Discussion Guide | Sept. 15, 2024

This week's sermon focused on the theme of readiness and being prepared for God's calling in our lives. Pastor Jeff used various biblical stories, including those of Abraham, Moses, David, and the parable of the ten virgins, to illustrate how God calls us repeatedly despite our distractions, misunderstandings, and failures. The message emphasized the importance of being spiritually alert and ready to respond to God's call, much like athletes preparing for a race or players ready for their turn in a game. The sermon concluded with a challenge to be 'upfront, engaged believers' who actively seek and respond to God's presence and calling in our lives.

Heavenly Father, we come before You today with open hearts and minds. As we gather to discuss Your word, we ask for Your guidance and wisdom. Illuminate our hearts with Your truth and help us to be receptive to what You want to teach us today. May we be ready and willing to respond to Your call in our lives. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

What is one activity or hobby you enjoy doing in your free time?

1. What does it mean to be 'ready' in your spiritual life?
2. Can you share a time when you felt God calling you to do something? How did you respond?
3. How do the stories of Abraham, Moses, and David illustrate the concept of being called and distracted?
4. What are some common distractions that can prevent us from being ready for God's call?
5. In the parable of the ten virgins, what is the significance of the oil in the lamps?
6. How can we ensure that we are spiritually prepared for unexpected moments of God's calling?
7. What obstacles might be preventing you from fully responding to God's call in your life?
8. What practical steps can you take this week to be more 'upfront and engaged' in your faith?

This week, take time each day to intentionally seek God's presence through prayer, reading the Bible, and quiet reflection. Ask God to reveal any areas in your life where you need to be more prepared and ready to respond to His call.

1. God calls us repeatedly, even when we are distracted or fail.

2. Being ready for God's call requires spiritual alertness and preparation.

3. Distractions and misunderstandings can hinder our readiness.

4. God's kingdom is both a present reality and a future hope.

5. Active engagement in our faith is essential for spiritual growth.

Lord, we thank You for the time we've spent together discussing Your word. Help us to take these lessons to heart and apply them in our daily lives. May we be ever ready and willing to respond to Your call, and may we support and encourage one another in our spiritual journeys. Go with us now and guide us in all that we do. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.