Stuff Happens - Josh Peigh - Heartland Community by Lifetogether Ministries

JOSH PEIGH, GORDY SMITH, CASEY TYGRETT FORWARD BY JOHN ORTBERG

JOSH PEIGH, GORDY SMITH, AND CASEY TYGRETT

Forward by John Ortberg

Published by LifeTogether Copyright and use of the curriculum template is retained by Brett Eastman.

Unless otherwise noted, all scripture quotes are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 and 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

ISBN #: 978-1-945589-26-3 Printed in the United States of America

Table of Contents Contents

Foreword by John Ortberg 04 Teacher Bios 06 Introduction 08 Using This Workbook (Read This First) 10 Outline for Each Session 11 SESSION ONE Stuff Happens

SESSION TWO Growth Happens

SESSION THREE Guidance Happens 46 SESSION FOUR Healing Happens

SESSION FIVE Trouble Happens

SESSION SIX Grace Happens

Appendix

Frequently Asked Questions Small Group Agreement Small Group Calendar Spiritual Partners Check-In Memory Verse Cards (Clip and Review) Prayer and Praise Report Small Group Roster

Small Group Leaders Hosting an Open House Leading for the First Time Leadership Training 101

111 113 114 115 116 117 118 120 121 122

Foreword Stuff Happens. That’s the way it goes in our lives. Stuff happens. One of the primary illusions of our culture is that we are in control of our circumstances. In charge. At the wheel. Self-sufficient. As a result, we are tempted to live on the basis of personal strength or education or networks as though it were true. Then something happens. A blood vessel bursts, a car blows through a stop sign, a friend breaks trust. A business fails. And in an instant, it becomes terribly clear that we are not in control after all. Stuff happens. And the most important thing that remains is where we look for strength, who we become in the chaos. In this series you are going to learn how God is involved in all the stuff of life. He does not cause everything to happen, but he is involved (or wants to be) if we will allow Him. And if we can learn to see where God is involved in the stuff happening in our lives...if we can learn to invite his presence and surrender to his caring leadership, we can live with a freedom and ease and confidence and growth that will be absolutely liberating. We don’t have to live at the mercy of our circumstances because we serve a God who is above our circumstances.

- John Ortberg

P.S. Stuff happens even in Rockford! I know; it’s my hometown. But that’s not all that’s happening. Jesus is happening in Rockford too. He’s happening at Heartland. He can happen in your life. He can be at work in all the stuff to form a goodness in you that will last for eternity. And He can happen through you, so that you become a vehicle for healing and hope and growth in those around you.

We are grateful to John Ortberg for his partnership on this project. The theme and topics in Stuff Happens were inspired by a series of the same name John did with a team of teachers at Menlo Church. He has graciously allowed that teaching to be a source of content that we developed into our weekend teachings at Heartland during this series In turn, those topics became the foundation for the content in this book and the accompanying DVD. - Casey, Josh, Gordy

Casey Tygrett Josh Peigh

Gordy Smith

Casey Tygrett is joining the team at Heartland Community Church this fall as the teaching pastor. Casey earned a Master of Divinity degree from Lincoln Christian Seminary in 2003 and a Doctor of Ministry in Spiritual Formation in 2011. He previously served as an adjunct professor at Lincoln Christian University and as Spiritual Formation Pastor at Parkview Christian Church in Orland Park, IL from 2009 until his move to Heartland. Casey is the author of two books, The Jesus Rhythm (e-book) and Becoming Curious: A Spiritual Practice of Asking Question (IVP). He is an avid reader, hapless golfer, and grateful dad to Bailey and husband to Holley.

Gordy Smith came to Heartland Community Church after an 18-year career in youth ministry with Young Life, and just finished his 17th year as a pastor at Heartland. He has an undergraduate degree in Economics and a Master of Arts in Theology from Fuller Seminary. While at Heartland Gordy has written and taught the Getin-the-Game Spiritual Gifts Assessment and workshop, the Crash Course in Christianity, numerous men’s series, the Marriage Matters and Rebuilders workshops, and is currently leading the small groups movement here. Gordy and Karen have a grown son, Tyler, and an almost grown son, Grayson.

Josh Peigh is the Lead Pastor at Heartland Community Church where he brings vision, direction and leadership to a community that is passionate about helping people find and follow Jesus. Josh graduated from Lincoln Christian University and subsequently spent 9 years serving prevailing churches in New England as the Teaching Pastor and Spiritual Formation Pastor at Manchester Christian Church. He previously served as an adjunct professor of Spiritual Formation at Lincoln Christian University and as the Pastor of Small Groups at Heartland until accepting the role of Lead Pastor in 2013. Josh and his wife, Pilar, spend their free time trying to keep up with their two energetic children, Abigail and Andrew.

Introduction

When you picked up this guide, maybe something in you was searching for more. Perhaps you were visiting Heartland for the first time and the topic “Stuff Happens” intrigued you. Everyday “stuff happens.” Sometimes good. Sometimes bad. But you find yourself hoping for fresh wisdom to deal with the circumstances of your life.

Or perhaps you are reading this because a friend called and said, “join me at my place for a few weeks and let’s connect around some stuff we’re talking about at my church.” It sounds fun to get away from the normal routine for a night. You’re willing to endure the bible stuff because your friend throws a pretty amazing party. You find yourself up for the adventure, risky as it may seem. Then again, you may find your way to this experience because stuff really did JUST happen in your life. You’re struggling to make sense of it all - a sudden diagnosis, a troubling break-up, the loss of a job, the betrayal of a friend. You’re wondering, “now what?” “why is this happening to me?” “where do I go from here?” Or this resource may be open in your lap because you and your friends are passionate about pursuing Jesus in your life. You have proven, first hand field experience in the fact that life is not easy. But you’re ready to allow God to use your circumstances to shape your character. And you want that kind of personal transformation to start now. Whatever has led you to this moment, I’m glad you’re here! During the next six weeks, people will gather around our community to share our stories, build great friendships, and encourage one another to passionately follow Jesus through the stuff of life. But let me encourage you to do one important thing... use this resource alongside a group of friendst. Transformation happens best when we are connected with others. Be courageous, get creative and have fun forming a group. Circle up with your family. Engage some colleagues after work. Text a group of friends to meet for dessert. Invite the neighbors from down the street. Facetime with friends who have relocated to different cities. I can’t guarantee that this experience will fix all of your problems and I’m pretty sure none of your stuff is about to un-happen...but if you are intentional about pursuing Jesus alongside a few trusted friends for six weeks, I believe you can discover freedom, confidence and growth no matter what “stuff happens.” Cheering you on,

Josh Peigh

Lead Pastor - Heartland Community Church

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

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

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

Use this workbook as a guide, not a 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 Frequently Asked Questions pages and the Small Group Leaders section.

4 5

Enjoy your Small Group experience.

Pray before each sessionâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;for your group members, for your time together, or wisdom and insights.

Read the Outline for Each Session on the next pages so that you understand how the sessions will flow.

Outline of Each Session Read through this to get a clear idea of how each group meeting will be structured:

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSES.

Each session opens with a Memory Verse that emphasizes an important truth from the session. This is an optional exercise, but we believe that memorizing scripture can be a vital part of filling our minds with Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s will for our lives. We encourage you to give this important habit a try. The verses for our six sessions are also listed in the appendix.

INTRODUCTION.

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

SHARE YOUR STORY.

The foundation for spiritual growth is an intimate connection with God and His family. You build that connection by sharing your story with a few people who really know you and who earn your trust. This section includes some simple questions to get you talkingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;letting you share as much or as little of your story as you feel comfortable doing. Each session typically offers you two options. You can get to know your whole group by using the icebreaker question(s), or you can check in with one or two group members for a

deeper connection and encouragement in your spiritual journey.

HEAR GOD’S STORY.

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

STUDY NOTES.

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

CREATE A NEW STORY

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

you’ll have an opportunity to go beyond Bible study to biblical living. This section will also have a question or two that will challenge you to live out your faith by serving others, sharing your faith, and worshiping God.

FOR ADDITIONAL STUDY.

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

DAILY DEVOTIONS.

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

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

Session1 Stuff Happens In 1973, Russian author Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn published The Gulag Archipelago, a record of his years as a prisoner in a Soviet labor camp. The book details the terrible living conditions and treatment of the inmates as well as the occasional rebellions and uprisings within the camps. It is a book about suffering and injustice. Yet at one point in the book, Solzhenitsyn writes, “Bless you prison, bless you for being in my life. For there, lying upon the rotting prison straw, I came to realize that the object of life is not prosperity as we are made to believe, but the maturity of the human soul.” Unbelievably, in the midst of hunger, filth, and torture, he is able to be thankful for the prison bars holding him captive because of what they can teach him. Solzhenitsyn realizes his suffering has changed him deeply, and has changed his perspective on what really matters in life.

Stuff Happens

Hopefully you will never find yourself lying on the floor of a Russian prison, but we all face loss, struggles, difficulties, and grief. Today, let’s explore why God allows these challenges in our lives, and how we can let that “stuff” shape us for the better.

Share Your Story Each of us has a story. The events of our life—good, bad, wonderful or challenging—have shaped who we are. God knows your story, and He intends to redeem it—to use every struggle and every joy to ultimately bring you to Himself. When we share our stories with others, we give them the opportunity to see God at work. When we share our stories, we also realize we are not alone—that we have common experiences and thoughts, and that others can understand what we are going through. Your story can encourage someone else, and telling it can lead to a path of freedom for you and for those you share it with. Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer, in which you invite God to give you insight as you study. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. Before you start this first meeting, get contact information for every participant. Take time to pass around a copy of the Small Group Roster on page 118, a sheet of paper, or one of you pass your Study Guide, opened to the Small Group Roster. Ask someone to make copies or type up a list with everyone’s information and email it to the group during the week.

Then, begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking. - If your group is new, welcome newcomers. Introduce everyone—you may even want to have name tags for your first meeting. - What brought you here? What do you hope to get out of this group?

- Whether your group is new or ongoing, it’s always important to reflect on and review your values together. On page 113 is a Small Group Agreement with the values we’ve found most useful in sustaining healthy, balanced groups. We recommend that you choose one or two values—ones you haven’t previously focused on or have room to grow in—to emphasize during this study. Choose ones that will take your group to the next stage of intimacy and spiritual health. - What’s a challenge you’re facing right now? This can be something fairly small – “I can’t get my kids to pack their lunches for school!” Or, if you want to be brave, feel free to share something more significant with the group.

- We recommend you rotate host homes on a regular basis and let the hosts lead the meeting. Studies show that healthy groups rotate leadership. This helps to develop every member’s ability to shepherd a few people in a safe environment. Even Jesus gave others the opportunity to serve alongside Him (Mark 6:30-44). Look at the FAQs in the Appendix for additional information about hosting or leading the group. - The Small Group Calendar on page 114 is a tool for planning who will host and lead each meeting. Take a few minutes to plan hosts and leaders for your remaining meetings. Don’t skip this important step! It will revolutionize your group. 17

LEARNING TOGETHER Use the Notes space provided below to record key thoughts, questions and things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Story section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion.

Hear God’s Story READ ROMANS 8:22-28. We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. 23 Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies. 24 For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? 25 But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. 22

In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.27 And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. 26

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. 28

- What is all of creation “groaning” and waiting for so expectantly? - How does the Spirit help us? How does this change the way you think about God’s love for you? - Have you ever experienced pain so deep that you found it difficult to put it into words? React to the idea that in those moments the Spirit was praying for you. - As Casey pointed out in the video, we don’t have to do something special in order for God to work things out for us. What is the one thing required of us? (verse 28)

Study Notes In this week’s teaching, Josh quoted that wellknown verse from John 16: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” We typically read the words “take heart” as a command. We interpret it as Jesus saying to us, “Do this! Be brave! Don’t be afraid!” And there are certainly plenty of times in scripture when God tells his people to be strong and courageous. But some scholars believe, based on the original text in the original language, that Jesus was speaking not to the disciples in this passage, but to their hearts. In other words, Jesus was saying, “Hearts of these men—don’t be afraid!” We will experience setbacks, sadness, and negative situations, but the Creator of our hearts is telling us we don’t have to live in fear. When stuff happens, God is still in control.

Create A New Story God wants you to be part of His kingdom—to weave your story into His. That will mean change—to go His way rather than your own. This won’t happen overnight, but it should happen steadily. By starting with small, simple choices, we begin to change our direction. The Holy Spirit helps us along the way—giving us gifts to serve the body, offering us insights into scripture, and challenging us to love not only those around us but those far from God. In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you’ve learned. - Is it encouraging to you that Jesus experienced difficulties while He was on earth? What are some of the challenges He faced?

- How does the negative “stuff” in our lives shape who we are?

- Have you experienced Romans 8:28 in your life? Has God taken something difficult and worked good out of it?

- How do we submit to the stuff and let God use it to teach us?

- What are some ways community can help us wrestle with pain? How could this group help you work through something difficult in your life?

- 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 Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guidance and an opportunity to share with each of them. Perhaps they would be open to joining the group? Share your lists with the group so you can all be praying for the people youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve identified.

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 with in an intentional way. This 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 or study of God’s Word (use the Daily Devotions section to guide you)? Tell the group how you plan to follow Jesus this week, and then, at your next meeting, talk about your progress and challenges. - Ask, “How can we pray for you this week?” Invite everyone to share, but don’t force the issue. Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 117. - Close your meeting with prayer.

For Additional Study If you feel God nudging you to go deeper, take some time before the next meeting to dig into His Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session’s theme on your own and jot your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. A great way to gain insight on a passage is to read it in several different translations. You may want to use a Bible app or website to compare translations. READ 1 PETER 5:8-11 - This passage reminds us that we have a real enemy who is looking to cause the bad stuff in our lives. How can we be alert to him? How do we resist him? - Does it encourage you to remember that your spiritual family in other places is suffering like you are? How could that change the way you pray? - What promises do we receive from verse 10?

READ PSALM 34 - How does it help the afflicted when we “glory in the Lord”? (verse 3) - Re-read verse 18. Note that God doesn’t prevent us from being brokenhearted; He promises to be with us. Why do you think God allows us to suffer? - The Psalm ends with a promise of rescue. How do you need to take refuge in Him?

Daily Devotionals Day 1 Read Romans 8:18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. Reflect: It can be difficult to keep this perspective when times are hard, but it’s true that whatever we’re experiencing now will be a small matter in light of eternity.

Day 2 Read 1 Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Reflect: What are you anxious about today? Cast it off! Give it to God – He cares about whatever is troubling you.

Day 3 Read Isaiah 55:8-9 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. Reflect: Sometimes we don’t understand why something’s happening because we just can’t have God’s perspective. We can trust Him, however – He knows the whole story, and He will work for our good.

Day 4 Read Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Reflect: So many times throughout scripture, God tells His people to be brave. Interestingly, here He also reminds them not to be discouraged. How are fear and discouragement related? What fears do you need to release to God?

Day 5 Read Job 12:10 In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind. Reflect: Even Job, a man who suffered more than most of us ever will, could acknowledge God’s total control over all of life. Take some time as this first week of our study ends to thank God for His sovereignty over your “stuff,” and to ask for His strength in facing it.

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

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10

Session 2 Growth Happens As soon as we’re born, we begin to grow. Healthy babies put on weight, they add inches, and they sleep so their brains develop. As the months turn into years, we learn to sit up, to crawl and to walk. We learn we have hands and feet and we learn how to use them. We learn to talk – and then some of us never stop! If an infant does not gain weight and grow, doctors say the child has a “failure to thrive.” From the very beginning of life, growth is absolutely necessary, and the absence of growth is a cause for concern. We have to grow to have the lives we’re meant for.

Stuff Happens

Unfortunately, too many Christians experience failure to thrive. Instead of growing deeper with God and with other people, they remain spiritual infants who can’t experience the abundant life Jesus wants for them. In this session, we’ll look at why growth happens, how it happens, and our role in the process.

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

When we share our stories, we can encourage someone else, and learn. We experience the presence of God as He helps us be brave enough to reveal our thoughts and feelings. Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking:

- Think back to your school days â&#x20AC;&#x201C; when did you get your growth spurt? - What is one way that you grow spiritually? - 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 24 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 on one of them this week.

Hear God’s Story READ 2 PETER 1:3-8 (NLT) By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. 4 And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires. In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and selfcontrol with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, 7 and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone. 5

The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 8

- How we receive what we need to live a godly life? - What does it mean to “participate in the divine nature”? - How can we respond to God’s promises that we will grow? - What is one benefit or “payoff” of growing to be more like Jesus?

Study Notes This week, the guys talked about “spiritual disciplines, practices Christians have used for centuries to draw closer to God and allow His spirit to transform them. Take a look at this list of the disciplines. Are there one or two you that especially appeal to you at this season of life? How could you be more intentional about incorporating those disciplines into the daily or weekly rhythm of your life? Solitude - spending time alone with God Silence – choosing not to speak as a way to listen to God or to others Fasting – going without food or some other pleasure for a set period of time in order to pray and refocus your mind Sabbath – intentionally refraining from work on a regular basis in order to rest and renew Bible reading – reading the Word! Worship – praising God for who He is and thanking Him for what He’s done. (This doesn’t have to involve music.) Reflection – Thinking about God’s word, prayerfully considering a scriptural idea, and applying it to your own life. Journaling may be helpful here. Service – serving others in a tangible way to bless them and glorify God

Create A New Story In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you’ve learned. - Respond to Gordy’s statement that living with Jesus gives us the best possible life. Have you found that to be true in your own life? - How does spiritual growth lead to the life Jesus wants for us? - Who is responsible for taking steps so that you grow spiritually? Who is ultimately responsible for your growth? - Josh mentioned the following ways you can be intentional about growing: practical teaching, providential relationships, private disciplines, personal ministry, and pivotal circumstances. What is one step you could take in one of these areas to begin growing deeper with God? - Are you taking in more ministry calories than you’re burning? If you’re not serving in some way, how could you get started? - Here are some simple ways to connect with God. Tell the group which ones you plan to try this week, and talk about your progress and challenges when you meet next time.

- Prayer. Commit to personal prayer and daily connection with God. You may find it helpful to write your prayers in a journal. - Daily Devotions. The Daily Devotions provided in each session offer an opportunity to read a short Bible passage five days a week during the course of our study. In our hurry-up world, we often move too quickly through everything—even reading God’s Word! Slow down. Don’t just skim, but take time to read carefully and reflect on the passage. Write down your insights on what you read each day. Copy a portion of scripture on a card and tape it somewhere in your line of sight, such as your car’s dashboard or the bathroom mirror. Or text it to yourself! Think about it when you sit at red lights or while you’re eating a meal. Reflect on what God is saying to you through these words. On the sixth day summarize what God has shown you throughout the week. - Ask, “How can we pray for you this week?” Invite everyone to share, but don’t force the issue. Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 117. - Close your meeting with prayer.

For Additional Study If you feel God is nudging you to go deeper, take some time between now and our next meeting to dig into His Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this sessionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 COLOSSIANS 1:9-14 - How does knowing Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s will help us to grow in our faith? - What does it mean to bear fruit? - How is giving thanks a form of growth? READ EPHESIANS 4:11-16 - What is the role of our pastors and teachers? How can their practical teaching, as Josh mentioned this week, help us grow? - Knowledge is mentioned here again as key to growth and maturity. How can you grow in your knowledge of God? - What do verses 15 and 16 tell us about the importance of the church in our growth? - Another thing you might want to try is to get together with someone in your group. (We suggest that men partner with men and women with women.) This person will be a spiritual partner

for the rest of this study. He or she doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be your best friend. Instead, this person will simply encourage you to complete the goals you set for yourself during this study. Following through on a resolution is tough when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on your own; it makes all the difference to have a partner to cheer you on.

Daily Devotionals Day 1 Read 2 Corinthians 3:18 And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. Reflect: Growth is not so we can score high marks on a Bible quiz or pray with the perfect words. It’s so we are transformed to become more like Jesus!

Day 2 Read 1 Peter 2:2-3 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good. Reflect: We crawl before we walk! What is some spiritual milk that can help you grow up in your faith?

Day 3 Read 1 Corinthians 13:11-12 When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. Reflect: We “grow up” in our faith so that we can know more of God. We will never know or understand everything in this life, but God promises we will someday see Him face to face and understand what’s difficult for us now.

Day 4 Read Philippians 1:6 ….he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Reflect: Remember, growth is not a contest and it’s not going to happen in a few months– it’s between you and God and it’s for a lifetime. No matter what comes, he will be faithful!

Day 5 Read Philippians 1:9 And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight…. Reflect: The more we grow, the more we love. Ask God to help you abound in love, in knowledge, and in insight as you grow spiritually.

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

I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. Psalm 119:10

Session 3 Guidance Happens Some people are great at directions—they can glance at a map, even the kind you draw on a piece of scrap paper, and instantly know where they are and how to get where they want to be. Others are more “directionally challenged”—they couldn’t decipher a map of their own neighborhood and regularly get lost going to new places. Thank goodness for GPS! This week, we’re looking at how God guides us in both our day to day and in our big decisions. Fortunately, we don’t have to rely on a confusing paper map or an electric gadget; we receive direction from God through His spirit, through His word, and through His church. Whether we’re long-time believers or new to faith, we all sometimes struggle to figure out the next steps in walking with God. This week, let’s look at how we can find the answers we need for the questions of life – no GPS required.

Stuff Happens

Share Your Story Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. Sharing personal stories builds deeper connections among group members. Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking. - Share a time when you were completely lost while driving, walking, or running. - Is there a time you felt God guiding you in a choice you had to make? If so, share it with the group.

Hear God’s Story Use the following questions to guide your discussion of the teaching and stories you just experienced on the DVD and the Bible passage below. READ PSALM 119: 9-16. How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Praise be to you, Lord; teach me your decrees. With my lips I recount all the laws that come from your mouth. I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches. I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word.

- What do you think the Psalmist means by “the path to purity”? Why is this the path to pursue? - We have a responsibility to seek God; what is God’s responsibility to us? (Verse 10) - How do we hide God’s word in our hearts? - List the verbs the Psalmist uses to describe his interaction with God’s word in verses 13-16. Do any of these describe the way you relate to scripture? Which one would you like to describe your relationship to the Bible?

Study Notes This week we talked quite a bit about looking to the Bible for guidance, because God will never contradict His word. However, that doesn’t mean using the famous “close your eyes, open the Bible, and point to a verse” tactic, and it doesn’t mean looking up verses that support what you already want. The best way we can receive direction from the Bible is to know what it says before we face a big decision – to know the big themes and the major teachings, and what the Bible tells us about the character of God and His plan for the world. If you’ve never read the Bible much before, it can seem overwhelming to get started, but a great way to get an overview of the biblical story is to read the “Essential 100” – 100 chapters from Genesis to Revelation that can give you the big picture perspective of scripture. Visit https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/25-theessential-100 to learn more.

Create A New Story God 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, we can begin to change our direction. The Holy Spirit helps us along the way, by giving us gifts to serve the body, offering us insights into scripture, and challenging us to love not only those around us but those far from God. In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned in this session. - How often do you ask God for his guidance? - Gordy says we hear God from within (in our conscience), through community, and through the Bible. Which one does God seem to use most often with you? - React to the idea that God will illumine the next step on our path – but not necessarily our destination. - What does it mean to consider whether something is repeated? Why should we not always trust a one-time experience? - How can peace be confirmation of God’s guidance?

- What steps will you take this week to grow in your relationship with God? If you’ve focused on prayer in past weeks, maybe you’ll want to direct your attention to scripture this week. If you’ve been reading God’s Word consistently, perhaps you’ll want to take it deeper and try memorizing a verse. Tell the group which one you plan to try this week, and talk about your progress and challenges when you meet next time. - Ask, “How can we pray for you this week?” Invite everyone to share, but don’t force the issue. Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 117. - Close your meeting with prayer.

For Additional Study Take some time between now and our next meeting to dig into God’s Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session’s theme. Jot down your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. You may event want to use a Bible website or app to look up commentary on these passages. If you like, share what you learn with the group the next time you meet. READ PROVERBS 2:1-9. - How can we “store up” God’s word? - It’s not enough to passively listen to God’s commands; what else should we do? (Verses 2-4) - What is the connection between fearing God and growing in knowledge of Him? - What blessings are promised to those who diligently seek after God? (Verses 6-9) READ MATTHEW 7:7-11 - What is required of us if we want to hear from God? - What is the promise in this passage if we take the initiative? - How does God’s character lead us to trust His guidance?

If you have a spiritual partner from last week, get together with them and discuss what you got out of this weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s message and group time. Share with each other what plans or action steps have come out of this session for you. If you have not connected with someone as a spiritual partner for this study, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not too late to start.

Daily Devotionals Day 1 Read 2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness… Reflect: How has time in God’s word affected you—have you been corrected? Taught? Equipped?

Day 2 Read James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. Reflect: This is a huge promise! In what area of life do you need God’s wisdom right now?

Day 3 Read Romans 15:4. For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. Reflect: How is reading the Bible teaching you endurance or encouraging you? Thank God for the gift of his word and the hope it gives us.

Day 4 Read Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Reflect: This is one of those “classic” verses about God’s direction in our lives. Why do we first have to submit and trust before God will reveal the next steps?

Day 5 Read Isaiah 58:11 The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail. Reflect: Even when we find ourselves in a difficult spot, relying on God’s guidance can help us to flourish. If you are in a “sun-scorched land” right now, ask for strength and refreshment.

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

Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise. Jeremiah 17:14

Session 4 Healing Happens No matter what health issue you face, you can find a doctor to help you. Whether it’s the blood flow in your heart or the tendons in your hands, the cavities in your teeth or the chemicals in your brain, there are doctors who can offer advice, prescribe medicine, and even perform operations to help you get well. Modern medicine is a great thing, but God was healing long before technology allowed us to do laser surgery or beat cancer. He created our bodies, our minds, and our spirits, and He is the ultimate “doctor” when we face brokenness and pain. In this session, we’ll discuss what it means for God to heal us, how the Bible talks about healing, and even how we can grow when healing doesn’t happen.

Stuff Happens

Share Your Story Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer, in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. Telling our personal stories builds deeper connections among group members. Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking. Sharing our stories requires us to be honest. We can help one another be honest and open by creating a safe place; be sure that your group is one where confidentiality is respected, where there is no such thing as â&#x20AC;&#x153;stupid questions,â&#x20AC;? where you listen without criticizing one another.

- Have you ever prayed for healing for yourself or someone else? What happened? How did that strengthen or challenge your faith? - What is a health issue youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re facing right now? This might be physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual. Only share if you feel comfortable!

Hear God’s Story READ JOHN 5:1-9 Some time later, Jesus went up to Jerusalem for one of the Jewish festivals. 2 Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Aramaic is called Bethesda[a] and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades. 3 Here a great number of disabled people used to lie—the blind, the lame, the paralyzed. 5 One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him,“Do you want to get well?” “Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.” 8 Then Jesus said to him, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” 9 At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked. 7

- How does verse 6 demonstrate Jesus’ compassion? - How do you interpret the invalid’s response to Jesus’s question (verse 7)? - What is the first responsibility the man must undertake as part of his healing? - The man at the pool had hope, or he wouldn’t have gone there for healing. At the same time, he seems to have lost hope of ever receiving the healing he wants. Are there areas of your own life in which you hope for God to work and yet struggle with discouragement?

Study Notes Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. 5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. Isaiah 53:4-5 4

These well-known verses are echoed in 1 Peter 2 as an example of how Jesus suffered for us and how we should follow His example. It can be comforting to remember that Jesus not only healed people during His three years on earth, but that He ended His ministry by providing a way for all of us to experience the ultimate healing – the restoration of right relationship with God. If you are struggling with a health issue right now, or you are concerned about the health of a family member or friend, it can be hard to think spiritual healing is “enough.” Like the paralyzed man who was forgiven of his sins, you might be thinking, “But my arms! But my legs!” Yet, interestingly, the word healing comes from a word that means “entire” or “complete.” To heal something is to bring it back to wholeness or complete goodness, and that is the healing God offers. You may not experience total physical or mental health in this lifetime, but He has promised complete healing in the life to come.

Create A New Story God 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, we can begin to change our direction. The Holy Spirit helps us along the way—giving us gifts to serve the body, offering us insights into Scripture, and challenging us to love not only those around us but those far from God. In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned in this lesson. - Why do we so often focus on physical needs and physical healing? - Take a minute to reflect on how God might want to heal you physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Write down whatever comes to mind. Don’t feel required to share your list with the group, but commit to praying about these areas in the coming week. - Have you prayed for healing that has not come? - What does it mean that healing isn’t an event? Is it possible that God is doing a slower healing work in your life? - Spend some time praying

about those you know who might respond to a simple invitation: to come to a church service, to join your small group, or even just to have coffee and talk about spiritual matters. Ask the Holy Spirit to bring to mind people you can pray for. - A strong group is made up of people who are all being filled up by God, so that they are empowered to love one another. What specific steps will you take this week to connect with God privately, so He can “fill you up?” If you’ve focused on prayer in past weeks, maybe you’ll want to direct your attention to Scripture this week. If you’ve been reading God’s Word consistently, perhaps you’ll want to take it deeper and try memorizing a verse. Tell the group which one you plan to try this week. Then, at your next meeting, talk about your progress and challenges. - Close your meeting with prayer.

- Ask “How can we pray for you this week?” Invite everyone to share, but don’t force the issue. Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 117.

- Note: you might want to focus your prayer time this week on specific healing needs of your group members.

For Additional Study Take some time between now and our next meeting to dig into God’s Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session’s theme on your own. Jot down your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. You may even want to use a Bible website or app to look up commentary on these passages. If you like, share what you learn with the group the next time you meet. READ 2 CORINTHIANS 12:7-10 - What does Paul give as the explanation for why he was given a difficult situation? - Why does God refuse to take away the difficulty? - What does it mean to “boast” about a weakness? - How does God work through our weaknesses? How can weaknesses make us stronger?

READ LUKE 5:18-26 - What does this story tell us about the friends of the paralyzed man and their faith? - Why did Jesus forgive the man’s sins before healing his body? - How does the physical healing prove Jesus’s authority? - Sit with your spiritual partner. If your partner is absent or if you are new to the group, join with

another pair or someone who doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t yet have a partner. If you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t established your spiritual partnership yet, do it now. Answer this question: how has being in this group impacted your personal relationship with God?

Daily Devotionals Day 1 Read James 5:15 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Reflect: Notice that this verse not only talks about healing but about forgiveness. How does this tie into this week’s teaching that God is concerned about every part of who we are?

Day 2 Read Psalm 103:2-3 Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits— who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases…. Reflect: Don’t forget to praise God when He has healed you! What do you need to thank Him for?

Day 3 Read Philippians 4:19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. Reflect: No matter how great your needs, God has the riches of the universe in his hands. He has all power and all ability to do whatever is needed in your life!

Day 4 Read Matthew 4:23 Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. Reflect: It’s easy to read this verse quickly and move on, but think about how much healing and how many changed lives are represented in this statement. Jesus obviously delights in healing and restoring His people!

Day 5 Read Proverbs 4:20-22 My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words. 21 Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; 22 for they are life to those who find them and health to one’s whole body. Reflect: Life and health come from the wisdom of God. How can you keep God’s word within your heart?

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

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair;Â persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 2 Corinthians 4:8-9

Session 5 Trouble Happens Hebrews 4:15 says, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.” Not only did Jesus experience temptation, He also endured grief, betrayal from others, physical pain, emotional anguish, exhaustion, and fear. In fact, no matter what you are going through today, Jesus has experienced it and He understands how you feel. This week we’re going to revisit the idea of suffering, exploring why God allows it in our lives and discussing how we can handle it well.

Stuff Happens

Trouble happens to us, but trouble also happened to our Savior, and He can use our troubles to help us grow.

Share Your Story Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer, in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. As we have said in previous lessons, sharing our personal stories builds deeper connections among group members. Your story may be exactly what another person needs to hear, and your listening to 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 following questions and activities to get people talking.

- Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one thing you really want to ask God when you get to heaven? - Do you have a favorite scripture that sustains you during difficult times? 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?

Hear God’s Story READ 1 PETER 1:3-9 3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7 These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 8 Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 9 for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

- What is our inheritance in Christ? - How do the promises of verses 3-5 help us to rejoice in our trials? - What does this passage tell us about why God allows our trials? - How do hard times prove that our faith is genuine?

Study Notes This short passage sums up much of our study this week. Take a few moments to read and reflect on Jesus as the ultimate answer to all of our trouble. Suppose your car is stalled in the middle of the night in bad weather and you don’t know how to fix it and there’s no tow truck. What you would like, above all, is to have a cell phone with you to get a taxi or to get a tow truck. You can’t. Let’s say the only person you can reach is your brother-in-law, who lives nearby, and he comes and he doesn’t know how to fix cars either and he doesn’t have a cell phone or a tow truck. So, what does he do? He stays in the car with you all night, and then in the morning you’re freed. Aren’t you much more grateful to him than even to a tow truck? So, even when God doesn’t immediately tow us out of our suffering, the fact that he’s with us in it is at least the most impressive and satisfying answer to the problem of suffering that I know. And therefore, God doesn’t give a lot of words to answer the problem of suffering. According to Christianity, he gives us a single word, and his name is Jesus. -- Peter Kreeft, from Life, God, and Other Small Topics: Conversations from Socrates in the City

Create A New Story - Have you ever asked God why something is happening in your life? - Are you tempted to withdraw from life when things get difficult? Are you tempted to withdraw from relationship with others? How does that actually make the problem worse? - Why do we transfer pain instead of dealing with it? How does forgiveness keep us from transferring pain? - Why is God more concerned with our character than our comfort? React to this idea. (It’s okay to say you don’t like it!) - Is there something difficult in your life that you can actually be thankful for because of the way it is helping you grow? Is there a way you can find hope in the midst of the struggle? - 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, research or study of a topic, by worshipping or inviting new people?

- Spend some time praying about those you know who might respond to a simple invitation: to come to a church service, to join your small group, or even to just have coffee and talk about spiritual matters. Ask the Holy Spirit to bring to mind people you can pray for. - Groups grow closer when they serve together. How could your group serve someone in need? You may want to visit a shut-in from your church, provide a meal for a family who is going through difficulty, or give some other practical help to someone in need. If nothing comes to mind, spend some group time praying and asking God to show you who needs your help. Have two or three group members organize a serving project for the group, and then do it!

For Additional Study Take some time between now and our next meeting to dig into Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this sessionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 2 CORINTHIANS 4:6-12 - What is the treasure we have? (verse 6) Why does Jesus entrust it to us? - How can we experience difficulties without despair? - How are we carrying the death of Jesus? How does He reveal His life in us?

READ 2 CORINTHIANS 4:16-18 - How does verse 16 connect with John 16:33? - What does it mean to be inwardly renewed? - How do our earthly trials create an eternal glory? - What are the unseen things we should fix our eyes on? What are some ways to keep our eyes fixed on the things of God?

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

Daily Devotionals Day 1 Read Psalm 10:12, 17-18 Arise, Lord! Lift up your hand, O God. Do not forget the helpless. You, Lord, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed, so that mere earthly mortals will never again strike terror. Reflect: The Psalms are full of assurances like this that God is close to us when we’re hurting and feeling helpless. Thank God for His comfort, for His encouragement, and for listening to you during dark times.

Day 2 Read Psalm 147:5 Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit. Reflect: What a great reassurance—no matter what we say to God, He understands everything about us and about the situations we face.

Day 3 Read James 1:2-3 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds,Â because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Reflect: It might be a stretch to be joyful about our suffering, but we can have hope because of the way it is stretching our souls.

Day 4 Read Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Reflect: Are you in need of hope today? Ask God to fill you with hope by the power of the Spirit.

Day 5 Read Romans 8:31 What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Reflect: God is for you today! Thank Him for His blessings and His care for you no matter what is happening in your life.

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

From his abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another. John 1:16 (NLT)

Session 6 Grace Happens A friend of ours asks people one question when they are trying to describe their relationship with God: if your life is a play on a stage, where is God in the theater? How would you answer that question? Perhaps God is up on the balcony, hidden in the darkness, observing but not participating. Perhaps He’s the stage manager, hovering backstage and making sure the lights and the sound are just right. Perhaps He’s the director, ready to give you the lines. Or maybe He’s the newspaper critic, judging your performance and unimpressed with the show. Where is God in your theater?

Stuff Happens

There’s no “wrong” answer to this exercise; it’s simply a question to spur reflection. We’re all at different places in our relationship with God and we each bring a unique story shaped by our past, our present circumstances, and our future dreams. But as we close this study, it’s important to realize that God is not distant. He is not bored. He’s not controlling. Instead, He is a proud and kind father, sitting on the front row and watching you with delight. He is full of grace for your past. He is pleased with your progress. He is confident in your potential. And when we get to know this God, it changes our perspective on all the other stuff that happens.

Share Your Story Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer, in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. As we have said in previous lessons, sharing our personal stories builds deeper connections among group members. Your story may be exactly what another person needs to hear to encourage or strengthen them. And your listening to 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 following questions and activities to get people talking. - What has surprised you most about this group? Where did God meet you over the last six weeks? - Why does God love you?

- Take some time for each person to share about how theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve done with inviting the people on the Circles of Life to church or your small group. What specific conversations are you praying about for the weeks to come?

Hear God’s Story READ EPHESIANS 2:1-10 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. 4

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- Who is â&#x20AC;&#x153;the ruler of the kingdom of the airâ&#x20AC;?? How does he work in our disobedience to God? - What does it mean to be dead in transgressions? How are we made alive in Christ? - Why is it so important to remember that we are saved by grace and not by works? - What is our privilege as people of grace? (verse 10)

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Study Notes The classic Bible story about the grace of God is the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15: Jesus continued: “There was a man who had two sons.12 The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them. 11

“Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. 14 After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. 16 He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything. 13

“When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! 18 I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ 20 So he got up and went to his father. 17

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“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 21

“But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate. 22

“Meanwhile, the older son was in the field. When he came near the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 So he called one of the servants and asked him what was going on. 27 ‘Your brother has come,’ he replied, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.’ 25

“The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. 29 But he answered his father, ‘Look! All these years I’ve been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!’ 28

“‘My son,’ the father said, ‘you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. 32 But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’” 31

This story is such a beautiful picture of grace that it has become part of fiction, music, painting, film, and other art forms – even art by those who don’t always claim to be Christian. You can learn more about this story and its meaning and see artistic examples of it at www.prodigalsall.com. This website, created by a New Testament professor and scholar named Lee Magness, is a rich resource for learning more about what it means to be a prodigal, and what it means to come home to a loving Father.

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Create A New Story How has God changed your story during this six-week study? What new things is He asking you to do? What truth has transformed your heart? Think about specific steps you want to take to live a new story, to walk more closely with God so you can be part of His story, engaged in His kingdom. - Why is it so important that we know God’s character when trouble happens in our lives? - Think about what you know about Jesus. What does that tell you about God? - How does receiving grace from God help us to show grace to others? - What is something you could do this week in response to God’s grace? - As this is the last meeting in this study, take some time to celebrate the work God has done in the lives of group members. Have each person in the group share some step of growth they have noticed in another member. (In other words, no one will talk about themselves. Instead, affirm others in the group.) Make sure each person gets affirmed and noticed and celebrated—whether the steps they’ve made are large or small.

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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. - Review your Small Group Agreement on page 113 and evaluate how well you met your goals. Discuss any changes you want to make as you move forward. If you plan to continue to 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. - Close by praying for your prayer requests and take a couple of minutes to review the praises you have recorded over the past five weeks on the Prayer and Praise Report on page 117. Spend some time thanking God for all He’s done in your group during this study.

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For Additional Study Explore the Bible passages related to this session’s theme on your own, jotting your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. You may even want to use a Bible website or app to look up commentary on these passages. READ JOHN 14:5-12 - How does knowing Jesus help us to know God? - Think about how these words must have sounded to Thomas, Philip, and the other disciples. What was Jesus saying when He said, “I am in the Father, and the Father is in me”? - What are some things you know to be true about Jesus from other passages in the Gospels? What do they tell you about God? READ LUKE 5:27-32 - Tax collectors were among the most hated members of Jewish society. Why did Jesus invite one of these men to follow Him? What does this teach us about grace? - Why was the group of tax collectors willing to have dinner with Jesus, but the religious leaders were not? - What is Jesus saying in verses 31 and 32? Who are the “sick”?

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Daily Devotionals Day 1 Read 2 Timothy 1:9 He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. Reflect: We have done nothing to deserve God’s grace, and we can do nothing to earn it!

Day 2 Read Titus 3:5-7 He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. Reflect: Because of what Jesus did on the cross, we not only know God now, we also get to be in relationship with Him forever. Take a few moments to let this truth sink into your heart, and thank God for what He has done for you.

Day 3 Read Romans 6:14 For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace. Reflect: We all still deal with sin, but grace brings new freedom and new power in our struggles. When we are under grace, everything changes!

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Day 4 Read Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Reflect: One of the amazing things about God’s amazing grace is that He offers it to us at our lowest point. Thank Him for loving you long before you loved Him!

Day 5 Read Galatians 2:21. I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing! Reflect: No matter how much we want to perform for God, we can’t become righteous or good through our own efforts. Christ died to give us grace— receive it!

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

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Appendix Great resources to help make your small group experience even better!

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FAQs What do we do on the first night of our group?

Like all fun things in life—have a party! A “get to know you” coffee, dinner, or dessert is a great way to launch a new study. You may want to review the Group Agreement (page 113) and share the names of a few friends you can invite to join you. But most importantly, have fun before your study time begins.

Where do we find new members for our group?

This can be troubling, especially for new groups that have only a few people or for existing groups that lose a few people along the way. We encourage you to pray with your group and then brainstorm a list of people from work, church, your neighborhood, your children’s school, family, the gym, and so forth. Then have each group member invite several of the people on his or her list. No matter how you find members, it’s vital that you stay on the lookout for new people to join your group. All groups tend to go through healthy attrition—the result of moves, releasing new leaders, ministry opportunities, and so forth—and if the group gets too small, it could be at risk of shutting down. If you and your group stay open, you’ll be amazed at the people God sends your way. The next person just might become a friend for life. You never know!

How long will this group meet?

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

Can we do this study on our own?

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

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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 sixweek study, decide whether to continue with this group or find another. You don’t typically buy the first car you look at or marry the first person you date, and the same goes with a group. However, don’t bail out before the 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 leader?

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

How do we handle the childcare needs in our group?

Very carefully. Seriously, this can be a sensitive issue. We suggest that you empower the group to openly brainstorm solutions. You may try one option that works for a while and then adjust over time. One 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 don’t have to be away from their children all evening when their children are too young to be left at home. A second option is to use one home for the kids and a second home (close by or a phone call away) for the adults. A third idea is to rotate the responsibility of providing a lesson or care for the children either in the same home or in another home nearby. This can be an incredible blessing for kids. Finally, the most common solution is to decide that you need to have a night to invest in your spiritual lives individually or as a couple and to make your own arrangements for childcare. No matter what decision the group makes, the best approach is to dialogue openly about both the problem and the solution.

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Small Group Agreement Our Expectations: To provide a predictable environment where participants experience authentic community and spiritual growth. Group Attendance

To give priority to the group meeting. We will call or email if we will be late or absent. (Completing the Group Calendar will minimize this issue.)

Safe Environment

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

Respect Differences

To be gentle and gracious to people with different spiritual maturity, personal opinions, temperaments or “imperfections” in fellow group members. We are all works in progress.

Confidentiality

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

Encouragement for Growth

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

Shared Ownership

To remember that every member is a minister and to ensure that each attender will share a small team role or responsibility over time (See the Purpose Team Roles).

Rotating Hosts/ Leaders and Homes

To encourage different people to host the group in their homes, and to rotate the responsibility of facilitating each meeting. (See the Small Group Calendar)

Our Times Together: • Refreshments/mealtimes ___________________________________________________ • Childcare _________________________________________________________________ • When we will meet (day of week) ____________________________________________ • Where we will meet (place) _________________________________________________ • We will begin at (time) ______________ and end at _____________________________ • We will do our best to have some or all of us attend a worship service together. Our primary worship service time will be ______________________________________ • Date of this agreement ______________________________________________________ • Date we will review this agreement again ______________________________________ • Who (other than the leader) will review this agreement at the end of this study ______________________________________________________________________

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Small Group Calendar

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Date

Lesson

Host Home

11/16

Steve and Laura's

Dessert/Meal Joe

Leader Bill

Spiritual Partnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Check-In Briefly check in each week and write down your personal plans and progress targets for the next week (or even for the next few weeks). This could be done (before or after the meeting) on the phone, through an e-mail message or even in person from time to time.

My Name: Spiritual Partnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Name: Our Progress

Week 6

Week 5

Week 4

Week 3

Week 2

Week 1

Our Plan

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Memory Verses SESSION ONE

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. ROMANS 8:28

SESSION TWO

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. JOHN 10:10

SESSION THREE

I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. PSALM 119:10

SESSION FOUR

Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise. JEREMIAH 17:14

SESSION FIVE

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 2 CORINTHIANS 4:8-9

SESSION SIX

From his abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another. J O H N 1 : 1 6 ( N LT )

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Prayer and Praise Report Praise Reports

Session 6

Session 5

Session 4

Session 3

Session 2

Session 1

Prayer Requests

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NAME

ADDRESS

PHONE

MINISTRY

OTHER

Group Roster

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Small Group Leaders Key resources to help your leadership experience be the best it can be. 119

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

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Leading for the First Time Sweaty palms are a healthy sign. The Bible says God is gracious

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

Seek support. Ask your leader, co-leader, or close friend to pray for

you and prepare with you before the session. Walking through the study will help you anticipate potentially difficult questions and discussion topics.

Bring your uniqueness to the study. Lean into who you are and how God wants you to uniquely lead the study. Prepare. Prepare. Prepare. Go through the session several times. If you are using the DVD, listen to the teaching segment and Host Lifter. Consider writing in a journal or fasting for a day to prepare yourself for what God wants to do. Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare. Ask for feedback so you can grow. Perhaps in an email or on

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

Prayerfully consider launching a new group. This doesn’t need to happen overnight, but God’s heart is for this to take place over time. Not all Christians are called to be leaders or teachers, but we are all called to be “shepherds” of a few someday. Share with your group what God is doing in your heart.

God is searching for those whose hearts are fully His. Share your trials and victories. We promise that people will relate.

Prayerfully consider whom you would like to pass the baton to next week. It’s only fair. God is ready for the next member

of your group to go on the faith journey you just traveled. Make it fun, and expect God to do the rest.

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Leadership Training 101 (Top Ten Ideas for New Leaders) Congratulations! You have responded to the call to help shepherd Jesus’ flock. There are few other tasks in the family of God that surpass the contribution you will be making. As you prepare to lead, whether it is one session or the entire series, here are a few thoughts to keep in mind. We encourage you to read these and review them with each new discussion leader before he or she leads. 1. Remember that you are not alone. God knows everything about you, and He knew that you would be asked to lead your group. Remember that it is common for all good leaders to feel that they are not ready to lead. Moses, Solomon, Jeremiah and Timothy were all reluctant to lead. God promises, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). Whether you are leading for one evening, for several weeks, or for a lifetime, you will be blessed as you serve. 2. Don’t try to do it alone. Pray right now for God to help you build a healthy leadership team. If you can enlist a co-leader to help you lead the group, you will find your experience to be much richer. This is your chance to involve as many people as you can in building a healthy group. All you have to do is call and ask people to help. You’ll probably be surprised at the response. 3. Just be yourself. If you won’t be you, who will? God wants you to use your unique gifts and temperament. Don’t try to do things exactly like another leader; do them in a way that fits you! Just admit it when you don’t have an answer, and apologize when you make a mistake. Your group will love you for it, and you’ll sleep better at night! 4. Prepare for your meeting ahead of time. Review the session and the leader’s notes, and write down your responses to each question. Pay special attention to exercises that ask group members to do something other than engage in discussion. These exercises will help your group live what the Bible teaches, not just talk about it. Be sure you understand how an exercise works, and bring any necessary supplies (such as paper and pens) to your meeting. If the exercise employs one of the items in the appendix, be sure to look over that item so you’ll know how it works.

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Finally, review “Outline for Each Session” so you’ll remember the purpose of each section in the study. 5. Pray for your group members by name. Before you begin your session, go around the room in your mind and pray for each member by name. You may want to review the prayer list at least once a week. Ask God to use your time together to touch the heart of every person uniquely. Expect God to lead you to whomever He wants you to encourage or challenge in a special way. If you listen, God will surely lead! 6. When you ask a question, be patient. Someone will eventually respond. Sometimes people need a moment or two of silence to think about the question. Keep in mind, if silence doesn’t bother you, it won’t bother anyone else. After someone 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 10-12 people, we strongly encourage you to have the group gather sometimes in smaller discussion circles during the Hear God’s Story or Change Your Story sections of the study. With a greater opportunity to talk in a small circle, people will connect more with the study, apply more quickly what they’re learning and ultimately get more out of it. A small circle also encourages a quiet person to participate and tends to minimize the effects of a more vocal or dominant member. It can also help people feel more loved in your group. When you gather again at the end of the section, you can have one person summarize the highlights from each circle. Smaller circles are also helpful during prayer time. People who are unaccustomed to praying aloud will be less comfortable trying it if the group is too big. 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

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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. Rotate facilitators weekly. At the end of each meeting, ask the group who should lead the following week. Let the group help select your weekly facilitator. You may be perfectly capable of leading each time, but you will help others grow in their faith and gifts if you give them opportunities to lead. You can use the Small Group Calendar to fill in the names of all meeting leaders at once if you prefer. 10. One final challenge (for new or first time leaders): Before your first opportunity to lead, look up each of the five passages listed below. Read each one as a devotional exercise to help yourself develop a shepherdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heart. Trust us on this one. If you do this, you will be more than ready for your first meeting. Matthew 9:36 1 Peter 5:2-4 Psalm 23 Ezekiel 34:11-16 1 Thessalonians 2:7-8, 11-12

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