LifeGroup Notes

BIG IDEA
In the business world, companies and individuals get rich off of our discontentment, whether it be vehicles, phones, houses, and more. Every new model has “new and improved” features that seem impossible to live without. Updates are not always available for older models. Parts are less accessible for older versions. New styles, colors, or versions come out before we even have time to grow tired of the current options. The common mindset in all of this is that we always need more, better, or new. And yet, our society finds itself more discontent than ever before. What good is it to have all this world can offer and still find ourselves lacking?

This problem is not new; it has existed since the fall of man. It has led to wars, affairs, murder, stealing, and more. In his letter to the church in Philippi, Paul knew that they would face many distractions. He encouraged them to live godly lives amidst the crooked times in which they lived. He also urged them to find their contentment in Christ alone in all areas of life. This week, we will see how we can find our true fulfillment and contentment in giving faithfully and sacrificially to the work of God.

Passages we’ll review:
Philippians 4:10-20; 1 Kings 17:7-16

OPENING
What stood out to you from the message this week? What led you to really think? Did anything challenge you?

What is the best gift you have ever received (other than Jesus!)? What made it so meaningful?

READ

Read Philippians 4:10-20

What was Paul’s true reason for rejoicing? Why was it so important that the Philippians understood that Paul wasn’t simply rejoicing over them alleviating his needs?

Paul stated that he had learned the secret of being content. What was his secret to contentment and strength?

How does Paul’s view of contentment compare with the world’s view of contentment today? Why is contentment a secret to most of the world?

Paul considered the Philippians to be his partners in ministry. What did this partnership, or fellowship, look like between Paul and the Philippians? What set the Philippians apart from the other churches in verse 15? What makes partnership different from simply volunteering or donating?

Why does Paul call their gift a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, and pleasing to God? Was it a gift to Paul or to God? How might these different perspectives affect someone’s giving?

How did their generosity profit them? Why is it important for the Philippians to know that God would supply their needs?

To whom did Paul actually give thanks and praise? Does God also want us to give like this today? How does God get glory when we are generous?

What are the most common reasons for people not giving today? Are these good reasons? Why or why not?

How have you found giving to be an act of worship? How has God kept His promise to you (verse 19)?

How can the relationship between Paul and the Philippians help encourage you to trust in God’s provision and be less attached to material possessions? How does Paul’s gratitude to the Philippians for their gift inspire you to be more generous and thankful in your own giving?

DIGGING DEEPER

Read Proverbs 11:24-26

Elijah was a prophet that God called to be His spokesperson. He warned King Ahab of a severe drought that would overtake the land as a result of his idol worship and his choice to turn away from God. Ahab’s wife Jezebel, sought to kill all of the prophets of Israel’s God. As a result, God instructed Ezekiel to hide himself in the land east of the Jordan river, where He provided him food and water. But eventually, as God had promised, the water dried up! —Editor’s Note

What did God instruct Elijah to do? Who would provide for His needs?

What did Elijah ask the widow for? How did she respond? Why do you think she responded this way?

While the widow was not aware of God’s plan for her life, He was still very much at work! Without her knowledge, God had already prepared her and made her available for His service. —Editor’s Note

What did the Lord promise as a result of her obedience? How did she choose to respond? What was the result of her obedience to God in giving her sacrificial gift?

The widow willingly shared what she had, despite her own scarcity, in order to do what God had called her to do. In what ways can you share your blessings with others, even in small ways?

LET’S PRAY

Consider the following as you pray together:

1. How would you rate your level of contentment? Do you enjoy giving your time, talent, and resources for the advancement of the kingdom of God?
   

2. How do you view financial giving within the church? Do you see it as an opportunity, an investment, and a partnership? Or do you see it more as a chore or inconvenience?
   

3. Take time to evaluate your own giving. How are you handling God’s daily supply in your own life? Are you being generous? Prayerfully consider how God would have you use the time you are given and the resources you have available for His kingdom.
   

“Sometimes a man imagines that he will lose himself if he gives himself, and keep himself if he hides himself. But the exact opposite takes place with terrible exactness.” Ernest Hello