in command after Jesus and what titles and positions they would have in His kingdom. Jesus responds to them with this teaching: If we want to be on top and in first place, we’ll choose to take last place and serve everyone else. At first, this makes no more sense to us than it did to them. We sometimes say to ourselves, “In our cutthroat, competitive culture, how can we ever get ahead without promoting ourselves?” The answer is found by rethinking what it means to be first. Jesus was concerned with a different kind of greatness than we are. Serving others sometimes propels people into the limelight, and they receive acclamation and awards for their work. But Jesus is not promising we will all achieve that kind of greatness. Instead, He is 114

saying that when we put others first, we move ahead in our own spiritual growth, our maturity, and in our walk with Him. We become “first” in the metrics that really matter, and we become a servant like He was.

DAY 32 Philippians 2:3-4 Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. Sometimes we think of service as a service project: serving meals at a shelter or picking up trash along the side of the road. Although that is one way to serve others, service is also an attitude and a state of the heart. We serve others by considering their goals, needs, and concerns in addition to thinking about our own; and we avoid doing or saying things motivated by our own selfishness and pride. When we think of serving this way, we understand more fully why service is a purpose that extends into every area of life and every relationship. It’s great if we choose to volunteer our time to do an act of service, but we must remember that every moment is a service opportunity when we’re following Christ.

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DAY 34

1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

Ephesians 2:10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

As we discussed earlier this week, our attempts to serve may not always be noticed by those around us. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t matter. As this verse reminds us, if we are working for God, our efforts are never in vain.

Some versions translate the word workmanship as “handiwork” or even “masterpiece.” In fact, the Greek word used here implies a poem or other artistic creation. We are God’s work of art, masterfully and intentionally created by Him.

Christianity is not a cruise ship, where everything is all about us; but it’s a disciple-ship that’s all about God’s plan and His goals for our lives and others. God’s plans are always focused on people. Some days it can be difficult to keep going, but take comfort in knowing that He sees you and loves you. Ask Him to give you strength and steadfastness in your commitment to His purposes.

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Not only are we prized children of God, but we were created so we could do works of our own. It’s an amazing thought to consider that God created opportunities ahead of time for us to do good and bless others as we travel through life. As we conclude this week of our study, take time to consider what it means for God to have designed you with the gifts and talents you have, and ask Him to help you make the most of the good works He’s created for you to do.

DAY 35 Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind during your small group meeting for this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

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SESSION

SIX BORN TO MULTIPLY The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise. PROVERBS 11:30

olice officers and lawyers know that eyewitnesses are notoriously unreliable. People who saw the same accident or were victimized by the same crime often tell completely different versions of the same experience, or they change their story as time passes. Our observational skills and our memories are not as sharp as we’d like to think!

We all have a story to tell about how He has changed our lives. We have all witnessed God’s power and His mercy, and today we’ll learn why it’s so important to share that with others.

However, telling others about who God is and what He has done in your life doesn’t require perfect recall. We have all received one blessing after another from God. We have all learned more about Him as we’ve walked with Him. 120

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CHECKING IN

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following questions and activities to get people talking.

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 him or her. And listening to othersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; stories is an act of love and kindness to themâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and could very well help them to grow spiritually. Begin your time together by using the

- Have you ever shared your faith with anyone? Tell the group about your experience.

- What has surprised you most about this group?

- Where did God meet you over the last six weeks?

- Take some time to share how inviting the people on the Circles of Life diagram to church or your small group has worked out.

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VIDEO LESSON SESSION 6 Use the notes space below to record key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember from the video teaching. After watching the lesson, read the discussion questions in the lesson and discuss them with your group. Remember to try to share the responsibilities of leading the discussion each week.

1. Tell others what Jesus has ___________________. 2. We are created to not only know God, but to help other people _____________.

ANSWER KEY

3. God wants _____________ at His table. 124

4. Our job, as the church, is go to the ____________________. Matthew 28:19-20 “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you…” 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV) The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. 5. Be ______________ in your relationships with others. 6. Stay _____________ as a group after this series ends. 1. done for us 2. know Him 3. everyone 4. lost, hurting and broken 5. intentional 6. together

Luke 14:16-23 Then He said to him, “A certain man gave a great supper and invited many, 17 and sent his servant at supper time to say to those who were invited, ‘Come, for all things are now ready.’ 18 But they all with one accord began to make excuses. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a piece of ground, and I must go and see it. I ask you to have me excused.’ 19 And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I am going to test them. I ask you to have me excused.’ 20 Still another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.’ 21 So that servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house, being angry, said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in here the poor and the maimed and the lame and the blind.’ 22 And the servant said, ‘Master, it is done as you commanded, and still there is room.’ 23 Then the master said to the servant, ‘Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.’”

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STUDY NOTES

So don’t worry about what you don’t know. Focus on what you do know—what you’ve learned in this study and what God is doing in your life—and then be open to the opportunities God gives you to share with others.

astor Steve read Matthew 28:18-20 in his teaching. These verses are often called “The Great Commission.” Perhaps you’ve heard someone say, “It’s called a commission, not a suggestion.” In other words, if we follow Christ, we are commanded to go, to disciple, and to teach others about Him. It’s not an option. This can be intimidating, however, especially if faith is new to us. “But I don’t know that much about the Bible yet,” we think. “How can I tell other people about what it says? What if they ask me a question I can’t answer?” But Jesus didn’t say, “Go and explain theology” or “Go after you have a degree from seminary.”

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The disciples were not scholars, and as you’ll see if you read the book of Acts, they didn’t have it all figured out. Instead, Jesus is simply saying, “Go and tell your story. Tell what you’ve seen, what you’ve experienced, and how it has changed you—and I will be with you.”

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ow 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, to be engaged in His kingdom.

DISCOVERY QUESTIONS

• Why do you think God trusted us with the responsibility to tell others about Him?

• Reflect on the story Pastor Steve taught on today, from Luke 14:1623. Perhaps even take a moment to re-read it as a group. What does this story tell you about who God is? What does it tell you about our call to multiply?

• The Gospel is “good news”—it’s the news that God loves you and wants you at His table! How does the fact that we’re sharing good news make it easier to tell people about Jesus?

• Think of one or two people you have a relationship with. How could you begin to be more intentional about those relationships?

• As this is the last meeting in this study, take some time to celebrate the work God has done in the lives of your group members. 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.

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• 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.

• In your small group discuss any changes you want to make as you move forward. If you plan to continue to meet, 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.

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PUTTING IT INTO

PRACTICE

ead and engage with the daily devotions for Days 36-42 Review your notes from the small group lesson throughout the week.

Prayer Direction: Share prayer requests as a group, and be sure to write them on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 152. Close your meeting in prayer.

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DIVING DEEPER

xplore 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.

Why would Jesus end this commission with a promise not to leave us?

Read Matthew 5:13-16. Think about the metaphor that Jesus uses here, comparing us to salt. What does He mean? How are Christians “salt” to the world?

Read Matthew 28:18-20. We have the authority to connect people to God because Jesus told us to. Who gave Him this authority (verse 18)? Why? Is this different from the authority Jesus had during His earthly ministry?

What responsibility comes with being a light that points to Jesus?

Why do we let our light shine before others?

This passage says it’s not enough to help others make the initial connection to Christ; we must also “disciple” them. What does that mean? How do we do it?

Jesus has all authority; we are to go into all nations; we are to teach obedience to everything He has commanded; and He will always be with us. Why do you think Jesus emphasized these ideas? 132

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DAY 36 Luke 8:38-39 Now the man from whom the demons had departed begged Him that he might be with Him. But Jesus sent him away, saying, “Return to your own house, and tell what great things God has done for you.” And he went his way and proclaimed throughout the whole city what great things Jesus had done for him. It’s natural that this man would want to stay around Jesus after experiencing such a miracle. But Jesus doesn’t allow him to stay; this man begged to be a disciple, but Jesus thought it was more important for him to be a witness right in his hometown. Instead of traveling with him, the man’s job is to go back to his home and tell the people there what God had done. Jesus didn’t send the man back to his home because Jesus didn’t like the man or didn’t want him around—he sent him away because Jesus was moving on and this man’s city still needed to hear the Good News. The same is true for us—after we have experienced the goodness of Jesus in our own lives, we are called to share His love with our 134

own city. As we “go on our way,” let’s be bold about proclaiming Him!

DAY 37 Isaiah 6:8 Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.”

There are people in your neighborhood, in our city, and across the world who have never heard about Jesus, and it will take all of us to share the Good News with all of them. In fact, that’s how God designed it! You don’t need a degree from seminary and you don’t need to study the Bible for ten years before you can tell someone else what God has done in your life. Instead, God is simply saying, “Who can I send? Who will tell others?” And He is waiting for you to respond, “Here I am! Send me!” It’s good to study your Bible and to keep growing in your knowledge of what you believe. But don’t worry if you don’t have every answer. What’s more important is having a “send me” spirit. God can do great things when we realize we are born to multiply and share Him with others!

DAY 38

famously said, “Preach the gospel at all times and when necessary use words.”

1 Corinthians 9:22-23 I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. Now this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I may be partaker of it with you.

Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. The words we say have power, and it’s important to think about what we want to say when we share our faith. However, the way we live our lives and the way we imitate Christ is just as much a witness as the words we use. If we have turned from sin and decided to follow Jesus, then He actually lives in us and we live through Him instead of in our own power. This will make a huge difference in how we tell others about Him! In fact, if our lives don’t demonstrate Christ, then trying to tell others about Him might actually do more harm than good. After all, why would someone want to know about Jesus if He hasn’t changed us in any way? Jesus loves us and He gave up His life for us. Let’s model that sacrificial love even before we open our mouths to tell others about Him. St. Francis of Assisi 136

DAY 39

In this section of his letter to the Corinthians, the Apostle Paul is saying that when he talks to a person of Jewish heritage, he approaches the conversation from the perspective of his own identity as a Jew. When he talks to someone who understands the Old Testament law, he talks to them from that understanding. When he talks to those who have no understanding of God or Scripture, he approaches it from that perspective. Paul is not saying that he just changes his personality or waters down the truth, but that he starts where his friend is starting. When you think about it, this is both simple and profound. On the one hand, it’s common sense that you start where the other person is starting when trying to explain the Christian faith. On the other hand, it is profound, because it means that with every relationship you really do have to be engaged and intentional as Pastor Steve shared in this week’s lesson. There is no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to

sharing Jesus. While Jesus doesn’t change, our conversations and our methods have to be different for each person. Sharing our faith is like building a bridge. As you consider how you might tell others about Jesus, consider where they are starting and how you can begin building a bridge to faith.

DAY 40 Colossians 4:5-6 Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one. This is a powerful passage that teaches us the attitude and approach we should have when sharing our faith. The phrase “redeeming the time” is so helpful as a reminder that nothing is wasted when we are building relationships with others, and having speech “seasoned with salt” is a wonderful word-picture for how we should combine both truth and grace in our conversations. Sometimes, after we understand our call to share our faith and we get excited about trying it, it can be frustrating to realize just how long this process might take. Why wouldn’t our friend or family member want the great thing we have found? Why don’t they just immediately believe? Well, that’s probably not how it happened with you, and it probably won’t happen that way 138

with most of the people you tell about Jesus. Ask God to help you walk with wisdom and redeem the time. After all, He waited patiently for you to turn to Him, too.

DAY 41 Matthew 9:36-38 But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd. Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” Remember, we don’t share Jesus with others to get a notch on our spiritual belt. It’s not about being a “good” Christian; it’s not a competition; and it’s definitely not a way to get God to love us more. Instead, like Jesus, we should be motivated to share God’s love with others because they are “weary and scattered.” They are missing out on His guidance, grace, and goodness, and that should affect our hearts. As Jesus says in this passage, the harvest is plentiful. There are many who will believe if we tell them. But it’s our responsibility to take the first step! Ask God to give you courage—and compassion—to take His message to a world in need.

DAY 42 Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind during your small group meeting for this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

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APPENDICES

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Resources to make your Small Group experience even better!

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FAQ

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. 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 144

people on his or her list. 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 abrasion—the result of moves, releasing new leaders, ministry opportunities, and so forth. If you and your group stay open, you’ll be amazed at the people God sends your way.

experience. Either way, enjoy the journey.

How long will this group meet? Groups meet on a weekly basis throughout the six-week Born for This series.

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 six-week study, decide whether to continue with this group or find another. You don’t typically buy the first car you

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 steppingstones into another group

Can we do this study on our own? You sure can, but you may choose to gather with another couple, family members, or a few friends who would enjoy some relational time. Jesus will be with you even if there are only two of you (Matthew 18:20).

look at, and the same goes with a group. However, don’t bail out before the six 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 small group host? Most groups have an official host who facilitates the group. But ideally, the group will mature and members will share the small group host role. 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 hosts. Christ has promised to be in your midst as you gather. Ultimately, God will direct you each step of the way. 145

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. 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.

SMALL GROUP

GUIDELINES

t is a good idea to begin the small group with clear guidelines and expectations. Such guidelines will help each person to clearly understand the goals of the group and lay a good foundation for a healthy group experience. Please take a few moments to review the guidelines the group is to agree upon. COMMUNITY: To spiritually and relationally grow in the context of small group community. ATTENDANCE: To make a commitment to attend the group each week. SAFE ENVIRONMENT: To create a safe, non-judgmental place for people to come and feel loved. CONFIDENTIALITY: To keep all that is shared in the group, in the group. INVITE OTHERS: To invite friends and new people to the group and warmly welcome newcomers. USE WISDOM: To commit to using wisdom by not serving or consuming alcohol during small group meetings so as to avoid causing a brother or sister to spiritually stumble. To be sensitive to otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spiritual conscience (1 Corinthians 8:1-13; Romans 14:19-21). SHARED OWNERSHIP: To remember that every member is a minister and to ensure that each attendee will share a small team role or responsibility over time.

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MEMORY VERSE

CARDS

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SESSION ONE

SESSION TWO

SESSION THREE

SESSION FOUR

SESSION FIVE

SESSION SIX

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

The generous soul will be made rich, And he who waters will also be watered himself.

But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased.

Now when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep; he was buried with his ancestors and his body decayed. 37 But the one whom God raised from the dead did not see decay.

The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise.

2 CO R I N T H I A N S 5 : 1 7

J O H N 1 0: 1 0

PR OVE R BS 1 1 : 2 5

1 CO R INTHI AN S 12:18

AC TS 13:36 -37 (N I V)

PROVERB S 11:30

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SMALL GROUP HOST

ORIENTATION

ongratulations! You have responded to the call to host a Born For This group. There are few other tasks in the family of God that surpass the contribution you will be making. As you prepare to host, 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 small group host before he or she facilitates a session. 1. Remember you are not alone. God knows everything about you, and He knew that you would be asked to host your group. Remember that it is common for all good hosts to feel that they are not ready. 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 hosting 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 team. If you can enlist a cohost 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 150 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; 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 coaching moments videos and the small group 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 appendices, be sure to look over that item so you’ll know how it works. Finally, review the “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 responds, 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 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 to pray in small circles if they know that the whole group will hear all the prayer requests. 9. Allow your Emerging Host(s) to facilitate. Ask your Emerging Hosts to facilitate one or more sessions. Give plenty of encouragement and advanced notice. 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.

151

PRAYER & PRAISE

SMALL GROUP

REPORT

Session 2

Session 1

Prayer Requests

ROSTER Praise Reports

Name

Phone Number

Address

Notes

Session 4

Session 3

Session 5

Session 6

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152

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153