tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43298498138224680442024-02-19T05:10:09.269-08:00Small Group DiscussionsApplication based discussion for church small group's to use during their Bible study gatherings.David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12572780147564110421noreply@blogger.comBlogger344125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-64951875627688332892023-11-09T06:12:00.006-08:002023-11-09T06:12:49.968-08:00God Rejoices Over You (Zephaniah 3:17)<p> <i style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;">For this week's study, we're going to focus on one verse from Zephaniah. We'll break it down, phrase by phrase, and see how it impacts us and what it inspires us to do.</i></p><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Read Zephaniah 3:17. Have each person share which single word in this verse seems most significant to them and why.</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">(the following questions are from the NIV version)</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: inherit; box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: 700; line-height: inherit;"><i style="background-color: inherit; box-sizing: inherit; line-height: inherit;">The first phrase in the verse is: "The LORD your God is with you,"</i></span></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Is it important that this verse says "your" God instead of "the" God? Why?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">How does it feel to be reminded that God is with you?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Are there times you wish God wasn't with you? Or that He couldn't see what you are doing or thinking?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: inherit; box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: 700; line-height: inherit;"><i style="background-color: inherit; box-sizing: inherit; line-height: inherit;">The second phrase in the verse is: "the Mighty Warrior who saves."</i></span></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">What does God save people from?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">What has He saved you from?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: inherit; box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: 700; line-height: inherit;"><i style="background-color: inherit; box-sizing: inherit; line-height: inherit;">The next phrase in the verse is: "He will take great delight in you;"</i></span></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Are there things in your life that cause you to doubt whether God actually takes delight in you?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">What action are you inspired to take when you remind yourself that God delights in you?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: inherit; box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: 700; line-height: inherit;"><i style="background-color: inherit; box-sizing: inherit; line-height: inherit;">The next phrase in the verse is: "in his love he will no longer rebuke you,"</i></span></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><i style="background-color: inherit; box-sizing: inherit; line-height: inherit;">You have probably already been thinking about some of the reasons God might rebuke you. This verse is a reminder that Jesus' work secured God's forgiveness.</i></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">How should people respond to God's forgiveness? How should you respond to God's forgiveness?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: inherit; box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: 700; line-height: inherit;"><i style="background-color: inherit; box-sizing: inherit; line-height: inherit;">The last phrase in the verse is: "but will rejoice over you with singing."</i></span></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Why do you think God rejoices over you?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">As a group, share 2-3 reasons why God might rejoice over each individual in the group.</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">What is one thing you will do this week that will give God reason to rejoice over you?</div>David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-87248977228413878792023-10-13T07:48:00.004-07:002023-10-13T07:48:47.052-07:00Agents of Reconciliation (Micah 7:18)<p>Read Micah 7:18. What 3-4 words jump out at you in this verse? Have a few people use 4 words or less to summarize the verse.</p><p>How does this verse shape your understanding of God's character and mercy?</p><p>What does the term "God's remnant" mean to you, based on your understanding of the Bible verses provided?</p><p>Read Matthew 7:13-14. How does this verse describe God's remnant?</p><p>Why do you think God has left a remnant on earth? Why do you think He doesn't just take all of His people to heaven immediately?</p><p>Read 2 Corinthians 5:17-20.What is the main point of this verse? What is the job that has been given to God's remnant?</p><p>What do you think it means to be an agent of reconciliation with your friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, etc.?</p><p>God's remnant should look like God. Micah described God as one who pardons and forgives. Why is it hard to forgive the people who have wronged us?</p><p>Take some time and share some practical hints with each other to help you forgive others.</p><p>God wants us to reconcile with other people and He wants us to help other people be reconciled to Him. How can you help more people be reconciled to God?</p><p>Have each person share the name of one person they know who needs to be reconciled to God.</p><p>Take a few minutes and pray specifically for each of these people.</p><p>Have each person in the group identify one action they can take in the next few days to be an agent of reconciliation.</p>David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-6471588237011259512023-10-02T02:15:00.005-07:002023-10-02T02:15:40.402-07:00What To Do When You're In A Mess (Jonah 1)<p> <span style="background-color: white; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Begin by having everyone share their favorite part of the book of Jonah.</span></p><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">As a group, read Jonah chapter 2. <i style="background-color: inherit; box-sizing: inherit; line-height: inherit;">(have one person read the whole thing or take turns reading each verse)</i></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Look at some of Jonah's descriptions of the mess he was in. Use the questions below to talk about how you have experienced the same kind of feelings:</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">- When have you been distressed?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">- When have you felt like you were drowning?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">- When have you felt like life was fainting away?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">What would you say to someone who is feeling this way? How would you pray for someone who is feeling this way?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Read verse 9 again. Why is gratitude helpful in difficult times? How does it change our mindset or perspective?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Have you ever made a vow to God? How would your life be different if you simply vowed to be obedient to Him?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Think about the phrase, "Salvation belongs to the LORD"?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">- How does it make you feel?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">- What does it make you want to do?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">- How should it impact your attitude?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">- How should it impact your relationships?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">What is your next step this week? How can this group help you and pray for you?</div>David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-20561147643368032092023-03-10T05:49:00.002-08:002023-03-10T05:49:22.331-08:00Call On The Name Of The Lord (Romans 10)<div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Talk about a time when something so good happened to you that you couldn't wait to tell others about it.</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Read Romans 10:9-13.</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">How would you summarize these verses in one sentence?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Do you think that internal beliefs always produce external actions? Why or why not?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">How would you describe the internal beliefs of Christianity?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">How would you describe the external actions of Christianity?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Why is it important to believe in the resurrection? Why does the resurrection matter?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">What do you think it means to "confess that Jesus is Lord"?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Talk about what it should look like if Jesus is Lord in the following areas of your life:</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Mind</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Word</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Attitude</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Choices</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Finances</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Career</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Relationships</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Future</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Which of these areas is the greatest struggle for you? Why?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">What steps can you take this week to submit every area of your life to Christ's lordship?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">How can this group pray for you?</span> </div>David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-9689123174059330752022-12-29T15:01:00.004-08:002022-12-29T15:01:37.643-08:00Love the Lord your God (Mark 12:29-30)<p>What is a good change you made in your life this past year?</p><p>What is one change you want to make in your life in the new year?</p><p>On a scale of 1-10, how aligned are your priorities with God's priorities?</p><p style="text-align: left;">From the following list, which area is the one in which you struggle most with priorities?</p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Money </li><li>Time </li><li>Family </li><li>Work </li><li>Entertainment </li><li>Fitness/Leisure Time </li><li>Friendships </li><li>Conversations </li><li>Attitude</li></ul><p></p><p>Using the above list, in which area would you most like God to help you?</p><p>Read Mark 12:29-30. Why do you think this command is always preceded by the statement that God is "one"? </p><p>We often think of "love" in terms of relationships. What do our relationships with spouses, parents, children, and friends teach us about God's love for us and our love for Him?</p><p>Have each person share a practical example of how they can demonstrate love toward God?</p><p>Why is this command easy to follow? Why is this command difficult to follow?</p><p>Spend some time discussing WHY God is worthy of our love.</p><p>What is one commitment you can make this week to prioritize God in an important area of your life?</p><p>How can this group pray for you?</p>David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-41569749196934605232022-11-04T08:24:00.003-07:002022-11-04T08:24:20.604-07:00Exiles and Strangers (1 Peter 2:11-12)<p> <span style="background-color: white; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Read 1 Peter 2:11-12 and have everyone give a one-sentence summary of these verses' main point.</span></p><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Talk about each of the following words and have group members share why they are important, what they mean in this passage and how their meaning should be applied in our lives.</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Abstain</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Passion</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Flesh</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Soul</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Honorable</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Gentiles</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Glorify God</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Make a list of the passions of the flesh. Talk about why it is sometimes difficult to abstain from these.</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Why is it sometimes difficult to balance abstaining from the flesh and living honorably among the Gentiles? Talk about situations when abstaining might cause the world to be offended or make accusations.</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Spend a few minutes talking about the people in your lives that need to turn to Jesus. Have each person identify one thing they can do to help that person think more positively about God.</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Spend time praying that your friends would see the truth and turn to Jesus.</div>David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-60840446371563316002022-09-15T09:03:00.001-07:002022-09-15T09:03:06.800-07:00Life In Christ: The Path, The Roots, The Foundation. (Colossians 2)<p> <span style="background-color: white; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">What clothes do you put on when you are cold?</span></p><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">What clothes do you put on when you are hot?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">What clothes do you put on when you are going out to eat?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">What clothes do you put on when you go to work?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">What clothes do you put on when you lounge around the house?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">What clothes do you put on when you want to grow spiritually?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Read Romans 13:4.</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Putting on clothes can't help us grow spiritually, but putting on Christ is the secret to spiritual growth. What do you think it means to "put on Christ?"</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Read Colossians 2:6-7. <i style="background-color: inherit; box-sizing: inherit; line-height: inherit;">Being "in Him" is the same idea as "putting on Christ" or being "clothed with Christ". In these verses, Paul gives three pictures to help us understand what it means to be "in Christ".</i></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">What do you think it means to "walk in Him"?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Read Matthew 7:13, Proverbs 3:6, and Psalm 119:105. What do these verses teach about the path we choose to walk through life?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">How would your next steps in life change if your greatest priority was to imitate Jesus?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">What do you think it means to be "rooted in Him"?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Read Psalm 1:1-3, John 15:5, and Galatians 5:22-23. What do these verses teach about roots, branches, and fruit?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you allow Jesus to be the primary source of authority in your life, what kind of fruit should your life be bearing?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">What do you think it means to be "built up in Him"?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Read Matthew 7:24-27 and 1 Corinthians 3:11-13. What do these verses teach about the foundation of our life?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">If Jesus is the foundation of your life, how should that impact what you think? How should it impact what you say? How should it impact the way you treat and talk about others?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Which of these areas is most challenging for you?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Walking Jesus' path?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Being rooted in Jesus?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Allowing Jesus to be your foundation?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">What is your next step?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #121212; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">How can this group pray for you?</div>David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-45058882127232203002021-02-18T10:17:00.001-08:002021-02-18T10:17:37.600-08:00Walking with God (Genesis 5)<p> <span style="background-color: white; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Read Genesis 5:22-24.</span></p><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Make a list of people from the Bible who "walked with God."</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Walking with someone requires <i style="background-color: inherit; box-sizing: inherit; line-height: inherit;">SHARED DIRECTION</i> and <i style="background-color: inherit; box-sizing: inherit; line-height: inherit;">CLOSE PROXIMITY</i>.</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">How can someone make sure they are moving the same direction as God?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Read Psalm 119:105. What gift has God given us so that we can know the proper direction to walk?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">How has the Bible helped keep you moving in the right direction? What is a Bible verse or passage that serves as a guide for you?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">How can someone make sure they are staying close to God?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Read James 4:8. What does this verse teach about staying close to God?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">What do you think it means to "wash your hands" and "purify your heart"? How can these activities help you stay close to God?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Read Jeremiah 33:3. What do you think it means to call on the Lord? How does calling on God help you to stay close to Him?</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" /></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">What will you do this week to walk more closely to God? How can you encourage others in their walk with God?</div>David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-85740171752685235472019-05-14T06:45:00.000-07:002019-05-14T06:45:04.308-07:00When God Doesn't Meet Our Expectations (Ruth)<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Talk about a vacation that did not live up to your expectations.</span></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-90339d7f-7fff-f312-2fe4-70ff5868db48" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Read Ruth 1:1-2. What do you think Elimilech and Naomi hoped would happen for their family when they moved?</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">List some of the hopes and dreams most parents have for their children.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Read Ruth 1:3-5. What do you think were the emotions Naomi felt most strongly? How do you think Naomi felt about God?</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How would you have responded if you were Naomi?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">When have you been disappointed that life didn't match up to your expectations?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Is it okay for a Christian to be disappointed? Why or why not?</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Often life disappoints us because we expect more from God than what He has promised us. Read the following verses about what we can truly expect from our Heavenly Father.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Read Romans 8:38-39. How should God's love change the way you think about yourself?</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Read Matthew 28:20. How should God's presence inspire courageous living?</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Read John 14:1. How should the future God has for you give you patience in the present?</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">What expectations do you need to let go of? </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">What promises of God do you need to hold on to? </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How can this group help you?</span></div>
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David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-20362247282138741352019-02-20T07:40:00.000-08:002019-02-19T07:41:12.159-08:00Does suffering lead to joy? (John 2)What are you looking forward to in the coming week?<br />
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Read John 2:1-11. Have a few people talk about their favorite verse in this story.<br />
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This event happened on "the third day". What else happened on a third day? How might this event be a symbol of Jesus future resurrection?<br />
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In ancient cultures, wine often represented joy. As a group, create a list of ten reasons you have joy today.<br />
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Read Romans 15:13. How does our faith in God provide us with hope, peace and joy?<br />
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What events in life can cause our joy to run out? How have you experienced suffering which threatened to steal your joy.<br />
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Re-read John 2:3-10. As you read, substitute the word "joy" for "wine" and substitute the word "suffering" for "water". How does this help you think about the connection between suffering and joy?<br />
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If this story is also a symbol of the future, how does the resurrection create the "best joy"?<br />
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Because we currently live in a broken world, our joy is sometimes tainted with sorrow. When we experience resurrection, though, our joy will be made complete.<br />
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Read Revelation 21:1-7. When the final resurrection is complete, what are you most looking forward to?<br />
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How does your confidence in the future enable you to have joy in present?<br />
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What will you do this week to encourage one another and to fill one another with joy?David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-76099911296201664632019-02-19T07:17:00.002-08:002019-02-19T07:17:33.849-08:00What is your life's direction? (John 1)What would be your ideal vacation destination? Why?<br />
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How would you describe your life’s destination?<br />
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How do you know whether or not your life is headed in the right direction?<br />
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Read John 1:43-51. How do you think Philip felt when Jesus said, “follow me.”<br />
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If Jesus said, “Follow me” to you, how would you respond?<br />
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What was Philip’s first action as a follower of Jesus? Is he a good or bad example for other followers of Jesus? Why?<br />
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Followers of Jesus should think like Jesus. How can you improve the way you think about other people so that your thoughts will be more like Jesus’ thoughts?<br />
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Followers of Jesus should talk like Jesus. How would you describe the way Jesus talked? How can your words (and their tone) be more like His?<br />
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Followers of Jesus should act like Jesus. Jesus’ actions were characterized by love, kindness, grace and servanthood. What can you do this week to act more like Jesus?<br />
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What direction do you think Jesus wants your life to go in?<br />
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Read John 15:4-5. Use as many different versions as possible and have a few people summarize the verses in their own words.<br />
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Following Jesus means staying close to Him. What can you do this week to stay close to Jesus?<br />
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How can this group help you stay close to Jesus?David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-89658750315417382122019-02-05T08:33:00.001-08:002019-02-05T08:33:01.256-08:00How To Avoid A Spiritual Crash and Burn (John 18)Who do you know that has demonstrated great loyalty to you? How did they do that?<br />
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Read John 18:7-10. How would you describe Peter in these verses?<br />
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Why do you think he acted so violently? Was he right or wrong to defend Jesus?<br />
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When has your loyalty to another person caused you to act emotionally in their defense? What was the result?<br />
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Read John 18:15-18 & 25-27. How would you describe Peter in these verses?<br />
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Why do you think he acted so cowardly? What changed between the scuffle and the garden and this moment in the courtyard?<br />
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Do you think it is normal for a person to be passionately loyal to Jesus at one point and then completely removed from him a short time later? Why or why not?<br />
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When have you experienced a spiritual high that was shortly followed by a spiritual low? What do you think caused the shift?<br />
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How did Jesus feel about Peter after Peter's denial?<br />
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How does Jesus feel about you at your spiritual low point?<br />
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What habits can you form that will help you avoid spiritual low points? What relationships can you nurture that will help you avoid spiritual low points?<br />
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What is one step you can take this week to avoid a spiritual crash and burn? How can the people around you encourage you in this pursuit?David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-84976339399285363282019-01-30T06:32:00.001-08:002019-02-13T10:38:48.331-08:00Found People Find People (John 1)What was the first thing that attracted you to Jesus?<br />
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Read John 1:35-39. What do you think the disciples were hoping to see when they followed Jesus? If you could see one thing from Jesus what would it be?<br />
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Why do you think the disciples stayed with Jesus for so long?<br />
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Read John 15:4. How can we remain/abide/stay with Jesus today?<br />
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Read John 1:44-46. Philip chose to use the same words as Jesus had. What do you think he wanted Nathanael to see?<br />
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Read John 1:42. What does Andrew do in this passage?<br />
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Read John 6:1-8. What does Andrew do in this passage?<br />
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Read John 12:20-22. What does Andrew (and Philip) do in this passage?<br />
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After Andrew met Jesus, the rest of his life was spent bring people to Jesus. Why do you think this became the focus of his life?<br />
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What are some practical steps someone could take to bring a person to Jesus?<br />
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Why do you think more Christians don’t bring people to Jesus more often? What gets in the way?<br />
Who do you know that needs to meet Jesus?<br />
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Spend time as a group praying for the people you all know who need to meet Jesus.<br />
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Spent time as a group praying that each person in the group will be filled with courage and will find a way to invite others to “come and see.”David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-85797173162120503542019-01-24T06:33:00.000-08:002019-02-13T10:40:35.361-08:00Those Who Have Seen Jesus, Share Jesus (John 1)What is the most exciting invitation you have ever received?<br />
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Read John 1:35-51. Based on what you see here, which of the new disciples is most like you? Why?<br />
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What is the one word you would use to describe each person (Andrew, Peter, Philip, Nathanael)?<br />
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Why do you think Jesus' first words in the book of John are a question? Why did Jesus use questions so often to teach? What question do you think He would ask you right now?<br />
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Jesus gave the disciples an opportunity to get to know Him before He asked them to follow Him. Why?<br />
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What are the questions some people need to have answered before they are willing to follow Jesus? What questions did you need answered before you were willing to follow Jesus?<br />
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Both Jesus and Nathanael invited people to "come and see". What do people around you need to see that might encourage them to follow Jesus?<br />
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What can you show people that might encourage them to follow Jesus? What can a church show people that might encourage them to follow Jesus?<br />
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In these verses, Jesus uses three statements to invite others into a relationship with Him ("What are you seeking?", "Come and see" and "Follow me."). Which of these statements would be most convincing or inspiring to people you know? Why?<br />
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How can you change your life so that you will be able to more effectively invite people to follow Jesus?<br />
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What will you do this week to be a "come and see" person?David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-38625940024210970822018-12-11T09:39:00.000-08:002019-02-13T10:42:55.695-08:00All I Want For Christmas: Generosity (Matthew 2:9-12)What gift are you most excited about giving this Christmas?<br />
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How would you define “generosity”?<br />
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Read Matthew 2:9-12. Make a list of the five most important words in these verses. Talk about what makes these words significant.<br />
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Do you think the Wise Men were generous? Why or why not?<br />
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Why do you think the Wise Men gave gifts to Jesus? How do you think these gifts were used by Jesus and his family?<br />
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Did Jesus deserve these gifts? Why or why not?<br />
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Did Jesus need these gifts? Why or why not?<br />
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Does Jesus need gifts from you? Does Jesus deserve gifts from you? Why or why not?<br />
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What gifts do you have that you can give Jesus?<br />
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Read Matthew 25:31-46. What do these verses teach about generosity?<br />
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Read verse 40 again. According to this verse, our treatment of others is a gift we give to Jesus.<br />
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How would your relationships change if you began thinking of your treatment of others as a gift to Jesus?<br />
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How can you treat your spouse and/or children (or parents) generously this week? How can you treat your co-workers generously this week? How can you treat your friends generously this week? How can you treat your neighbors generously this week?<br />
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How can you treat your enemies generously this week?David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-714948515124470202018-12-06T09:23:00.000-08:002019-02-13T10:44:36.732-08:00All I Want For Christmas: Contentment (Matthew 2)<div>
What are you searching for in life?</div>
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Read Matthew 2:1-12. What was everyone searching for?</div>
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How do people search for God today?</div>
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What can you do to help people find God?</div>
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Why did the Wise Men want to find Jesus?</div>
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Why did Herod want to find Jesus?</div>
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When was the last time you searched for someone so you could give them something?</div>
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When was the last time you searched for someone so you could honor them?</div>
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When was the last time you searched for someone so you could get something from them?</div>
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Do most people search for God so they can give something to Him or so they can get something from Him? Give examples if you can.</div>
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How does giving help develop contentment?</div>
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What do you have that you can give to God? What does it mean to give your trust to God?</div>
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Read Philippians 4:11-13. How did Paul give his trust to God?</div>
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Read Philippians 4:19. Does this promise encourage you to trust God? Why or why not?</div>
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What can you give away to God or to others this week?</div>
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What will you do this week to cultivate more contentment in your life?</div>
David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-5321600576388110982018-11-27T11:59:00.002-08:002018-11-27T11:59:24.163-08:00All I Want For Christmas: Gratitude (Luke 1)What is the most unexpected event you have experienced this week? How did you respond? Did it cause you to be grateful? Why or why not?<br />
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This story has three pieces. The first piece is Mary's conversation with an angel. You can read this portion in Luke 1:26-38. The second piece is Mary's conversation with her cousin, Elizabeth. You can read this portion in Luke 1:39-45. The final piece is Mary's conversation with God. You can read this portion in Luke 1:46-55.<br />
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How would you describe the swing in emotions Mary was experiencing during this time? What might have caused her to be anxious or afraid? What might have caused her to be joyful? What might have caused her to be angry? What might have caused her to be at peace?<br />
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How would you describe Elizabeth's conversation with Mary?<br />
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Who do you know that blesses you whenever you are around them?<br />
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What can you do this week to be a blessing to the people around you?<br />
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What is your favorite phrase in Mary's prayer (vs.46-55)? Why?<br />
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Which phrases recognize God's strength? Which phrases recognize God's mercy? <br />
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How have you experienced God's strength and mercy in your life?<br />
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What did Mary say in her prayer about God's provision for her and for Israel?<br />
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How has God provided for you this week? This month? This year?<br />
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Have everyone in the room share 2-3 reasons they are grateful to God.<br />
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Challenge everyone who is willing to take a gratitude challenge in which they commit to contact one another every day (text, email, call, etc.) for the sole purpose of sharing one reason they are thankful.David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-73202096522620447862018-09-18T08:58:00.000-07:002019-02-13T10:46:09.830-08:00Spirit Filled People Submit To One Another (Ephesians 5)<div>
When you think about the Holy Spirit, what are the first thoughts you have? How do you think the Holy Spirit works in people's lives?</div>
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The word for spirit in the New Testament is "pneuma" which also means "breath" (think "pneumonia"). Is it okay to call the Spirit of God the "breath of God?" Why or why not? How does the idea of breathing help explain our relationship with the Holy Spirit?</div>
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What other types of "spirits" can replace the Holy Spirit in our life? (influences, urges, thoughts, desires, inclinations, other people, etc...)</div>
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When have you found yourself in a difficult situation because you weren't paying attention? How did you fix it? What did you learn?</div>
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As a group, read Ephesians 5:15-21.</div>
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What do you think it means to "be careful how you live?" (some translations say, "pay attention to your life")</div>
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How can someone make the most of every opportunity in life? How should a Christian do this differently than someone else?</div>
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Verse 18 is a comparison between two ways of living. Being controlled by "wine" leads to evil deeds. What does being controlled by the Holy Spirit lead to?</div>
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Read verses 19-20. Use your own words to describe what these verses say about the spirit-controlled life.</div>
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What do you think it means to "submit?" What are some negative responses people have to the idea of submission?</div>
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Someone who is controlled by the Holy Spirit will submit to others. Discuss the following questions about submission.</div>
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<li>To whom should you submit?</li>
<li>To whom should you not submit? Why not?</li>
<li>Are there times when submission is wrong?</li>
<li>Why is it difficult to submit to someone else?</li>
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Read Philippians 2:5-11. How did Jesus submit? How can submission make us like Jesus? How does our submission demonstrate our relationship with Jesus?</div>
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What is one area of your life that would benefit from a more submissive attitude? How will you work on this?</div>
David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-20859622741326697082018-08-21T07:31:00.004-07:002018-08-21T07:33:26.824-07:00Using Your Gifts As A Group (1 Corinthians 12)<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">What is the worst injury you have ever suffered? How did it impact your life?</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Which of the following body parts would be worst to lose? Why?</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">(arm, leg, nose, ear, eye, mouth)</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Read 1 Corinthians 12:12-26. Have each person talk about which verse is their favorite.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">What spiritual gifts do you think are critical for the body of Christ to function well?</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">What do you think are the "weaker parts" mentioned in verse 22?</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">As a group, read 1 Corinthians 12:18 out loud together.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Spend time as a group talking about each others' gifts.</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">First, have each person share what they think their gifts are.</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Then take a moment to focus the whole group on each individual and</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">have 2-3 people share how that person is gifted.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">God gave us gifts so we could spread love, meet needs and influence change.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">How can your group use the gifts you have to spread God's love in your community?</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">How can your group use the gifts you have to meet needs at your church?</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">How can your group use the gifts you have to influence change in one another?</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Create a group "to-do" list. Based on the gifts God has given you,</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">identify 5 goals you want to accomplish as a group before the end of 2018.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Pray that God will empower you and encourage you to accomplish these goals.</span></div>
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David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-30171556988396234902018-05-18T10:31:00.000-07:002018-05-18T10:31:05.708-07:00Jesus Took Your Karma For You (John 9)<div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
Read John 9:1-2. Why did the disciples assume this man's blindness was the result of sin?</div>
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When have you felt like God was punishing you for something you did wrong?</div>
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When have you felt like God was rewarding you for something you did right?</div>
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Read John 9:3. How were God's works going to be displayed in the life of the blind man?</div>
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Did this man deserve to be blind? Why or why not? Did he deserve to have sight? Why or why not? Before you were born, what did you do to deserve sight? Did this man deserve to have God's work displayed through him? Why or why not?</div>
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When has God's work been displayed in your life?</div>
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Read 1 Peter 2:24. What did Jesus accomplish when he took your sins upon himself on the cross?</div>
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Think about some of the bad things you have done in your life. How has God protected you or delivered you from the consequences you should have received? </div>
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Make a list of blessings and gifts God has given you that you did not deserve.</div>
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How would you describe the debt that you owe to Jesus? How do you suppose you can repay that debt?</div>
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Knowing what Jesus did for you, how can you "pay it forward?"</div>
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Identify one person in your life that hasn't earned your good will, but to whom you will demonstrate kindness this week.</div>
David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-7183583190638700842018-05-08T08:30:00.002-07:002018-05-08T11:24:27.307-07:00Is God in control? Or are you? (Acts 17)What is the most important speech you have ever given?<br />
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If you were given five minutes to speak to the U.S. Senate, what would you say?<br />
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Read Acts 17:16-31.<br />
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How do you think Paul felt before speaking to such an important group of men?<br />
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Which part of Paul's speech is your favorite? Why?<br />
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Sometimes we act as if God needs something from us, but in verses 24-25, Paul says God doesn't "need" anything. Why should this thought encourage us? How does this knowledge build your trust in God?<br />
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Why is it sometimes hard to trust God?<br />
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Would you rather control your own destiny or have God control it? Why?<br />
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What is going on in your life right now that you cannot control? Read Isaiah 7:4. How should you behave if you are trusting God?<br />
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What is going on in your life that you can control? How will you faithfully steward those opportunities?<br />
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According to verse 27, God wants men to "reach out for him." What do you think it means to "reach out for God?"<br />
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How do you "reach out for God?"<br />
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Read verse 31. One common destiny awaits all men. Death and judgment.<br />
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After the judgment, what destiny awaits those who did reach out for God? What destiny awaits those who did not?<br />
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How should this truth change your life? How should it change your relationship with God? How should it change your relationship with the people around you?David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-761820715891513112018-05-03T08:50:00.000-07:002018-05-03T08:50:14.539-07:00Is your love directed toward the Father or toward the world? (1 John 2)<div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
How would you define "LOVE"?</div>
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Read 1 John 2:15-17</div>
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Define what is meant by "loving the world" (eg. loving food is different than loving a spouse).</div>
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Is it possible to "do" or "have" the things of the world without "loving" them? Why or why not? Give examples.</div>
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Read the three ways John defines "love of the world". Describe how each of these cravings have impacted you throughout your life. </div>
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Read the following verses and discuss what they teach about the Christian's relationship with the world?</div>
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- Matthew 5:13-16</div>
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- 1 Corinthians 7:29-31</div>
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- 1 Peter 2:11-12</div>
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- Titus 2:11-14</div>
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Pride causes us to believe that we alone are responsible for all we have achieved and accumulated. Gratitude helps us defeat pride. Who has helped you become the person you are? How has God helped you achieve your current successes?</div>
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The cravings of the eyes distract us from what God has already provided. Instead of focusing on what you don't have, be content with what God has given. Make a list of five great gifts God has provided.</div>
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Selfishness is refusing to see past my immediate desires for pleasure and fulfillment.(being consumed with the lust of the flesh) The opposite of selfishness is generosity. To whom can you be generous this week?</div>
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How does gratitude help you be more content?</div>
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How does contentment empower you to be generous?</div>
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Love for God begins with focusing on what He has done for us and is completed when we allow that love to flow into our relationships with others. To whom will you demonstrate love this week?</div>
David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-55332538275222541842018-04-18T14:05:00.002-07:002018-04-18T14:05:15.147-07:0020 Questions to Build Group ConnectionsHere is a great exercise for a new group. The instructions are pretty simple. Go around the group giving each person the opportunity to choose one question and answer it honestly. Anyone can follow-up with an opinion or clarifying question (no critiquing each other's answers, though). Once a question has been answered, no one else may answer that question.<br />
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If your group is larger, you may want to alter the rule and allow each question to be answered 2 or 3 times. Ideally, each person should end up answering 3-5 questions.<br />
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As the leader, pay attention to the conversation. Let the discussion run its course as this is how people in the group build their relationships with one another. You can use these questions, modify them or create your own.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr-tmL5DSGnCCFg5mdhLu517jEDXRoIlRHtd_BMqTCfI0HyAUHDwMDBgL12aiHE62lHQC3Zx3G1C6L5EdUfAKs7FhEyudIKczwyx7HmnUVxuj0GSVFPbuPO5yFNo0j596XpnOttlykKUw/s1600/20questions.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="537" data-original-width="379" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr-tmL5DSGnCCFg5mdhLu517jEDXRoIlRHtd_BMqTCfI0HyAUHDwMDBgL12aiHE62lHQC3Zx3G1C6L5EdUfAKs7FhEyudIKczwyx7HmnUVxuj0GSVFPbuPO5yFNo0j596XpnOttlykKUw/s1600/20questions.png" /></a></div>
David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-63243562710172611352017-11-29T05:03:00.003-08:002017-11-29T05:03:39.278-08:002 Friends and 1 Enemy (2 Samuel 15-17)<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The story of Absalom’s rebellion can be found in 2 Samuel 14-19 (chapter 13 also provides a little context). Today’s questions will focus mostly on chapters 15-16 which tells the story of David escaping Jerusalem before Absalom and his army arrive. We are going to explore David’s conversations with 4 men and seek to learn important lessons from these interactions.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Name 2-3 people whose character you would like your life to reflect. Specifically, what character traits do you admire in these people?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Read 2 Samuel 15:18-23. What are 4-5 words you would use to describe Ittai?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Even though he didn’t have to, Ittai chose to stay and fight with David. What actions can you take this week that are not necessary, but will be beneficial to others in your life?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Read 2 Samuel 15:32-37. Was David’s request of Hushai easy or difficult? Why? </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(You can read more of Hushai’s story in 2 Samuel 17:1-23)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What difficult assignment has God given you right now? Why is it difficult? What is your plan for accomplishing it?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Read 2 Samuel 16:1-4. Why did Ziba’s appearance put David in a difficult spot? What would you have done if you were David?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Read about Mephibosheth and the rest of Ziba’s account in 2 Samuel 19:24-30. How does this new information change the story?</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When have you gotten a story wrong by believing the first version you heard? When has someone done this to you? Who in your life do you need to work on giving the “benefit of the doubt” instead of always believing the worst about them?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Read 2 Samuel 16:5-13. How would you have responded to Shimei?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Why do you think David was able to respond the way he did?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When are you tempted to repay evil with evil? How would your life and relationships change if you could learn to repay evil with good?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Which of these characters has made the biggest impact on your life? After studying each of these stories, what is your next step?</span></div>
David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329849813822468044.post-19653232508917143552017-11-16T07:09:00.001-08:002017-11-16T11:03:24.262-08:00Finding Balance (2 Samuel 13)<div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #353535; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
Read 2 Samuel 13:1-22. What words would you use to describe this story?</div>
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Think and talk about the decisions made by the main characters in this story (Amnon, Jonadab, David). What do you think caused them to make the choices they did? What should each of them have done differently?</div>
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If you were David, what would you have done when you learned about Amnon's abuse of his sister?</div>
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If you were Absalom, what would you have done when you learned about Amnon's abuse of your sister?</div>
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Why do you think these two men responded the way they did?</div>
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Read Joshua 1:9. What would have been the "strong" and "courageous" response to Amnon's behavior?</div>
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Read 2 Samuel 13:23-39. Was Absalom justified in his response to Amnon? Why or why not?</div>
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When have you overreacted to a situation in your life? What was the result?</div>
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Often in life, we must work to find a balance between two extremes. How do you find a balance between being overly passive toward evil and overreacting toward evil?</div>
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In your spiritual life, how are struggling with passivity? How are struggling with overreaction?</div>
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What can you do this week to bring some balance into your spiritual life? </div>
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How can other people help you with this endeavor?</div>
David Ruddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03025765446712893098noreply@blogger.com0