through the bible

---

THROUGH THE BIBLE

2018 SUMMER CURRICULUM

DISCIPLES BY LIVING

part 2

LIFE TOGETHER

MAKING DISCIPLES WHO MAKE

Content Overview WEEK #

WEEK OF

STORY TITLE (OR CONTENTS) GMBC UPCOMING EVENTS

WEEK 8

JUL 15 - 21

WEEK 9 WEEK 10

PAGE # 3

GIDEON

4-7

JUL 22 - 28

RUTH

8 - 11

JUL 29 - AUG 4

SAUL

12 - 15

DAVID

16 - 19

WEEK 11

AUG 5 - 11

WEEK 12

AUG 12 - 18

SOLOMON

20 - 23

WEEK 13

AUG 19 - 25

JOB

24 - 27

ICEBREAKER QUESTIONS COMPONENTS & GROUND RULES ADDITIONAL NOTES / PRAYER REQUESTS

28 29 - 30 31

upcoming events & opportunities to serve

july

16-23

Peru Mission Trip

29

GM Quarterly Meeting

27 7/30-8/2

Parents Night Out

GM Kids: Preteen Kids Camp

4

GM Men’s Breakfast

12

Lord’s Supper (Evening Service)

august 10 19 24 25 26 29

2 3

SS/LG Party Night FOCUS Event

Parent’s Night Out GM Single’s BBQ

LIFE GROUP KICK OFF FOR FALL GM Youth: 5th Quarter / Fall Kick-Off

No Evening Service GM Offices Closed

september 4 4 - 8 5

First Day of Joy School

GM Men: Life Riders to Colorado Awana Kick-off

9

Lord’s Supper (Evening Service)

15

GM Women: Beth Moore Simulcast

10 16 26 28 29 30 30

Life Group / Sunday School Party Night 101 Starting Point

GM Youth: See You at the Pole Parent’s Night Out

GM Men: Burgers & Bullets Parent Dedications

All Church: Annual Business Meeting

2018gmevents

3

Judges 7:9-24 “9 That night the Lord said to him, ‘Get up and attack the camp, for I have handed it over to you. 10 But if you are afraid to attack the camp, go down with Purah your servant. 11 Listen to what they say, and then you will be encouraged to attack the camp.’ So he went down with Purah his servant to the outpost of the troops who were in the camp. 12

Now the Midianites, Amalekites, and all the Qedemites had settled down in the valley

like a swarm of locusts, and their camels were as innumerable as the sand on the seashore. 13

When Gideon arrived, there was a man telling his friend about a dream. He said, ‘Listen,

I had a dream: a loaf of barley bread came tumbling into the Midianite camp, struck a tent, and it fell. The loaf turned the tent upside down so that it collapsed.’ 14

His friend answered: ‘This is nothing less than the sword of Gideon son of Joash, the Isra-

elite. God has handed the entire Midianite camp over to him.’ 15

When Gideon heard the account of the dream and its interpretation, he bowed in wor-

ship. He returned to Israel’s camp and said, ‘Get up, for the Lord has handed the Midianite camp over to you.’ 16 Then he divided the three hundred men into three companies and gave each of the men a trumpet in one hand and an empty pitcher with a torch inside it in the other hand. 17

‘Watch me,’ he said to them, ‘and do what I do. When I come to the outpost of the camp,

do as I do. 18 When I and everyone with me blow our trumpets, you are also to blow your trumpets all around the camp. Then you will say, ‘For the Lord and for Gideon!’’ 19

Gideon and the hundred men who were with him went to the outpost of the camp at

the beginning of the middle watch after the sentries had been stationed. They blew their trumpets and broke the pitchers that were in their hands. 20 The three companies blew their trumpets and shattered their pitchers. They held their torches in their left hands, their trumpets in their right hands, and shouted, ‘A sword for the Lord and for Gideon!’ 21 Each Israelite took his position around the camp, and the entire Midianite army began to run,

4

WEEK 8 JUL 15 - 21

and they cried out as they fled. 22 When Gideon’s men blew their three hundred trumpets, the Lord caused the men in the whole army to turn on each other with their swords. They fled to Acacia House in the direction of Zererah as far as the border of Abel-meholah near Tabbath. 23 Then the men of Israel were called from Naphtali, Asher, and Manasseh, and they pursued the Midianites. 24

Gideon sent messengers throughout the hill country of Ephraim with this message:

‘Come down to intercept the Midianites and take control of the watercourses ahead of them as far as Beth-barah and the Jordan.’ So all the men of Ephraim were called out, and they took control of the watercourses as far as Beth-barah and the Jordan.”

gideon 5

WELCOME ________________________________________________ OPENING PRAYER _________________________________________ PURPOSE (WHY ARE WE HERE?) _____________________________

COMPONENTS WELCOME Honoring others by welcoming & valuing them OPENING PRAYER Inviting God’s Holy Spirit into our presence PURPOSE Remembering why we are here GROUND RULES Establishing healthy boundaries for LIFE Groups

GROUND RULES ___________________________________________ ICEBREAKER _________________________________________________ CELEBRATION: Share how our last life group impacted your week?

Lets get started...

ICEBREAKER Setting the stage for trust, transparency and relationships CELEBRATION Recognizing what God has done in our group TOPIC Discussing God’s Word together TAKEAWAY Applying what we have learned to our lives CLOSING PRAYER A time to praise God and share our requests and needs PLACES TO PLAY Allowing others to lead in LIFE Group the following week by assigning them one of the components

GROUND RULES CONFIDENTIALITY IS KEY NO CROSS TALK DON’T RESCUE NO FIXING OTHERS USE “I” STATEMENTS LISTEN & PAUSE STAY ON TOPIC ALLOW OTHERS TO TALK We are committed to resolving conflict biblically according to Matthew 18

6

20

MIN

H

After the Battle of Jericho, Joshua led the Israelites in to the Promised Land. The twelve tribes of Israel were strong in battle, and God went before them continually helping them to overcome their enemies. However, there were small territories the Israelites did not defeat. Israel began to disobey the Lord and worshipped other gods. They would be defeated by their enemies, cry out to God for His deliverance, and He would raise up rescuers called judges, to deliver them. The judges would bring a time of peace, but the Israelites would soon begin their idolatry again, repeating the cycle. Israel lived in a repetitive state of rebellion, and judges would free them, turning them back to God. Joshua, who was strong and courageous, had passed on, and God had chose a new leader named Gideon to defeat Israel’s enemies. But Gideon wasn’t quite as strong and courageous, at least not at first, yet God encouraged him. This is where we begin our story today. If we were to look into the lives of every person in this room, we would see that we all have self-limitations and/or weaknesses. It would not be wrong to say that Gideon felt limited and weak because his army was so much smaller than those God was asking him to overcome. Many, if not all, of us have foes, whether internal or external, that have defeated us in the past or that may seem unbeatable today. But God’s Word says that His power is made perfect in our weakness (2Cor 12:9). We were never meant to battle our enemies on our own, no matter how great or small. We must put our confidence in God, not ourselves.

As you are listening today, be thinking of current battles you are facing and how God wants you to let Him fight for you.

2

MIN

KEY VERSE

Judges 7:9 “That night the Lord said to him, ‘Get up and attack the camp, for I have handed it over to you.”

WEEK 8 TELL THE STORY: _____________________________________________

JUL 15 - 21

Take it back a page and tell this story from God’s Word as best as you can without teaching. You don’t have to memorize it word for word. Try not to express opinions or make your own points. Just tell the story.

JUDGES 7:9-24 GIDEON: A MIGHTY WARRIOR TELL STORY

REBUILD STORY

12

MIN

CHECK STORY

For the following, use these questions or formulate your own.

SUMMARY

How did Gideon feel about fighting the Midianites? What did God tell Gideon to do when he questioned God?

God uses us to do great things even in spite of our weaknesses

When we obey God, we can find the courage to move forward

Even when it doesn’t make sense, we must trust God and wait for His instruction

How did God encourage Gideon before the battle? What are some weaknesses or limitations you have that inhibit you from carrying out God’s plans?

45

MIN

In what ways do you find it hard to follow God’s instructions step-by-step? How do you respond when God gives you an assignment for battle that you are not able to defeat in your own strength? After today’s story, how willl you adjust your response to following God’s exact instructions? PRAYER REQUESTS:

Trust that God will prepare you for what is to come

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Who’s your

ONE?

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Home Jesus Church

World

10

MIN

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ CLOSING PRAYER: ______________________________________________________

LIFECIRCLES REMEMBER TO GIVE OTHERS A PLACE TO PLAY NEXT LIFE GROUP

7

Ruth 2:1-23 Now Naomi had a relative on her husband’s side. He was a prominent man of noble character from Elimelech’s family. His name was Boaz. 2

Ruth the Moabitess asked Naomi, “Will you let me go into the fields and gather fallen grain

behind someone with whom I find favor?” Naomi answered her, “Go ahead, my daughter.” 3 So Ruth left and entered the field to gather grain behind the harvesters. She happened to be in the portion of the field belonging to Boaz, who was from Elimelech’s family. 4

Later, when Boaz arrived from Bethlehem, he said to the harvesters, “The Lord be with you.”

“The Lord bless you,” they replied. 5

Boaz asked his servant who was in charge of the harvesters, “Whose young woman is this?”

6

The servant answered, “She is the young Moabite woman who returned with Naomi from the

territory of Moab. 7 She asked, ‘Will you let me gather fallen grain among the bundles behind the harvesters?’ She came and has been on her feet since early morning, except that she rested a little in the shelter.” 8

Then Boaz said to Ruth, “Listen, my daughter. Don’t go and gather grain in another field, and

don’t leave this one, but stay here close to my female servants. 9 See which field they are harvesting, and follow them. Haven’t I ordered the young men not to touch you? When you are thirsty, go and drink from the jars the young men have filled.” 10

She fell facedown, bowed to the ground, and said to him, “Why have I found favor with you,

so that you notice me, although I am a foreigner?” 11

Boaz answered her, “Everything you have done for your mother-in-law since your husband’s

death has been fully reported to me: how you left your father and mother and your native land, and how you came to a people you didn’t previously know. 12 May the Lord reward you for what you have done, and may you receive a full reward from the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge.” 13

“My lord,” she said, “I have found favor with you, for you have comforted and encouraged

your servant, although I am not like one of your female servants.” 8

WEEK 9 JUL 22 - 28

14

At mealtime Boaz told her, “Come over here and have some bread and dip it in the vinegar

sauce.” So she sat beside the harvesters, and he offered her roasted grain. She ate and was satisfied and had some left over. 15

When she got up to gather grain, Boaz ordered his young men, “Let her even gather grain

among the bundles, and don’t humiliate her. 16 Pull out some stalks from the bundles for her and leave them for her to gather. Don’t rebuke her.” 17 So Ruth gathered grain in the field until evening. She beat out what she had gathered, and it was about twenty-six quarts of barley. 18 She picked up the grain and went into the town, where her mother-in-law saw what she had gleaned. She brought out what she had left over from her meal and gave it to her. 19

Her mother-in-law said to her, “Where did you gather barley today, and where did you work?

May the Lord bless the man who noticed you.” Ruth told her mother-in-law whom she had worked with and said, “The name of the man I worked with today is Boaz.” 20

Then Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, “May the Lord bless him because he has not aban-

doned his kindness to the living or the dead.” Naomi continued, “The man is a close relative. He is one of our family redeemers.” 21

Ruth the Moabitess said, “He also told me, ‘Stay with my young men until they have finished

all of my harvest.’” 22

So Naomi said to her daughter-in-law Ruth, “My daughter, it is good for you to work with his

female servants, so that nothing will happen to you in another field.”

23

Ruth stayed close to

Boaz’s female servants and gathered grain until the barley and the wheat harvests were finished. And she lived with her mother-in-law.”

ruth 9

WELCOME ________________________________________________ OPENING PRAYER _________________________________________ PURPOSE (WHY ARE WE HERE?) _____________________________

COMPONENTS WELCOME Honoring others by welcoming & valuing them OPENING PRAYER Inviting God’s Holy Spirit into our presence PURPOSE Remembering why we are here GROUND RULES Establishing healthy boundaries for LIFE Groups

GROUND RULES ___________________________________________ ICEBREAKER _________________________________________________ CELEBRATION: Share how our last life group impacted your week?

Lets get started... ** This is a lengthy story. For time’s sake, it is optional to leave out the rebuild. **

ICEBREAKER Setting the stage for trust, transparency and relationships CELEBRATION Recognizing what God has done in our group TOPIC Discussing God’s Word together TAKEAWAY Applying what we have learned to our lives CLOSING PRAYER A time to praise God and share our requests and needs PLACES TO PLAY Allowing others to lead in LIFE Group the following week by assigning them one of the components

GROUND RULES CONFIDENTIALITY IS KEY NO CROSS TALK DON’T RESCUE NO FIXING OTHERS USE “I” STATEMENTS LISTEN & PAUSE STAY ON TOPIC ALLOW OTHERS TO TALK We are committed to resolving conflict biblically according to Matthew 18

10

20

MIN

H

The period of the judges was a wretched time of sinful people turning their backs on God. Although God sent many judges to bring the Israelites back to Him, finding a righteous person was very few and far between. When we get to today’s story, we have a handful of people who devoted their hearts to God even, in the darkness all around them. Naomi was a woman whose husband and two son’s passed away. One of her daughters -in-law remained in Moab to be with her people and to worship their gods. However, the other daughter-in-law, Ruth, was wholeheartedly devoted to her mother-in-law and loved the Lord God. She was willing to forsake staying with her people in order to follow Naomi, knowing she may never be able to carry on the lineage of their family name. This is where we begin in today’s story. When we look around at the declination of our world, it is sometimes hard to see followers of God. Regardless, He is just as prevalent today as He was thousands of years ago. His heart aches for His people, and He is patient with us, wishing that none would perish and all would come to repentance (2Pet 3:9). Ruth, a Moabite who was often despised by the Israelites, stayed faithful to God, along with her mother-in-law, Naomi. God uses anyone, of any origin, race, or gender to accomplish His plan. Ultimately Ruth went on to marry Boaz. She also became the great-grandmother of King David, a direct ancestor of Jesus. God blessed Ruth’s faithfulness by redeeming and restoring her.

As you are listening today, be thinking of a time in your life when God turned your defeat into victory.

2

MIN

KEY VERSE Hebrews 6:10 “For God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you demonstrated for his name by serving the saints—and by continuing to serve them.”

WEEK 9 TELL THE STORY: _____________________________________________

JUL 22 - 28

Take it back a page and tell this story from God’s Word as best as you can without teaching. You don’t have to memorize it word for word. Try not to express opinions or make your own points. Just tell the story.

RUTH 2:1-23 RUTH: RESTORED AND REDEEMED TELL STORY

REBUILD STORY

12

MIN

CHECK STORY

For the following, use these questions or formulate your own.

SUMMARY God is not in the business of making us comfortable but making us conformable

Faith without works is dead (James 2:20)

What are some risks Ruth took by faithfully following Naomi’s plan? What caused the positive change in Naomi’s attitude? What are some obstacles Ruth overcame? What are some areas in your life right now that you need to turn bitterness into gratitude?

45

MIN

Share of a time in your life when God turned your defeat into victory. How does this story resemble what Jesus has done for you?

When we listen to the voice of God, our hearts become encouraged

How can you use this story to demonstrate to a world with no hope, the hope you have in Jesus? PRAYER REQUESTS:

No matter how bad things are right now, you can rejoice in hope if you focus on Jesus

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Who’s your

ONE?

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Home Jesus Church

World

10

MIN

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ CLOSING PRAYER: ______________________________________________________

LIFECIRCLES REMEMBER TO GIVE OTHERS A PLACE TO PLAY NEXT LIFE GROUP

11

1 Samuel 15 “Samuel told Saul, ‘The Lord sent me to anoint you as king over his people Israel. Now, listen to the words of the Lord. 2 This is what the Lord of Armies says: ‘I witnessed what the Amalekites did to the Israelites when they opposed them along the way as they were coming out of Egypt. 3 Now go and attack the Amalekites and completely destroy everything they have. Do not spare them. Kill men and women, infants and nursing babies, oxen and sheep, camels and donkeys.’’ Then Saul summoned the troops and counted them at Telaim: two hundred thousand foot soldiers and ten thousand men from Judah. 5 Saul came to the city of Amalek and set up an ambush in the wadi. 6 He warned the Kenites, ‘Since you showed kindness to all the Israelites when they came out of Egypt, go on and leave! Get away from the Amalekites, or I’ll sweep you away with them.’ So the Kenites withdrew from the Amalekites. 4

Then Saul struck down the Amalekites from Havilah all the way to Shur, which is next to Egypt. 8 He captured King Agag of Amalek alive, but he completely destroyed all the rest of the people with the sword. 9 Saul and the troops spared Agag, and the best of the sheep, goats, cattle, and choice animals, as well as the young rams and the best of everything else. They were not willing to destroy them, but they did destroy all the worthless and unwanted things. 7

Then the word of the Lord came to Samuel, 11 ‘I regret that I made Saul king, for he has turned away from following me and has not carried out my instructions.’ So Samuel became angry and cried out to the Lord all night. 10

Early in the morning Samuel got up to confront Saul, but it was reported to Samuel, ‘Saul went to Carmel where he set up a monument for himself. Then he turned around and went down to Gilgal.’ 13 When Samuel came to him, Saul said, ‘May the Lord bless you. I have carried out the Lord’s instructions.’ 12

14

Samuel replied, ‘Then what is this sound of sheep, goats, and cattle I hear?’

Saul answered, ‘The troops brought them from the Amalekites and spared the best sheep, goats, and cattle in order to offer a sacrifice to the Lord your God, but the rest we destroyed.’ 15

16

‘Stop!’ exclaimed Samuel. ‘Let me tell you what the Lord said to me last night.’

‘Tell me,’ he replied. Samuel continued, ‘Although you once considered yourself unimportant, have you not become the leader of the tribes of Israel? The Lord anointed you king over Israel 18 and then sent you on a mission and said: ‘Go and completely destroy the sinful Amalekites. 17

12

WEEK 10 JUL 29 - AUG 4

Fight against them until you have annihilated them.’ 19 So why didn’t you obey the Lord? Why did you rush on the plunder and do what was evil in the Lord’s sight?’ ‘But I did obey the Lord!’ Saul answered. ‘I went on the mission the Lord gave me: I brought back King Agag of Amalek, and I completely destroyed the Amalekites. 21 The troops took sheep, goats, and cattle from the plunder—the best of what was set apart for destruction—to sacrifice to the Lord your God at Gilgal.’ 20

22

Then Samuel said:

Does the Lord take pleasure in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? Look: to obey is better than sacrifice, to pay attention is better than the fat of rams. 23 For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and defiance is like wickedness and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has rejected you as king. Saul answered Samuel, ‘I have sinned. I have transgressed the Lord’s command and your words. Because I was afraid of the people, I obeyed them. 25 Now therefore, please forgive my sin and return with me so I can worship the Lord.’ 24

Samuel replied to Saul, ‘I will not return with you. Because you rejected the word of the Lord, the Lord has rejected you from being king over Israel.’ 27 When Samuel turned to go, Saul grabbed the corner of his robe, and it tore. 28 Samuel said to him, ‘The Lord has torn the kingship of Israel away from you today and has given it to your neighbor who is better than you. 29 Furthermore, the Eternal One of Israel does not lie or change his mind, for he is not man who changes his mind.’ 26

Saul said, ‘I have sinned. Please honor me now before the elders of my people and before Israel. Come back with me so I can bow in worship to the Lord your God.’ 31 Then Samuel went back, following Saul, and Saul bowed down to the Lord. 30

32

Samuel said, ‘Bring me King Agag of Amalek.’

Agag came to him trembling, for he thought, ‘Certainly the bitterness of death has come.’ 33

Samuel declared:

As your sword has made women childless, so your mother will be childless among women. Then he hacked Agag to pieces before the Lord at Gilgal. Samuel went to Ramah, and Saul went up to his home in Gibeah of Saul. 35 Even to the day of his death, Samuel never saw Saul again. Samuel mourned for Saul, and the Lord regretted he had made Saul king over Israel.” 34

saul 13

WELCOME ________________________________________________ OPENING PRAYER _________________________________________ PURPOSE (WHY ARE WE HERE?) _____________________________

COMPONENTS WELCOME Honoring others by welcoming & valuing them OPENING PRAYER Inviting God’s Holy Spirit into our presence PURPOSE Remembering why we are here GROUND RULES Establishing healthy boundaries for LIFE Groups

GROUND RULES ___________________________________________ ICEBREAKER _________________________________________________ CELEBRATION: Share how our last life group impacted your week?

Lets get started... ** This is a lengthy story. For time’s sake, it is optional to leave out the rebuild. **

ICEBREAKER Setting the stage for trust, transparency and relationships CELEBRATION Recognizing what God has done in our group TOPIC Discussing God’s Word together TAKEAWAY Applying what we have learned to our lives CLOSING PRAYER A time to praise God and share our requests and needs PLACES TO PLAY Allowing others to lead in LIFE Group the following week by assigning them one of the components

GROUND RULES CONFIDENTIALITY IS KEY NO CROSS TALK DON’T RESCUE NO FIXING OTHERS USE “I” STATEMENTS LISTEN & PAUSE STAY ON TOPIC

H

The people of Israel were tired of judges and wanted to be like the other great nations around them. They once again began to complain and cry out for a king. However, God did not like their request because they were rejecting Him and wanting to replace Him as King. Regardless, He sent His prophet Samuel to appoint Saul, a mighty warrior who was tall, handsome, and from an influential family, but God was not pleased with Saul as he was disobedient to the Lord and did things his own way. Saul’s reign as king started off hopeful with his obedience to God and defeating one of Israel’s enemies, the Ammonites. But it did not take long for Saul to return to his rebellious nature, and due to his disobedience, God rejected him as king. 2

Our human nature is prone to the desire of doing things our own way. From the time we are children, we are ingrained to be independent and look out for ourselves. So how important is it really to obey God? Most of the time, we heed His Word as if it were just good advice. But God does not just give us advice, He gives us commands. He does this for our good, not to harm us or control us but so that we can live the fullest, most righteous life in Him. When we don’t follow God’s commands, it doesn’t take us long to regret our decisions. So what do we do when we think things aren’t turning out the way they should? Do we wait for God? Do we move forward in faith? Is it God speaking or just presumption? How do we know the difference?

ALLOW OTHERS TO TALK We are committed to resolving conflict biblically according to Matthew 18

14

20

MIN

As you are listening today, be thinking of things in your life that you are doing half-heartedly. How can you fully submit to God and go all in for Him?

MIN

KEY VERSE 1 Samuel 15:22 “Does the Lord take pleasure in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? Look: to obey is better than sacrifice, to pay attention is better than the fat of rams.“

WEEK 10 TELL THE STORY: _____________________________________________

JUL 29 - AUG 4

Take it back a page and tell this story from God’s Word as best as you can without teaching. You don’t have to memorize it word for word. Try not to express opinions or make your own points. Just tell the story.

1 SAMUEL 15 SAUL TELL STORY

REBUILD STORY

12

MIN

CHECK STORY

For the following, use these questions or formulate your own.

SUMMARY

What was God’s assignment for Saul, and how did Saul respond? How well did Saul follow God’s instructions?

Selective obedience is the same as disobedience

When you believe your lies, you only deceive and separate yourself from God

Rebellion against God is a serious sin and separates us from the Father

What were the consequences of Saul’s disobedience to God? According to this story, how does God feel when you make excuses for only halfway obeying the commands He gives you?

45

MIN

What does this story teach you personally about listening carefully to God and obeying His instructions? What are some things in your life that God has asked you to do that you only have done half-heartedly? What can you do differently after reading today’s story? PRAYER REQUESTS:

We will all one day give an account for our thoughts and actions

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Who’s your

ONE?

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Home Jesus Church

World

10

MIN

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ CLOSING PRAYER: ______________________________________________________

LIFECIRCLES REMEMBER TO GIVE OTHERS A PLACE TO PLAY NEXT LIFE GROUP

15

2 Samuel 7:1-29 When the king had settled into his palace and the Lord had given him rest on every side from all his enemies, 2 the king said to the prophet Nathan, “Look, I am living in a cedar house while the ark of God sits inside tent curtains.” 1

3

So Nathan told the king, “Go and do all that is on your mind, for the Lord is with you.”

But that night the word of the Lord came to Nathan: 5 “Go to my servant David and say, ‘This is what the Lord says: Are you to build me a house to dwell in? 6 From the time I brought the Israelites out of Egypt until today I have not dwelt in a house; instead, I have been moving around with a tent as my dwelling. 7 In all my journeys with all the Israelites, have I ever spoken a word to one of the tribes of Israel, whom I commanded to shepherd my people Israel, asking: Why haven’t you built me a house of cedar?’ 4

“So now this is what you are to say to my servant David: ‘This is what the Lord of Armies says: I took you from the pasture, from tending the flock, to be ruler over my people Israel. 9 I have been with you wherever you have gone, and I have destroyed all your enemies before you. I will make a great name for you like that of the greatest on the earth. 10 I will designate a place for my people Israel and plant them, so that they may live there and not be disturbed again. Evildoers will not continue to oppress them as they have done 11 ever since the day I ordered judges to be over my people Israel. I will give you rest from all your enemies. 8

“‘The Lord declares to you: The Lord himself will make a house for you. 12 When your time comes and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up after you your descendant, who will come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He is the one who will build a house for my name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be his father, and he will be my son. When he does wrong, I will discipline him with a rod of men and blows from mortals. 15 But my faithful love will never leave him as it did when I removed it from Saul, whom I removed from before you. 16 Your house and kingdom will endure before me forever, and your throne will be established forever.’” 17

Nathan reported all these words and this entire vision to David.

18

Then King David went in, sat in the Lord’s presence, and said,

Who am I, Lord God, and what is my house that you have brought me this far? 19 What you have done so far was a little thing to you, Lord God, for you have also spoken about your servant’s house in the distant future. And this is a revelation for mankind, Lord God. 20 What

16

WEEK 11 AUG 5 - 11

more can David say to you? You know your servant, Lord God. 21 Because of your word and according to your will, you have revealed all these great things to your servant. This is why you are great, Lord God. There is no one like you, and there is no God besides you, as all we have heard confirms. 23 And who is like your people Israel? God came to one nation on earth in order to redeem a people for himself, to make a name for himself, and to perform for them great and awesome acts, driving out nations and their gods before your people you redeemed for yourself from Egypt. 24 You established your people Israel to be your own people forever, and you, Lord, have become their God. 22

Now, Lord God, fulfill the promise forever that you have made to your servant and his house. Do as you have promised, 26 so that your name will be exalted forever, when it is said, “The Lord of Armies is God over Israel.” The house of your servant David will be established before you 27 since you, Lord of Armies, God of Israel, have revealed this to your servant when you said, “I will build a house for you.” Therefore, your servant has found the courage to pray this prayer to you. 28 Lord God, you are God; your words are true, and you have promised this good thing to your servant. 29 Now, please bless your servant’s house so that it will continue before you forever. For you, Lord God, have spoken, and with your blessing your servant’s house will be blessed forever.” 25

david 17

WELCOME ________________________________________________ OPENING PRAYER _________________________________________ PURPOSE (WHY ARE WE HERE?) _____________________________

COMPONENTS WELCOME Honoring others by welcoming & valuing them OPENING PRAYER Inviting God’s Holy Spirit into our presence PURPOSE Remembering why we are here GROUND RULES Establishing healthy boundaries for LIFE Groups

GROUND RULES ___________________________________________ ICEBREAKER _________________________________________________ CELEBRATION: Share how our last life group impacted your week?

Lets get started...

ICEBREAKER Setting the stage for trust, transparency and relationships CELEBRATION Recognizing what God has done in our group TOPIC Discussing God’s Word together TAKEAWAY Applying what we have learned to our lives CLOSING PRAYER A time to praise God and share our requests and needs PLACES TO PLAY Allowing others to lead in LIFE Group the following week by assigning them one of the components

GROUND RULES CONFIDENTIALITY IS KEY NO CROSS TALK DON’T RESCUE NO FIXING OTHERS USE “I” STATEMENTS LISTEN & PAUSE STAY ON TOPIC ALLOW OTHERS TO TALK We are committed to resolving conflict biblically according to Matthew 18

18

20

MIN

H

As king Saul continued his reign over Israel, he became more and more corrupt, even to the point of consulting a medium in a meager attempt to hear from Samuel, the deceased prophet, again. Meanwhile, God was raising up a young man who loved Him and did what was right in His eyes. David had been annointed king by Samuel at an early age, and Saul became very jealous of David. David spent many years fleeing from Saul in order to spare his own life, but eventually Saul was killed in a battle against the Philistines, and David was crowned king of Judah. As King David obeyed God, he eventually became king over all of Israel and made Jerusalem the nation’s capital. God blessed David immensely. This is where we begin today in God’s Word. David played a key role in the Old Testament, being in the direct bloodline of Jesus. David is known as a shepherd, musician, poet, giant slayer, and king. But when we read further, we find out he is also a murderer, adulterer, betrayer, and liar. So why does God call David “a man after [His] own heart” (1 Sam 13:14)? David trusted God and was transparent with God, even in his darkest hours. He admitted his mistakes, genuinely repented, and knew God was merciful, yet David embraced the consequences for his sins and always honored God’s sovereignty. As much as we would like to relate to the first set of David’s qualities, we are more likely to relate to the second. But God, in His compassion for us, even while we were still sinning, sent His Son to die for our sins, so that we could live with Him forever.

As you are listening today, be thinking of ways you are concerned about your own reputation over God’s reputation.

2

MIN

KEY VERSE

2 Samuel 7:22 This is why you are great, Lord God. There is no one like you, and there is no God besides you, as all we have heard confirms.

WEEK 11 TELL THE STORY: _____________________________________________

AUG 5 - 11

Take it back a page and tell this story from God’s Word as best as you can without teaching. You don’t have to memorize it word for word. Try not to express opinions or make your own points. Just tell the story.

2 SAMUEL 7 DAVID TELL STORY

REBUILD STORY

12

MIN

CHECK STORY

For the following, use these questions or formulate your own.

SUMMARY

God’s Word is truth

David was a man after God’s own heart

“The Lord has done what he planned; he has accomplished his decree, which he ordained in days of old” Lamentations 2:17

What problem did David see in the beginning of the story? What did God promise David? How did David respond to God? How do you personally show God you love Him? In what ways are you concerned about your own reputation over God’s reputation?

45

MIN

Share of a time in your life when God told you no to something good in order to bless you with something great.

This week, be intentional about the ways you can show God you love Him. Share this with your close friends so that they may hold you accountable. PRAYER REQUESTS:

God is for you, not against you

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Who’s your

ONE?

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Home Jesus Church

World

10

MIN

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ CLOSING PRAYER: ______________________________________________________

LIFECIRCLES REMEMBER TO GIVE OTHERS A PLACE TO PLAY NEXT LIFE GROUP

19

20

WEEK 12 AUG 12 - 18

2 Chronicles 1:7-13 “7 That night God appeared to Solomon and said to him: ‘Ask. What should I give you?’ 8

And Solomon said to God: ‘You have shown great and faithful love to my father David,

and you have made me king in his place. 9 Lord God, let your promise to my father David now come true. For you have made me king over a people as numerous as the dust of the earth. 10 Now grant me wisdom and knowledge so that I may lead these people, for who can judge this great people of yours?’ 11

God said to Solomon, ‘Since this was in your heart, and you have not requested riches,

wealth, or glory, or for the life of those who hate you, and you have not even requested long life, but you have requested for yourself wisdom and knowledge that you may judge my people over whom I have made you king, 12 wisdom and knowledge are given to you. I will also give you riches, wealth, and glory, unlike what was given to the kings who were before you, or will be given to those after you.’ 13 So Solomon went to Jerusalem from the high place that was in Gibeon in front of the tent of meeting, and he reigned over Israel.”

solomon 21

WELCOME ________________________________________________ OPENING PRAYER _________________________________________ PURPOSE (WHY ARE WE HERE?) _____________________________

COMPONENTS WELCOME Honoring others by welcoming & valuing them OPENING PRAYER Inviting God’s Holy Spirit into our presence PURPOSE Remembering why we are here GROUND RULES Establishing healthy boundaries for LIFE Groups

GROUND RULES ___________________________________________ ICEBREAKER _________________________________________________ CELEBRATION: Share how our last life group impacted your week?

Lets get started...

ICEBREAKER Setting the stage for trust, transparency and relationships CELEBRATION Recognizing what God has done in our group TOPIC Discussing God’s Word together TAKEAWAY Applying what we have learned to our lives CLOSING PRAYER A time to praise God and share our requests and needs PLACES TO PLAY Allowing others to lead in LIFE Group the following week by assigning them one of the components

GROUND RULES CONFIDENTIALITY IS KEY NO CROSS TALK DON’T RESCUE NO FIXING OTHERS USE “I” STATEMENTS LISTEN & PAUSE STAY ON TOPIC ALLOW OTHERS TO TALK We are committed to resolving conflict biblically according to Matthew 18

22

20

MIN

H

David went on to rule Israel justly and with God’s sovereign hand upon his tenure as king. In our last story, we saw how God promised David that He would establish the throne of David’s kingdom forever through his son. David bore many sons, but two were highlighted in the Old Testament. The first, Absolom, repeated many of his father’s sins, yet unlike his father, he never repented, but he rejected his family and God. The second son, Solomon, loved his father, and he loved the Lord, God. Before David’s death, he had Solomon annointed as king over Israel. In David’s final words to Solomon, he charged him with following the ways of the Lord and obeying His commands. David died after reigning as king for forty years. So often, when we pray, we view God as a genie, or a Santa Claus in the sky who we can give our wish list to as if He is responsible for granting all our wishes. Granting our every wish is not in God’s job description; however, when we pray according to His will, it pleases Him. He wants what is good for us and wants us to be on mission with Him. He sees the entire picture from the beginning to the end of time. God cares intricately about every detail in our lives, and He wants us to spend time with Him so that we may know Him and understand His mission. Knowing God makes it easier to bring our requests to Him. When we see where God is working and join Him there, we see how we are such an essential part of His mission and purpose.

As you are listening today, be thinking about how you would respond to God and how you can be on mission with Him.

2

MIN

KEY VERSE

2 Chronicles 1:10 “Now grant me wisdom and knowledge so that I may lead these people, for who can judge this great people of yours?”

WEEK 12 TELL THE STORY: _____________________________________________

AUG 12 - 18

Take it back a page and tell this story from God’s Word as best as you can without teaching. You don’t have to memorize it word for word. Try not to express opinions or make your own points. Just tell the story.

1 CHRONICLES 1:7-13 SOLOMON TELL STORY

REBUILD STORY

12

MIN

CHECK STORY

For the following, use these questions or formulate your own.

SUMMARY

What did God ask Solomon? What was Solomon’s response to God?

When we put God first, the wisdom He gives enables us to have rewarding lives Every believer is entitled to make requests of God, and He hears each request the same God is sovereign and knows what is best for us, even when we can’t see or understand it

What was God’s response back to Solomon? What would you have asked for if God asked you the same question He asked Solomon? Why?

45

MIN

What does this story teach you in regards to how God cares about the things you ask for? What is God’s mission, and how does this story alter your way of praying for His Will? This week, ask God to show Himself more in your life, and see what happens. PRAYER REQUESTS:

When we pray according to God’s Will, He blesses us abundantly

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Who’s your

ONE?

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Home Jesus Church

World

10

MIN

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ CLOSING PRAYER: ______________________________________________________

LIFECIRCLES REMEMBER TO GIVE OTHERS A PLACE TO PLAY NEXT LIFE GROUP

23

Job 26:1-27:12 “Then Job answered: 2

How you have helped the powerless

and delivered the arm that is weak! 3

How you have counseled the unwise

and abundantly provided insight! 4

With whom did you speak these words?

Whose breath came out of your mouth? 5

The departed spirits tremble

beneath the waters and all that inhabit them. 6

Sheol is naked before God,

and Abaddon has no covering. 7

He stretches the northern skies over empty space;

he hangs the earth on nothing. 8

He wraps up the water in his clouds,

yet the clouds do not burst beneath its weight. 9

He obscures the view of his throne,

spreading his cloud over it. 10

He laid out the horizon on the surface of the waters

at the boundary between light and darkness. 11

The pillars that hold up the sky tremble,

astounded at his rebuke. 12

By his power he stirred the sea,

and by his understanding he crushed Rahab. 13

By his breath the heavens gained their beauty;

his hand pierced the fleeing serpent. 14

24

These are but the fringes of his ways;

WEEK 13 how faint is the word we hear of him!

AUG 19 - 25

Who can understand his mighty thunder?

27 1 Job continued his discourse, saying: 2

As God lives, who has deprived me of justice,

and the Almighty who has made me bitter, 3

as long as my breath is still in me

and the breath from God remains in my nostrils, 4

my lips will not speak unjustly,

and my tongue will not utter deceit. 5

I will never affirm that you are right.

I will maintain my integrity until I die. 6

I will cling to my righteousness and never let it go.

My conscience will not accuse me as long as I live! 7

May my enemy be like the wicked

and my opponent like the unjust. 8

For what hope does the godless person have when he is cut off,

when God takes away his life? 9

Will God hear his cry

when distress comes on him? 10

Will he delight in the Almighty?

Will he call on God at all times? 11

I will teach you about God’s power.

I will not conceal what the Almighty has planned. 12

All of you have seen this for yourselves,

why do you keep up this empty talk?”

job 25

WELCOME ________________________________________________ OPENING PRAYER _________________________________________ PURPOSE (WHY ARE WE HERE?) _____________________________

COMPONENTS WELCOME Honoring others by welcoming & valuing them OPENING PRAYER Inviting God’s Holy Spirit into our presence PURPOSE Remembering why we are here GROUND RULES Establishing healthy boundaries for LIFE Groups

GROUND RULES ___________________________________________ ICEBREAKER _________________________________________________ CELEBRATION: Share how our last life group impacted your week?

Lets get started... ** Due to the format of this passage, it may be easier to only read through. **

ICEBREAKER Setting the stage for trust, transparency and relationships CELEBRATION Recognizing what God has done in our group TOPIC Discussing God’s Word together TAKEAWAY Applying what we have learned to our lives CLOSING PRAYER A time to praise God and share our requests and needs PLACES TO PLAY Allowing others to lead in LIFE Group the following week by assigning them one of the components

GROUND RULES CONFIDENTIALITY IS KEY NO CROSS TALK DON’T RESCUE NO FIXING OTHERS USE “I” STATEMENTS LISTEN & PAUSE STAY ON TOPIC ALLOW OTHERS TO TALK We are committed to resolving conflict biblically according to Matthew 18

26

20

MIN

H

The story of Job (sounds like Jobe) most likely took place around the time of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; however, it is unknown the exact time frame of his life. Job was a wealthy man of integrity and righteous character who loved God. We know this because God allowed Satan to destroy his flocks, his possessions, his children, and his health, knowing that he would stay true and not turn his back on God. Through all the pain and suffering, Job never gave up on the Lord even though he didn’t understand the reasons why he suffered to such an extreme. His own wife and closest friends poorly advised him to curse God and die. But Job knew God’s character. He understood that in all the misfortune and misery God was still sovereign and knew what He was doing. Today’s story begins as Job responds to his friends’ erroneous advice.

2

MIN

“Why do bad things happen to good people?”; “If God is so good, why is there so much suffering in this world?”; “Where was God when this happened?” Have you ever found yourself asking these kind of questions? Contrary to popular belief, life is not about us and our ideas, comforts and plans. We were created by God to know Him and bring Him glory, regardless of the circumstances in and around our life. So then why does it seem like when we go through trials and cry out to God He is so far away? In today’s passage, we will see how Job, a man who loved God, reacts to the most horrifying tribulations in his life. You may even be able to relate in a way, because trials come in each one of our lives. The question is: are we willing to yield to God’s purpose and will in the worst of circumstances?

As you are listening today, be thinking of how you personally respond to severe challenges in your life.

KEY VERSE Job 1:21 “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will leave this life. The Lord gives and the Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord”

WEEK 13 TELL THE STORY: _____________________________________________

AUG 19 - 25

Take it back a page and tell this story from God’s Word as best as you can without teaching. You don’t have to memorize it word for word. Try not to express opinions or make your own points. Just tell the story.

JOB 26:1-27:12 JOB TELL STORY

REBUILD STORY

12

MIN

CHECK STORY

For the following, use these questions or formulate your own.

SUMMARY

In summary, what was Job telling his friends? What do we learn from Job’s character in this passage?

God does not test us to harm us nor does He seek to cause us to fail

We must always trust God, even when we don’t understand our circumstances

Sometimes, the way God gets our attention is through adversity

What do we learn about God in this passage? What are you tempted to believe when you go through difficult trials in your life?

45

MIN

How do you personally respond to severe challenges that come up in your life? What is God teaching you in this story about how to encourage a friend who is going through trials in their life? What can you do differently this week to show God you trust Him in the good times and the bad? PRAYER REQUESTS:

When the storm clouds appear, it is a time to seek God through prayer and devotion

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Who’s your

ONE?

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Home Jesus Church

World

10

MIN

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ CLOSING PRAYER: ______________________________________________________

LIFECIRCLES REMEMBER TO GIVE OTHERS A PLACE TO PLAY NEXT LIFE GROUP

27

ICEBREAKER QUESTION IDEAS: (QUICK ONES ARE IN BOLD) 1. If you could be a fly on a wall, where would you most want to be? 2. What is your favorite soda? 3. What was it like the first time I spoke in public? 4. If you were a magazine, which one would you be? 5. If you could be a fictitious superhero, who would you be? Or what super power would you most want? 6. Greatest peer pressure as an adult? 7. Where do you feel closest to God? 8. What is your favorite music genre? 9. How do you react when people sing “Happy Birthday” to you in a restaurant? 10. When did you last sing to yourself? To someone else? 11. Who is your favorite singer? 12. What is your favorite musical instrument? 13. What is at the top of your bucket list? 14. What is usually the first thing that comes to your mind when you think about God? 15. How would you describe God to a child? 16. What color best describes you and why? 17. What was the high point of last week? The low point? 18. What one word would be your theme for the year? 19. Name one person who has had the biggest impact in your life and why? 20. If I knew I had only one year to live, I would spend it…. 21. If I could visit any place in the world, it would be… 22. If I had a million dollars to spend for the benefit of mankind… 23. The thing that causes me the greatest satisfaction is… 24. Wallet/Purse scavenger hunt: The most worthless item? - The most priceless item? - The most revealing item? - The most memorable item? - etc. 25. What is your favorite memory as a child? 26. Share something you fear. 27. How old were you when you learned to ride a bike, what was that experience like? 28. When in your life, if ever, did God become more than a word to you? 29. What’s your most embarrassing moment? 30. Describe an experience when the Holy Spirit has been your comforter. 31. When was the first time you became aware that God loves you? 32. What are your strongest convictions about God? 33. If you could hear God say one thing to you, what would that be? 34. If you could see God standing in front of you, what one thing would you most want to say to Him? 35. What single question would you most want God to answer for you if He would? 36. Describe the person you have known whom you felt knew God most intimately. 37. What would you do if heavy persecution came on you/your family? 38. What would you do with an extra free day off of work? 39. Where would you go if you could go anywhere in the world? 40. If you could become an animal for one day, which one would it be? 41. What is one secret place in your house that you only clean on special occasions (like mother-in-law visiting)? 42. Whom do you admire the most? In what ways does that person inspire you? 43. If you knew your time was cut short, what’s one thing you’d change about the way you are now living? 44. If you could be famous, what would you be famous for? 45. What do you strive for the most in your life – ie: accomplishment, security, love, power, excitement, knowledge, etc? 46. If you could go back in time and not return, what would you try to accomplish even if you knew you might change the course of history? 47. How many of your friendships have lasted more than ten years? 48. If someone were to write a book about you, what do you think the title and theme would be? 49. What things make your life complicated? 50. In one line what is life all about? 51. If your animals could talk, what would they tell you? 52. What would be the greatest birthday present of all time? 53. Give three words to describe how you feel right now. 54. If you could hang a motto or saying in every home in the world, what would it be? 55. Which emoji best describes you and why? 56. What was the make / model / year / color of your first car? 57. What’s your biggest pet peeve? 58. What’s your first name and an adjective that starts with the same first letter, that best describes you? (ie: Carl:Caring) 59. Favorite Christmas Carol and why? 60. If you could have coffee with anyone in the history of ever, who would it be and why?

28

COMPONENTS OF A LIFE GROUP WELCOME •

Makes new believers, visitors, and members feel valued and welcomed

•

Begins with our phone calls, continues as they enter our homes, and until they leave

•

Establishes a foundation for relationships

•

Makes them aware of what’s going on and brings focus

OPENING PRAYER •

Invites God’s Holy Spirit into our presence

•

Prepares our hearts for what God has for us

•

Shifts our attention from individual fellowship to the group

PURPOSE •

Express the purpose of why we are meeting as a LIFE Group (to make disciples, reach the lost, connect the unconnected, etc.)

•

Helps prepare our hearts and minds for the group

•

Must be in alignment with Glen Meadows Vision and Mission

GROUND RULES •

Establishes agreed upon boundaries for a healthy group

•

Establishes a safe environment where everyone can share openly and honestly

•

Provides biblical guidance for healthy conflict resolution

ICEBREAKER •

Activity that sets the stage for transparency and trust

•

Helps create a safe environment and levels the playing field

•

May involve low-risk participation

•

Game, Testimony, Question, etc

•

Celebrating the “wins” and what God is doing through our group

TOPIC/STORY •

This is the “meat” of the group

•

Story from God’s Word

CLOSING PRAYER •

Re-Focuses our attention to God and His provision

•

Personal requests, Group needs, Praise God

PLACES TO PLAY •

Providing others with opportunities to lead by assigning them with components, builds confidence, and models servant leadership and reproducibility

29

GROUND RULES

W

HY GROUND RULES?

Many of us find ourselves cringing when the subject of rules come up. Rules can often indicate limits or restrictions that impede our desired actions. The ground rules we will abide by are specifically designed to give freedom rather than restrictions. It is our desire that through effective ground rules each person will feel the freedom to share from their hearts, feel the assurance of confidence, and experience a group willing to listen. When interacting as a group, we can find ourselves checking out or shutting down for the smallest of reasons. Being aware of our impact on each other is paramount for a safe environment.

CONFIDENTIALITY IS KEY: We will all do our part to create an environment where everyone can be real, open, and honest with our struggles and victories. What is said in the group stays in the group.

NO FIXING OTHERS: Try to hear what people are sharing without trying to fix them. If they want your advice, they’ll ask for it. If people think that as soon as they share a problem or issue everyone is going to immediately try to fix them (offer advice/ solutions), often they simply won’t share at all.

LISTEN & PAUSE Let’s value one another during the discussions by really listening to what is being shared. Don’t think about what you’re going to say next or how you’re going to respond; really listen. After someone shares, give a pause to allow the group to feel the weight of what is being shared and fully consider it before the next person shares. This pause also gives the person time to reflect a little deeper while continuing to share more. Remember, SILENCE IS OK. It gives time for reflection and others to begin sharing.

DON’T RESCUE: When people are sharing something deeply personal and painful, there can be a tendency to try to make them feel better about themselves or the situation. Often this will cause people to stop sharing and result in not going as deep as they intended. Resist the temptation to rescue people. We must be sensitive to what the Holy Spirit is doing in their life.

USE “I” STATEMENTS: It’s easy to talk about the issues of others; in LIFE Groups we will use “I” statements. We will try to avoid words such as “them,” “the church,” “us,” “we,” “he/she,” etc. Using “I” statements helps us to focus on what God is doing in our lives and gives us opportunity to self-reflect. This allows maximum potential for effectual change in our lives.

NO CROSS TALK: Be considerate of others as they are sharing. No side conversations, texting, or phone calls. Cross talk devalues the person sharing and communicates that they are not as important as what you may be doing. (Be sensitive to those with cell phones—kids, family issues, on-call at work). Remember, when going over the Ground Rules in your group, give those who may be on-call or have children the opportunity to communicate that they may need to take a call or text during group.

STAY ON TOPIC: Much time and prayer is put into the determination of the biblical direction our church is headed. We must value the importance of that direction in taking it to a heart level in our LIFE Groups during the week. In addition, LIFE Group leaders prepare according to this direction and the topic for each lesson. Rabbit trails may devalue the unity as well as what the Lord is doing in our church body. In honoring each individuals time & schedules, please try to stay on topic with every group question. Rabbit trails can also add time to the end of the LIFE Group and does not honor others in our group who may need to get to their families and/or may need rest for the next day’s busy schedule.

ALLOW OTHERS TO TALK: We all have a story or response to share, making it important that we value each other during LIFE Group. Sometimes we may find ourselves overtalking out of nervousness or even habit. However, to honor each person and their time, we must do our part by keeping our own talk time limited and to the point, giving

30

each person an opportunity to interact.

ADDITIONAL NOTES / PRAYER REQUESTS

31

Curriculum published by GM Leadership Development Team Glen Meadows Baptist Church, San Angelo, TX © 2018