Life Application / Accountability
Last week you were challenged to learn lessons from the life of Ruth, who was redeemed by God despite living a lifestyle far from Him. How did you do? Did you spend time each day reflecting on God’s love for you? Did you focus on how he might be disappointed in your shortcomings, or did you remember his goodness and mercy towards you? Did you ever feel like God didn’t want to be with you, or did you acknowledge His desire to be involved in your life everyday?
Sermon Recap
This week Pastor Matt talked about Daniel, a young boy who was taken from his home in Judah to live exiled in Babylon. Despite cultural influences, Daniel remained faithful to God, and as a result God granted him favor and influence. Daniel was able to rise up the ranks of political influence because he served those around him, despite what they had done to his people. Daniel knew that his the Lord’s favor wasn’t just for himself, but to be used as a blessing to those around him. As a result, Daniel had an open door invitation to testify to the greatness of God. If Daniel had chosen to treat his contemporaries as enemies, he would’ve lost the opportunity for God to use him in an extraordinary way.
Key Scripture
Read through these passages together:
Daniel 1:1-21
Daniel 2:27-28, 36-38, 46-49
Daniel 6:3-5, 10
Discussion Questions
Discuss together, pushing yourself toward transparency. The more we are authentic and humble with one another, the more we can grow in Christ.
When living in a culture that is post Christian, how have you typically responded when it comes to: raising your family, scheduling your calendar, choosing entertainment options, using your resources, spending your money? Do you “retreat and defend,” “conform to the cultural norms,” or “embrace your unique role as God’s people.”
In what ways do you feel the pressure of culture trying to force your worldview to be like theirs?
Do you feel whole enough to be a part of the culture and not influenced by it? In what ways are you struggling?
What convictions do you have that might cause you to stand out from the people around you? How do those convictions communicate your love for God?
In what areas do you submit to the leaders around you so that you can help your community thrive? Does your neighborhood, kid’s school, family, or workplace thrive because you are willing to use your gifts and talents to help them prosper?
Prayer
This week, take after Daniel as he prays (Dan. 9), praising the Lord and confessing how great and loving he is. Recognize your sin before him and continue to submit your life to him.
Thank you Lord of your love and mercy. Thank you for not treating us as our sins deserve, but for being patient with us. God fill us with your Spirit so that we can represent you authentically to our world. Father when I am tempted to condemn the world and those in it, remind me it was for them that you came and died. Remind me it was for them that you have blessed me.
Life Application / Accountability For The Upcoming Week
Consider making a lifestyle that would cause you to identify more with Christ and less than the world.
Think of ways you can stand for your faith, when everyone else is bowing to the culture. When the moment comes, you won’t have to hesitate or debate in your mind, you’ve already chosen Christ.
In what ways can you use the life God has given to you to be a blessing to those around you, possibly even your enemies.
Don’t Forget!
Register to serve the homeless and displaced in Macomb Country through MCREST.
Register for the Immerse Women's Conference- Early Bird ends August 31st.
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