Check-In (Highs & Lows) 15 min
A great, quick way to catch the highlights of what is happening in the lives of the people in your group is to take turns quickly sharing the “highs & lows” of your week. High: What was your biggest highlight since we last met? Low: What was the low point during this time?
Settle-In (Ice-Breaker) 10 min
Have you, or someone close to you, experienced anxiety? What has your experience been?
Dig-In (Scripture) 35 min
1. This weekend we returned to the Upside Down Kingdom where Christ encourages us to live in a way that is at odds with the world. How does this idea of an upside down kingdom challenge your personal worldview and priorities?
2. Read Matthew 6:19-21. What does Jesus mean when he says “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal“? How does this relate to the concept of the upside down kingdom?
3. Read Matthew 6:22-24. What is the difference between having “good eyes” and “unhealthy eyes”? How can this affect our levels of anxiety/happiness?
4. Why is it important to prioritize God over money, according to Matthew 6:24?
5. Read Matthew 6:25-31. What do you think Jesus is trying to convey to his followers in these verses? Why do you think Jesus chose the birds of the air and lilies of the field as examples? What do you think they teach us about God’s provision and care?
6. Reflecting on verse 31, Jesus asks “Will he not much more clothe you?” How does understanding God’s character as a loving and caring father influence our perspective on worry and anxiety? How does worry and anxiety reflect a lack of trust in God’s care and provision?
7. Read Matthew 6:33-34. Consider a time when you found yourself worrying about the future. How did this affect your thoughts, emotions, and actions? How can focusing on seeking God’s kingdom first change your perspective when moments of worry and anxiety rise up?
Gear-Up (Application) 15 min
1. Re-read Matthew 6:24—How can you recognize when money is becoming a counterfeit god in your life and what steps can you take to refocus your priorities on God?
2. In what ways can you practice having “good eyes” and develop a more generous perspective with the resources you have?
3. What are some ways you can stop worrying about the future and start leaning into God’s care in your everyday life?
4. What practical steps can we take to apply Jesus’s teachings on worry in our daily lives?
Step-Up (Homework)
Spend time in prayer reflecting on areas in your life you need to align with the teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, specifically regarding his provisions and your worry/anxiety around material things. Ask God to reveal the spaces in your life you hold with more of a closed fist rather than being open to how God wants you to steward your resources.