Part 1: Embracing the Gift of Faith

Discussion Question:
How can recognizing faith as a gift from God change the way we approach our relationship with Him?

Old Testament Verse:
- 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.”

New Testament Verses:
- Ephesians 2:8-9 - “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
- Romans 12:3 - “For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.”

Practical Application:
Spend time this week in prayer, thanking God for the gift of faith. Reflect on how this gift impacts your daily decisions and attitudes. Consider keeping a journal to document moments when your faith influences your actions.

Part 2: Moving Beyond the Basics of Faith

Discussion Question:
What are practical steps we can take to grow our faith beyond just the basics, like a personal relationship with Jesus?

Old Testament Verse:
- Psalm 119:105 - “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”

New Testament Verses:
- 2 Peter 3:18 - “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.”
- Hebrews 5:12-14 - “In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food!”

Practical Application:
Identify one area in your spiritual life that needs growth. Commit to a specific action, such as joining a Bible study, reading a spiritual book, or increasing your prayer time. Share your decision with the group and ask for their support.

Part 3: The Role of Faith in Our Daily Life

Discussion Question:
How can we incorporate faith into our daily decisions and activities, ensuring it guides our actions and interactions?

Old Testament Verse:
- 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.”

New Testament Verses:
- James 1:22 - “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
- Colossians 3:17 - “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

Practical Application:
Choose one aspect of your daily routine where you feel disconnected from your faith, such as at work or in your community interactions. Identify specific actions you can take to bring your faith into those moments, and practice doing so consistently this week.

Part 4: Faith’s Impact on Our Relationships

Discussion Question:
How does living a faith-filled life affect the way we relate to others, both within our communities and beyond?

Old Testament Verse:
- Zechariah 7:9 - “This is what the Lord Almighty said: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another.”

New Testament Verses:
- Ephesians 4:2 - “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”
- Galatians 6:2 - “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

Practical Application:
Reflect on your relationships and identify someone who may need support, whether emotionally, spiritually, or physically. Plan a meaningful way to reach out to them this week, demonstrating your faith through acts of love and compassion. Share the impact of this with your group in the next meeting.