Discussion Guide | Nov. 9, 2025

November 10th, 2025

Introduction

"The Power of Perseverance" - Sermon Summary

This week's sermon focuses on the importance of perseverance in the Christian faith, particularly during difficult seasons. Pastor Bill shares that 95% of Christians have experienced stalling in their spiritual walk due to challenging circumstances. Using biblical examples like Jacob wrestling with God, Joseph's 22-year wait for his dreams to be fulfilled, and Abraham's 25-year wait for Isaac, the message emphasizes that perseverance is a key attribute of Christian maturity. As believers we must remain steadfast, constant, and patient, trusting that God will turn what was meant for harm into good. Through wrestling with God like Jacob did, we can discover their true identity as princes and princesses of God, moving beyond self-focused prayers to becoming vessels of blessing for others.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we gather together today, we ask that You open our hearts and minds to receive what You want to teach us through this time of fellowship and discussion. Help us to be vulnerable with one another and receptive to Your Spirit's leading. We pray that You would use this time to strengthen our faith, deepen our understanding of perseverance, and draw us closer to You and to each other. May we leave this gathering more equipped to face life's challenges with unwavering faith. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Ice Breaker

What is one hobby or activity that you've had to practice repeatedly to get better at, and what kept you motivated to keep going even when it was difficult?

Main Study

Key Verses

James 1:2-4
Genesis 32:22-28
Matthew 7:7-8
Hebrews 12:1-2
Isaiah 40:31
2 Corinthians 13:5

Questions

Pastor Bill mentioned that 95% of Christians have stalled in their faith journey. What are some common reasons people might lose momentum in their spiritual walk, and how can we guard against this?
Jacob wrestled with God until he received a blessing and a new identity. What does it mean to 'wrestle with God' in our modern context, and how might this lead to spiritual breakthrough?
Pastor Bill's sermon emphasized moving from 'Bless me, Lord' prayers to 'Use me, God' prayers. How can we shift our prayer focus from self-centered requests to kingdom-centered purposes?
Abraham waited 25 years for Isaac, and Joseph waited 22 years for his dreams to be fulfilled. How do we maintain faith and perseverance when God's timing doesn't match our expectations?
According to Dr. Robert Clinton's study only one in three biblical leaders finished well. What are some barriers that prevent people from finishing strong in their faith?
John Wesley was rejected from multiple churches but eventually preached to 10,000 people in a pasture. How should we respond when we face rejection or opposition while trying to serve God?
The message talked about seeing 'Him who is invisible' like Moses did. What are some practical ways we can cultivate awareness of God's presence in our daily lives?
How can we support and encourage others in our community who are going through seasons of testing and difficulty, helping them persevere in their faith?

Life Application

This week, identify one area of your life where you've been tempted to give up or where you're facing a significant challenge. Commit to 'wrestling with God' through prayer and Scripture study about this situation for at least 10 minutes each day. Ask God not just to bless you, but to show you how He might use this difficult season to develop your character and prepare you to be a blessing to others. Keep a journal of what God reveals to you during this time of intentional seeking.

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Closing

Key Takeaways

Perseverance is being steadfast, constant, and patient through both mountaintop moments and valleys, recognizing God as our anchor in the storm
God wrestles with us to bring out our true calling and identity, transforming us from who we were into princes and princesses of God
We must move beyond self-focused prayers to kingdom-focused prayers, asking God to use us as vessels of blessing for others
God's timing often requires long seasons of waiting, but His promises always come to fruition for those who don't give up
True spiritual maturity comes through exercising faith during difficult times, which produces completeness and lacking nothing

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for this time of fellowship and for the reminder that You are with us in every season of life. As we leave this place, help us to be people of perseverance who don't give up when circumstances become difficult. Give us the strength to wrestle with You until we receive Your blessing and discover our true identity in You. Transform our prayers from self-centered requests to kingdom-focused intercession. Help us to encourage others who are struggling and to be beacons of hope in a world that desperately needs to see Your love. May we finish well, running the race marked out for us with our eyes fixed on You. In Your precious name we pray, Amen.

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