The Israelites shifted from gratitude to a victim mentality despite God's ongoing provision. Spiritual maturity is about an ongoing, internal, transformational journey with Jesus in order to experience life to the fullest.
REVIEW: Before you look out, look in.
- READ: 1 Corinthians 10:9-13, “Nor should we put Christ to the test, as some of them did and then died from snakebites. And don’t grumble as some of them did; then they were destroyed by the angel of death. These things happened to them as examples for us. They were written down to warn us who live at the end of the age. If you think you are standing firm, be careful not to fall. The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.
- DISCUSS: Considering 1 Corinthians 10:9-13, how does God often focus on transforming our attitudes rather than simply delivering us from difficult situations? Share a personal experience where God worked on your attitude rather than changing your circumstances.
REVIEW: As you look in, look up.
- READ: Deuteronomy 8:15-18 “Do not forget that he led you through the great and terrifying wilderness with its poisonous snakes and scorpions, where it was so hot and dry. He gave you water from the rock! He fed you with manna in the wilderness, a food unknown to your ancestors. He did this to humble you and test you for your own good. He did all this so you would never say to yourself, ‘I have achieved this wealth with my own strength and energy.’ Remember the Lord your God. He is the one who gives you power to be successful in order to fulfill the covenant he confirmed to your ancestors with an oath.”
- DISCUSS: How can we guard ourselves against the tendency to shift from gratitude to a victim mentality in our own lives? What practices or attitudes help cultivate gratitude even in challenging times?
- DISCUSS: Reflecting on Numbers 21:4-9 and Philippians 2:14-15, why do you think the Israelites fell into complaining despite God's provision? How does complaining affect our trust in God today?
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 help focusing on Jesus, trusting in his plan, supporting his people, and celebrating his work.