We must live by faith.
REVIEW: Faith is often preceded by tragedy.
- READ: Isaiah 61:3 “To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory.”
- DISCUSS: What are some areas of life in which you have settled (in other words, where have you lost your motivation for God or hope in God)?
- PRAY together for God to provide wisdom and faith in the places we have settled!
REVIEW: Faith is initiated by God and depends on his faithfulness.
- READ: 2 Timothy 2:13 “If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is.”
- DISCUSS: Are you doing anything currently to stretch your faith and take new steps with God? If so, what has your experience been so far? If not, what might be some opportunities to do so?
REVIEW: Faith requires listening and uncertainty.
- READ: Hebrews 11:6 “And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.”
- DISCUSS: How do you practice listening to God? Do you have any habits of making space to listen to God’s voice?
REVIEW: Faith requires risk and sacrifice.
- READ: Matthew 16:24-25 “Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it.”
- DISCUSS: What are some moments in your life when you have held on to God through difficulty? What have you learned from the sacrifices you have made for your faith?
ASK:
What else did you get from this week's sermon? What actions or next steps can you take to apply it to your life?
PRAY:
For God to fill us with new perspectives, new faith, and greater space and courage to hear and follow him.