Opening Prayer:
Begin by asking God to open hearts and minds to His Word and guide your discussion.
Key Takeaways:
- God’s pursuit of us is unwavering and relentless.
- We must remain dedicated to God’s plan even when facing opposition or feeling discouraged.
- Knowing our value in God’s eyes is crucial for our faith journey.
- Our attitudes can hinder our ability to love and serve others.
- God’s grace is powerful and should be both received and given freely.
Discussion Questions:
The sermon mentions feeling rejected or forgotten. Have you ever felt this way in your faith journey? How did you overcome those feelings__?
Pastor Jen shared the story of Elijah feeling alone and discouraged. Can you relate to Elijah’s experience? How does God’s response to Elijah encourage you__?
How does understanding your value in God’s eyes impact your daily life and interactions with others__?
The sermon emphasizes the importance of giving grace to others. What are some practical ways we can extend grace in our relationships, even when it’s difficult__?
Pastor Steve mentioned that nagging is ineffective, but positive reinforcement can encourage desired behaviors. How can we apply this principle in our families, workplaces, or church community__?
The sermon highlights three areas of struggle: knowing our value, addressing our attitudes, and operating in grace. Which of these areas do you find most challenging, and why__?
Practical Applications:
This week, practice positive reinforcement with someone close to you (spouse, child, friend, coworker). Notice how it impacts your relationship.
Spend time in prayer, asking God to reveal areas where you may be “hiding in a cave” due to discouragement. Ask for His strength to reengage.
Write down three ways you’ve experienced God’s grace recently. Then, consider how you can extend similar grace to others in your life.
Memorize a Bible verse that affirms your value in God’s eyes. Recite it daily this week.
Identify one person you’ve struggled to love or forgive. Commit to praying for them daily and looking for opportunities to show them grace.
Closing Prayer:
Thank God for His unwavering love and grace. Ask for His help in staying committed to the journey of faith, even when it’s challenging.
Here’s a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the last weeks sermon:
Day 1: Knowing Your Value in God’s Eyes
Reading: Romans 11:1-6
Devotional: God’s love for us is unwavering and relentless. Just as Paul affirmed his identity as an Israelite and a child of God, we too must recognize our inherent worth in God’s eyes. Today, reflect on how God sees you - not as someone rejected or forgotten, but as His beloved child. Consider moments when you’ve felt unworthy or unloved. Now, imagine God’s perspective on those same moments. How does this shift your self-perception? Remember, your value isn’t based on your performance or others’ opinions, but on God’s unchanging love for you. Today, practice speaking words of affirmation over yourself, echoing God’s love and acceptance.
Day 2: Perseverance in Faith
Reading: 1 Kings 19:1-18
Devotional: Elijah’s story reminds us that even the strongest believers can face moments of doubt and despair. Like Elijah hiding in a cave, we sometimes retreat from our calling when faced with opposition or discouragement. But God doesn’t leave us there. He comes to us in gentle whispers, asking, “What are you doing here?” Today, consider areas in your life where you might be hiding from God’s call. What fears or disappointments have led you to this place? Remember that God’s presence isn’t always in the dramatic displays of power, but often in the still, small voice. Take time to quiet your heart and listen for God’s gentle guidance, trusting that He has not abandoned you in your struggles.
Day 3: The Power of Grace
Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10
Devotional: Grace is at the core of our relationship with God. It’s not just a theological concept, but a transformative power in our daily lives. Paul’s emphasis on grace reminds us that our salvation and standing with God are not based on our own efforts, but on God’s freely given love. Today, reflect on how you’ve experienced God’s grace in your life. Are there areas where you’re still trying to earn God’s favor? Consider how embracing grace more fully might change your approach to spiritual growth and your relationships with others. Practice extending grace to someone who has hurt or disappointed you, remembering the immeasurable grace God has shown you.
Day 4: Being Part of God’s Remnant
Reading: Romans 11:1-6, 1 Kings 19:18
Devotional: God always preserves a faithful remnant, even in times of widespread unbelief. Like the 7,000 in Elijah’s time who had not bowed to Baal, we are called to be part of God’s faithful few in our generation. This doesn’t mean isolating ourselves, but standing firm in our faith while actively engaging with the world around us. Today, consider your role in God’s remnant. How can you be a light in your community, workplace, or family? Reflect on ways you can encourage other believers and reach out to those who don’t know God. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey - God has placed others around you to support and encourage you.
Day 5: Committed to the Journey
Reading: Philippians 3:12-14
Devotional: Our walk with God is a lifelong journey, requiring commitment and perseverance. Like Paul, we must press on toward the goal, even when the path is difficult. This commitment isn’t about perfection, but about continually turning our hearts toward God and His purposes. Today, reflect on your spiritual journey so far. What have been the high points and low points? How have you seen God’s faithfulness even in challenging times? Consider setting some spiritual goals for the coming months - perhaps a commitment to regular prayer, Bible study, or service to others. Remember, God is committed to completing the good work He has begun in you (Philippians 1:6). Trust in His ongoing presence and grace as you continue this journey of faith.