Pride keeps us from the presence of God, the power of community, and the purpose for which God created us.
Jonah's story reveals how pride and a critical spirit can distort our view of God's heart for others and His redemptive work in the world. By confronting pride and embracing humility, we align ourselves with God's purposes and reflect His mercy and grace to those around us.
REVIEW: Pride and God's Presence
- READ: Jonah 2:1-2 "Then Jonah prayed to the Lord his God from inside the fish. He said, 'I cried out to the Lord in my great trouble, and he answered me. I called to you from the land of the dead, and Lord, you heard me!'"
- DISCUSS: When you feel distant from God, how can humility help you experience His presence again?
REVIEW: Pride and the Power of Community
- READ: Hebrews 10:24-25 "Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near."
- DISCUSS: How can humility help you celebrate the work God is doing in and through others, even when it doesn’t match your expectations?
REVIEW: Pride and Our Purpose
- READ: Galatians 6:1-2 "Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ."
DISCUSS: What is one step of obedience you can take this week to align with God’s purpose for your life, even if it feels uncomfortable?
REVIEW: Redemptive Spirit vs. Critical Spirit
- READ: 2 Timothy 2:24-25 "A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth."
DISCUSS: How can cultivating a redemptive spirit change the way you approach difficult people or situations this week?
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:
Lord, thank You for Your patience with us when pride leads us astray. Help us to walk humbly in Your presence, embrace Your heart for others, and live with a redemptive spirit that glorifies You. Transform us so that through our words and actions, others may see Your grace and love. Amen.