Lifetogether community life interior (single pages)

Copyright © 2017 by Community Life Church.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Published by Community Life Church.

Copyright and use of the curriculum template is retained by Brett Eastman.

Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved ISBN Printed in the United States of America

CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CONTENTS • Introduction • Using This Workbook (Read This First) • Outline for Each Session • SESSION 1: Just Tell Me What to Do • SESSION 2: Wisdom to Discern • SESSION 3: Trust the Process • SESSION 4: Start/Stop • SESSION 5: Stay/Go • SESSION 6: Faith in the Storm

05 06 08 10 25 38 52 66 80

APPENDICEs • Frequently Asked Questions • Small Group Agreement • Small Group Calendar • Memory Verse Cards (Clip and Review) • Prayer and Praise Report • Small Group Roster

96 97 98 99 101 102

SMALL GROUP LEADERS • Hosting an Open House • Leading for the First Time • Leadership Training • Notes

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106 107 108 110

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION Over the next six weeks, you will hear us say over and over again how grateful we are that you have decided to participate in this Community Group series. If this is your first time to be a part of a group, there is no way to describe what God has in store for you. If you’re a Community Group veteran, we trust that you are eager to dive even deeper into your knowledge of God and your relationship with others.

As pastors, people regularly ask us, “What is God’s will for my life?” Most people have asked this question at one point or another, because life tends to present multiple variables and a myriad of options. When you come to a fork in the road — in your marriage, your career, your parenting, your dating, your finances, your faith — what are you supposed to do? Where is the road map?

Why doesn’t God just write it out for you on a sheet of paper?

He doesn’t write out the directions for us in that way because his goal is bigger than just getting us from one place to another. He wants us to learn how to hear him. He wants us to learn how to trust him. He wants us to learn how to follow him. In God’s economy, the destination is not nearly as important as the journey of learning to discern his will for our lives.

We can relate to this firsthand. When we felt God leading us to start c|Life, the “what” was crystal clear, but the “how to” was incredibly blurry. We knew that God had given us a vision and a goal, but we didn’t exactly know where to find the turn-by-turn directions.

We went to Google and typed “how to start a church” into the search box. Seriously, we actually Googled it, because we just didn’t know how to do the things we felt God leading us to do. Eventually, we realized that God would give us turn-by-turn directions, and he would do it using his Word, his Holy Spirit and his people. The truth that came from the Scripture was empowered by the Holy Spirit and implemented through the people of God — and it was an amazing thing to see.

Over these next few weeks, we want to encourage you to trust the process. Whether your life is awesome or on the verge of destruction, we all need help learning how to discern what is next. For the next six weeks, if you will commit to (1) attend church services where you can learn from the Word of God, (2) remain open to the leadership and empowerment of the Holy Spirit, and (3) attend a weekly Community Group where you can interact with, learn from and invest in other people who are like you, we believe that God will reveal himself to you in ways that you will not only understand, but that will be game changers on this journey we call life.

We look forward to taking this journey with you, Casey, Randy, Paul and David

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Using this Workbook TOOLS TO HELP YOU HAVE A GREAT SMALL GROUP EXPERIENCE

1. Notice there are three sections in the Table of Contents: (1) Sessions, (2) Appendices, and (3) Small Group Leaders.

Familiarize yourself with the Appendices. Some of them will be used in the sessions themselves.

2. If you are leading or co-leading a small group, the Small Group Leaders section will give you tips for effective leadership, encourage you, and help you avoid a few common obstacles.

3. Use this workbook as a guide, not a straitjacket. If the group responds to the lesson in an unexpected but honest way, go with that. If you think of a better question than the next one in the lesson, ask it. Take to heart the insights included in the Frequently Asked Questions pages and the Small Group Leaders section.

4. Enjoy your small group experience.

5. Pray before each session—for your group members, for your time together, and for wisdom and insights.

6. Read the Outline for Each Session on the pages that follow so you understand how the sessions will flow.

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SESSIO A TYPICAL GROUP SESSION FOR THE DECISIONS STUDY WILL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING SECTIONS. THIS WILL GIVE YOU AN IDEA OF HOW EACH GROUP MEETING MAY BE STRUCTURED.

1. WEEKLY MEMORY VERSES Each session opens with a Memory Verse that emphasizes an important truth from the session.

This is an optional exercise, but we believe memorizing scripture is a powerful way to grow spiritually.

We encourage you to give this important habit a try. The verses for each session are also listed in the appendix.

2. INTRODUCTION Each lesson opens with a brief thought that will help you prepare for the session and get you thinking about that week’s topic.

Make it a practice to read these before the session. You may want to have the group read them aloud.

3. SHARE YOUR STORY The foundation for spiritual growth is an intimate connection with God and one another. You build that connection by sharing your

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story with a few people who really know you and who earn your trust.

This section includes some simple questions to get you talking, letting you share as much or as little of your story as you choose.

4. HEAR GOD'S STORY In this section, you will read the Bible and listen to teaching in order to hear God’s story—and begin to see how His story aligns with yours. When the study directs you to, you will watch a short teaching segment on video. You will then have an opportunity to read a passage of scripture and discuss both the teaching and the text. The goal isn’t only to accumulate information, but to apply the insights from scripture to your daily life.

5. STUDY NOTES This brief section provides additional commentary, background, or insights on the

ON passage you have studied or on some aspect of the video teaching.

6. CREATE A NEW STORY In this section, you will have an opportunity to go beyond Bible study to biblical living. This section will also have a question or two that will challenge you to live out your faith by serving others, sharing your faith, and worshiping God. Everyone is at a different spot in their spiritual journey, so this section offers a variety of ways to engage with the study.

7. FOR ADDITIONAL STUDY If you have time and want to dig deeper into more Bible passages about the topic, we have provided additional passages and questions.

You can use them during the meeting or as homework. Your group may choose to read and prepare before each meeting in order to cover more biblical material. Or, group members can

OUTLINE

use the additional study section during the week after the meeting.

If you prefer not to do study homework, this section will provide you with plenty to discuss within the group. These options allow individuals or the whole group to expand their study while still accommodating those who can’t do homework or are new to your group.

8. DAILY DEVOTIONS Each week on the Daily Devotions pages, we provide scriptures to reflect on between sessions. This provides you with a chance to slow down, read just a small portion of scripture each day, and pray through it. You will then have a chance to journal your response to what you have read. Use this section to seek God on your own throughout the week. This time at home should begin and end with prayer. Don’t get in a hurry; take enough time to hear from God and talk to him!

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just tell me what to do SESSION 1

And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.

1 John 2:17

SESSION 1 Sometimes we wish the Bible had a chapter addressed specifically to our life situations—that “1 Steve chapter 2” told you which job offer to take, or that “Maddy, verse 15” gave you advice on the best college to attend. But God doesn’t give us detailed blueprints for life; instead, He has given us His Word with the principles we need to make good decisions no matter the situation. Over the next few weeks, we will be looking at what God does tell us about choosing the things that honor Him and becoming the people He wants us to be. You don’t get a book of the Bible with your name on it, but all of scripture is a guidebook from your loving Father who wants to work in your life!

LEADER NOTES 1. If your group is new, welcome newcomers. Introduce everyone.

You may even want to have name tags for this first meeting.

2. Open your group with a brief prayer asking God for insight as you study. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during discussion.

3. Before you start this first meeting, get contact information for every participant. Take time to pass around a copy of the Small Group Roster on pages 102-103 or a blank sheet of paper. Ask someone to make copies or type up a list with everyone’s information and email it to the group during the week.

4. Whether your group is new or ongoing, it’s always important to review your values. On page 97 is a Small Group Agreement with

important values for sustaining healthy, balanced groups. Choose one or two of these values—ones you have not previously focused on or those you have room to grow in−to emphasize during this study.

5. The Small Group Calendar on page 98 is a tool for planning who will host and lead each meeting.

Consider rotating hosts and leaders and take a few minutes to plan future meetings.

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SESSION 1

SHARE YOUR STORY Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking: • What brought you here? What do you hope to get out of this group?

• Share briefly about one decision you are trying to make right now.

WATCH THE VIDEO Use the Notes space provided on pages 110-111 to record your thoughts and questions as well as the things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear God’s Story section and start the conversation.

HEAR GOD'S STORY Read Psalm 119:10-16: With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments!

I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Blessed are you, O LORD; teach me your statutes! With my lips I declare all the rules of your mouth. In the way of your testimonies I delight as much as in all riches. I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word.

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SESSION 1 • We have a responsibility to seek God; what is God’s responsibility to us (Verse 10)?

• How do we hide God’s word in our hearts?

• List the verbs the Psalmist uses to describe his interaction with God’s Word in verses 13-16. Do any of these describe the way you relate to scripture?

Which one would you like to describe your relationship to the Bible?

• What does this passage teach us about how we can discover God’s direction in our decisions? How does it reinforce the importance of who we are and what we are motivated by?

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StUD • One of the best ways to learn about the “who” God wants us to be and the “why” He wants for our decisions is by spending time in His Word. However, that doesn’t mean using the famous “close your eyes, open the Bible, and point to a verse” tactic, and it doesn’t mean looking up verses that support what you already want. The best way we can receive direction from the Bible is to know what it says before we face a big decision−to know the big themes, the major teachings, and what the Bible tells us about the character of God and His plan for the world.

• If you have never read the Bible much before, it can seem overwhelming to get started, but a great way to get an overview of the biblical story is to read the “Essential 100”−100 chapters from Genesis to Revelation that can give you the big picture perspective of scripture. Visit https://www.bible.com/readingplans/25-the-essential-100 to learn more.

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NOTES

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SESSION 1

CREATE A NEW STORY In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you have learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you have learned: • Why is God more concerned about who we are than what we do? Why is the “who” more important?

• What is God’s primary will for you? How does that influence His secondary will for you?

• Why are motives so important to the heart of God? • How do motives affect our spiritual power? How does fear of failure or regret keep us from moving forward and making decisions?

FAMILY

(Immediate Or Extended)

FRIENDS

COMMUNITY

(Gym, Hobbies, Hangouts)

CO-WORKERS

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• How do motives affect our spiritual power? How does fear of failure or regret keep us from moving forward and making decisions?

• This week how will you interact with the Bible? Can you commit to spending time in the Daily Devotions? Tell the group how you plan to follow Jesus this week, and then, at your next meeting, talk about your progress and challenges.

• Give each person an opportunity to share prayer requests. If you would like, you can write these on the Prayer and Praise report on page 101.

• Close your meeting with prayer.

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FOR

Additional Study

Take some time between now and our next meeting to dig into God’s Word. Don’t overcomplicate this.

Read the passage and make a few notes.

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SESSION 1

READ MATTHEW 7:7-11 1. What is required of us if we want to hear from God? 2. What is the promise in this passage if we take the initiative?

3. How does God’s character lead us to trust his guidance?

READ EPHESIANS 5:15-20 1. Why does wisdom help us make the most of our opportunities?

2. What instructions does verse 19 give us? How does worship and focusing on God help us understand His will?

3. What is the role of gratitude in our decision making?

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SESSION 1

DAILY DEVOTIONS Use these daily devotions for personal meditation and study: DAY 1 // Read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

REFLECT: This is part of God’s primary will for you: joy, prayer, and giving thanks. Which of these do you need to make more a part of your life?

DAY 2 // Read Proverbs 16:2 All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the spirit.

REFLECT: Today, ask God to help you be honest about your motives.

Where do you need His help doing things for the right reasons?

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SESSION 1 DAY 3 // Read John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.

REFLECT: Jesus wants you to have an abundant life overflowing with joy and peace! Ask Him for the guidance you need to live life to the fullest in obedience to Him.

DAY 4 // Read James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.

REFLECT: This is a huge promise! In what area of life do you need God’s wisdom right now?

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SESSION 1 DAY 5 // Read Hebrews 13:20-21 Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

REFLECT: Pray this slowly to God, asking for Him to shepherd you, equip you, and work in you. He is faithful and He wants to move in your life!

DAY 6 // Use the following space to reflect on what you learned this week and what God is saying to you.

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Wisdom to discern SESSION 2

Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.

Proverbs 13:20

SESSION 2

In his play As You Like It, William Shakespeare writes, “The fool doth think he is wise, but the wise man knows himself to be a fool.” In other words, the more we know, the more we realize we don’t know—and the more we look outside ourselves for help.

Fortunately, through Jesus we are offered the very best help of all. God promises that no matter what decision we are struggling with, and no matter what situation we are facing, He will give us wisdom through His word, His work in our lives, and His people. Today we are looking at what it means to grow in God’s wisdom and how that can shape our decisions.

SHARE YOUR STORY Open your group with a brief prayer asking God for insight as you study.

You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. Then begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking: • How many channels do you receive on your TV at home?

• What is an area of your life where you need God’s wisdom?

• In the last session we asked you to write some names in the Circles of Life diagram. Who did you identify as the people in your life who need to meet Jesus? Go back to the Circles of Life diagram on page 16 to help you think of various people you come in contact with on a

regular basis; people who need to know Jesus more deeply. Consider ideas for action and make a plan to follow through on one of them this week.

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SESSION 2

WATCH THE VIDEO Use the Notes space provided on pages 110-111 to record your thoughts and questions as well as the things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear God’s Story section and start the conversation.

HEAR GOD'S STORY Read James 1:5-8: If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

• Why do you think James added the reminder that we won’t be “rebuked” for asking for wisdom? How do our past failures keep us from returning to God?

• What are some places we put our faith in addition to God? • How does divided loyalty keep us from receiving wisdom?

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SESSION 2

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StUD • This week, Pastor David and Pastor Casey talked about being wise and being foolish. For example, wisdom is choosing good friends who can speak into your life—foolish is throwing water balloons at moving cars!

• The Bible repeatedly contrasts these two character traits.

In scripture, being wise is not the same as being smart or knowledgeable. Wisdom does not mean you necessarily know a lot of facts or even life skills. Instead, being wise is being open to instruction from others and from God. It is a state of mind and a condition of the heart in which you accept responsibility for your actions and make changes based on feedback. Foolishness, on the other hand, is characterized by an unwillingness to change, an avoidance of responsibility, and a stubborn persistence in blaming others.

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NOTES

The book of Proverbs has a lot to say about growing in wisdom and avoiding the foolish. Here are a few passages to learn from: • Proverbs 9:8-9 | Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you; reprove a wise man, and he will love you. Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.

• Proverbs 10:8 | The wise of heart will receive commandments, but a babbling fool will come to ruin.

• Proverbs 12:15 | The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.

• Proverbs 19:20 | Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future.

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SESSION 2

CREATE A NEW STORY In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you have learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you have learned: • Why doesn’t God just spell out exactly what He wants us to do?

• Who are the wise people in your life who can help you grow in wisdom and make good decisions? Why is it so important to choose wise friends?

• Respond to the idea of God as a loving Father who wants to share wisdom with you. What are some decisions He might want to help you with?

• Do you struggle with making decisions? What fears or concerns hold you back?

• Here are some simple ways to connect with God. Tell the group which ones you plan to try this week, and talk about your progress and challenges when you meet next time: 1. Prayer. Commit to personal prayer and daily connection with God. You may find it helpful to write your prayers in a journal.

2. Daily Devotions. The Daily Devotions provided in each session offer an opportunity to read a short Bible passage five days a week during the course of our study. Take time to read carefully and reflect on the passage.

Write down your insights about what you read each day. Copy a portion of scripture on a card and tape it somewhere in your line of sight, such as your car’s dashboard or the bathroom mirror. Or text it to yourself! Think about it when you sit at red lights or while you are eating a meal. Reflect on what God is saying to you through these words. On the sixth day, summarize what God has shown you throughout the week.

• Give each person an opportunity to share prayer requests. If you would like, you can write these on the Prayer and Praise report on page 101.

• Close your meeting with prayer.

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FOR

Additional Study

Take some time between now and our next meeting to dig into God’s Word. Don’t overcomplicate this.

Read the passage and make a few notes.

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SESSION 2

READ JAMES 3:13-18 1. How do our actions show our wisdom (or our foolishness)?

2. Why does wisdom require humility?

3. How is wisdom connected to being a peacemaker?

READ PROVERBS 3:11-18 1. Why does the author connect discipline with wisdom? How does this connect with this week’s teaching about God as our loving Father?

2. What are some ways wisdom is valuable?

3. What blessings can we experience when we “hold fast” to wisdom?

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SESSION 2

DAILY DEVOTIONS Use these daily devotions for personal meditation and study: DAY 1 // Read Job 12:13 With God are wisdom and might; he has counsel and understanding.

REFLECT: God knows everything, understands everything, and has the power to help you make every decision! Ask Him for His help today.

DAY 2 // Read Ecclesiastes 8:1 Who is like the wise? And who knows the interpretation of a thing? A man's wisdom makes his face shine, and the hardness of his face is changed.

REFLECT: Perhaps wisdom changes our faces because we develop more compassion for others. How is wisdom changing you?

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SESSION 2 DAY 3 // Read Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

REFLECT: It is so tempting to rely on what we understand about a situation, but our paths become straight when we submit them to God. Ask for His help today to trust His ways over your own!

DAY 4 // Read Jeremiah 33:3 Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.

REFLECT: Once again, we see God promising to give us wisdom if we will ask. Only He knows the full picture!

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SESSION 2 DAY 5 // Read Ephesians 1:16-17 I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him‌ REFLECT: Pray these words for yourself and for your group members. Pray that God would give each of you the spirit of wisdom and that each of you would draw closer to Him.

DAY 6 // Use the following space to reflect on what you learned this week and what God is saying to you.

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trust the process SESSION 3

For we walk by faith, not by sight.

2 Corinthians 5:7

SESSION 3

Sometimes, it seems that God just doesn’t make sense.

Although we have sought His will in prayer, submitted our lives to His leading, and committed ourselves to following Him, at times we don’t understand the next step He has called us to– or we don’t even know what it is!

If you have ever felt this way, you are not alone. Even the apostle Paul experienced times of uncertainty and struggle, and the scriptures remind us that while God has promised to lead us, He never promised to give us every answer exactly when we want it. Walking with God requires faith in the midst of fear and trust in His character even when we are not certain about the journey. This week we will explore how we can make decisions and run the race one step at a time.

SHARE YOUR STORY Open your group with a brief prayer asking God for insight as you study.

You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. Then begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking: • Have you ever felt like God was telling you to do something? What was the situation, and how did you respond?

• Do you have a favorite scripture that sustains you during difficult times? Share it with the group.

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SESSION 3

WATCH THE VIDEO Use the Notes space provided on pages 110-111 to record your thoughts and questions as well as the things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear God’s Story section and start the conversation.

HEAR GOD'S STORY Read 1 Peter 1:3-9: Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

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SESSION 3 • What is our inheritance in Christ?

• How do the promises of verses 3-5 help us to rejoice even when we are uncertain about the future?

• What does this passage tell us about why God allows resistance when we follow Him? • How do hard times prove that our faith is genuine?

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StUD • In the passage we studied in today’s video, Paul writes that the goal of his life is to finish the race God has called him to (Acts 20:24). Paul and other biblical writers often use running metaphors to describe the Christian life. Consider these examples. What do these passages teach you about knowing and following God’s will?

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NOTES

• Hebrews 12:1-3 | Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. • I Corinthians 9:24-27 | Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. • 2 Timothy 4:6-8 | For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.

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SESSION 3

CREATE A NEW STORY In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you have learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you have learned: • What are some ways you can listen to God? • Why do you think God so often takes us through times of “certain uncertainty?" How does this build our faith?

• How have you experienced resistance when trying to follow God’s leading?

• How can we have confidence even when experiencing hardships?

• What steps will you take this week to grow in your relationship with God? If you have focused on prayer in past weeks, maybe you will want to direct your attention to scripture this week. If you have been reading God’s Word consistently, perhaps you will want to take it deeper and try memorizing a verse. Tell the group what you plan to try this week, and talk about your progress and challenges when you meet next time.

• Give each person an opportunity to share prayer requests. If you’d like, you can write these on the Prayer and Praise report on page 101.

• Close your meeting with prayer.

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FOR

Additional Study

Take some time between now and our next meeting to dig into God’s Word. Don’t overcomplicate this.

Read the passage and make a few notes.

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SESSION 3

READ 2 CORINTHIANS 4:8-12 1. Verse 8 tells us we may sometimes be “perplexed.” There are times that, like Paul, we won’t understand everything that is happening. How do we keep from despairing in those situations?

2. How do we “carry around” the death of Jesus?

3. How do we reveal His life?

READ 2 CORINTHIANS 5:1-9 1. What is our earthly tent? What is our eternal house?

2. How is the Spirit a deposit or a guarantee of our future?

3. What gives us our confidence?

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SESSION 3

DAILY DEVOTIONS Use these daily devotions for personal meditation and study: DAY 1 // Read Psalm 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

REFLECT: We can follow God even when the future seems unclear because we trust Him. No matter what else we’re facing today, His goodness and love are with us.

DAY 2 // Read John 16:33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.

REFLECT: We will have trouble–Jesus guaranteed it. But he is stronger than anything the world can throw at us. Take heart! Be encouraged!

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SESSION 3 DAY 3 // Read Romans 8:31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

REFLECT: God is for you today! Thank Him for His blessings and His care for you no matter what is happening in your life.

DAY 4 // Read Isaiah 55:8-9 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.

REFLECT: Sometimes we don’t understand why something is happening because we just can’t have God’s perspective. However, He knows the whole story, and He will work for our good.

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SESSION 3 DAY 5 // Read Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

REFLECT: Even during uncertainty and struggle, we can walk in God’s joy, peace, and hope when we are following His will!

DAY 6 // Use the following space to reflect on what you learned this week and what God is saying to you.

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Start/ stop SESSION 4

For whoever has despised the day of small things shall rejoice‌ Zechariah 4:10

SESSION 4

In 2005, an artist named David Choe was asked to paint the offices of a small start-up company. The company offered to either pay him a few thousand dollars for his time or to pay him in company stock. Choe picked the stock, and eventually those Facebook shares grew to be worth $200 million.

Around the same time, Blockbuster got the chance to buy Netflix. It wasn’t a small deal – Netflix wanted $50 million– but it would have allowed Blockbuster to be the company that transformed video on demand and online video streaming.

Instead, Blockbuster said no, and went bankrupt in 2013.

Small decisions now can have a huge impact on the future.

Although you probably won’t get the stock options or the business deal of the century, each day you make a number of choices that can determine the course of your life. Today we are looking at the small things we can start doing, the small things we might need to stop doing, and how they can change us in big ways.

SHARE YOUR STORY Open your group with a brief prayer asking God for insight as you study.

You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. Then begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking: • What is a small decision you have made that has had a big impact on your life?

• What is one of your good habits? What is one of your not-so-good habits?

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SESSION 4

WATCH THE VIDEO Use the Notes space provided on pages 110-111 to record your thoughts and questions as well as the things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear God’s Story section and start the conversation.

HEAR GOD'S STORY Read Romans 12:1-2: I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

• What does it mean to be a living sacrifice? How is this an act of worship?

• What are the patterns of this world? How are we tempted to conform to them?

• How do we transform and become more like Jesus?

• What is the promise if we obey the instructions in this passage?

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SESSION 4

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StUD •  Over the centuries, Christians have identified a number of spiritual disciplines, or practices, designed to help you draw closer to God and allow His spirit to transform them. Take a look at this list of the disciplines. Are there one or two that especially appeal to you at this season of life? How could you be more intentional about incorporating those disciplines into the daily or weekly rhythm of your life?

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NOTES

• Solitude – Spending time alone with God. • Silence – Choosing not to speak as a way to listen to God or to others.

• Fasting – Going without food or some other pleasure for a set period of time in order to pray and refocus your mind.

• Sabbath – Intentionally refraining from work on a regular basis in order to rest and renew.

• Bible Reading – Reading the Word.

• Worship – Praising God for who He is and thanking Him for what He has done (This doesn’t have to involve music).

• Reflection – Thinking about God’s word, prayerfully considering a scriptural idea, and applying it to your own life (Journaling may be helpful here).

• Service – Serving others in a tangible way to bless them and glorify God .

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SESSION 4

CREATE A NEW STORY In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you have learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you have learned: • What is a habit or discipline you would like to start? (See Study Notes for some ideas).

• Why is worshiping with your church family such an important habit to develop?

• What is something you need to get rid of or stop doing so you can hear from God? • Can a choice be good for one person and not another? Can a habit be good to start in one season of our lives and good to stop in a different season?

• Each of you in the group has different gifts and abilities, and every small group has jobs that need to be done. How could you serve this group— perhaps with hospitality or prayer, by organizing an event, researching a topic, or by inviting new people?

• Spend some time praying about those you know who might respond to a simple invitation: to come to a church service, to join your small group, or even to just have coffee and talk about spiritual matters. Ask the Holy Spirit to bring to mind people you can pray for.Close your meeting with prayer.

• Groups grow closer when they serve together. How could your group serve someone in need? You may want to work in the Coffee Bar, help with Momentum Wednesday night, or plan an outside service project. If nothing comes to mind, spend some group time praying and asking God to show you who needs your help. Have two or three group members organize a serving project for the group, and then do it!

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Additional Study

Take some time between now and our next meeting to dig into God’s Word. Don’t overcomplicate this.

Read the passage and make a few notes.

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SESSION 4

READ DANIEL 6 1. How did Daniel’s choices lead him to professional success?

2. How did Daniel’s choices lead him to experience extreme trials?

3. What do we learn about starting things from his story?

READ EXODUS 18 1. How did Moses’ choices lead him to experience difficulty and struggle 2. How did Jethro demonstrate wisdom in this situation? How did Moses demonstrate wisdom?

3. What do we learn about stopping things from this story?

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SESSION 4

DAILY DEVOTIONS Use these daily devotions for personal meditation and study: DAY 1 // Read Ephesians 5:8-10 ...for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord.

REFLECT: What does it mean to live as children of light? How does that help you make better decisions?

DAY 2 // Read Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

REFLECT: What are habits you can develop that will encourage other believers and help them follow Christ?

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SESSION 4 DAY 3 // Read Matthew 14:23 And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone‌ REFLECT: Jesus made a habit of prayer, and modeled it for others. If Jesus and the disciples need to pray often, so do we!

DAY 4 // Read Psalm 34:1 I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.

REFLECT: Is praise and gratitude to God always coming from your mouth?

If not, how would developing this habit transform your life?

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SESSION 4 DAY 5 // Read 2 Timothy 1:7 ‌for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.

REFLECT:Remember that the Spirit of God lives in you. No matter what you need to start or stop, it is through His power that you can accomplish it!

DAY 6 // Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

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stay/ go SESSION 5

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven‌.

Ecclesiastes 3:1

SESSION 5

In 1982, punk rock group The Clash released their now-famous song, “Should I Stay or Should I Go?” In a series of (somewhat repetitive) lyrics, the singer asks his love whether he should stay in the relationship or leave. Needless to say, the song ends without him receiving an answer.

Sometimes we can relate to this song as we face decisions in our lives. Should I stay in this job, this ministry role, this relationship, in this city, or should I move, go back to school, switch jobs, and end the friendship? This week we will see there are times when God is calling us to keep going, be faithful, and grow by staying. Other times he calls us to stop, end a chapter, and grow by going. Fortunately, God’s Word provides much more clarity than an ‘80s song, and today we will dive into the Bible and explore how to know when we should stay and when we should go.

SHARE YOUR STORY Open your group with a brief prayer asking God for insight as you study.

You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. Then begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking: • Do you tend to follow through on the things you start, or are you more likely to start a lot of things but not finish them?

• How do you know when it’s time for a job, a relationship, or a commitment to end?

• Do you have a default response?

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SESSION 5

WATCH THE VIDEO Use the Notes space provided on pages 110-111 to record your thoughts and questions as well as the things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear God’s Story section and start the conversation.

HEAR GOD'S STORY Read Ecclesiastes 3:1-11: For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace. What gain has the worker from his toil? I have seen the business that God has given to the children of man to be busy with.

He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, he has put eternity into man's heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end.

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SESSION 5 • Read through the entire passage. What wisdom does it offer those who are called to stay in a situation? What wisdom does it give those who have been called to go?

• Share an example of how one of these verses has been true in your own life. For instance, perhaps there was a time when you were called to build a new business or ministry and a different time when you were called to stay faithful and maintain it, or maybe you experienced a season when you mourned the end of a dream and another season when you were called to a new adventure.

• What does it mean to have eternity in our hearts? How can this be a burden?

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StUD •  How do you know when it is time to leave something or let it go? And how do you do it well? One of the best resources to answer these questions is Necessary Endings by Christian psychologist Dr. Henry Cloud. In this book, Dr. Cloud shares why growth requires us to leave some situations, how to accept life as a series of seasons, how to have the difficult conversations that are sometimes required, and how to move forward into the future. If you are feeling called to stop something or move toward something new, consider using this book as a resource for the journey!

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NOTES

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SESSION 5

CREATE A NEW STORY In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you have learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you have learned: • What is the difference between intentionally stopping something and giving up?

• How does God’s faithfulness to us model what it means to stay despite difficulty?

• Can you look back and see how God has blessed your decision to stay?

• Just because something is scary or difficult doesn’t mean it is not from God. Why does God so often challenge us when he asks us to go?

• Spend some time praying about those you know who might respond to a simple invitation: to come to a church service, to join your small group, or even just to have coffee and talk about spiritual matters. Ask the Holy Spirit to bring to mind people you can pray for.

• A strong group is made up of people who are all being filled up by God, so that they are empowered to love one another. What specific steps will you take this week to connect with God privately, so He can “fill you up?”

If you have focused on prayer in past weeks, maybe you will want to direct your attention to scripture this week. If you have been reading God’s Word consistently, perhaps you will want to take it deeper and try memorizing a verse. Tell the group what you plan to try this week and share your progress and your challenges at the next meeting.

• Give each person an opportunity to share prayer requests. If you would like, you can write these on the Prayer and Praise report on page 101.

• Close your meeting with prayer.

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Additional Study

Take some time between now and our next meeting to dig into God’s Word. Don’t overcomplicate this.

Read the passage and make a few notes.

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SESSION 5

READ GALATIANS 6:7-10 1. What are some ways we reap what we sow? How have you experienced this?

2. How can we sow to please the Spirit?

3. Have you become weary in doing good? How can this passage give purpose to your call to stay faithful?

READ MATTHEW 28:18-20 1. Why does Jesus begin His message by confirming His authority?

2. Why does He end the message with reassurance of His presence?

3. How do you think the disciples felt when they received this call to go?

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SESSION 5

DAILY DEVOTIONS Use these daily devotions for personal meditation and study: DAY 1 // Read Habakkuk 2:3 For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie.

If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.

REFLECT: Has God given you a vision or a calling? How can you wait patiently for His timing?

DAY 2 // Read Isaiah 43:18-19 “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert."

REFLECT: Why do we have to let go of the past to start something new?

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SESSION 5 DAY 3 // Read 2 Peter 3:8 But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.

REFLECT: God’s timing is very different from ours! What are you waiting on God for? How does this verse change the way you think about the wait?

DAY 4 // Read Isaiah 41:10 Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

REFLECT: Over and over in scripture, God commands His people not to fear. Where is God calling you to go? Ask Him for His strength and help!

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SESSION 5 DAY 5 // Read Hebrews 6:10-11 For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do. And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end…

REFLECT: Is it encouraging to realize that God sees your faithfulness and hard work? How can you show diligence to the “very end” to honor God and live in hope?

DAY 6 // Use the following space to reflect on what you learned this week and what God is saying to you.

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faith in the storm SESSION 6

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28

SESSION 6

Sometimes we believe it is a sin to doubt God, but a careful reading of scripture shows us that many of the people God used—including some of the first apostles and church leaders—experienced doubts about God’s presence and God’s goodness during difficult times.

It is okay to be honest about our doubts; in fact, God can even use those moments to grow our faith and build our relationship with Him. As we close this study, let us look at how we respond to God when life is hard and how we can make the decision to trust Him in the midst of our challenges. should go.

SHARE YOUR STORY Open your group with a brief prayer asking God for insight as you study.

You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. Then begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking: • What has surprised you most about this group? What did God teach you over the last six weeks?

• What is one thing you really want to ask God when you get to heaven?

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SESSION 6

WATCH THE VIDEO Use the Notes space provided on pages 110-111 to record your thoughts and questions as well as the things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear God’s Story section and start the conversation.

HEAR GOD'S STORY Read Romans 8:22-28: For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.

Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

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SESSION 6 • What is all of creation “groaning” and waiting for so expectantly?

• How does the Spirit help us? How does this change the way you think about God’s love for you?

• Have you ever experienced pain so deep that you found it difficult to put it into words? React to the idea that in those moments the Spirit was praying for you.

• What does verse 28 tell us about why we can trust God during difficult times?

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StUD • In this week’s video, Pastor David and Pastor Randy talked about the apostle Paul’s struggle−an ongoing issue in Paul’s life that God refused to take away. Here is where we read about it in scripture: • 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 | So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited.

Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

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NOTES

• For centuries, biblical scholars have debated what Paul’s “thorn” was. Some believe it was failing eyesight; they point to passages like Galatians 6:11 in which Paul remarks on how big he has to write when he writes with his own hand. Some believe the thorn was a general reference to the many forms of persecution he experienced throughout his ministry. Still others suggest the thorn was his regrets over how he persecuted the church (Acts 8:13), a recurrent physical issue like epilepsy, or a mental struggle like depression.

• We can’t know for certain what Paul was dealing with, but the specifics of his difficulties are not really the point. The point is that even Paul−a great leader of the church, a man who walked closely with God, and a man who wrote much of the New Testament−was not kept from suffering any more than we are. What matters is not what he had to face, but how he chose to face it−and what we can learn from his example.

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SESSION 6

CREATE A NEW STORY In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you have learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you have learned: • Respond to the idea that our response to challenges determines the story we tell in the future. How have you found that to be true in your own life?

• Have you ever gone through a time of doubting God’s goodness, or His existence?

• How can you be a person of faith and still wrestle with doubt? How can doubt actually lead to faith?

• Can you relate to Thomas’ doubt? Would you be skeptical like he was?

• Why did God allow Paul to experience his “thorn”? Does it encourage you to know that even this great man of God experienced difficulties, or does it discourage you to realize that God allows weaknesses so we can grow?

• If your group still needs to make decisions about continuing to meet after this session, have that discussion now. Talk about what you will study, who will lead, and when you will meet.

• Review your Small Group Agreement on page 99 and evaluate how well you met your goals. Discuss any changes you want to make as you move forward.

• Close by praying for your prayer requests and take a couple of minutes to review the praises you have recorded over the past five weeks on the Prayer and Praise Report on page 101. Spend some time thanking God for all He has done in your group during this study.

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Additional Study

Take some time between now and our next meeting to dig into God’s Word. Don’t overcomplicate this.

Read the passage and make a few notes.

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SESSION 6

READ 2 CORINTHIANS 4:16-18 1. What does it mean to be inwardly renewed 2. How do our earthly trials create an eternal glory?

3. What are the unseen things we should fix our eyes on? What are some ways to keep our eyes fixed on the things of God?

READ PSALM 27 1. What reasons does this psalm give us for courage in the midst of our struggles?

2. What should our focus be during difficult times (verses 4-6)?

3. Why is it significant that the Psalm ends with confidence and hope? How can we “take heart� and wait on God?

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SESSION 6

DAILY DEVOTIONS Use these daily devotions for personal meditation and study: DAY 1 // Read Psalm 32:10 Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds the one who trusts in the LORD. REFLECT: Trusting God doesn’t mean we won’t experience struggles, but it does mean we’re not alone in them. Ask for God to increase your faith in the midst of whatever your facing right now.

DAY 2 // Read Romans 8:18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.

REFLECT: It can be difficult to keep this perspective when times are hard, but it is true that whatever we are experiencing now will be a small matter in light of eternity.

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SESSION 6 DAY 3 // Read Psalm 10:12, 17-18 Arise, O LORD; O God, lift up your hand; forget not the afflicted. O LORD, you hear the desire of the afflicted; you will strengthen their heart; you will incline your ear to do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed, so that man who is of the earth may strike terror no more.

REFLECT: The Psalms are full of assurances like this that God is close to us when we are hurting and feeling helpless. Thank God for His comfort, for His encouragement, and for listening to you during dark times.

DAY 4 // Read Hebrews 4:15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.

REFLECT: Whatever we are struggling with, Jesus understands. Take your problems and heartaches to Him and trust that He loves you.

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SESSION 6 DAY 5 // Read Psalm 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!

REFLECT: Take a few moments to end this week by sitting quietly before God and allowing Him to give you His peace. Be still and know that He is God, and He can be trusted.

DAY 6 // Use the following space to reflect on what you learned this week and what God is saying to you.

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Appendices RESOURCES TO MAKE YOUR SMALL GROUP EXPERIENCE EVEN BETTER

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APPENDICES

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What do we do on the first night of our group?

Like all fun things in life—have a party! A "get-to-know-you" coffee, dinner, or dessert is a great way to launch a new study. You may want to review the Small Group Agreement and share the names of a few friends you can invite to join you. But most importantly, have fun before your study time begins.

Can we do this study on our own?

This is study is best experienced by gathering with others. You may choose to gather with another couple, with a few friends or co-workers, or with anyone in your sphere of influence. At the same time, the material can be engaged in as part of your personal spiritual practice.

What if this group is not working for us?

You are not alone! This could be the result of a personality conflict, life stage difference, geographical distance, level of spiritual maturity—any number of things. Relax. Pray for God's direction, and at the end of this study, decide whether to continue with this group or find another. However, don't bail out before the six weeks are up because God might have something to teach you.

Also, don't run from conflict or prejudge people before you have given them a chance. God is still working in your life, too!

Who is the leader?

Most groups have an official leader. Ideally, though, the group will mature, and members will rotate the leadership of meetings. Healthy groups often rotate hosts and leaders on a regular basis. This model ensures that all members grow, give their unique contribution, and develop their gifts.

How do we handle the childcare needs in our group?

Very carefully. Seriously, this can be a sensitive issue. We suggest that you empower the group to openly brainstorm solutions. You may try one option that works for a while and then adjust over time. Check with your campus pastor on how to pay for a childcare worker. A second option is to use one home for the kids and a second home (close by or a phone call away) for the adults. A third idea is to rotate the responsibility of providing a lesson or caring for the children. This can be an incredible blessing for kids. Another option is everyone finds their own childcare. No matter what decision the group makes, the best approach is to dialogue openly about both the problem and the solution.

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APPENDICES

SMALL GROUP AGREEMENT

OUR PURPOSE To provide an environment where participants experience authentic community and spiritual growth.

OUR VALUES • Group Attendance: To give priority to the group meeting. We will call or email if we will be late or absent. (Completing the Group Calendar on page 98 will minimize this issue).

• Safe Environment: To create a safe place where people can be heard and feel loved. (Please, no quick answers, snap judgments, or simple fixes).

• Respect Differences: To be gentle and gracious to fellow group members with different personal opinions, temperaments, “imperfections,” or levels of spiritual maturity. We are all works in progress.

• Confidentiality: To keep anything that is shared strictly confidential and within the group and to avoid sharing improper information about those outside the group.

• Encouragement for Growth: To be givers of life, not just takers. We want to spiritually multiply our life by serving others with our God-given gifts.

• Shared Ownership: To remember that every member is a minister and to ensure that each attender will share a small team role or responsibility over time.

• Rotating Hosts/Leaders and Homes: To encourage different people to host the group in their homes and to rotate the responsibility of facilitating each meeting. (See the Group Calendar on page 98).

OUR EXPECTATIONS • Refreshments/Mealtimes: • Childcare:

• When we will meet (DAY OF WEEK):

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APPENDICES

GROUP CALENDAR • Where we will meet (PLACE): • We will begin at (TIME): and end at: • We will do our best to have some or all of us attend a worship service together. Our primary worship service time will be: • Date of this agreement: • Date we will review this agreement again:

• Who (other than the leader) will review this agreement at the end of this study:

MEETING DATE

LESSON NUMBER

HOST HOME

DESSERT/ MEAL

GROUP LEADER

MONDAY JAN. 15

1

STEVE & LAURA'S

JOE

BILL

Planning and calendaring can ensure the greatest participation at every meeting. At the end of each meeting, review this calendar. Be sure to include a regular rotation of host homes, leaders, and food.

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APPENDICES

MEMORY VERSE CARDS

SESSION ONE

1 John 2:17 | And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.

SESSION TWO

Proverbs 13:20 | Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.

SESSION THREE

2 Corinthians 5:7 | For we walk by faith, not by sight.

SESSION FOUR

Zechariah 4:10 | For whoever has despised the day of small things shall rejoice…..

SESSION FIVE

Ecclesiastes 3:1 | For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.

SESSION SIX

Romans 8:28 | And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

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APPENDICES

MEMORY VERSE CARDS

CLIP & REVIEW THE MEMORY VERSES ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THIS PAGE.

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APPENDICES

PRAYER & PRAISE REPORT

PRAISE REPORT

SESSION 6

SESSION 5

SESSION 4

SESSION 3

SESSION 2

SESSION 1

PRAYER REQUEST

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APPENDICES

SMALL GROUP ROSTER

NAME

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EMAIL

PHONE #

APPENDICES

SMALL GROUP ROSTER

NAME

EMAIL

PHONE #

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Small Group Leaders KEY RESOURCES TO HELP YOUR LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE BE THE BEST IT CAN BE

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SMALL GROUP LEADERS

HOSTING AN OPEN HOUSE If you are starting a new group, try planning an “open house” before your first formal group meeting. Even if you have only two to four core members, it is a great way to break the ice and get a chance to pray together about others who might be open to joining you over the next few weeks. You can also use this kick-off meeting to hand out study guides, spend some time getting to know each other, discuss each person’s expectations for the group, and briefly pray for each other. A simple meal or good desserts always make a kick-off meeting more fun.

After people introduce themselves, have everyone respond to a few icebreaker questions: • What was your favorite family vacation?

• What is one thing you love about our church/community?

• What are three things about your life growing up that most people here don’t know?

Next, ask everyone to tell what he or she hopes to get out of the study. You will want to review the Small Group Agreement and talk about each person’s expectations and priorities.

Finally, set an open chair (maybe two) in the circle of your group and explain that it represents someone who would enjoy or benefit from this group but who is not here yet. Ask people to pray about inviting someone to join the group over the next few weeks. Hand out postcards and have everyone write an invitation or two. Don’t worry about ending up with too many people; you can always have one discussion circle in the living room and another in the dining room after you watch the lesson. Each group could then report prayer requests and progress at the end of the session.

You can skip this kick-off meeting if your time is limited, but you will experience a huge benefit if you take the time to connect with each other in this way.

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SMALL GROUP LEADERS

LEADING FOR THE FIRST TIME Don't panic. Sweaty palms are a healthy sign: Scripture says God is gracious to the humble. Remember Who is in control. The time to worry is when you are not worried. Those who are soft in heart (and sweaty-palmed) are those through whom God is sure to speak.

Seek support: Ask your leader, co-leader, or close friend to pray for you and prepare with you before the session. Walking through the study will help you anticipate potentially difficult questions and discussion topics.

Bring your uniqueness to the study: Lean into who you are and how God wants you to lead the study uniquely.

Prepare. Prepare. Prepare: Go through the session several times. If you are using the video, listen to the teaching segment and Leadership Lifter.

Don't wait until the last minute to prepare.

Ask for feedback so you can grow: Perhaps in an email or on cards handed out at the study, have everyone write down three things you did well and one thing you could improve on. Don't get defensive. Instead, show an openness to learn and grow.

Prayerfully consider launching a new group: This doesn't need to happen overnight, but keep growth as a goal. Not all Christians are called to be leaders or teachers, but we are all called to be "shepherds" of a few someday.

Share with your group what God is doing in your heart: God is searching for those whose hearts are fully His. Share your trials and victories. We promise that people will relate.

Watch the weekly Leader Lifter: It will give insight to your week.

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CONGRATULATIONS! You have responded to the call to help lead your group. As you prepare to lead, whether it is one session or the entire series, here are a few thoughts to keep in mind: 1. Remember God is with you. It is common for good leaders to feel they are not ready to lead. Moses, Solomon, Jeremiah, and Timothy were all reluctant to lead. God promises, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). Whether you are leading for one evening, for several weeks, or for a lifetime, you will be blessed as you serve.

2. Don’t try to do it alone. Pray right now for God to help you build a healthy leadership team. If you can enlist a co-leader to help you lead the group, you will find your experience to be much richer. This is your chance to involve as many people as you can in building a healthy group. All you have to do is call and ask people to help. You will probably be surprised at the response.

3. Just be yourself. If you won’t be you, who will? God wants you to use your unique gifts and temperament. Don’t try to do things exactly like another leader; do them in a way that fits you! Just admit it when you don’t have an answer, and apologize when you make a mistake. Your group will love you for it, and you will sleep better at night!

4. Prepare for your meeting ahead of time. Review the session and the leader’s notes, and write down your responses to each question. Pay special attention to exercises that ask group members to do something other than engage in discussion. These exercises will help your group live what the Bible teaches, not just talk about it. Be sure you understand how an exercise works, and bring any necessary supplies (such as paper and pens) to your meeting. If the exercise employs one of the items in the appendix, be sure to look over that item so you will know how it works. Finally, review “Outline for Each Session” so you will remember the purpose of each section in the study.

5. Pray for your group members by name. Before you begin your session, go around the room in your mind and pray for each member by name. You may want to review the prayer list at least once a week. Ask God to use your time together to touch the heart of every person uniquely. Expect God to lead you to whomever He wants you to encourage or challenge in a special way. If you listen, God will surely lead!

6. When you ask a question, be patient. Someone will eventually respond.

Sometimes people need a moment or two of silence to think about the question. If silence doesn’t bother you, it won’t bother anyone else. After

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someone responds, affirm the response with a simple “thanks” or “good job.” Then ask, “How about somebody else?” or “Would someone who has not shared like to add anything?” Be sensitive to new people or reluctant members who are not ready to say, pray or do anything. If you give them a safe setting, they will blossom over time.

7. Provide transitions between questions. When guiding the discussion, always read aloud the transitional paragraphs and the questions. Ask the group if anyone would like to read the paragraph or Bible passage. Don’t call on anyone, but ask for a volunteer, and then be patient until someone begins. Be sure to thank the person who reads aloud.

8. Break up into smaller groups each week. If your group has more than 15 people, we strongly encourage you to have the group gather at times in smaller circles during the Hear God’s Story or Change Your Story sections of the study. This is an option but not necessary for all groups. With a greater opportunity to talk in a small circle, people will connect more with the study, apply what they are learning more quickly, and ultimately get more out of it. A small circle also encourages a quiet person to participate and tends to minimize the effects of a more vocal or dominant member. When you gather again at the end of the section, you can have one person summarize the highlights from each circle. Small circles are also helpful during prayer time.

People who are unaccustomed to praying aloud will feel more comfortable trying it with smaller circles. Also, prayer requests won’t take as much time, so circles will have more time to actually pray. When you gather back with the whole group, you can have one person from each circle briefly update everyone on the prayer requests. People are more willing to pray in small circles if they know that the whole group will hear all the prayer requests.

9. Rotate facilitators weekly. At the end of each meeting, ask the group who should lead the following week. Let the group help select your weekly facilitator. You may be perfectly capable of leading each time, but you will help others grow in their faith and gifts if you give them opportunities to lead. You can use the Small Group Calendar to fill in the names of all meeting leaders at once if you prefer.

10. One final challenge (for new or first time leaders): Before your first opportunity to lead, look up each of the five passages listed below. Read each one as a devotional exercise to help yourself develop a shepherd’s heart. Trust us on this one. If you do this, you will be more than ready for your first meeting.

MATTHEW 9:36 1 PETER 5:2-4 PSALM 23 EZEKIEL 34:11-16 1 THESSALONIANS 2:7-8, 11-12

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