What a great way to end up the “Contrast” series… Big thanks to Art from Whistle Tree Pottery,” who provided the wonderfully vivid illustration of how God, the Master Potter is at work molding this clay into His image. Lots of people commented on how powerful that was. I really loved it when he would throw that clay down on the wheel, creating this loud “thud,” which could be felt around the room. It really spoke to me about how God’s process in our life may not always be easy. Also, thanks to Casey and the band for bringing back the song “Beautiful Things” for us. I love that one.
I got to meet a whole bunch of first-time guests yesterday… It is always exciting to meet new friends, and to hear about their journeys.
Lifegroup Questions from Sunday’s Message:
(this week’s podcast isn’t up yet… We didn’t get a copy of it here in the office for some reason. We’ll get it up as soon as we can.)
The first thought was that sometimes “I can’t get past my past.” Is this true in our lives?
What did the apostle Paul express about this in Romans 7:15-25?
How does my past still haunt my present? In what ways does the “old self” still try to win?
Paul CONTRASTS living by the Spirit vs. living in the flesh in Romans 8:1-11.
What does it mean to live in the Spirit? How can I practice this in my life?
Galatians 5:13-26 gives us some good, practical tips on how to do this.
Is it comforting to know that God already has a plan laid out for you to “do good works?” (Eph 2:10)
What keeps me from stepping into that plan?
On Sunday, Steve listed some specifics… Let’s talk about how we operate in the spirit based on His Word in these three areas:
1. That person you have a problem with (Matthew 18:15-20)
2. Giving (2 Corinthians 9:6-8)
3. Going to Church (Hebrews 12:15, Ephesians 4:11-16)
Philippians 1:27 NLT
Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News.