Growing Together - Life Group Curriculum by MYNW

GROWING TOGETHER

Copyright @ 2024 by Northwest Christian Church ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Published by Northwest Christian Church Copyright and use of the curriculum template is retained by Brett Eastman. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotes are taken from Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Printed in the United States of America

GROWING TOGETHER

Contents Welcome

SE SSIO N 1 : Weekly Sermon

S E S S I O N 4 : Gathering at Church

SE SSIO N 2 : Small Group

S E S S I O N 5 : Gathering at Church

SE SSIO N 3: Solo Time

Journal Notes

T H I N G S I ’ M P R AY I N G F O R

THINGS I’M PONDERING FURTHER

T H I N G S I ’ M P U T T I N G I N T O P R AC T I C E

T H I N G S I ’ M P L A N N I N G A N D P R E PA R I N G F O R

Introduction Welcome and thank you for taking this next step! I’m so excited that you are joining me and others on this next step in our Faith Journey!

GROWING TOGETHER

My sincere hope and prayer is that this journey we’re calling “Growing Together,” will be transformative and enriching for each of us as we explore the importance of growing in our faith— and we get to do this together, as a community. We firmly believe that we are not meant to walk this journey alone. Connecting with one another in genuine and meaningful ways is essential for our growth and flourishing in our faith. By intentionally investing in authentic relationships, we can support, encourage, and challenge one another in our faith. I believe you will find the topics in this series—trust, truth, treasure, time, talent, and touch—very relevant in your everyday life. These areas relate to significant aspects of our lives and faith as we seek to align ourselves with God’s will and purpose. We will explore how these topics intersect with our relationships, our understanding of God’s Word, and our daily lives. We will dive into not just learning God’s truth but more importantly, applying God’s truth in our everyday lives. As we embark on this journey together, we invite you to actively engage and participate in a Life Group and join together in Worship during our weekend services. These intentional moments of fellowship and learning will enable us to grow deeper in our faith and foster an environment of love, support, and accountability. Together, we can spur one another on towards greater growth, boldness, and impact for the kingdom of God. By engaging in both large group gatherings and small group fellowship, we can experience the full benefit of being part of our NCC community. Ephesians 4:16 (NLT) reminds us, “As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.” Our goal is to be a healthy, growing, and loving church community. Together, as we connect, grow, and serve, we will experience profound growth in our faith and deepen our relationship with God and one another. So, once again, thank you for joining us in the Growing Together series. May this series ignite a passion for spiritual growth and encourage unity within our community. Let’s walk together as we seek to grow in our faith and experience the abundant life God has planned for us. GROWING TOGETHER,

David 5

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Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. HEBREWS 11:1

GROWING TOGETHER

UST

WEEK 1

Growing in Faith & Dependence Together Our message on Growing in Faith and Dependence emphasizes the importance of continual growth in our spiritual journey. It highlights the need for intentional next steps in our faith, both individually and in community, using NCC’s mission as a guide. This message explores the meaning of faith, examples of faith in daily life, and Jesus’ responses to faith. We’ll discover that playing it safe does not please God and having a guarantee eliminates the need for faith or dependence on God. So, our challenge will be to step out in boldness and take faith risks recognizing that our faith pleases God, helps us remain dependent on God and allows us to accomplish great things for His kingdom.

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Icebreaker

•

Let’s start with a game. Go around the circle and have each person name a traffic sign until no one can think of any more. Here’s a start: Stop sign. Yield sign. Now, you go.

•

Which traffic sign would best describe your life right now?

Life Group Conversation QUESTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION

Hebrews 11:1 says, “Faith is being sure of… what we do not see.” How can you be sure of something you cannot see? What specific things are you sure of that you cannot see?

2. “As long as you have a guarantee, you don’t have faith.” What kind of guarantees are you looking for? What areas of your life do you want to be certain in? 3.

“Playing it safe doesn’t please God.” How are you playing it safe right now?

What security do you need to step away from in order to step toward your destiny?

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Key Application BEGIN WRITING DOWN YOUR FAITH JOURNEY OR SPIRITUAL STORY.

What was your life like before Christ found you?

What changed when you received Christ?

How is your life different now?

IF YOU HAVEN’T YET GONE ON TO THE APP TO SHARE YOUR “STORY”, PLEASE DO SO AFTER COMPLETING THIS EXERCISE.

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Further Discovery A PPLICAT ION OPPORT UNIT IE S

Remember

•

journey. Evaluate the current state of your faith and identify areas you

These applications

want growth. Ask yourself if you’ve been playing it safe or taking bold

are meant to

steps of faith.

help us apply the message about growing our

Reflect on Your Faith: Take some time to reflect on your own faith

•

Step Out of Your Comfort Zone: Identify an area in your life where fear has been holding you back from taking a step of faith.

faith. Prayerfully

Maybe a personal relationship, your career, or serving in church. Pray

consider these

for courage, ask God to help you overcome your fears. What is the

opportunities and

first step you can take out of your fears? Who can support you in this?

seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit

•

Share Your Faith: Look for opportunities to share your faith with others: a co-worker, neighbor, family member, or friend who doesn’t know

as we intentionally

Jesus. Begin by praying for that person to be receptive. Pay attention for

grow our faith.

opportunities in answer to your prayer. Trust the Holy Spirit to lead your conversation. Be intentional inviting others to church.

•

Practice Faithful Giving: Evaluate your approach to giving and generosity. If you haven’t been tithing consistently, consider starting to tithe for the next 3 months. See what God does for your faith. Trust God’s provision – believing He will bless. Track the ways God shows His faithfulness in your finances. Tell your group about your experience.

•

Pray Bold Prayers: Challenge yourself to pray bold, audacious prayers that align with God’s will. Ask God for big things – trusting He’ll do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine. Track specific prayer requests and how God answers them. Celebrate His faithfulness. Share your answered prayers with others to encourage their faith!

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Friends & Family Activities The goal of these activities is to foster open communication, spiritual growth, and a shared understanding of faith in your family and with your friends. Adapt them to suit the specific needs and interests of your family and friends. If you live with your family, then do these activities with your family members. If you don’t live with your family, then gather your friends together.

•

Faith Reflection: Gather and share what

•

faith means to each person. Discuss how

verse about faith, e.g. Heb 11:1, and work

faith has played a role in your lives and the

together to memorize it. Create flashcards

impact it has had.

or a poster with the verse and display it in a common area of your home. Spend

Prayer Walk: Plan a prayer walk/drive in

time each day reciting and discussing

your neighborhood or local park. As you

the verse, emphasizing its meaning and

walk/drive, take turns praying for each

relevance to your faith journey.

other, your community, and any specific areas where you need to grow in faith.

•

Devotional Time: This week set aside

Encourage each person to pray with

regular, dedicated time together for

boldness and belief in God’s power.

devotionals focused on growing your faith.

Faith Building Challenge: Create a faith-building challenge for the whole family or group of friends. Each week, assign a different faith-related task or activity to complete. It can be something like sharing your faith with a friend, volunteering at church, or taking a step of faith in your personal life. Discuss the experiences during gatherings. Encourage and support one another in these faith-building endeavors.

Scripture Memorization: Choose a Bible

GROWING TOGETHER

Try using the devotional pages in this study guide as a way of getting started. Discuss and ask questions. It doesn’t have to be long, it could be at mealtime, at bedtime, on a quick evening Zoom meeting, or on a shared social media platform. Encourage open and honest conversation during these times.

Daily Devotions

Day 1 READ COLOSSIANS 2:6-7

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in Him, rooted Hearing someone’s story and how they applied God’s Word can provide fresh perspective and help us gain clarity, understanding or encouragement. Join us each day on our app, website, Facebook or

and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. REFLECT

How is your faith being strengthened? What would increase your faith?

YouTube page to hear what a staff member has learned about the verses we look at each week in this small group study.

Day 2 READ 2 CORINTHIANS 1:24

You can locate the video “Daily Devos” in these ways: Website: www.mynw.cc

Trust NCC App on the Church Tab

YouTube page: youtube.com/ncclive

…It is by faith you stand firm. REFLECT

What do you need to stand firm against right now? How can you tap into your faith in order to stand firm?

Day 3 READ 1 CORINTHIANS 16:13-14

Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love. REFLECT

Where might your guard be slipping right now? What is threatening you or distracting you?

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Day 4 READ 1 PETER 5:8-9

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. REFLECT

What is a way you could stand firm in the faith this week? What is a temptation that needs resisting?

Day 6 Reflect on the verses from this past week,

Day 5

and 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

READ JAMES 1:2-4

session and during your Daily Devotions time

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and

this week.

sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. REFLECT

What trial are you facing today? How can this test of your faith produce perseverance in your life?

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Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. PSALM 119:105

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UTH

WEEK 2

Growing in Knowledge & Wisdom Together Growing in Knowledge and Wisdom through God’s Word emphasizes the importance of actively engaging with and applying the teachings of the Bible to grow spiritually. The Bible wasn’t given just to “inform” us, but also to “form” us by applying it to our lives. It’s the roadmap for living by God’s design. While there are many voices and authorities in our world, believers should endeavor to make the Bible our ultimate authority in order to experience transformation and prepare for eternity.

GROWING TOGETHER

Icebreaker

•

Tell the group about a time you tried to do something without the instructions – play a game, build something, repair something, or cook something.

Life Group Conversation QUESTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION

Other than the Bible, what authorities (news commentators, podcastors, authors, speakers, etc.) do you listen to? How do they influence your thinking and actions?

What’s the difference between knowledge of what the Bible says and living in obedience to what the Bible says? How could the accumulation of Bible knowledge possibly get in the way of obedience?

Tell the group about a specific time in your life when God’s Word gave you specific direction.

What are some specific steps you’ve put into practice to learn from the Bible in your daily life? What can you start doing this week to improve this practice?

GROWING TOGETHER

Key Application MAKE A COMMITMENT TO DAILY BIBLE READING

The best way to develop a new habit or improve an existing good habit is to find someone who has

How? SECRETS TO SUCCESS

already developed this habit in his or her life. Who in your group has already established this daily habit? Ask them to share their secrets to success.

When are you the most alert: Early Morning, Morning, Afternoon, or Evening?

What reading plan will you use? There are many great reading plans on the YouVersion Bible app.

When?

WHAT TIME OF DAY WILL YOU READ?

What? WHAT PLAN WILL YOU FOLLOW?

Find a 30-day reading plan to start with. After all, it takes 30 days to form a good habit.

Ask someone to hold you accountable. If you want to start an early morning time, ask someone to call you early in the morning. This shouldn’t be heavy handed, but just knowing that someone will ask is motivation enough to get started.

GROWING TOGETHER

Who?

WHO WILL KEEP YOU ACCOUNTABLE?

These applications are meant to help us apply the message about growing with God’s Word. Prayerfully consider these opportunities and seek guidance from the Holy Spirit

Further Discovery A PPLICAT ION OPPORT UNIT IE S •

Digital Detox and Focus on Memory Verse: Consider setting aside specific time(s) each day for this one week to disconnect from digital

as we grow with

distractions. Use this time to engage in memorizing a Bible verse(s), and

God’s Word.

meditating, and reflecting on this verse. Be fully present and attentive to God’s Word in your life.

•

Commit to Daily Bible Reading: Make a commitment to set aside dedicated time each day to read God’s Word. Whether it’s in the morning, lunch breaks, before bed, prioritize consistent engagement with the Bible. Use reading plans or devotionals to help your engagement.

Remember discovering a life

verse is not a one-

•

Find a Life Verse: Discovering a life verse/passage can be a personal, meaningful process. Here are some possible steps to help you. •

PRAY FOR GUIDANCE: Begin by seeking God’s guidance through prayer. Ask Him to lead you to a verse or passage that will resonate with you and speak to your unique journey and circumstances.

•

REFLECT ON YOUR JOURNEY: Take some time to reflect on your life experiences, challenges, and times of spiritual growth. Consider the values, principles, or themes that are significant to you and have shaped your faith.

•

STUDY AND MEDITATE ON SCRIPTURE: Engage in regular Bible reading, study, and meditation. Pay attention to verses or passages that stand out to you, resonate deeply, or bring you comfort, inspiration, or guidance.

time event but an ongoing process. It may take time and reflection to find the verse that resonates deeply with you. Trust in the Holy Spirit’s guidance, be patient, and continue seeking God’s Word for wisdom and inspiration.

•

SEEK WISDOM FROM OTHERS: Consult trusted mentors or an NCC pastor, and discuss your search for a life verse and seek their input and recommendations.

•

LISTEN TO WORSHIP SONGS: Pay attention to worship songs that resonate with you. Sometimes, a particular verse or Scripture reference in a song can capture the essence of your spiritual journey and become a life verse.

•

BE OPEN TO CHANGE: Recognize a life verse can evolve and change as you grow and experience different seasons of life. Be flexible and open to embracing new verses that may become more relevant and impactful as your journey unfolds.

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Friends & Family Activities Remember, the goal of these activities is to foster open communication, spiritual growth, and a shared understanding of God and His Word in your family and/or with your friends. Adapt them to suit the specific needs and interests of your family or group.

•

Storytime Reflection: Select a story or

Gather together regularly as a family to pick

parable from the Bible that focuses on growth

a few notes from the jar and pray for those

or transformation, such as the parable of the

specific requests or thank God for answered

Mustard Seed (Mark 4:30-34) or the story of

prayers.

the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32). Read the story together and then take turns discussing

•

project that promotes spiritual growth and

how the story can be applied to each person’s

demonstrates practical love for others. Consider

life. Encourage everyone to share thoughts,

the many opportunities at NCC. Use this

personal experiences, and lessons learned.

•

being the hands and feet of Jesus, growing in

a visual representation of individual and family/

compassion, and making a positive impact in

group spiritual growth. Design a growth chart

the world.

achievements. Alongside the growth chart, choose a devotional or study book that aligns with the theme of spiritual growth and read a section or chapter together as a family or group. Discuss key takeaways and encourage each other in the ongoing journey of growth.

•

Faith-Based Movie Night: Plan a family movie night, but instead of just watching any movie, choose a faith-based movie that explores themes of spiritual growth and transformation. Afterwards, engage in a discussion about the movie’s messages, the characters’ journeys, and how they relate to

Prayer Jar: Create a colorful jar and label it

your own lives. Encourage everyone to share

as the Prayer Jar. Each person can write down

their insights and apply the lessons learned to

prayer requests or gratitude notes on small

their own spiritual growth.

pieces of paper and place them inside the jar.

opportunity to talk about the importance of

Growth Chart and Devotional: Create

or use a wall space to track milestones and

•

Service Project: Engage in a service

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Day 1

verses we look at each week in

READ PSALM 119:105

this small group study.

Your Word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.

You can locate the video “Daily Devos” in these ways: Website: www.mynw.cc

Truth NCC App on the Church Tab

YouTube page: youtube.com/ncclive

REFLECT

Where do you need God’s Word to provide illumination (knowledge and wisdom) in your life right now?

Day 2 READ HEBREWS 4:12

For the Word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. REFLECT

How do you need God’s Word to examine your thoughts and attitude today?

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Day 3

Day 5

READ 2 TIMOTHY 3:16-17

READ MATTHEW 4:4

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for

Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not

teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in

live on bread alone, but on every word that

righteousness, so that the servant of God may

comes from the mouth of God.’”

be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

REFLECT

Have you been spiritually nurturing yourself or

As God is equipping you to be about His work

spiritually starving yourself lately? What might

in the world, how might He use His Word in

you need to change?

the process…through teaching, rebuking, correction, or training?

Day 4 READ MATTHEW 7:24

Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.

Day 6 Reflect on the verses from this past week, and 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.

REFLECT

How might you be hearing well and making wise choices or not listening well leading to unwise choices?

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It is better to give than to receive. AC T S 2 0 : 3 5

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EASUR WEEK 3

Growing in Gratitude & Generosity Together The word “stewardship” has gotten a bad rap lately, so I want to try to reclaim it because it is both a good word and an important concept. It simply means - “managing something for someone else”. This entire study has in many ways been about stewarding well, the things God has given us and managing them all well on his behalf. It is so important that we recognize that everything we have and everything we are, is a gift from God. Just as important is both the appropriate response and responsibility that come from this truth. The response focuses on our gratitude and the responsibility focuses on our generosity. This week, join me as we continue on our adventure of Growing Together as we go on a “Journey of Generosity” together.

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SESSION 1

Attend the Weekend Services SESSION 2

The Small Group Session

Icebreaker

•

When you hear the word “stewardship,” what comes to mind?

•

Who is the most generous person you know?

Life Group Conversation QUESTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION

How have others been generous to you?

2. How does giving demonstrate your trust in God?

What struggles do you have with generosity?

What blessings have you received from being generous? Tell the group. (Don’t be embarrassed.)

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Key Application INDUCTIVE BIBLE STUDY & REFLECTION

INDUCTIVE STUDY TIPS

1. Observation: What does the passage say? •

Circle repeated words and phrases.

2 CORINTHIANS 9:6-15

Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly,

•

Underline the promises.

and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each of

•

Draw a box around any

you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times,

commands. •

Mark every reference to God with a triangle.

•

Is there cause and

having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

effect (e.g. words like

As it is written:

therefore, because, so

“They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.” 10

Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also

supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way so that you

that, etc)?

2. Reflection: What is God telling you? •

needs repentance? •

What words in this passage encourage

can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.

What area in my life

and strengthen me?

This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the

3. Application: What is my response?

Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to

•

God. 13 Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. 14 And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. 15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

GROWING TOGETHER

Journal any thoughts you may have and conclude with prayer.

SESSION 3

Solo Time

30 Questions RANDY ALCORN

Please take some time before our next session to read through these 30 questions. Come back prepared to share two questions that stood out to you and why. You do not have to answer the questions, just share why they are causing you to wrestle. Though some of these questions might feel like there is only one right answer, they are meant to provoke consideration not prescribe a behavior. Please use these questions as conversation starters to explore how God may be working in your heart.

Am I viewing myself as a manager or trustee

5. Does the thought of sacrificial generosity

of what God’s given me, or seeing myself

make me anxious because I feel I don’t

as owner and controller of my own stuff?

have enough to make ends meet? Do I live

Are there things that God would have me

trusting God to provide all that I need in the

manage differently if I acknowledged them

same way He provided His son for me to be

as really being His?

redeemed? Or have I compartmentalized my trust for my salvation, putting my daily needs

2. Am I striving to use my income, influence,

in a different category?

and privileges as God directs? Or am I assuming I know what He’s asking me

6. Is Christ’s undying love my true treasure,

for (10% giving) and can use the rest as I

or do I actually treasure other things more? Is

choose?

my money an indicator of my true treasure? Is it my reputation, comfort for my family, or

As I continue to realize that Jesus gave

recognition? Or do I live my life knowing that

everything by His death on the cross to

His love and grace is all I need?

purchase me, is there a new level of sacrifice I want to give and surrender to Him? 4.

At what points in my journey with God have I realized His generous mercy on my brokenness and sin? Do I hold others to a higher standard than God holds me? Can I give radically to others even though they have brokenness and sin in their life?

Does the thought of sacrificial generosity make me anxious because I might have to carefully look at my spending and give some things up? Are there things I’ve decided are nonnegotiable? The place I live? The car I drive? Do I live believing that my ultimate treasure is in heaven and not in the comforts I desire on earth?

GROWING TOGETHER

How much money do I need? Will my answer

13. If an outsider were to look at how I use

be “more?” Or can I set a finish line for myself,

my time, my energy, and my resources,

and give away everything beyond that?

what would they learn about my priorities?

What does it mean to give responsibility and wisely? How can I honor getting out of debt while giving generously? How can I honor saving for the future or estate

Would that outsider see my time, energy, and resources being put primarily toward a hope and vision of renewal for our city and world?

planning while giving generously? Since

14. Do I live as if I’m focusing on heaven,

Jesus praised the poor widow for giving

where I plan to live forever, or on

away everything, is it possible that He is

earth, where I’ll live one-billionth of my

asking me to worry less about saving for

existence? In light of eternity, am I happy

the future and to give more now?

about where I’m placing my focus?

10. Am I trustworthy to make financial decisions

15. If it is nearness of God that I ultimately

entirely on my own, or am I potentially

seek, what if I dared to pray, “Bring

biased by greed, comfort, or culture in such

anything into my life – take anything away

a way that it would benefit me to share my

from my life as long as I get to be closer to

financial and giving goals with some other

You?” What scares me about that prayer?

mature Christians in my community? Who

What excites me about that prayer?

might some of those people be? 11. If the Bible commands us to bear one

16. Has God raised me up, with the financial assets and opportunities He has entrusted

another’s burdens in Christian community,

to me, for just such a time as this? (Esther

are there opportunities within my

4:14) Has He called me to join a great team

community that God might be calling me

of His children in freeing up money and

to bear? Do I assume that this isn’t my role

possessions to reach out to the needy and

because of my culture, or am I looking for

fulfill the Great Commission?

such opportunities?

17. What am I holding onto that’s robbing me

12. Has having more money caused me

of present joy and future reward? What am

to feel more in control of my life and

I keeping that’s preventing me from having

circumstances, and has that control

to depend on God? What am I clinging

become an idol for me? Is Christ inviting

to that makes me feel like I don’t have to

me into a new level of surrender where I

depend on Him to provide, like I used to

trust Him with control of my life and future

before I had so much? What does He want

instead of trusting my money for that

me to release that could restore me to a

control? How can I step into this practically?

walk of faith?

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18. In light of 2 Corinthians 8:14 and 9:11,

she had – considering her faithful, not

does God want me to assume that each

irresponsible – how much would I have to

financial blessing He entrusts to me is not

give away before He would consider me

intended to raise my standard of living, but

irresponsible?

to raise my standard of giving? 19. Am I treating God as owner and CEO/CFO

23. Why do I want to hold on to my wealth? Am I trying to prove something? What, and

of “my” assets, or am I treating Him merely

to whom? Is it pride? Power? Prestige?

as my financial consultant, whom I pay a fee

Selfishness? Insecurity? Fear? Am I a

(10% or greater)?

control freak? Or is it just because it’s

20. Once they’ve finished college or are working on their own, would inheriting wealth (beyond items of special sentimental and heritage value) help my children’s eternal perspective and walk with God?

normal, and I’m going with the flow of my culture? Does God want me to go with that flow? Or to do something different, maybe radically different? 24. Am I living to hear others say of me,

Or would it have a corrupting influence

“He/she’s a great success” or to have

on their character lifestyle, work ethic, or

God say to me, “Well done My good and

marriage?

faithful servant?”

21. Would God ever say to me, when I stand

25. Instead of asking “Why should I give this

before His judgment seat, “You blew it

away?” does God want me to ask “Why

– you sold those shares and gave them

shouldn’t I give this away?” Should I put

to feed the hungry and evangelize the

the burden of proof on keeping rather than

lost, and then two years later the market

on giving? When money comes in, should

peaked?” Or would He say, “Well done, My

giving rather than keeping be my default,

good and faithful servant?”

the rule not the exception? Unless there’s a

22. Is it ever wrong to give to God now rather than wait until later? What’s the eternal downside to giving now? What’s the eternal downside of delaying giving until later? Am I really in danger of giving too much too soon? Or is the only danger giving too

compelling reason to keep, should I normally give? (Why give? The answer, Biblically, couldn’t be more obvious. Why keep? When we already have so much, that’s what demands an explanation.) 26. Am I hanging onto excess money as a

little too late? “But if I give away most of my

backup plan in case God fails me? Is my fear

assets now, what will I give from later?” Is

of health catastrophes and old age creating

the answer “From whatever God chooses

an inertia in my giving, because I imagine I

to provide?” If Christ commended the poor

must provide everything for myself in case

widow (Mark 12) for giving to God everything

something goes wrong? Considering that

GROWING TOGETHER

the vast majority of people in history and most in the world today have nothing stored up for retirement, am I too preoccupied with putting treasures in retirement funds? Are You calling me to work without a net -or with less of a net - trusting You’ll catch me in case of a fall? 27. How can I better communicate with and pray with my spouse so we can walk together down this exhilarating road of giving, leading each other but not leaving each other behind? 28. What am I doing to train my children to be generous givers - and not just donors, but disciples? 29. How are you calling me to steward my influence to share this message with my friends? Who could benefit from these questions? 30. 5 minutes after I die...what will I wish I would have given away while I still had the chance? Help me spend the rest of my life closing the gap between what I’ll wish I’d given then and what I’m actually giving now. Empower me to help others do the same. Will You, God, for Your eternal glory?

GROWING TOGETHER

Which questions stuck out to you? Why?

SESSION 4

Live at Church

Renee Lockey Video A Texas physician, discusses what it means to live on a fraction of her salary while making a concerted effort to give the majority of it away.

QU ESTIONS F OR C ONSIDE RAT ION 1.

What is your reaction to what Renee heard God say to her? “I want you to work like a doctor and live like a nurse”.

2. If you put yourself in Renee’s shoes and think about “living below your means” in order to be more generous, what goes through your mind? 3.

What do you think contributed to Renee’s greater sense of Freedom?

Bishop Hannington Video Shot on location in Bundibugyo, Uganda, this is a look into the story of Hannington Bahemuka, a man who believed generosity was the key to help rebuild his war-torn town.

QU ESTIONS F OR C ONSIDE RAT ION 1.

What kind of emotions do you feel when you see people with so little being generous? Can you imagine giving your only chicken (whatever that might be in your life) for building God’s Kingdom?

2. Does the fear of having too little hold you back from giving away more?

GROWING TOGETHER

Greg & Allison Baumer Video

SESSION 5

Live at Church

As a young family just getting started, Greg and Alison Baumer made a decision to live in a way that to some may seem foolish. They want to be generous now and order their lives so they can actively be involved in

Neither do people light a

funding Kingdom projects today. Influenced by a community of friends who

lamp and put it under a

have decided to live a transparent and generous life shaped by friendship,

bowl. Instead they put it on

community and shared experiences, Greg and Allison are on a mission and living a great adventure.

QU E ST ION S FOR CON S ID ERAT ION 1.

Greg mentions he and Allison are more inclined to spend, whereas his friend John is more inclined to save. Who do you most identify with and why?

Greg mentions that his car is a daily reminder that his value is not in stuff, or how he looks in the eyes of others. Is there anything in your life that creates a similar reminder... or should there be?

How do you respond to their commitment to financial transparency and creating a “Board of Directors for Life” with others? Does that sound scary or exciting?

its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. MATTHEW 5:15 You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is

I Like Car Video

also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the

QU E ST ION S FOR CON S ID ERAT ION

service by which you

others will praise God

Share an emotion you felt while watching this video.

2. What did you think of Kathryn’s decision to give away everything she had been saving up for a car, to a widow who was in need? What is one word that describes that for you? 3.

Did you notice that even though it was friends who provided Kathryn what she was needing (the car), she received it as a gift from God noting “God had a car for me!”. How might this correlate to Matthew 5:15 and 2 Corinthians 9:11-13?

GROWING TOGETHER

have proved yourselves, for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. 2 CORINTHIANS 9:11-13

Daily Devotions

Day 1 READ ACTS 20:35

It is more blessed to give than to receive. REFLECT

How have you experienced or expressed this truth in your life? Hearing someone’s story and how they applied God’s Word can provide fresh perspective and help

Day 2

us gain clarity, understanding or

READ MATTHEW 6:24

encouragement. Join us each day on our app, website, Facebook or YouTube page to hear what a staff member has learned about the verses we look at each week in

No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.

this small group study.

REFLECT

You can locate the video “Daily

attention and devotion?

Devos” in these ways: Website: www.mynw.cc NCC App on the Church Tab

Treasure YouTube page: youtube.com/ncclive

What other “master” is competing for your

Day 3 READ 1 TIMOTHY 6:17–19

Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. REFLECT

How might you be putting your hope in wealth? How is it affecting your trust in God?

GROWING TOGETHER

Day 4

Day 6

READ EPHESIANS 2:8-9

Reflect on the verses from this past week,

For it is by grace you have been saved,

and use the following space to write any

through faith—and this is not from yourselves,

thoughts God has put in your heart and mind

it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no

about the things we have looked at in this

one can boast.

session and during your Daily Devotions time

REFLECT

this week.

How has God’s generosity and grace toward you impacted your life?

Day 5 READ 2 CORINTHIANS 9:7

Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. REFLECT

Would you describe yourself as a cheerful giver? Why or why not?

GROWING TOGETHER

Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. PSALM 90:12

GROWING TOGETHER

TIME WEEK 4

Growing in Discipline & Dedication Together Time is a gift. It’s the most scarce resource at our disposal. You can get more money. You can get more stuff. But, you can never get more time. Once it’s “spent,” it’s gone for good. What’s the best way to steward this valuable commodity? How can you set your priorities to live a life with no regrets? How can you be more disciplined and dedicated in your use of the time you have been given? Hint: it might not involve doing more.

GROWING TOGETHER

Icebreaker

•

If you had one more hour in your day, what would you do with it?

•

What do you wish you had more time for?

Life Group Conversation QUESTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION

What in your life right now is a complete waste of time?

Why is busyness such a problem in your life? How could you live your life more simply?

What is keeping you from getting adequate rest? What change do you need to make to get adequate rest?

What do you believe are God’s priorities for your life? How do you integrate God’s priorities into your daily life?

GROWING TOGETHER

Key Application

What did you notice?

ASSESSING YOUR USE OF TIME

•

First, pick a normal week in the past month or the month ahead and put the dates of that week in the top right.

•

Second, create your own “key” or “legend” of categories (perhaps giving each category its own color). Examples would be things like (Sleep, Meals, Travel, Work, Family Time, Friends, Church, Life Group, Reading/School, Recreation/Exercise, etc.)

•

Third, put the “identifying category” into blocks of time…do your best to fill in every block (you can put a category in one 30 minute time block, then draw an arrow down for as long as that use of time is the same).

•

Fourth, be prepared to share something you noticed (good, challenging, surprising, disappointing…etc.) in reviewing the entire week at a glance. MON

TUES

6:00 7:00 8:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 1:00 2:00 3:00 4:00 5:00 6:00 7:00 8:00 9:00 10:00

GROWING TOGETHER

WED

THURS

FRI

SAT

SUN

Further Discovery A PPLICAT ION OPPORT UNIT IE S

Remember

•

lifestyle, prioritize what truly matters. Determine what activities align with

the goal of these

God’s will and bring value to your life and relationships. What do you need

activities is to foster within your family and

Prioritize What’s Important: Once you have analyzed your

to stop doing; what should you start doing to live more purposefully?

•

Create Rhythms and Rest: Embrace the biblical concept of rest and

friends a healthy

renewal. Establish healthy rhythms in your life. Designate regular times

understanding of

for reflection, gratitude, connecting with God. Determine what activities

the gift of time

replenish your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

and helping them make the most of

•

Schedule Divine Diversion: Plan intentional pauses and diversions in your daily life. Take breaks from technology and busy schedules to

our days!

engage in activities that bring joy, refreshment, and connection with God and others. e.g. walks, reading, prayer, or quality time with loved ones.

•

Seize the Day: Embrace the gift of each day and live with a sense of purpose. Don’t postpone meaningful actions or relationships for some elusive “someday.” Make a commitment to live each day fully, expressing love to God and others, not taking life or relationships for granted.

•

Reflect on Eternity: Remember our earthly life is not all there is. Keep an eternal perspective in mind and make decisions that have an impact beyond this life. Seek to live preparing for eternity and prioritizing what truly matters in light of eternity.

GROWING TOGETHER

Friends & Family Activities Remember, the goal of these activities is to foster within your family and friends a healthy understanding of the gift of time and helping them make the most of our days!

•

Create a Time Capsule: Work together to create a time capsule that captures the essence of your current season of life. Include photos, letters, and special mementos. Reflect on the importance of cherishing and appreciating the time you have together.

•

observe as a Sabbath day. Rest from regular work or scheduled activities and spend

practice during shared meals. Take turns

intentional time connecting with God and

expressing something you are grateful for

each other. This can include attending church

from the day and discuss how time was used

together, engaging in worship, reading the

in meaningful ways. This fosters a culture of

Bible, and enjoying quality time together.

gift of time.

Sabbath Rest: Choose a day of the week to

Mealtime Gratitude: Incorporate a gratitude

gratitude and helps everyone appreciate the

•

Goal Setting: Sit down and discuss goals that align with using time wisely and living

Technology-Free Day: Designate one

with purpose. Help each family member set

day each month as a technology-free day.

individual goals, as well as collective family or

Disconnect from screens and use the time to

group goals, such as spending more intentional

engage in meaningful activities together, such

time together, serving the church, or growing in

as playing games, going on a walk, or having

faith. Check-in regularly to track progress and

conversations without distractions.

provide support.

GROWING TOGETHER

Daily Devotions Hearing someone’s story and how they applied God’s Word can provide fresh perspective and help us gain clarity, understanding or encouragement. Join us each day on our app, website, Facebook or YouTube page to hear what a staff member has learned about the verses we look at each week in this small group study. You can locate the video “Daily Devos” in these ways: Website: www.mynw.cc

Time NCC App on the Church Tab

YouTube page: youtube.com/ncclive

Day 1 READ PSALM 90:12

Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. REFLECT

The average life expectancy in the U.S. is 77 years, but many folks live into their 90’s. Based on your age today, how many years (or days) would you have left if you lived to be 90? What could I be doing differently in the days ahead that would help me “gain a heart of wisdom”?

Day 2 READ EPHESIANS 5:15-17

Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. REFLECT

What opportunities are before you? How can you make the most of them?

GROWING TOGETHER

Day 3

Day 5

READ ESTHER 4:14

READ EXODUS 20:8–10

For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this? REFLECT

What’s your “for such a time as this” moment right now? How have you been uniquely prepared and positioned to do God’s work in some special way?

Day 4 READ ECCLESIASTES 3:1-8

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace. REFLECT

Which phrase from this passage best describes your current season in life?

GROWING TOGETHER

Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. REFLECT

How are you practicing a weekly Sabbath? If you are not, how can you start this new rhythm?

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 1 PETER 4:10

GROWING TOGETHER

ALENT WEEK 5

Growing in Identity & Impact Together Our identity and the impact of our lives is ultimately determined by our God-given S.H.A.P.E.…our Spiritual Gifts, Heart, Abilities, Personality and Experiences. This week we’ll focus primarily on two aspects - our Spiritual Gifts and Abilities (or Talents) - and consider how what God has given us is intended to be combined with what He has given other members to accomplish His work in the world. Each person in the church is part of the body of Christ. Our Heavenly Father expects us to identify what He has given us, move beyond good intentions and actively use our gifts and talents for His kingdom. Are you ready to discover your full identity and make your unique impact?

GROWING TOGETHER

Icebreaker

•

What is the most important and/or least important part of the body? Why?

•

What is one gift or talent you possess? If your group knows each other well, then tell each other what gifts and talents you see in them.

Life Group Conversation QUESTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION

What causes the gap between good intentions and action in our Christian faith?

In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul compares the church to a body with many parts. How does this analogy help us understand the importance of each individual’s involvement in the church? What’s your part in the church?

If you knew you couldn’t fail, what would you attempt for God? Imagine what you would do if you had all of the resources, people, and time you needed.

What’s one step you can take this week to use your gifts and talents for God?

GROWING TOGETHER

Key Application DISCOVER YOUR S.H.A.P.E.

Take time to identify and acknowledge your spiritual gifts, passions, and abilities. Recognize that every member of the body of Christ, regardless of their perceived importance or giftedness, is necessary and valuable in God's plan. This assessment will help you discover and develop your gifts profile. Feel free to ask other group members for their input. Use this as a guideline for choosing ministry roles in your church.

Spiritual Gifts Preaching

Encouragement

Hospitality

Arts and Crafts

Evangelism

Wisdom

Pastoring

Healing

Discernment

Missions

Giving

Leadership

Apostle

Service

Intercession

Administration

Teaching

Mercy

Music

Faith

2 Heart - Circle the following passions you have for these tasks, people and causes. I LOVE TO:

I LOVE TO SERVE:

I GET EXCITED ABOUT:

Design/Develop

Infants/Toddlers/Preschool

Parenting & Single Parents

Pioneer

Elementary (K-5th)

Marriage & Young Married

Organize

Youth (Middle & High School)

Evangelism & Missions

Operate/Maintain

College / Young Adults

Helping People w/ Disabilities

Serve/Help

Men

Social Issues / Homelessness

Repair/Improve

Women

Recovery Support

Lead/Be in charge

Senior Adults

Food Insecurities

GROWING TOGETHER

Key Application

CONTINUED

3 Ability - Circle the following abilities that apply to your life. Musical (Sing/Play)

Managing

Promoting

Public Relations

Recruit

Counseling

Repairing

Landscaping

Artistic

Teaching

Audio/Visual

Decorating

Graphics

Writing/Editing

Social Media

Money Management

Planning

4 Personality HIGH

Introverted

LOW

HIGH

Extroverted

Variety Self-Expressive

Routine Self-Controlled

Competitive

Cooperative

Peacemaker

Challenger

Leader Work Solo Project Driven Low Risk

Follower Work on a Team People Driven High Risk

GROWING TOGETHER

5 Experience - Different Kinds of Experiences to Consider Ministry Experiences: How have you served God in the past?

Work Experiences: What jobs have you been most effective in and enjoyed the most?

Educational Experiences: What were your favorite subjects in school?

Spiritual Experiences: What have been your most meaningful times with God?

Interpersonal Experiences: Who has mentored you or helped you in your journey?

Painful Experiences: From what problems, hurts, and trials have you learned?

GROWING TOGETHER

Further Discovery A PPLICAT ION OPPORT UNIT IE S

Remember

•

class will take you on a deeper dive into understanding your SHAPE

these applications

Profile as well as provide you the opportunity to meet with NCC staff

are meant to help us

to discuss how you can use your gifts and talents to serve both NCC

apply the message

and your community. Then, take proactive steps to use your gifts and

about growing.

talents by serving in ministries and outreach programs at NCC. Identify

Prayerfully consider

needs and opportunities around you and seek ways to contribute and

these opportunities

make a difference in the lives of others.

as we seek to intentionally fulfill your purpose on this

Step into Action: Commit to attending our NCC•NEXT class. This

•

Seek Guidance and Discernment: Seek God’s guidance and discernment in discovering and understanding your spiritual gifts. Pray

earth and use your

for wisdom and clarity in how to effectively use your gifts and talents

gifts and talents for

to serve others and advance God’s Kingdom. Connect with wise and

the Kingdom!

mature Christ followers who can provide mentorship and guidance in your spiritual journey.

•

Create and Develop a Spirit of Humility and Unity: Embrace and cultivate a spirit of humility by recognizing that every gift and talent is ultimately given by God and not for personal recognition or superiority. Celebrate and appreciate the unique contributions of others at NCC, encouraging and supporting their growth and ministry. Strive for unity within the church, actively working to build strong relationships and promote a culture of love, respect, and cooperation.

•

Connect and Commit to the Church: Make it a priority to regularly attend church services and actively participate in a life group or small group. Understand the importance of being connected to the body of Christ for encouragement, support, and accountability in your spiritual growth. Again, seek opportunities to serve within the church and contribute to its mission by using your unique gifts and talents.

GROWING TOGETHER

Friends & Family Activities The goal of these activities is to foster intentional actions and bridge the gap between good intentions and actual growth in faith and serving others!

•

Shape Inventory and Discussion: Gather and take the “shape inventory” under Key Application in this workbook, and/or discuss each family member’s unique gifts, talents, passions, and abilities. Help each other recognize how these can be used to serve others and make a difference.

•

Set aside time as a family or group of friends

Encourage one another to actively use these

to discuss your faith goals. Encourage each

gifts within the family and the community.

•

person to share their desires for growth

Encourage Each Other’s Gifts:

in their relationship with God and serving

Create a culture that recognizes and

others. Write down these goals and create a

celebrates each person’s gifts and talents.

plan – some steps to achieve them. Revisit

Encourage each person to use their gifts

these goals, celebrating progress, and

whenever possible. Support and affirm one

encouraging one another in the journey.

another’s unique contributions.

•

Family or Group Faith Goals:

•

Talent Show: Organize a talent show

Serving Together: Find a project at

where each person showcases their unique

church or in the community that you can do

talents and abilities. This activity provides

together. At a mealtime talk about the gifts

an opportunity to celebrate and appreciate

your family or group has and can use for this

everyone’s talents. It can be live music,

project. Through this shared experience,

dance, reciting poetry, or displaying any

encourage each person to see the value in

other skills they possess. By showcasing

actively serving and how it bridges the gap

talents, you demonstrate everyone has

between intentions and actions.

something valuable to contribute.

GROWING TOGETHER

Daily Devotions

Day 1 READ 1 PETER 4:10

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.

Hearing someone’s story and how they applied God’s Word can provide fresh perspective and help us gain clarity, understanding or encouragement. Join us each day on our app, website, Facebook or YouTube page to hear what a staff member has learned about the verses we look at each week in

REFLECT

Have you thought about using your gifts as a steward of God’s grace? How are you using your gifts to extend God’s grace to others?

Day 2 READ 1 CORINTHIANS 12:4-6

There are different kinds of gifts, but the same

this small group study.

Spirit distributes them. There are different

You can locate the video “Daily

different kinds of working, but in all of them

Devos” in these ways: Website: www.mynw.cc

Talent NCC App on the Church Tab

YouTube page: youtube.com/ncclive

kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are and in everyone it is the same God at work. REFLECT

Take some time to think about the diversity of gifts in the church. Who are some people you have noticed exercising their gifts and note how doing so impacts or blesses others, including you.

Day 3 READ 1 CORINTHIANS 12:7

Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. REFLECT

The Spirit is manifested through spiritual gifts. How is the Spirit working through your gifts for the good of others? How might you consider allowing God’s Spirit to use you even more?

GROWING TOGETHER

Day 4

Day 6

READ ROMANS 12:6-8

Reflect on the verses from this past week,

We have different gifts, according to the grace

and use the following space to write any

given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying,

thoughts God has put in your heart and mind

then prophesy in accordance with your faith;

about the things we have looked at in this

if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching,

session and during your Daily Devotions time

then teach; if it is to encourage, then give

this week.

encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. REFLECT

Do you believe everyone has “God-given” gifts and talents? Have you identified the gifts and talents you’ve been given? If so, what is the adjective that best describes the way you are currently using your gifts?

Day 5 READ EPHESIANS 4:11-12

So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up REFLECT

How are you using your gifts to build up the body of Christ?

GROWING TOGETHER

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. EPHESIANS 4:32

GROWING TOGETHER

UCH

WEEK 6

Growing in Compassion & Kindness Together As Christians our role in this world is to “touch” those around us with God’s love and grace, by showing Compassion and Kindness toward whoever we encounter. These expressions of God’s character are not mere acts of service that Christ followers engage in but are an integral part of who we are as individuals and as a church. When we embrace God’s compassionate care and loving-kindness He offers us daily, we are connecting with our Heavenly Father’s heart and then in response we can express His love by being the hands and feet of Jesus in the world today.

GROWING TOGETHER

Icebreaker

•

If you could create a superhero with the power of unlimited compassion and kindness, what would their name be?

•

Share a time when someone’s act of kindness had a significant impact on your life. How did it make you feel?

Life Group Conversation QUESTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION

In Isaiah 58, God instructs his people to put greater emphasis on acts of compassion and kindness over ritualistic fasting and worship. Why would God put compassion and kindness ahead of ritual fasting and worship?

Acts 2:45 states, “They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” What does this unprecedented level of compassion by the early church tell you about their relationship with God? What do their actions inspire in you?

Pastor David emphasized that compassion and kindness is more than something we do; it’s something we are! What does this mean to you?

Pastor David shared the story about the boy throwing starfish back into the water. What small steps could you take in your own life to make a difference in someone else’s life?

GROWING TOGETHER

Key Application In his weekend message, David shared his hope that each of us would consider not only going to

see the movie Ordinary Angels, but each of us would prayerfully and proactively consider who we could invite to join us as our guest. •

Make a commitment to attend a showing yourself.

•

Make a commitment to invite at least one more person. Take some time right now to start a list of those who you could/would invite to a showing of the movie.

•

Pray for the people on this list and ask others in your group to be praying with you.

Create a second list

FAMILY

of people who you believe God could use you as the instrument for demonstrating His Compassion and

FIRM

FRIENDS

Work

Kindness in the next few weeks. Try to list at least

CIRCLE OF

a couple of names in

Life

each of the Circles of Life diagram: FUN

Gym, Hobbies, Hangouts

GROWING TOGETHER

FAMILIAR

Neighbors, Kids’ Sports Teams, School, Etc.

Further Discovery A PPLICAT ION OPPORT UNIT IE S •

Compassion and Kindness Journal: Take some time this week to begin journaling about how you have experienced or expressed Compassion and Kindness. Perhaps using a different color to highlight these three different ways. •

Times in the past where someone expressed Compassion and Kindness toward you, noting how that experience affected you at the time and perhaps even shaped your future.

•

Times when you have experienced God’s tender Compassion and loving Kindness toward you.

•

Times when you have expressed Compassion and Kindness to a friend, a family member or a complete stranger.

Scan

the QR code below to watch the video clip from Les Miserables.

•

Lessons Learned from Les Miserablés: The story of Jean Valjean captures how the compassion and kindness of one person, one experience can reshape and redeem a life. Take 10 minutes to watch the following clip from the Movie version of Les Miserablés.

https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=wF3FX43F-7Y

Jot down some thoughts, impressions, emotions you experienced while watching this clip.

GROWING TOGETHER

Journal

GROWING TOGETHER

Daily Devotions

Day 1 READ EPHESIANS 4:32

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

REFLECT

Who, specifically, needs your kindness, compassion, or forgiveness? What could you do today to express it?

Day 2 READ COLOSSIANS 3:12

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy

this small group study.

and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with

You can locate the video “Daily

and patience.

Devos” in these ways: Website: www.mynw.cc

Touch NCC App on the Church Tab

YouTube page: youtube.com/ncclive

compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness

REFLECT

From this list, which are easiest to express and which do you struggle with the most?

Day 3 READ GALATIANS 5:22-23

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. REFLECT

Think about each quality on the list and ask yourself: “How could I express more of each quality this year?” Do this for all nine. What might help and what might hinder the Spirit from producing these qualities in your life?

GROWING TOGETHER

Day 4

Day 6

READ MICAH 6:8

Reflect on the verses from this past week,

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.

and use the following space to write any

And what does the Lord require of you? To act

thoughts God has put in your heart and mind

justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly

about the things we have looked at in this

with your God.

session and during your Daily Devotions time

REFLECT

This passage gives three commands. Which command are you succeeding with? Which needs some work?

Day 5 READ LUKE 8:40-48

As Jesus was on His way, the crowds almost crushed Him. And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years, but no one could heal her. She came up behind Him and touched the edge of His cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped. “Who touched me?” Jesus asked. When they all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the people are crowding and pressing against You.” But Jesus said, “Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me.” Then the woman, seeing that she could not go unnoticed, came trembling and fell at His feet. In the presence of all the people, she told why she had touched Him and how she had been instantly healed. Then He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.” REFLECT

Are you attentive to who might need “Jesus’ touch” today? How might you provide it for them through an act of kindness, compassion, and care?

GROWING TOGETHER

this week.

My Journal

THINGS I AM PRAYING FOR

GROWING TOGETHER

My Journal

GROWING TOGETHER

THINGS I AM PONDERING FURTHER

My Journal

THINGS I AM PUTTING INTO PRACTICE

GROWING TOGETHER

My Journal

GROWING TOGETHER

THINGS I AM PLANNING AND PREPARING FOR

GROWING TOGETHER