GCF Hays - SoundSage

Life Group Questions

Key Verse: Isaiah 59:17 - He put on righteousness as his breastplate, and the helmet of salvation on his head; he put on the garments of vengeance and wrapped himself in zeal as in a cloak.

There is a clear line between not taking revenge in the natural realm but engaging in battle in the spiritual realm. What does it look like practically for you to “leave vengeance to God” with people, while still fighting spiritually?
Pastor Ryan warned against fighting people instead of the real spiritual enemy behind the scenes. Where have you caught yourself focusing frustration on people instead of recognizing a deeper spiritual battle?
Real warriors fight because they love something (family, purpose, God’s kingdom). What are you personally fighting for right now?
We are called to war and keep warring in the spirit. What are some good ways to stay consistent with this?

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Life Group Questions

The sermon flipped a common image — we tend to picture the devil with fire and flames, but the sermon argued that God is the source of all heat and the devil's domain is cold — the absence of everything God is. How does that reframe the way you think about the spiritual battle you're in every day?
Zeal isn't a brush fire — it's a bed of hot coals: quiet, steady, hot for hours. The flames get the attention, but the coals do the work. How does that change what it means for you personally to be zealous for God?
David's first domino wasn't Bathsheba — it was the comfortable rooftop, the moment he chose comfort over calling. Where is your rooftop right now? That is, name the specific place you're choosing comfort over what God is actually asking of you.
The sermon said the first action to pick your cloak back up is to add fuel — return to what first set you ablaze. What first set you ablaze for God?
The second action was to borrow coals — get next to someone who is already a blazing inferno. Who is that person for you, and what are you doing this week to get closer to them?

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Life Group Questions

Key Verse: Ephesians 6:14 – Stand firm then…with the breastplate of righteousness in place…

Which of Paul’s seven resume items most resembles what you have trusted in to feel valuable or approved, career success, church involvement, moral reputation, family name, or something else? Why do you think that one is so easy to lean on?
Are you carrying a self-made breastplate right now, trying to prove yourself, keep up appearances, or earn what Jesus Christ has already given you? What would it practically look like to lay that burden down this week?
When the enemy comes at you with accusations, shame, or reminders of your past, what is usually your first reaction? How could responding with the truth of your righteousness in Christ change that battle?
In what area of your life do you struggle most to believe God fully accepts you right now, past mistakes, current struggles, insecurity, comparison, or something else? Why do you think that area feels so vulnerable?
If you truly woke up every day convinced your identity was secure in Christ, how do you think it would change your confidence, decisions, relationships, and peace?

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Life Group Questions

Key Verse - Ephesians 6:15 - and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.

When you hear the word “peace,” what do you naturally think of, and how does that differ from the biblical idea of eirene (being made whole and stronger after being broken)?
Ryan talked about “binding” the truth of what Jesus has done to your life (not just knowing it). What does that actually look like for you on a daily basis?
The shoes of peace help us “stand our ground.” Can you share a time when life tried to knock you off balance? What would it look like to stand firm instead of reacting?
The message challenged the idea that not every battle is from the enemy; sometimes it’s from open doors in our own lives. What are some practical ways we can “close those windows” in our hearts?
Romans 16:20 says the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet. How does that change the way you see your authority and identity in Christ in everyday situations?

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Life Group Questions

Key Verse: Ephesians 6:14 — "Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist…"

What was your biggest takeaway from this week's teaching?
When life gets busy or hard, what usually replaces time in God's Word for you, and how does that affect you?
Can you think of a time when a specific Scripture anchored you in truth during a difficult or confusing season? What happened?
What would it look like this week for you to actually "wear" the Belt of Truth, not just know the Word, but live from it daily?

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Life Group Questions

The message talked about three responses to God's call; running, reluctant obedience, and full surrender. Which one do you relate to most right now, and why?
Can you think of a time when you knew God was prompting you to do something, but you delayed or avoided it? What was going on in your heart at the time?
The message made a distinction between outward obedience and heart obedience: doing the thing but resenting it the whole time. How do you even recognize that in yourself, and what do you think it takes to close that gap?
The Ninevites responded to God with immediate, total surrender, while Jonah, the seasoned prophet, dragged his feet. What do you think makes someone more or less likely to surrender fully when God speaks?
The book of Jonah ends without telling us if Jonah's heart ever changed, and the message said that silence is intentional; the question gets passed to us. So honestly, is there something right now that God has been asking of you that you've been running from or grumbling through?

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Life Group Questions

Acts 2:42 shows the early church devoted themselves to fellowship. What do you think real biblical fellowship looks like today compared to how most people interact with others?
Pastor Rob said “Christianity is not a solo sport.” Who are the “gym partners” God has placed in your life to help you grow spiritually?
Jesus taught us to love our neighbor—even difficult people. Why do you think loving difficult people is so important for real fellowship?
James 5:16 talks about confessing and praying for one another. Why do you think vulnerability is often the hardest part of fellowship?
What is one practical step you can take this week to strengthen fellowship with someone (call them, invite them to lunch, join a group, open up about something)?

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Life Group Questions

After 3 days in the “cardio area” of the Spiritual Gym, what has God revealed to you? What stirred your heart, and what needs to change?
What was the most convicting aspect of this teaching for you? Was it related to something you are currently doing or something you tend to avoid?
Before this teaching, where were you serving?
Now that you know you’re called to serve, where will you step in? What’s one action you’ll take this week?

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Life Group Questions

What was the single hardest thing you heard in the teaching? Are you willing to obey it anyway?
Which day of the week is your Sabbath? What do you do to protect it? If your answer is that you don’t have one or that you don’t protect it, what are you going to do about that?
Three problems were named for why we don’t rest: too driven (can't stop), too busy (won't stop), and wrong rest (escaping instead of restoring). Which one is yours? Explain.
The teaching on commerce was provocative — no shopping, no restaurants, no gym, no transactions. What was your gut reaction? Has it changed? What's one transaction you could realistically eliminate this Sunday?
The Sabbath robe has four threads: Stop, Rest, Gather, Delight. What stood out to you about any of these?

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Life Group Questions

Where do you see noise, hurry, and busyness hiding things in your heart right now, and what might God want to comb through in your life if you actually slowed down long enough to let Him?
Jesus often withdrew to lonely places to pray (Luke 5:16). What usually keeps you from doing the same: distractions, feeling unproductive, guilt about resting, fear of being alone with your thoughts, or something else?
Have you ever experienced God’s “still small voice” in a quiet moment with Him? How was that different from trying to hear God in the midst of busyness, pressure, or emotional moments?
What habits, attitudes, or pressures do you think might be shaping you right now without you realizing it because of constant noise, hurry, and interaction with people and responsibilities?
In the Spiritual Gym, solitude is one of the workout stations, so what would “working out solitude” realistically look like for you this week in real life (when, where, and for how long will you actually get alone with God)?

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Life Group Questions

Jesus says in John 4:24 that true worshipers worship the Father "in spirit and in truth." Can you think of a time when your worship felt real and Spirit-led—not just routine? Can you also think of a time it felt more like effort or habit? What helped you notice the difference?
In personal and during corporate worship, what distractions do you struggle with that interrupt your worship of God?
What does your personal worship time look like? If you do not currently have a personal worship time, do you plan to establish one?
Matthew 5:23–24 teaches us to be unified with our brothers and sisters in Christ before we make an offering to God. Can you share about a time you experienced offense with a brother or sister in your church family, how that affected your worship — and, thinking back to Pastor Ryan's teaching on relationship principles, have you taken any steps to restore that relationship?
What has God revealed to you this week that needs to change about your worship? (personal, corporate, or in your daily life)

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Life Group Questions

Are you treating God's Word more like a real gym (to get strong) or a spa (for comfort)? Why?
Which "exercise" in the word of God do you neglect most, hearing, reading, studying, or meditating, and what's one reason you avoid it?
Who are the main voices shaping you right now (podcasts, social, news, preachers), and how do you test them against Scripture?
What's one verse you've rushed past that you need to slow down and "chew on" this week?
If the Word truly "dwelt richly" in you, what area of your life would change first: marriage, parenting, habits, or thought life?

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Life Group Questions

When you pray, how much of it is about what you need versus praying for other people? What makes it hard to pray more for others?
If someone looked at your calendar this week, what would they say you're most devoted to? Where does prayer actually fit in?
The idea of "praying continually" sounds overwhelming, but the sermon describes it as just recognizing God throughout your day—talking to Him, thanking Him for green lights, that kind of thing. What would that actually look like in your everyday routine? What gets in the way?
Prayer should be 80% listening and only 20% talking. Does that feel backwards to you? How comfortable are you with just being quiet and listening when you pray?
The real battle isn't on the battlefield—it's on the hillside in prayer. Think about something you're struggling with right now. Are you mostly trying to fix it yourself, or are you really fighting it through prayer? What would change if you shifted your approach?

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Life Group Questions

What comes to your mind when you hear the word fasting: excitement, confusion, fear, or resistance? Why?
Have you ever fasted before? If so, what was that experience like for you? If not, what has held you back?
Why do you think fasting is such a difficult discipline for many believers today?
Which biblical purpose of fasting connects most with your current season of life, and why?

(Prayer • Deliverance • Repentance • Victory over temptation • Love & worship)

What do you hope fasting might produce in your relationship with God, not just during the fast, but after it?

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Life Group Questions

The Faithfulness Principle says the relationship should outweigh the offense. Think of a recent or past offense. How did you respond? What would loyalty to the relationship have looked like in that moment?
When communication gaps appear, we choose to fill them with trust or distrust. When someone goes silent or distant, what is your default response and what helps you choose trust instead of assumption?
The Friendship Principle teaches that it’s our responsibility to communicate our heart. Why is it sometimes easier to be offended than to be vulnerable? What fears or risks hold you back from speaking honestly?
Jesus prioritizes reconciliation even over worship. What typically keeps conflicts “living rent-free” in your soul longer than they should? How might practicing the four-day principle change that?
The First Word Principle challenges gossip, venting, and secondary offenses. When you’re hurt, who is your first instinct to talk to and why? What would obedience to Matthew 18:15 look like instead?
The sermon ended with a call to be “saturated with God and reconciled to one another.” Which relationship principle do you most need to apply this year, and what is one concrete step you can take this week to live it out?

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Life Group Questions

Why do you think it can be difficult for us to speak gratitude out loud, even when we genuinely feel thankful? What holds people back?
In your experience, how does worship, especially singing, shift your mindset or help you refocus on God? What happens in your heart when you worship with gratitude?
What does choosing gratitude look like for you when life is painful, disappointing, or uncertain? How do you practice it even when it’s hard?
What rhythm or practice of gratitude (morning thanks, evening reflection, milestones, spoken praise, etc.) would help you grow right now, and why? What simple step could you start this week?

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Life Group Questions

Kasey said, "There's no difference between someone who is actually ungrateful and someone who feels gratitude but never expresses it." Is this true? What do you think about this?
What is "glory theft?" When have you been guilty of this crime? Be specific.
In Luke 17, Jesus distinguished between the nine who were blessed (i.e., cleansed) and the one who was both blessed and saved. How might you be settling for just His blessings without pursuing a relationship with Jesus?
Which of the three foes of gratitude are you battling most: Forgetfulness (failing to remember God's past faithfulness); Comparison (measuring your life against others); or Entitlement (not getting what you think you deserve)? Why is this particular foe so powerful in your life?
Jesus asked: "Has no one returned to give glory to God?" Will you be among the nine who walk away with the blessing, or the one who returns - and what does "returning" look like practically in your life this week?

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Life Group Questions

Jesus says in Luke 10:19: "I have given you authority over ALL the power of the enemy," and in Matthew 28:18: "All authority has been given to me...THEREFORE GO." What specific authority has Jesus actually given you? Over what areas of your life, family, or circumstances do you have the right to exercise spiritual authority?
Jesus said believers would do "even greater works" than He did (John 14:12)—not greater in number, but in QUALITY. How can that be? Does this sound crazy to you or empowering?
Look at the contrast: "God, please take away my fear" vs. "I reject this fear in Jesus' name. Get out." Which way do you usually pray? Which way will you pray going forward?
James 4:7 says, "Submit to God, THEN resist the devil." Kasey used the metaphor of swatting flies with windows open. What "windows" in your life might need to be closed (areas of compromise) before you can effectively resist the enemy?
Kasey emphasized that Satan can't read your thoughts—only God can. You have to SPEAK authority out loud. Have you ever done that? Does it make you feel weird to speak commands to Satan out loud? Why not start doing this?

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Life Group Questions

What’s one area of your life where you sense you’ve settled for less than God’s full promise, and what steps can you take this week to fully possess it?
Joshua’s mistake was not asking God before deciding—how can you build a habit of seeking God first in your daily choices, relationships, or major life decisions?
The enemy deceived Israel through something that looked right but wasn’t. What are some “good-looking” distractions or compromises in your life that could be pulling you away from God’s best?
When have you seen God redeem a bad decision or a moment of deception in your life, and how did He use it to strengthen your faith or bring you closer to Him?

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Life Group Questions

Your Mountain of Failures Picture your worst failure as a stone in a pile. Now see God's cross planted right through the middle of that pile. What specific failure is your heart convinced is too big for God to forgive—and why do you think YOUR sin is somehow stronger than Jesus' blood?
The Path Reality Check: You're not where you want to be in at least one area of life. Can you trace the small daily choices that led you here? Name one specific choice you'll make differently starting tomorrow.
Inside-Out vs Outside-In: Where are you exhausting yourself trying to act like a better Christian while your heart stays unchanged? What would happen if you stopped performing for God (and others) and started letting Him actually transform that area?
Your Weekly Evidence If someone filmed your choices for the next seven days, would they see someone actively choosing God's path or drifting toward disaster? Pick ONE decision you'll make differently for the next week because of this teaching.
The Unused Gift Card God's promises aren't automatic—they require daily choices to activate them. Which specific promise of God (e.g., peace, wisdom, strength) have you been carrying around like an unused gift card, and what's really stopping you from "swiping" it today?

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Life Group Questions

1.At Gilgal, Israel was stretched before Jericho. When God stretches you by asking you to change by adding or removing something, do you tend to resist or lean in?

2.At Gilgal, God rolled away the reproach of Egypt. What old label or lie do you sometimes still catch yourself believing, and what truth from God’s Word do you need to replace it with?

3.Before Jericho could fall, the Israelites had to spend years in Gilgal, where God prepared, reshaped, and stretched them. Do you find yourself in a “Gilgal” season today? What is God trying to show you in this moment?

4.Change is inevitable. What’s one change in your life you resisted at first, but now you’re thankful for because of how God used it?

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Life Group Questions

In the story of Gideon, an angel of the Lord tells him that he is a mighty warrior and that the Lord is with him, and he reacts out of fear, insecurity, & doubt. Contrarily, David could have approached Goliath similarly, but instead, demonstrated faith, boldness, and courage. What is the difference between these two men? If God were to tell you to do something you would deem as impossible, would you react like Gideon or David?
The first giants we must face in order to possess what God has for us are the giants of fear, doubt, insecurity, anxiety, worry, despair, guilt, and shame. Do you need to overcome any of these giants? If so, which of them do you struggle with?
"Chazak" is translated to "be strong". This is a picture word that means to take possession of, to take hold of, to fasten upon, to be hardened of the head and heart, and to be resolute. Which areas of your life do you need to "chazak" in?
"Amats" is translated to "courageous". This is a picture word that means bold, forceful, strength in motion, eager with your feet, or to have heavenly audacity. We see "amats" in action with the priests carrying the ark of the covenant into a mile-wide flooded Jordan River believing that God will part the waters. The spiritual truth for us here is that until you step into what God tells you to do, your situation/circumstances will not change. Do you get bogged down by your circumstances or do you have the heavenly audacity to step into what God is calling you to do?
Every time Joshua is being told to be strong and courageous, we see a promise, process, and God's presence. God gives a promise, tells us what we need to do, and promises that He will always be with us. How have you seen this pattern play out in your life?

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Life Group Questions

Since we started this series, have you taken some time to ask God about the specific promises He has for your life? Or, has He already revealed some promises to you in the past? Let's spend a few minutes sharing some of these with the group.
Read Joshua 1:3. God's promises are "yes" & "amen" for those who are in Christ, but there is action required of us to obtain His promises. The action in this verse is in the words, "every place where the sole of your foot treads." What does this mean to you in regard to your promises from God?
Roy stated that there is no junior Holy Spirit & there is no retired Holy Spirit. How will this truth encourage your life in God moving forward?
In order for us to be "armed" Roy explained that we need to know who we are in God, go together, & ensure that we are with God. Which one of these do you need to work on the most and why?
In the first chapter of Joshua, God tells Joshua, "Do not be terrified or dismayed." The Hebrew word for "dismayed" is hatat which means to break down or crack under pressure. In other words, when we are under pressure we should chill out. This seems easy to understand but hard to do when the pressure comes. What is the key lesson that we need to learn here in order to walk this out successfully?

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Life Group Questions

Read Joshua 1:6. What does it mean to “Be strong and courageous” in light of Father God reminding Joshua that He had already given their ancestors the Promised Land?
Charles Spurgeon said, “Not many of us are living at our best. We linger in the valleys because we are afraid to climb the mountains. We do not know what glories await if only we had the courage for the mountain climb. What blessings we would find in the mountains of God! Too low they build who build beneath the stars.” How does this quote speak to you in what you are doing for God’s Kingdom?
King Saul was unwilling to take a risk, despite having the full assurance of victory from God. Share a time in the last 60 days when you took a risk and saw Father God meet you, resulting in success.
King Asa missed his healing because he did not seek the Lord. His prayerlessness caused him to miss his healing. What is the biggest and smallest thing you have prayed for?
What are you passionate about?

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Life Group Questions

Read 1 Corinthians 1:20. If you are a believer in Christ, do you truly believe that this is true for you?
Why did God tell Joshua, "Moses my servant is dead" after the Israelites mourned his death for 30 days?
Read Isaiah 43:18. What does this verse mean to you? Do you believe that God is wanting to do a new thing in your life? Do you perceive it? What do you need to do in order to walk into this new thing God wants to do?
Pastor Ryan shared a story from his life when he had to declare, "Moses is dead." Describe a time in your life when you did the same and what your Moses was.
Do you currently have a situation from your past (good or bad) that you need to declare dead so that you can begin the process of possessing God's promises for your life? If so, what is it?

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Life Group Questions

People are flawed. So, when someone does something that could offend you, do you see them as someone who will eventually offend you because they are an imperfect/flawed person or are you blinded by the offense?
Pastor Ryan mentioned that some of us might need to hit the reset button on our expectations in relationships. Did this resonate with you? If so, how?
In Matthew 5:43-47, Jesus commands us to love our enemies, bless those who curse us, do good to those who hate us, and pray for those who use & persecute us. This is challenging for every Christian, but how does this challenge you personally?
Pastor Ryan mentioned two steps to dealing with offenders:
Look in the mirror first
We must ask God to search us & make us clean (Psalm 139:23-24)
Follow God's strategy for relationships in Ephesians 4
Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry
Do not give the devil a foothold
Get rid of all bitterness, rage, and anger
Be kind & compassionate to one another
Forgive each other, just as in Christ God forgave you

Which of these is God showing you needs the most attention?

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Life Group Questions

When first proposed, what was your reaction to the idea that a Christian should be unoffendable? What do you think now?
In two separate incidents (Matt 18:7 and Luke 17:1), Jesus warns His disciples (and us) that offense must certainly come in this world. Why does he make this warning?
Living offended and living angry is your choice. What was your initial reaction to this idea? What do you think now?
Do you...Are you harboring anger in your life? Do you want freedom? How do we get that freedom?
An offended Christian has forgotten what they’ve been forgiven of. Discuss what this means. And what does it mean in your life?

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Life Group Questions

How would you rate your confidence in praying with others on a scale of 1 to 10? What might be holding you back from joining others in prayer more consistently?

Last week, we discussed areas of your life where you feel a need for God to move. Has anything changed since then? How can we continue to unite in prayer for this aspect of your life?

According to Acts 6:4, why should corporate prayer be regarded as just as important as preaching and teaching in a healthy church?

Have you experienced God's presence or power more tangibly when praying with others compared to praying alone? Alternatively, could you share a moment when corporate prayer had a personal impact on you?

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Life Group Questions

How has your prayer life improved since you started this series?
Roy highlighted four transformative types of prayer that can truly move God: specific, daring, intense, and persistent. Which of these areas do you feel you need to grow in, and why?
Please share an experience where you prayed for God to act, and He did. Describe the specific, daring, intense, or persistent prayer you offered.
Are there particular areas of your life where you feel a need for God to move? How can your Life Group come alongside you to provide support, encouragement, and prayer?

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Life Group Questions

The prayer cards we covered in this week's message are His kingdom, daily bread, forgiveness, temptation & deliverance, & it's all about Him. Which of these impacted you the most and why?
Have you started using the prayer cards and praying through the Lord's Prayer as an outline? How is it going? Notice any changes?
Pastor Ryan encouraged us to try this prayer outline for 30 days. What does everyone think about our life group committing to this and holding each other accountable?
Read Psalm 45:7. This is speaking about the joy Jesus had while on earth. Jewish scholars say that this is more joy than all of the joy of all of mankind combined together. We need to be more like Jesus! How much joy do you live with? Do you pray for it?
Why is it important for us to pray out loud versus "thinking" our prayers?

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Life Group Questions

How would you rate your prayer life on a scale of 1-10? Why do you give yourself this score?
Read Luke 11:1. The disciples noticed that the source of Jesus’ miracles, character, & wisdom was His prayer life. So, they naturally asked him to teach them to pray. Jesus responds by teaching them the Lord’s Prayer. Pastor Ryan explained that Jesus’ intention was not to have them memorize this prayer and repeat it everyday. Instead, the Lord’s prayer is meant to be an outline to teach us how to pray. Have you ever used the Lord’s Prayer as an outline for daily prayer? If so, how has this changed your connection with God?
The Lord’s Prayer starts with, “Our father who is in Heaven.” How should this statement change your perspective each day?
Next, we have, “Hallowed be your name.” What does “hallowed” mean and what does this teach us about how we should enter God’s presence each day?
A great way to daily praise & thank God is to pray through His eight compound names that we find in the Old Testament. Which of these aspects of who God is to us means the most to you in your current life circumstances?

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Life Group Questions

Read Psalm 37:25

What was your main takeaway from Pastor Matt’s teaching?
What marker (“Ebenezer”) will you use to remember the goodness of God?
“Never doubt in the darkness what the Lord has told you in the light.” Talk about what this means to you. Why do we doubt in the darkness?
Read 1 Thessalonians 5:18 and Ephesians 5:20. What is the common theme between the commands in these verses? Share about times in your life when it was seemingly impossible to follow these commands. Why is it

not impossible to follow these commands?

Read Jeremiah 29:11. Do you believe that God has plans for good for you and to give you hope? Why?

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Life Group Questions

What was your biggest takeaway from Sunday's message and how will this change your perspective moving forward?
Some people try to combat Christianity with the argument that God has a split personality. They say that the God of the Old Testament is angry & full of wrath while the God of the New Testament is kind, nice, & forgiving. What is the proper response to such a claim?
Pastor Ryan explained four aspects of God's vengeance.
God is provoked
God is fiery
God is furious
God is indignant

Which of these stood out to you the most and why?

Did you walk away from hearing this message with more or less hope for your future? Explain why.
Now that we have concluded the fear of God series, how has your relationship with God changed? How do you think this will impact your life moving forward?

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Life Group Questions

This week, we discussed an Omni God - Omnipresent (present everywhere, every time, with the fullness of His being. Omniscient (He knows everything there is to know) and Omnipotent (He possesses all power). How has this understanding of God impacted you?
God's Omnipresence can bring conviction or comfort. Can you share a moment when you felt comfort, conviction, or both?
Chris talked about three areas of God's perfect knowledge: He's All-Foreknowing (God knows everything that will come to pass), All-Seeing (God Sees everything that exists in the universe), and All-Perceiving (God perfectly understands all that He observes). Which of these impacted you the most and why?
Job 42:2 says - " I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted. - This verse refers to God's power at work in your life to fulfill His purpose. Do you know what God's purpose is for your life? If so, are you actively fulfilling that purpose? If you are unsure or unaware, have you taken the time to ask Him what it is?

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Life Group Questions

Omarr explained that we don't fear God because we don't really know the God we should fear. How has your understanding of God changed in the last two weeks?
Our God is a glorious God. What does that mean?
Read Isaiah 40:26. God formed all the stars, calls them by name, and yet He did not make them in His image. He reserved that for you. How does this change your perspective for your life?
Either we live for the glory of God or we do not live at all. We only exist. What needs to change in your life so that you truly live for the glory of God?

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Life Group Questions

What comes into your mind when you think about God is the most important thing about you. Why is this so important? What comes into your mind when you think about God?
What is a good way to define the holiness of God?
In Isaiah 6:1-4, Isaiah sees an incredible vision of God on His throne with Seraphim flying around calling out, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty. The whole earth is full of His glory.” What was the result of Isaiah seeing this vision? How has your perspective of God & yourself changed since Sunday?
Our God is a faithful God. What does this mean?
Pastor Ryan mentioned four ways God is faithful. Which of these do you struggle to believe for your life?

· Faithful to forgive (1 John 1:9)

· Faithful to limit temptation (1 Cor. 10:13)

· Faithful to make all things work for our good (Romans 8:28)

· Faithful on the issue of eternity (John 3:36, Rev. 20:15)

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Life Group Questions:

Kasey introduced five practical steps to growing our Fear of God.

Seek the Fear of God:

a. What are some practical ways to get into the presence of God?

Which one do you do the most? The least?

b. Is it effective to ask God to grow the fear of Him within us?

Why?

Immerse in Scripture

a. Why do we read the Bible?

b. How does this grow the Fear of God?

Read Good Books

a. Do you read four good Christian books annually? If not, what is

your excuse?

b. What books did you read in 2024?

c. Does anyone want to recommend a book for others to read?

Train Yourself

a. What is your training regimen?

b. What WILL your training regimen be?

Tithe

a. What is tithing?

b. Why and how does it teach you always to fear the Lord your God?

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Life Group Questions

Pastor Myles kicked off our current series by giving an overview on the fear of God. How did he define what the fear of God is? Did this differ from your prior understanding of this topic? If so, how?
Out of all the benefits mentioned, if we build the fear of the Lord into our lives, which one impacted you the most and why?
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge and wisdom. What is the difference between knowledge and wisdom? How will this truth change how you live moving forward?
Read Proverbs 19:23. Do you rest content, unbothered by trouble? If not, what needs to change?
Read Psalm 25:14. In what ways have you experienced these truths in your life? How does this verse give you hope for your future?

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Life Group Questions

Key Verse: Matthew 5:48

“Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”

What was your biggest takeaway from this teaching?
The English word “perfect” in Mat 5:48 is translated from the

ancient Greek word Teleios. What does Teleios mean in the

context of this verse?

How do we become a spiritual grown-up?
When you follow the Holy Spirit’s lead, you are perfect. Is this

true? What does it mean?

What is the key to us following the lead of the Holy Spirit?

How do we accomplish that?

Kasey gave you a Holy Spirit Training Program. What is it?

Have you tried it yet? If not, why not? If yes, how did it go?

[Everyone should answer]

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Life Group Questions

1 Corinthians 3:9 – “For we are coworkers in God’s service.” What does this mean? Who is this directed toward, and does it still apply to Christians today? Do you see yourself as a “coworker in God’s service?” Why or why not?
In multiple passages of the New Testament, Christians are commanded to be “like-minded toward one another.” What all does this entail?
We need to be “like-minded toward one another” in living out our church’s vision & mission. The picture God gave of our vision looks like us being friendly, optimistic, pulsing w/ life, rowdy, & encouraging when we truly have the life of God within us. Are you like-minded in living out our vision? What (if anything) is holding you back?
Pastor Ryan said, “We need to be like-minded about the local church being the hope of the world.” Do you believe this about local churches? GCF Hays? You, personally?
We also need to fight for unity by following our relationship principles:

· The faithfulness principle

· The final-word principle

· The friendship principle

· The four-day principle

· The first-word principle

Which of these do you need to work on the most to fight for unity in your life?

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Life Group Questions

In Colossians 3:16, believers are directed to “admonish one another.” What does this mean?
Why is admonition so unpopular in our culture?
What benefits will we experience if admonition is commonplace in our church?
What steps do we need to take for successful admonition?
How do we properly receive admonition?

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Life Group Questions

What impacted you the most from Sunday’s teaching?
How should we define revelation and why do we need it?
How do we receive revelation?
Pastor Spartak said, “Revelation shows us our true identity, who are & what we should do.” How has revelation from God shown you your true identity and how has that impacted your life?
Pastor Spartak mentioned four benefits of revelation:
It helps us overcome difficulties
It brings success
It helps us to make right & important decisions
It will lead us to our destination

Which of these benefits have you experienced? Tell the story!

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Life Group Questions

Mark 11:25 – “Whenever you stand and pray, forgive, if you have anything against anyone…” Have you built a habit in your life of forgiving others when you “have anything against anyone?” Why or why not?
Hebrews 12:15 describes bitterness in our hearts as a bitter root. A bitter root of unforgiveness will grow until the whole field of your life is spoiled. How has bitterness caused trouble in your life?
In Matthew 18:23-35, we find the story of the slave who owed the king 10,000 talents, was forgiven his debt, and then had another slave thrown in prison for the debt he owed. When the king heard about this, he handed the slave over to his torturers until he repaid all that was owed. Jesus said, “So shall my heavenly Father also do to you, if each of you does not forgive his brother from your heart.” How will this story change how you view forgiveness moving forward?
Pastor Ryan gave five reasons why we don’t forgive:
Our hearing has become dull & our hearts have become hard
We desire to pay back or punish the offender
We justify unforgiveness
We judge others by their actions & judge ourselves by our intentions
We demand judgment for others & mercy for ourselves

Which one of these reasons has caused you to not forgive? Sitting here today, have you forgiven that person?

Pastor Ryan gave six steps for forgiving:
Realize that forgiveness is a choice, not a feeling
Ask God to show how He sees the offender through His love & compassion
Be quick to forgive
Forgive unconditionally
Be focused to be obedient to Christ
Work & pray to become offense proof

Which of these do you need to work on the most & why?

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Life Group Questions

Key Verse: Romans 15:7 — "Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God."

Share your Grace story…your first time at Grace — Which building, who welcomed you, etc. Did you feel accepted? [everyone answers]
Kasey listed seven primary essentials of the Christian faith. With short explanations in your own words, what are they?
What so-called “non-essential” Christian beliefs/practices of a believer would make it difficult for you to accept them in accordance with Rom 15:7? For example, you might have difficulty accepting someone unbaptized and unwilling to be baptized.
Our credo is “In Essentials Unity, In Non-Essentials Diversity, In All Things Love.” What does this mean? Why might this be difficult to achieve?
When was the last time you had church family into your house? When was the last time you were invited into a church family’s home?

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Life Group Questions

Please share an example of when you were warmly welcomed, and it was clear to you that you were valued.
Pastor Ryan shared the biblical principle that our Vertical Relationship with God is intimately connected to our Horizontal Relationship with one another. In what ways does this impact your view of relationships within the church family?
We all have different things to battle and overcome. What are the top 3 things that keep you from practicing hospitality more than you currently do?
One of the big payoffs to building hospitality into your life is that God will sometimes bring “His messenger” to you in that forum of welcoming people into your home. Have you had a time when God spoke a message/word to you in the midst of hospitality? Please share that experience.

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Life Group Questions

Key Verse: 2 Corinthians 1:4 - Who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

What changes have you made and how have you grown since the start of the “Flawless Family” series?

· Serve one another

· Connect w/ one another

· Comfort one another

1 Thessalonians 4:18 is a command for us to comfort one another. What does comfort mean in this verse? How does that differ from your instinctual understanding of the word?
Do you have compassion for others? Share an example of how you have grown in compassion towards someone you had little to no compassion for in the past?
When trouble comes, do you immediately turn towards God and earnestly pray? If yes, how has God comforted you? If not, what do you need to change moving forward & why?
Who have you had the honor of comforting in their time of trouble?

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Life Group Questions

Pastor Ryan said that we, as a church family, should live together famously. What did he mean by this?
When you read Jesus’ words in the gospels, do you think of Him as suggestive Jesus or Lord & Savior, Commander Jesus? Explain why.
Read 1 John 3:16-18. What does this mean to you and how will it change your life moving forward?
Psalm 100:2 – “Serve the Lord with gladness.” No matter who we serve, we are always serving the Lord, so we should serve with joy in our hearts. Do you serve others? If not, get in the game! If so, do you serve with joy in your heart or with a bad attitude?

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What started small for you and has blossomed into something significant?
Where in your life could you use a mustard seed of Faith?
What can you scale back to allow room for God to grow this Faith inside of you?
What are you holding on to or attempting to control that you need to surrender?
What can you do to be in more constant conversation and relationship with God on a daily basis?

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Life Group Questions

In Matthew 13, Jesus mentions seeds in both of the first two parables. What did the seed represent in parable #1 and what did it represent in parable #2? What is the significance of this for us?
What is a tare? How can a Christian resemble a tare if they are not careful?
Many people assume that the harvest time in this parable is at the end of the world. Why does this not make sense biblically? Bonus question: When is the harvest time?
Read Matthew 21:43. Who is speaking? To whom are they speaking? What does this mean?
What does the barn represent in this parable? The wheat is gathered and put in the barn. What does this mean?

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Life Group Questions

Pastor Ryan described the doctrine of defeat (dispensationalism) which didn’t exist prior to the 1850’s. Because of the Scofield Reference Bible and other influences, the American church adopted a defeatist mentality. What do you believe about the future?
What is the difference between a sub-culture and a counter-culture? What is the church called to be?
The Jews in biblical times thought in two time periods. The age of the law and the prophets and the age of the messianic kingdom. Both ages existed simultaneously between 30-70AD. Why did this happen and what does it mean?
When we read “last days” in the bible, what is it referring to?
The kingdom of God is referenced over 160 times in the New Testament. What is your understanding of God’s kingdom and the role you are to play in building it?

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Life Group Questions

Who brought you to church? Share your testimony.
Our “Find, Tell, Bring” series has inspired us to invite people to church for Easter and beyond. Have you thought about who you would like to invite yet? If so, have you already extended the invitation? If so, how did it go? If not, what’s holding you back?
Pastor Rob said to “keep it simple” when inviting others; to share simple truths from scriptures and how they changed your life. What simple truth can you share from scripture that will inspire others to come and join the party?
Building relationships is crucial. Pastor Rob shared a life-changing story from a church member about how an invitation to a Cody Johnson concert transformed his life. If it wasn’t for his Christian friends who invited him out, he would still be an atheist. This story highlights the significance of inviting people into our community and making them feel loved and accepted. What could you invite someone to outside of church to further your relationship with them?

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Life Group Questions

According to 1 Corinthians 1:29-30, saving people is not your job. Instead, it’s God job. Does this truth relieve some pressure? Why?
If you haven’t already done so, make a list of unchurched people that you know. Tell us about the main person on that list that the Holy Spirit is highlighting for you to focus on.
Kasey suggested that we should create curiosity in how we live our life and to love people until they ask you why. What do you think of this approach? How do you accomplish it?
Please share a 3-min version of your story (…how Jesus made a difference in your life)? It doesn’t need to be polished or ready to go. Whoever is most scared, should go first.
What is one of your favorite Jesus stories? Please share it and tell us why it is your favorite. For example, I love the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) parable.

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Life Group Questions

Let’s talk about a time when a friend showed up for you in a time of need. How did it make you feel? Did it make the situation better or worse?
Job’s friends began as well-intentioned comforters but turned into miserable ones. Have you ever been a miserable comforter? Share from your experience and what you learned.
Pastor Rob shared a powerful story about a difficult conversation with his brother while his mother was hospitalized with Covid. He ended up calling his brother back to apologize and restore their relationship. Months later, his brother gave his life to Christ! Do you have anyone in your life that you need to make amends with? If so, share who it is, pray for them, and make a plan to “show up” for them.
Pastor Rob mentioned 5 ways to have someone’s six.
Prayer
Show up
Listen to understand, not respond
Don’t assume
Encourage them

Which of these ways resonated with you the most and why?

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Life Group Questions

Read Genesis 26:2-5. Why did God carry forward the blessing of Abraham to his son, Isaac?
God chose to make a covenant with Abraham because He knew He could trust him. God has kingdom-building plans for your life. Can He trust you?
Read Matthew 6:33. This is a conditional promise from God. What is the promise? What is the condition? Do you want this promise for your life? If so, what do you need to change moving forward?
Pastor Ryan shared three components to Abraham’s obedience.

a. Without seeing the blueprints

b. Without limits

c. Sacrificial

When considering your life, which one of these stuck out to you the most and why?

Read John 14:23-24. Do you obey Jesus’ teachings? There is another conditional promise here. What is the condition and what is the promise? How will this change your outlook on life?

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Life Group Questions:

What did you learn from this teaching, and how will it impact you moving forward?
Do you feel hopeless in any areas of your life, such as your marriage, finances, children, career, or health? If yes, please share. If not, share some victories.
During the teaching, Pastor Rob shared three wrong sources of trust: ourselves, other people, and money. Which one resonated with you the most as an area for improvement, and why?
Jesus offers hope to those who feel hopeless by providing them with a new perspective (vision), a new source of power (JOY), and a new purpose (glorifying Him). What is your new vision and purpose? Additionally, please share an example of your superpower (JOY) in action.

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Life Group Questions

What was your main takeaway from this week’s teaching?
Pastor Ryan described three components of the year of jubilee.

a. Rest from Labor (Soul Rest): Taking a sabbath & reflecting on what matters most.

b. Restoration from what was lost (All debit forgiven & original inheritance restored)

c. Release from slavery (Born-again believers are set free from slavery to sin)

Which of these spoke to you the most, and how will this change how you live your life?

Is there an area where you have accepted defeat in your life? If so, how will you take a stand to claim the blessing of Abraham in every area of your life?
One of the biggest things that holds Christians back is not believing that the word of God is true for them. What is holding you back from believing that God’s word is true for you?

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Life Group Questions

What has God called you to do?
Read Isaiah 61:1. Jesus came to proclaim freedom for the captives. The Greek word translated to “freedom” or “liberty” means “free run.” Is that how you would describe your life? “Free run,” with no limitations and nothing holding you back from your God-given destiny?
Do you currently feel like you are held captive to something or someone? Remember that this can be mental, emotional, physical, and/or spiritual captivity.
Pastor Ryan said that one of the devil’s primary tactics is to whisper toxic thoughts into your spirit. These are lies, deceptions, and errors. Share about a time in your life when you experienced this and won victory over it.
Pastor Ryan listed four types of lies that the devil tries to get us to believe:
Lies about God
Lies about ourselves
Lies about sin
Lies about others

Which of these lies are you currently struggling with and how can the group pray for you?

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Life Group Questions

What was your main takeaway from this week’s teaching on brokenness?
Pastor Rob talked about some causes of a broken heart:

· Abuse (Verbal / Physical / Sexual)

· Loss

· Neglected / Rejected

· Failure

· Betrayal

Which of these have you experienced victory over and how can you use that testimony to bring someone else closer to Jesus?

One of the most common coping mechanisms is denial. You see this with people who might “put on a happy face” or say, “I’m good” instead of being honest with themselves and others.

Read: Matthew 11:28-29

Jesus clearly and lovingly invites us to release every wearisome burden, and if we allow Him to guide & direct our lives, He guarantees rest for our souls. Are there areas in your life that you need replaced with the rest Jesus offers? Share them with the group.

Pastor Rob shared this quote from Bill Hybels: “What if you knew that by simply crossing the room and saying hello to someone, you could change that person forever? Just a few steps to make an eternal difference. It has nothing to do with methods and everything to do with taking a genuine interest in another human being.” Jesus took the ultimate walk across the room for you. Share how this challenges you to be willing to walk across the room for others.

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Life Group Questions

What is “The year of the Lord’s favor?”
Pastor Ryan said, “So many Christians only experience half of their life in God.” They focus only on receiving from God and miss opportunities every day to minister to others. Described the last time you ministered to someone.
Read Col. 1:27. People all around us have been devastated by circumstances in life. Their only hope is the local church (Christ in you, the hope of glory). How has your perspective changed since hearing this truth from scripture?
Pastor Ryan encouraged all of us to “see people differently.” What did he mean by this? How does this apply to you?
All people are born separated from God and have a God-shaped hole in their life because they are spiritually empty until they invite Jesus to be their Lord and Savior. Do you know that Jesus is your Savior? If not, is there anything holding you back from surrendering all to Him so that you can be healed and set free? If you are a born-again believer, who has God put on your heart to reach out to this week?

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Life Group Questions

What was the main thing you pulled from this relationship principle?
Share a time when you did not believe the best about someone and how it affected your relationship with that person.
Pastor Rob talked about relationships being our church's thing. Do you remember when you first walked in grace? Share how you felt and how you are mirroring that for others in our church.
Out of the five relationship principles, Faithfulness Principle, Four-day Principle, Friendship Principle, First-word Principle, and Final-word Principle, which one is the most challenging for you at this moment and why?

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Life Group Questions

In your own words, what is the First-Word Principle? How does it help maintain and grow relationships?
Read Matthew 18:15. This verse provides five key points about resolving personal conflicts. What are they? Please discuss.
Do you recall a situation in your life where you were seemingly the last person to know about someone having a problem with you? If you can, please talk about that. How did it affect those relationships?
In Matthew 18:7, the English word “offense” is translated from the Greek word “skandalon,” which means the trigger of a trap on which bait is placed. Discuss how this biblical fact colors your understanding of what an offense is.
What is a secondary offense? What is gossip? How are they damaging to relationships…the church? Have you experienced gossip, as the subject of the gossip or a participant? If so, please share what happened.

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Life Group Questions

What are some of your biggest personal takeaways from the relationship principles series so far?
Why is it important for our church to remain in unity? Bonus question: What are the key bible verses for this series?
In week one, Pastor Ryan taught the faithfulness principle. What is the faithfulness principle and how does will this challenge you moving forward?
In week two, Kasey taught the four-day principle. What is the four-day principle and will you commit to following this in your relationships in the church?
Last Sunday, Pastor Ryan taught the friendship principle. What is the friendship principle? Do you find yourself to be someone who makes every effort to keep the unity in your relationships or do you avoid confrontation and hold grudges?

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What spoke to you the most in this message?
Being planted in church, going to church, reading your bible, praying, and worshiping are things Pastor Rob mentioned to help secure your mask and allow you to breathe in God's spiritual air. Which one of these do you need to work on? Explain.
Being an example for others to follow doesn’t have to be a scary thing. We are not perfect and that’s okay. Which method of setting the example needs the most work, and how can we, as a church family, help you?

Method:

We need to practice what we preach.
We need to find joy in every Situation.
We need to model Christlikeness.
We need to invest in relationships.
Are you ready to put on that mask, secure it, breathe in, be the example, and go and make disciples? Why or why not?

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Life Group Questions

If I want to increase my ability to hear God’s voice, I must learn to cherish the word of God. What does cherish mean to you in this context? Do you cherish God’s word? Why or why not?
Three ways that the word of God supercharges our ability to hear God’s voice are:

· It tunes your spirit

· It establishes you in foundational truths

· It defeats the devil

Which of these impacted you the most and why?

Tell a story about the last time you operated in the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
The second supercharger for increasing our ability to hear God’s voice is praying in the Spirit (praying in tongues). Are you baptized in the Holy Spirit? If so, do you pray in tongues daily? Why is this a good idea for any born-again believer?

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Life Group Questions

Pastor Ryan compared hearing God’s voice to fine-tuning a transistor radio. What was your biggest takeaway from this illustration?
Hebrews 10:19-20 says, “…we have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He inaugurated for us through the veil, that is, through His flesh…”

What does this mean and why is this REALLY good news for all born-again believers?

When we come to God in doubt, we receive nothing. How does this challenge you as you seek to hear God’s voice?
It is impossible to approach God confidently with unconfessed sin in your heart and 1 John 1:9 tells us, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful & just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Are you living with unconfessed sin in your heart? Since God makes a wonderful promise to those who confess, what’s holding you back from confessing?

When God speaks to us, we must let those words cleanse us by applying & walking out what he says to us. What changes do you need to make in light of this directive?
Romans 12:9 says, “Your love must be sincere.” What does this mean to you and how does this challenge you to relate to God and others differently moving forward?

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Life Group Questions:

Share an example from your life of when you tested what you heard from God.
The first test Kasey shared was to filter out the impurities. Through sorrow, loss, sickness, pain, offenses, doubt, discouragement, temptation, & personal desire we filter God’s voice through our tainted human perspective. Does this ring true for you? Have you experienced this before? Explain.
The Bible test:

a. What conclusions can be drawn when you know that the Bible contradicts what you heard from God?

b. What is absolutely essential to accomplish this test?

The source test: Kasey listed distinctive characteristics of messages from each source (World, Holy Spirit, You). For each source, which of the listed characteristics seemed most notable to you?
The humility test: We should seek counsel to help us determine if the message is from God. Do you do this? If not, why not? If so, how does it work for you?

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Life Group Questions

Do you Journal? If so, why? If not, what’s holding you back?
Pastor Rob mentioned 4 benefits of journaling:

· It separates the hearing & the testing

· It occupies your mind

· It serves as a reminder

· It keeps the message pure

Which one(s) do you relate to the most and why?

God’s words are always perfect. Our interpretations of what He says are imperfect. What methods can we utilize to make sure we are hearing God accurately?
Is there something God has spoken over your life that hasn’t been realized yet? Did you write it down so you don’t forget the details? Are you praying for it? Are you waiting on the Lord in faith or in doubt?

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Life Group Questions

Has God ever spoken to you through a dream or a vision? Tell the story. How did you know it was Him?
Pastor Ryan said, “We need to hunger for & earnestly desire to hear God’s voice.” On a scale from 1-10, how hungry are you to hear God’s voice?
In Acts 16:9-10, God calls an audible in the middle of Paul & Luke’s missionary journey through a vision given to Paul during the night. This led to them changing their plans and heading to Macedonia.

Are you ready & open to God calling an audible in your life? Share a time in your life (past or current) when you recognized God calling an audible. How did you respond?

When Jesus needed personal ministry, He secluded himself for quiet time with the Lord. When he was around people, he ministered to them by doing what he saw and heard God do. This is the example for us to follow. When we need personal ministry, we need to have quiet time with the Lord. When we are around others, we should seek to see what God is doing and hear what God is saying to minister to them.

Has God ever spoken to you or given you a vision during worship or at life group for someone else? Did you act upon it or dismiss it? Explain.

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Life Group Questions

We know that God is always with us and wants to help us in our time of need, but many Christians live life like functional atheists; running around as if God doesn’t exist. Why do you think that is?
Read Psalm 46:10. Is this easy or difficult for you and why?
Omarr shared three steps for getting still:
Remove all outer distractions
Deal with your physical body
Quiet your inner self

Which one do you need to work on the most and why?

You make time for what is important to you. What do you spend the most time on? Do your priorities need to change?
God didn’t make you and save you to abandon you. What does this mean to you personally?

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Life Group Questions

On a scale of 0 to 10 (lowest to highest), how would you rate your ability to recognize the voice of God before this teaching? (0 means that you never recognize His voice; 10 means that you almost always are certain about recognizing His voice.)
The big idea of this teaching is that God’s voice sounds like a spontaneous, intersecting thought.

a. Discuss what this means to you.

b. How does this contrast with your thoughts?

c. In your experience, is this what God’s voice sounds like?

According to Ezek. 14:4, the Lord will speak to us in accordance with the multitude of idols in our hearts.

a. What does this mean to you?

b. What should we do about this?

Which of the five qualities of God’s voice, listed below, matches your experience the most?

a. God’s voice will often be in the first person

b. God’s voice will often be light and gentle

c. God’s voice has better content than mine

d. God’s voice lands right

e. God’s voice causes a wonderful reaction

Which of the four safeguards, listed below, do you need to remember to implement the most to make sure that you are hearing God’s voice correctly?

a. Scripture

b. Humble & teachable heart

c. Staying in your lane

d. Your church family

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Life Group Questions:

1. From Genesis to Revelation, we read numerous accounts of God speaking to people. Why do you think Christians today don’t experience back and forth conversations with God?

2. Have you heard God’s voice before? If so, tell the story and explain how you knew it was Him.

3. Jesus says that His disciples should know, hear, and obey His voice. How does this challenge you in your relationship w/ Jesus?

4. What (if anything) is holding you back from believing that hearing God should be a normal part of Christianity?

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Life Group Questions

1. "It's a get to not a got to." What does that phrase mean to you?

2. Every person is presented with numerous opportunities daily to choose how they will respond. Do you generally respond with a “get to” attitude or “got to” attitude?

3. Pastor Ryan shared the four reasons why life turns into a “got to.”

- Doing the right things for the wrong reasons

- Being a do it all (saying yes to everything or doing everything yourself)

- Not taking breaks

- Not spending time w/ the Lord

Which of these are you best at and which one do you need to improve on? Explain.

4. What is your take away from this message, how will you apply it, and how can we hold you accountable?

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Life Group Questions

Key Verse: Isaiah 53:3 – “He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering.”

1. What would you say is your main takeaway from this message?

2. What forms of rejection have you personally experienced, and how have those experiences played out to-date in your life?

3. Of the three wonderful gifts we’ve been given as a result of this exchange at the Cross (Acceptance, Access, and Adoption), which one speaks to you the most? Why so?

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Life Group Questions

1. Read Galatians 3:13-14 and Genesis 24:1. Christ became a curse for us so we might receive the blessing of Abraham, and the Lord blessed Abraham in every way. Do you believe that blessing is for you? Why or why not?

2. Pastor Rob described some common curses that we see today. Idolatry, false religion, wrong attitude towards parents, training your child, injustice to the weak and fatherless, your words towards people, and your words towards yourself. Which one stood out to you and why?

3. Is there anything/anyone that you are currently worshiping in place of God? If yes, what/whom are you worshiping and how can we, as a family, help you?

4. Pastor Rob prescribed a solution for dealing with curses. Recognize, repent, renounce, and resist. Are you ready to shine a light and deal with curses? If not, what’s holding you back?

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Life Group questions:

Our key verse: Hebrews 12:2 (Aramaic Bible in Plain English) - And let us gaze at Yeshua, him who is The Author and The Perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was his, endured the cross and ignored the shame, and he sits upon the right side of the throne of God.

1. Take away: a. What struck you the most about this teaching? b. What was your biggest takeaway?

2. Glory: a. In your own words, what is the glory of God? b. Give examples of things that demonstrate His glory?

3. Shame: a. In your own words, what is shame? b. What are the consequences of shame? c. Do you have shame? If so, what are you going to do about it?

4. Jesus bore our shame: a. What seemed like the most shameful thing that Jesus bore for us? Talk about why?

5. We might share His Glory: a. Rom 10:11 says that anyone who trusts Jesus will “never be put to shame.” Talk about what that means. b. How is that possible? c. How does a Christ follower rid themselves of that shame?

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Life Group Questions

It says in Isaiah 53:12, “He poured his life unto death,” meaning Jesus died our death, the death we should have died, and put it on himself. What does that mean to you?
Pastor Rob described the last reference in the bible to the shed blood of Jesus as overcoming blood (Revelation 12:11), meaning that His blood will see you through to the end. What will this change the way you look at valleys in your life?
Pastor Rob showed a chart (see below) of a lifespan of 70 years outlining the typical life and how time is spent. Looking at these numbers, how do you view how you spend your time and what changes should you make?

Sleep | 23 years | 32.9%

Work | 16 years | 22.8%

TV | 8 years | 11.4%

Eating | 6 years | 8.6%

Travel | 6 years | 8.6%

Leisure | 4.5 years | 6.5%

Illness | 4 years | 5.7%

Dressing | 2 years | 2.8%

Religion | 0.5 years | 0.7%

“Get busy livin’ or get busy dyin’.” Are you living life abundantly? Yes, then How? No, why?

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Life Group Questions

Key Verse: Isaiah 53:5 – “… and by His wounds, we are healed.”

What is the main thing you got out of Sunday's teaching?

2. Do you ever find yourself wanting to give up, getting frustrated, or being fearful when praying for healing? Why do you think this is?

3. When should you stop praying for healing? Why?

4. In your own words, what does it mean to allow your feelings to define God? Can you identify areas in your life where you have allowed this to happen?

5. Kasey talked about how the Bible doesn’t put our healing in a future tense or even a present tense, but rather, in a past tense. Jesus declared the word tetelestai at the Cross: perfectly perfected, completely completed, nothing left out. Meaning, the physical aspect is just as perfect as any other. Do you believe that God has already provided health and healing for you in the perfect sacrifice (exchange) of His Son Jesus? How does this knowledge change your life going forward?

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Life Group Questions

What is cessantionist theology?
What is continuationist theology? And how does it differ from cessantionism theology?
What practical difference does it make which one that is true? Explain why.
Were you ever taught one of these theologies? Tell us about that.
What, if anything, stood out to you about the debunking of these four arguments for cessationism:

a. Spiritual gifts are unnecessary because we have the Bible

b. Spiritual gifts are not valid because the Bible contains all of His

revelation

c. Spiritual gifts are too easy to misuse and abuse

d. The spiritual gifts pass away when the apostles died

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Life Group Questions

Why is it essential for us to be biblically balanced on the subject of healing?
In the gospels, we read that Jesus healed people because of their faith and He also healed people who seemed to lack faith. Why is it important for us to have faith in God to heal?
God withdraws His presence & power when His people turn away from Him & walk in ways that are contrary to His word. How often do you invite God to search your heart, spend time listening to Him, and allow Him to point out areas in which you need to change?
Pastor Ryan gave a synopsis of the first two chapters in the book of Job. When faced with unimaginable circumstances, Job trusted and praised the Lord while his wife told him to, “Curse God and die.” If you faced unimaginable circumstances, would you trust God or curse Him?

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Life Group Questions

1. How good of a listener are you? Rate yourself on a 1-10 scale. Explain why.

2. Prayer should be a conversation with God. What percentage of your prayer life do you listen to God versus talk?

3. Pastor Ryan mentioned that listening has benefits! What are some of the ways that you’ve benefited when you’ve been a good listener?

4. Listening communicates love. Describe a situation when you loved someone by listening to them.

5. Pastor Ryan gave five practical suggestions for good listening.

a. Listen first

b. Listen attentively

c. Listen for meaning

d. Listen actively

e. Listen reflectively

Which of these do you need the most work on and why?

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Life Group Questions

1. Pastor Rob talked about marathon runners hydrating 6oz every 15 min to prevent dehydration even if they are not thirsty. If they wait to drink when thirsty, it is too late; dehydration will take effect. What are you doing to prevent spiritual dehydration?

2. What are you feeding on right now? The Bible, books, past teachings on the app? Please share what is keeping your soul fed!

3. Psalms 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” How have you applied this verse in your life?

4. Are you finding solitude, realigning your compass, and healing your wounded heart or do you find yourself escaping and isolating away from the relationships God has put in your life?

Self-feeding is your responsibility, and your motivation is key to continue to do so. Are you showing up ready to play and be coached? If not, what’s holding you back?

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Life Group Questions

1. An irresistible church links everything to a soul. What does this mean to you?

2. Are you fully confident in the person God created you to be? Are you using your giftings to transform lives for Christ?

3. Have you obeyed God‘s call, even when it was out of your comfort zone, and what was the result?

4. What can you do differently to transform lives for Christ at home, in the workplace, at school, or at church?

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Life Group Questions

Pastor Ryan described a church who values relationships as one that “promotes and encourages a sense of unity in the bonds of love.” What does this mean to you?
God wants all Christians to grow in maturity and wisdom. Prov. 12:16 and 1 Cor. 13:5 tell us to ignore insults, not be easily angered, and to not keep a record of wrongs. On a scale of 1-10, how would you rate yourself in each of these three directives? Explain why.
In Matt. 5:23-24, Jesus is essentially saying that being in right relationship with others is more important than “playing church” and that we need to make things right with others first. Whether you have offended someone or you are offended at someone else, do you quickly resolve that issue or do you sweep it under the rug and hope it disappears on its own?
Read John 13:34-35 and 1 John 3:14. What did you learn from these verses?
Romans 12:9 says, “Love must be sincere.” We get the English word “sincere” from the latin word “sincerus” meaning “without wax.” What does “without wax” mean and how does this effect how we should love each other?

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Life Group Questions

Since Sunday, has God given you an opportunity to take a risk? Please share if applicable.
John 10:27 says, “My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow Me.” Do you know God's voice, and do you follow what He says to do?
Share a story from your life about a time when God told you to do something outside of your comfort zone and how it helped you grow spiritually.
Would you describe yourself as a “faith champion” or a “dream killer?” Explain why.
When analyzing your life, do you sow lots of seeds to build the Kingdom of God, or is this honestly not even on your radar daily?

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Life Group Questions

“When it comes to life, the critical thing is whether you take things for granted or take them with gratitude.” ~ G.K. Chesterton.
a. What is your reaction to this quote?
b. How can you live your life differently in light of this quote?
Please describe the best circumstances in which you should practice gratefulness.
We all fail to practice gratefulness. What is the typical reason that you fail to practice gratefulness?
Should you evaluate a church and its people based on your preferences? If so, why? If not, why and what standard should be used? Explain.
Who, in your life, are you taking for granted? How will you express your gratitude?

Bonus: Here is a list of church-related services that are often taken for granted. Pick one or two. Find out who does it. Express your gratitude.
a. Work crew – landscaping; repair
b. Cleaning crew – cleans the buildings weekly
c. Ministry heads – leading mens’ and womens’ ministry and events
d. Pastors & Elders
e. Communion setup
f. Social media & graphics
g. Photos
h. Discipleship program leaders and mentors
i. Counseling program
j. Church administration
k. Lodge event sales and management
l. Digital ministry (website, apps, church center, and planning center)
m. Youth leaders
n. Kingdom Kids leaders
o. Nursery leaders
p. Life Group leaders
q. Strike team (setup/teardown/signs)
r. First Impressions Ministry team (greeters/hospitality)
s. Worship team and audio/visual team
t. Sunday School teachers
u. Announcement team

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Discussion Notes:

Describe a time in your life when you “showed well” but behind the scenes, your heart was far from God. What did you learn from this season in your life?
Pastor Ryan described living heart first as “living with a genuine, deep-rooted desire to joyfully walk down the paths that God calls us to.” Are you joyfully walking in God’s calling for your life? Explain.
Lamentations 3:40 says, “Let us examine and probe our ways and let us return to the Lord.” It is important for all Christians to assess their lives and have a heart to “return to the Lord.” How does this apply to your life right now?
Do you serve out of willingness or drudgery? No matter the answer, explain why.
Do you live like your life depends on it? What do you think would change if you did?

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Life Group Questions

Key Verse: Matthew 22:35-40 – One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" Jesus replied: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."

Pastor Rob opened up about his past talking about not having a loving heart, being angry and alone, and not wanting to want to deal with others around him. Have you felt like this recently and what are you currently doing to change that?
"Send people into my path or allow me to cross paths with someone who needs to hear about Jesus." Give an example recently or not of a situation where you shared your heart and talked about Jesus to someone else.
The two greatest commandments are to love God and love others, in that order. Share some examples from your life when you lived out these commandments.
Pastor Rob read a letter to a GMI Pastor from a church member (See letter below). Are you investing in someone right now by how you live your life?

"When you gave your life to Jesus, you invested in me. When you answered God's call to ministry, you invested in me. When you decided to be faithful to your wife and your family, you invested in me. When you turned disappointments and defeats into victories, you invested in me. When you refused to compromise in area after area, year after year, you invested in me. For all of the "me's" in GMI and around the world, thank you for continuing to give your life. Please don't stop. You are showing each of us how to do the same."

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Life Group Questions

Key Verse 1 Peter 5:5-6 – “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble. Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”

Pastor Lee explained that there is a difference between “humbling yourself” and “being humbled.” Explain what “humbling yourself” means to you.
Share about a time when you were able to perform a “hidden service” and how it made you feel.
How does humility help you support the mission and leaders of this church?
Tell about a time when you or someone you know was ruined by not handling success well or how you or someone you know was blessed by handling success in humility.

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Life Group Questions

Why is the local church the hope of the world?
What does “irresistible” mean to you?
Pastor Ryan told a story about the Welsh Revival. What would it take to see a revival happen in Buda? What does GCF Hays need to do to play its part?
What are some of the great things that come from living in God’s presence?
There are three pieces to becoming a church that hungers for God’s presence.
Desiring a greater realization of His presence.
Longing to be filled to the full measure with His Spirit.
Crying out for a special anointing.

Which of these do you need to focus on this week in order to hunger for God’s presence and why?

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Life Group Questions

We are four weeks into the "Joy Ride" series. Have these biblical truths caused your joy to increase and how?
What does Philippians 1:21 (“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain”) mean to you personally after hearing Sunday’s message?
Have you ever found yourself believing in or repeating any of the below philosophies on death? • Universalism • Annihilationism • Second Chance (reincarnation or purgatory) • Soul Sleep

How has this message changed your understanding, or reaffirmed your thinking?

Paul says, “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord”. Do you fear death? If not, why not? And if yes, why so?

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Life Group Questions

Key Thought: There is a way to suffer for a Christian so that our suffering is purposeful and not purposeless.

What is the main thing you got out of Sunday’s message?
Share an example from your life where you suffered in a way that was purposeless. In other words, you didn’t allow God to do something good in you or through you when you went through that period.
Share an example from your life where you suffered in a way that was purposeful. In other words, through that suffering, you ended up loving Jesus more, or you became more humble, patient, kind, and compassionate (more Christ-like).
Share an example from your life where you personally witnessed a Christian going through suffering, and they went through it in such a way that it powerfully impacted your life.
How will you handle suffering differently in your life after Sunday’s message?

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Life Group Questions

Key Verse: Philippians 1:3-6 – “I thank my God every time I remember you. 4 In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

What’s your single biggest takeaway for you personally from this teaching?
What are some practical ways that you combat loneliness when you’ve experienced this in your life?
Pastor Matt made this statement on Sunday: “Joy is not so much an emotion, as it is a lifestyle.” Do you agree? What’s the practical interpretation of this in your life?
Another statement that was made on Sunday was, “Nothing in your life – not even the darkest, most difficult, or painful situation – is without purpose.” What does this mean to you personally? (Hint: everything becomes an opportunity for the Gospel!)

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Life Group Questions

Take a minute, and define what the word “joy” means to you personally.
During Sunday’s message, we talked about the 4 P’s that culture offers to us in our pursuit of happiness: Processes, Possessions, Places, and People. Which of these avenues have you tried over the years, only to find they didn’t bring true joy in life?
Do you really and truly see yourself as a saint, as God’s word declares about you? Why or why not?
Pastor Ryan made the statement on Sunday that “slavery to Jesus Christ is the answer to true freedom.” How does this statement strike you? Are you living your life today “chained” to Him, as your true Master?

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LG questions for 4/13: 1. Be honest...is this a "word of wisdom" that you told people? That you believed? 2. How did this message impact you? 3. Why does God allow you to be overwhelmed? Explain. 4. When someone is overwhelmed, how can you best encourage them? 5. Do you rely on your Holy Spotter? How?

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Life Group Questions

What impacted you the most out of Sunday’s message?
God is the builder and creator of everything. He builds by the revelation of who Jesus is. Who is Jesus to you?
God also builds relationally. John 15:16 says, “You didn’t choose Me, but I chose you, and appoint you.” What does “God appointing you” mean to you?
God also builds generationally. Galatians 4:7 says, “So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir” and in Romans 8:17 Paul calls Christians “joint-heirs with Christ.” You are a son or daughter of the Lord most high! Think about your family, work, school, church, and relationships. Do you live your life like a son/daughter or do you live like a slave?

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LG questions for 3/30: 1. What is your biggest takeaway from this teaching? 2. If forgiveness doesn't remove the consequences of the wrong, then what good is it? 3. Should you quickly forgive a wrongdoer that doesn't know better? Why or why not? 4. Must you forgive an unrepentant wrongdoer that knows better? Why or why not? 5. Is there anyone that you need to forgive? Make that decision. Get yourself off the hook. 6. Which of the teachings covered in this "8 dumb things" series has had the biggest impact on you? And why? -- Faith can fix anything -- Everything happens for a reason -- Christians shouldn't judge -- Let your conscience be your guide -- If you take care of God's house, then He will take care of mine -- God brings good luck -- A valley means a wrong turn -- Forgiving means forgetting

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Life Group Questions

When listening to the message, what struck you the most?
Have you ever gone through a valley (difficult life situation) thinking I must have done something to cause God to put me here?
Stephan mentioned three things that you must do when facing a valley (difficult life situation).
be quiet, calm down
gird up the loins of your mind
protect your integrity

Which one is the hardest for you and why?

Your promised land is a land of mountains and valleys. How does God want to use the valleys in your life?

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Life Group Questions

What was the biggest thing you got out of Sunday’s message?
One of the reasons for the misuse of the phrase “everything happens for a reason” is due to a misinterpretation of Romans 8:28 in the KJV. Read Romans 8:28 KJV and Romans 8:28 NIV. What is the difference and why is it important for us to understand?
Pastor Ryan said, “When it comes to the consequences of the fall of man, we aren’t offered immunity, we are offered eternity.” Did hearing that change your perspective on life? If so, how?
Describe a time in your life when you blamed God for your sinful choices, living in a fallen world, or for your foolish decisions and what you learned from that experience.
What is the good news that Pastor Ryan shared? How does this give you hope?

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Life Group Questions

What is biblical faith?
Pastor Ryan explained that our perception of the word faith in the English language is incomplete when compared to the concept of faith in the original Greek language of the New Testament. Faith, belief, and trust all come from the same Greek root word and in many cases are synonymous with each other. How does this change your understanding of faith?
Why can't faith fix everything?
If faith won't lead us to victory in every situation, why bother praying and following God's commandments?

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Life Group Questions

Pastor Chris Sparks taught from John 8 where we find Jesus’ encounter with an adulterous woman. Jesus told her, “Go now and leave your life of sin.” What most impacted you from Sunday’s message?
Jesus judged this woman’s sin, declared no condemnation of her sin, and instructed her what to do next. Describe a time in your life when the Holy Spirit convicted you, you turned away from your sin and experienced freedom. Are you still free from that sin?
Pastor Chris went through multiple examples of people in the Bible needing to pick themselves up. Why should we have confidence and faith in picking ourselves up in the midst of our toughest moments in life?
What is your “Go And…?”

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Life Group Questions

Reflect on the three topics of this series:

First Things First Breaking the Spirit of Mammon The Miracle of Multiplication

Which topic is currently impacting you the most? Why?

Under 10% is stealing. 10% is returning. Over 10% is when generosity starts. This may sound upsetting for some. How do you feel about this statement?
Sometimes, we think about money in a purely natural way. I make a certain amount and have to cover a certain amount of bills/expenses. When God calls you to give, do you believe that He will provide for you although it may not mathematically make sense?
Luke 16:11 - “So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?

Why do you think God makes this connection and why is it important to him?

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Life Group Questions

What is mammon?
In Sunday’s message, Pastor Rob taught us that the spirit of Mammon will try to get us to look to money to fill our needs, rather than looking to God to fill our needs. Share an example (the more recent the better) of how you caught yourself thinking that way.
Have you ever thought, “If I had more money, I wouldn’t have as many problems?" How do you see that differently, or more clearly, after Sunday’s teaching?
Pastor Rob explained Luke 16:9, “....so that when it is all gone, they may receive you into an everlasting home.” How did this truth inspire you?
The four keys to breaking free from the spirit of Mammon are:
Deal with any selfishness in your heart
Never allow your heart to grieve from giving
Develop a liberal heart
Maintain a grateful heart

Which of these is the biggest battle for you?

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Life Group Questions

What was the main thing you got out of Sunday's message?
In Sunday’s message, Pastor Ryan taught us that there are over 2,000 verses in the Bible dealing with money – more than four times that of verses on either prayer or faith. Why do you think that is?
The three principles (Principle of the Firstborn, Principle of the Firstfruits, and Principle of the Tithe) are all speaking to the fact that God should have first place in every area of your life. Share with everyone when that happened for you in the area of your finances.
What has been the biggest struggle for you in being faithful and consistent in giving the tithe to your church?
Keeping in mind that the three underlying issues for people not tithing are Education (not knowing what the Bible says), Faith (not trusting God to provide for you), and Disobedience (not caring what God commands you to do), which of these is (or was) the real issue for you? How can you (did you) get victory over it?

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LG Questions: 1. Why do you think that it is important to practice hospitality WITHIN the family?

What are some of the practical ways that you practice hospitality AS a family?
When being hospitable, how do you involve your children?
What are some of your family traditions?
Be honest. To this point, are you just a listener when it comes to hospitality? Or are you a doer? If so, what have you done?

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Life Group Questions

What did you personally get out of Sunday's message?
A well-managed home looks at hospitality as a lifestyle, not just an event. Is this how you view hospitality in your home? Explain.
Do you view your home as a place where ministry can and should happen?
Pastor Ryan gave us four practical steps to successfully plan hospitality.
Develop reliable menus
Establish a list
Encourage meaningful conversation
Pray, pray, pray

Which of these do you need to add to your planning and why?

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Life Group Questions

How did Pastor Myles describe hospitality?
When was the last time you had people over to your house?
What is the primary focus of hospitality?
Pastor Myles gave five biblical categories of guests.
Believers
Unbelievers
Those in need
Foreigners, immigrants, & refugees
Those in ministry

Which category have you neglected to show hospitality toward and why?

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LG Questions for 11/10/21 (What is Worship?) - John Church

In your own words, what is worship? What is it to you?
What do you think about this statement? Is it true for you? Why? --- Frederick Robertson said this: “Again, it is not a thing which a man can decide, whether he will be a worshiper or not, a worshiper he must be, the only question is what will he worship? Every man worships--is a born worshiper.”
In Revelation 3:15-16, Jesus issues a call to worship to you by saying this: “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” --- Are you in danger of being spit out because your worship is tepid?
The two marks of worship: 1) sacrifice and 2) faith. With regard to your worship: --- How are you sacrificing? Why is that a sacrifice? --- How are you acting in faith? What makes that an act of faith?

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Life Group Questions: 1. What were the main takeaways from Sunday’s message for you and how can you apply them to your life?

Describe the culture in which you were raised? What were godly and ungodly aspects of that culture?
Can you identify the character traits you picked up during your upbringing that you are now working on changing?
Heaven's worship culture includes extending our hands, kneeling, shouting, singing a spontaneous song, clapping, raving as if a madman, and dancing. Which ones are easier and which ones are harder for you to embrace?
The story of David bringing back the ark of the Lord was read. Can you somehow relate with David’s wife Michal that she was embarrassed for her husband and concerned about what people would think? How important is the opinion of other people to you?

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Why Worship #2 | The Presence of God | 10-17-2021 | Life Group Questions

Other than Jesus, who is the celebrity/famous person who you would most like to meet in person? If this person walked into the room right now, you would totally freak out. Who is that person to you?
How do your feelings about being in the presence of this famous person compare to your reaction to being in God’s presence?
The speaker said that each of us could come into the presence of God. How?
What does VIBRANT praise and worship mean to you? What does it look like when you praise and worship vibrantly?
When God manifests His presence, He does so for four main reasons: a. His presence brings redemption b. His presence brings revelation c. His presence brings joy d. His presence stultifies our adversary Which of these reasons stand out most to you? Means the most to you?
Share stories of times, during praise and worship, that you experienced the presence of God.

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Life Group Questions

John 4:23 – “The time is coming, yes, it is here now, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father seeks that kind of worshiper.” What does being a true worshiper mean to you? What does He find when he finds you?
Pastor Ryan described six attributes of true worshipers. True worshipers:
are givers
cannot go unnoticed
recognize God’s greatness
hunger for God
aren’t chameleons
are sanctified & righteous

Which of these resonated with you the most and why?

Describe a bad time in your life when you chose to worship God through your difficult circumstances.
On a scale of 1-10, how in awe of God are you? Explain.

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Life Group Questions

What impacted you the most from Sunday’s teaching / this series?
Jesus told the church in Sardis to “wake up and strengthen what remains” because they were spiritually dead from becoming like the surrounding culture. Why do Christians in America need to hear this today?
Pastor Ryan said, “A Christian without courage is a cultural atheist.” How does this challenge you personally?

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LG Questions

Because of their Marxist ideology, the woke social-justice mob wrongly believes: (a) Wealth and resources are zero-sum (i.e., they don’t understand the concept of wealth creation); (b) If you have wealth and success, you got it illegitimately (i.e., it’s not through your sacrifice or work efforts, it’s only because the system is rigged in your favor); (c) Wealthy nations are evil, because they got wealthy through some evil means (like colonialism, greed, rapacious capitalism). Which of these three do you find the most objectionable?
History shows that those nations that fully embrace Christianity (and a Judeo-Christian worldview) have moved from poverty, lack of civil rights, and pervasive crime to prosperity, freedom, increased rights, and a dramatic decrease in crime. On a personal level, please share an example from your life of how Biblical truth (a Christian worldview) has brought you forward into prosperity and/or freedom.
Pastor Ryan focused in on four big issues, and how different the Woke Social Justice movement answers those issues, versus the way God answers those issues. The four were: (1) What is real?; (2) Who are we?; (3) What is our fundamental problem?; and (4) Who has ultimate authority? In the contrast shown, which of these four was the biggest for you?

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LG Questions

Among the quotes Pastor Ryan gave us on Sunday were these three:

(a) A.W. Tozer: “A frightened world needs a fearless church.” (b) Ken Meyers: “Cultural engagement without Biblical discernment leads to cultural captivity.” (c) C.S. Lewis: “Human beings have this curious idea that they ought to behave a certain way, and they cannot really get rid of it.”

Which of these three was your favorite, and why?

Communitive justice means “living in right relationships with God and others – treating others as uniquely valuable as image-bearers of God.” Do you ever struggle to see (& treat) others as uniquely valuable image-bearers of God?
Two key Biblical principles regarding justice are:

(a) Debt is to be paid by the one who incurred it. (b) Debt cannot be involuntarily transferred to another.

In what ways are these truths freeing to you?

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Christians are criticized for being hypocritical, lacking unity, homophobic, and judgmental. In your opinion, why are we receiving these objections and criticisms? Are these objections and criticisms valid?
What other objections and criticisms have you heard? How have you responded when faced with these other objections and criticisms?
The speaker taught that Christians should focus on forming a genuine relationship with an outsider rather than focus on their sin. a. What do you think of this? b. Isn’t it important to inform people that they are sinning so that they can turn away from those ways?
The speaker suggested that we should apologize for the hurt that other Christians have caused to non-Christians. But we didn’t wrong anyone. We are not at fault. What do you think of this suggestion?
The speaker encouraged you to seek out non-Christians and make friends with them. Why?

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Life Group Questions

Describe a time in your life when someone’s encouragement helped you through a difficult time.
Are you an encourager of the people around you? Do you go out of your way to encourage others?
Who in your sphere of influence needs encouragement from you?
King David encouraged himself in four ways:
He remembered his past
He prayed
He realized God is in control
He asked God what to do

Which one of these do you need to do more often and why?

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LG Questions 5/12

Pastor Rob described three promises from God for every Christian. You are forgiven, righteous, and qualified for all that God has provided. How does this challenge you?
Do you see yourself the way that God sees you?
How often do you meditate on God’s word? Have you realized the importance of this for your life?
What do you need to daily declare over your life?

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LG Question for 5/5: 1. Pastor Josh Macklin told us four powerful stories of unlikely candidates (Scott McCaleb, George Mendoza, Audrey Church, and Nate Whitman) in our church. What is your reaction to these stories? Which story did you identify with most?

Who do you know that has a particular need for hope right now in their life? Tell us about them? It might be you.
God wants to work through YOU to tell EVERYONE about His love and mercy and grace. What is your reaction to that? Do you think that you don't have a story to tell?
Are you an unlikely candidate? Tell us your story. Be a hope dealer.

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Life Group Questions for 4/28: 1. Did you identify with the tug-of-war illustration? Why do we keep trying when we always fail in our own power? Tell us about a time when you finally called for your "Dad" to help. 2. Pastor Ryan said, "We can’t be filled with the power of God until we ditch the idea that we can do it in our own strength." Why is that? 3. Why do you need to align yourself with God's will? 4. Why do we need to ask for the power we need from God? God knows you need it, right? 5. Obedience. Why is that important in order to receive God's power?

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Life Group Questions 4/21/21

What do you have doubts about?
In your own words, how are doubt and unbelief different?
In the gospels, Jesus consistently helps His disciples overcome their doubts instead of condemning them. Describe a time in your life when you battled doubt and God and/or Christians helped you overcome it. Did you end up stronger than you were before?
Pastor Ryan gave us three practical steps to battle the doubt virus. Which of these do you need to focus on this week and why?
Find the root of your doubt.
Ask God & others for help.
Build your immune system.

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Life Group Questions (4/14/2021):

What was your strongest impression from the message: “The Reason for Hope”
Pastor Lee Bryant shared this: “The resurrection is the lynchpin of Christianity” and 1 Corinthians 15:14 - "...if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith." (NIV). In your own words, what does the resurrection of Jesus mean to your faith?
The reasons for our hope are that we have the right leader and the right promises. Read Matthew 16: 13-18. a. Who do you say that Jesus is? And why does that give you hope? b. What does it mean that Jesus promises that the “gates of hades” will not prevail against His Church? Why does that give hope?
Jesus left us with the Holy Spirit in order to fulfill His promises. John 16:7 - “But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate (Paraclete) will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.” Why does the Holy Spirit give us a reason for hope?

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Life Group Questions for April 7th:

1 Cor. 13:13 - These three remain: faith, hope, and love. Pastor Ryan showed us that hope is one of the three biggest commodities in the universe. How important was hope to you before Sunday's message? Where would you rate the hope that you have for your life on a scale of 1-10?
"Hope is the music of the future; faith is dancing to it right now." Thinking about your life, how does this challenge or encourage you?
Give an example of a time when you've had wishful thinking or blind optimism rather than biblical hope.
Biblical hope gives us hope for our past and for our future. Which of these is more difficult for you to accept and why?

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In our short series, FIND, TELL, BRING, we covered a biblical-based and natural way to evangelize in your circle of influence. Find someone that you love. Tell them what you know. Bring them with you.

What is your biggest takeaway from this series?

Which of the three (FIND, TELL, BRING) will be the biggest challenge for you? Why?

Who are the unchurched on your FIND list? Tell us about them.

What has the Lord done for you and how has He shown you mercy? Are you prepared to tell that story?

Who on your FIND list is just one invitation away from eternal life? Have you invited them to Easter Sunday? What's stopping you?

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In our short series, FIND, TELL, BRING, we covered a biblical-based and natural way to evangelize in your circle of influence. Find someone that you love. Tell them what you know. Bring them with you.

What is your biggest takeaway from this series?

Which of the three (FIND, TELL, BRING) will be the biggest challenge for you? Why?

Who are the unchurched on your FIND list? Tell us about them.

What has the Lord done for you and how has He shown you mercy? Are you prepared to tell that story?

Who on your FIND list is just one invitation away from eternal life? Have you invited them to Easter Sunday? What's stopping you?

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In our short series, FIND, TELL, BRING, we covered a biblical-based and natural way to evangelize in your circle of influence. Find someone that you love. Tell them what you know. Bring them with you.

What is your biggest takeaway from this series?

Which of the three (FIND, TELL, BRING) will be the biggest challenge for you? Why?

Who are the unchurched on your FIND list? Tell us about them.

What has the Lord done for you and how has He shown you mercy? Are you prepared to tell that story?

Who on your FIND list is just one invitation away from eternal life? Have you invited them to Easter Sunday? What's stopping you?

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Life Group Questions

What was your biggest takeaway from Sunday’s message?
Have you invited Jesus into your life? If so, have you fully given your life to Him?
Stephan provided a checklist for us to examine five areas of our lives:
Relationships
Spiritually
Geographically
Occupationally
Fear

Checklist: - Fully surrendered to God - Not quite there yet, but “under construction” - Not there yet

When going through your checklist, which areas did you mark as “fully surrendered” or “not there yet” and why?

Did anything speak to you so clearly that you think you need to make changes in your life? Are you willing to share?

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Life Group Questions

Tell us about your first experience when you walked into GCF Hays. What did you experience? How did it impact you?
What was your biggest takeaway from Sunday’s message?
Pastor Mike used an illustration about getting saved and entering the Kingdom of God but never leaving the foyer. How far have you ventured into the Kingdom? Are you still in the foyer? What is holding you back?
Who do you know that you can invite to church to introduce them to the culture of GCF Hays/GMI?

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Life Group Questions

Key Verse: Philippians 4:6-7 – Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

What was your biggest takeaway from Sunday’s message?
Which one of the eight reasons to choose gratitude have you started working on this week? If you have not, why not? • Gratitude is a matter of obedience. • Gratitude draws us closer to God. • Gratitude is a sure path to peace. • Gratitude is a gauge of the heart. • Gratitude is the will of God. • Gratitude is a result of being filled with the Spirit. • Gratitude reflects Jesus’ heart. • Gratitude gets us ready for heaven.
Who is one person in your life that you need to express more gratitude toward on a regular basis? Why did you choose this person?
Can you identify with Beth Moore’s version of Philippians 4:6-7? If so, how? If not, why not?

"Do not be calm about anything, but in everything, by dwelling on it constantly and feeling picked on by God, with thoughts like 'and this is the thanks I get,' present your aggravations to everyone you know but Him. And the acid in your stomach, which transcends all milk products, will cause you an ulcer, and the doctor bills will cause you a heart attack and you will lose your mind."

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Life Group Questions

Have you at times taken God’s gifts for granted and think of them as common, ordinary stuff? How can we combat this in order to be thankful always?
God is always faithful, although we are prone to wander, He is not. How can this truth be used practically to share God’s love to a “lost'' person?
Do your close relationships help challenge and grow you to a greater walk with Christ? Please share an example of this currently in your life.
Pastor Josh spoke about being grateful for God’s calling on your life. What is your calling? Do you daily seek it out and express gratitude to God for it?

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Life Group Questions

Pastor Ryan explained 5 practical ways that we can cultivate a lifestyle of gratitude: • Speak up --- Don’t just think it; say it. • Sing out --- Combining the power of expressing gratitude with the power of worship. • Kneel down --- Training our hearts to filter everything through the goodness of God. • Privately & publicly --- Quick to give thanks when no one is looking & when everyone is looking. • When & where --- Morning & evening, and transforming parties & celebrations into deliberate moments of gratitude.

Which of these 5 was the biggest for you, and why?

The following are some of the key quotes from this teaching: • Real gratitude is doing grateful things out of a grateful heart. • All too often, we let thoughts in our mind suffice for gratitude. • Gratitude is the tune that we sing & dance to. • Is the overall makeup of your prayers out of balance? (not enough giving thanks) • Did you really celebrate your anniversary (give thanks to God & to each other), or just go out to dinner?

Which of these impacted you the most, and why?

The following are some of the verses we looked at in this teaching: • Hebrews 13:15 – “Let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God; that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge His name.” • Psalm 145:4 – “One generation will commend Your works to another; they will tell of Your mighty acts.” • 2 Samuel 12:20 – “Then David got up from the ground, and he washed and anointed himself and changed his clothes. And he went into the house of the Lord and worshipped.” • Psalm 35:18 – “I will give You thanks in the great congregation; I will praise You among a mighty throng.” • 1 Chronicles 23:30 – “The Levites are to stand every morning, thanking and praising the Lord, and do the same in the evening.”

Which of these speaks the loudest to you in this season of life, and why?

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Life Group Questions:

Which story impacted you the most on Sunday? How did it make you view ingratitude or gratitude differently? • Edward Spencer • Richard Wurmbrand • Martin Rinkart • Tony O’Brien
Pastor Josh shared; gratitude is not always something we reject, in fact, many times it is something we simply neglect. How are you doing with gratitude within your family? Does everyone know how grateful you are for them?
All of us suffer from ingratitude from time to time. Which of these factors of ingratitude do you need to work on this month? Why is this one your goal? • Unrealistic Expectations • Forgetfulness • Entitlement • Comparison • Blindness to God’s Goodness • Circumstances
Who are five of the most grateful people you know?

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Life Group zoom meeting link: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/4550786100

Life Group Questions

If you had to give an honest assessment of your overall life, what would be the percentage split between Whining & Worshipping (for example, 60/40)?
In which area of your life do you whine the most?
What specific steps can/will you take to change this?
Pastor Josh gave us five portraits of comparison between a Whiner & a Worshipper. • A grateful person is a humble person, while ingratitude reveals a proud heart. • A grateful person is God-centered (and others-centered), while an ungrateful person is self-centered. • A grateful person has a full heart, while an ungrateful person has an empty one (always needing something else). • A grateful heart is revealed by thankful words, while an ungrateful heart will manifest in complaining. • Grateful people are live-giving springs, while ungrateful people are a drain on others.

Which area spoke the strongest to you and why?

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Before Sunday’s teaching, where did Gratitude rank on your list of character qualities? How did that change after hearing the teaching?
Where is the strongest pull of the "undertow of ingratitude" in your life right now, and what are you doing to win this battle?
The three keys Pastor Myles gave us (that we have to be intentional about!) are: (1) Renewing your mind from the truths of God’s Word. (2) Setting your heart to savor the gifts of God in your life right now. (3) Disciplining your tongue to speak of the goodness of God. Which of these three would be the biggest for you right now?
Are you following through on the homework assignment? If so, are you seeing a change already?

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GCF Hays: Recent Episodes

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