August 3: At the Movies - Bonhoeffer
Sermon Recap 🎬
In this week’s At the Movies showing, Pastor Kendrick discusses biblical principles within the story of the film Bonhoeffer. In the film, we see how Dietrich Bonhoeffer experiences the influence of the nazis in Germany and decides to take a stand for what is right and obey God’s Word rather than the ways of the world. Pastor Kendrick drives home the idea that as followers of Jesus, we need to not be afraid to speak the truth and stand for Jesus, even if it means we would be persecuted or killed. He emphasizes the importance of not remaining silent during injustice and not letting the world conform us.
Ice Breaker 🧊
Ice Breakers at http://gracelife.com/icebreakers
Message Clip 📼
No clip this week.
Discussion Questions 💬
Bonhoeffer had a faith so strong that he was willing to die for Jesus. In Revelation 3:15-16, Jesus says to the church in Laodicea, “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot. So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth.” What do you think Jesus means here, and how is He challenging us to reflect on our faith?
Have you ever felt pressured by the world to give in to its ways? How did it affect you spiritually?
There are many instances in the Bible where people were mocked, jailed, and even killed for believing in God. Despite this, God comforts us and promises that we are ultimately safe with Him and that nothing can snatch us from His hand. How can we apply this to our lives and walk in boldness rather than seclusion or fear?
What do you think it means to have true faith?
What are some spiritual steps we can take to prepare ourselves to share God’s truth in a world that scorns those who love Him?
In John 3:17, Jesus says, “For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.” While we should always stand for the truth, why is it important that we also extend grace to people at the same time?
Is there anything in the film you felt particularly challenged by?
Why is it so important for us to abide in Jesus every day?
Prayer 🙏
Ask for prayer requests from the group
Ask God to give us courage and boldness to share His Word and stand up for the truth, even when it’s hard
Pray that God would encourage and push us to be followers on fire for Him, not lukewarm
Ask God to help us step out of our comfort zone and love people, even those who don’t believe in God
July 27: At the Movies - The Wild Robot
Sermon Recap 🎬
In this week’s At the Movies showing, Pastor Kendrick discusses biblical principles within the story of the film The Wild Robot. He explains the importance of doing our best within our relationships, as well as our desire for purpose and belonging. He emphasizes that although we all have brokenness and make mistakes, we are still loved by God. In the clips shown, we see how Roz the robot has to raise a gosling that was left after the rest of the gosling’s family was killed in an accident. In the midst of familial difficulty and life’s perils, Roz still is able to raise the goose, named Brightbill, who eventually has to fly away and leave to join the other geese. Pastor Kendrick points out that despite our flaws and shortcomings, we are all still deeply personal people who need a family, and a savior.
Ice Breaker 🧊
Ice Breakers at http://gracelife.com/icebreakers
Message Clip 📼
No clip this week.
Discussion Questions 💬
We all have relationship difficulties, even within our own families, but God is our perfect Father who never lets us down. What are some ways we can keep God first, so that our we can properly relate to our earthly family?
Have you ever been in a rough patch in a familial relationship that caused a divide to grow between you and that person? What was your initial response? How do you think God wants us to respond?
Being there for a person you care about sometimes takes sacrifice, and sometimes you may not even know what to do, but God promises that He will always be with us. In Proverbs 3:5-6, it says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Why is it important that we trust God to be our guide instead of our own reasoning?
Despite our brokenness, God still loves us deeply and created us for a purpose. Have you been able to accept God’s grace and let it compel you to repent, even when you feel defeated?
Why is it so important to have a family, even if we, in our sinful nature, are dysfunctional?
During the movie, we see how Roz and the animals grow to care about one another and fit in with each other, becoming a happy family. Have you seen God heal broken parts or transform relationships in your life? Are there any relationships in your life you want God to heal?
Prayer 🙏
Ask for prayer requests from the group.
Ask God to help us love others and have a heart to forgive and serve within our relationships.
Pray that God would help us understand how much He loves us, and that we are His family
Ask God to help you seek Him first and lean on Him instead of our own understanding
Pray for healing in broken relationships
July 20: At the Movies - Top Gun: Maverick
Sermon Recap 🎬
In this week’s At the Movies showing, Pastor Kendrick discusses biblical principles within the story of the film Top Gun: Maverick. He explains the importance of forgiveness, reconciliation, and that all of us need a savior. In the clips shown, we see how Maverick has to repair his relationship with Rooster and put aside his past to help teach him and the other student pilots. Pastor Kendrick reminds us that we all need forgiveness, even the ones who think they don’t. When Maverick decides to sacrifice himself for Rooster in the middle of a battle, Pastor Kendrick emphasizes that in the same way, Jesus laid down His life for us because of our need for a savior. Jesus sets us free from sin and gives us grace, mercy, and forgiveness instead. He also urges us to ask God to use us to rescue or help other people, just as Maverick helped teach the next generation of pilots, despite not feeling qualified at first. At the end, Maverick and Rooster reconcile, and forgiveness is given. Pastor Kendrick wants us to see the importance of receiving God’s grace and forgiveness while also loving others.
Ice Breaker 🧊
Ice Breakers at http://gracelife.com/icebreakers
Message Clip 📼
No clip this week.
Discussion Questions 💬
What are some moments in your life where you didn’t feel qualified to do something that God called you to do? Did you trust God to get you through it?
Have you ever had rough patches in a relationship that caused you to be bitter towards someone? What lead you to wanting to seek reconciliation with that person?
In John 15:13, Jesus says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” Maverick was willing to sacrifice his life to save Rooster even though Rooster had not forgiven him. How can we apply Jesus’ teachings to our relationships, and how do you think Jesus want us to respond when we encounter challenges relationally?
Why is it important to let go of the past and accept God’s grace and love? How does this change the way we treat others?
Since Jesus paid the debt of our sin, we no longer have to live as slaves of sin. With our freedom in Christ, what are some ways can we pour into others what God has taught us, and why is it important that we do so?
Think of some areas in your life where Satan has tried to plant seeds of shame and guilt in your life. What can you do to dig up those seeds and replace them with God’s truth?
What were some points in your life that God met you His amazing love, grace, and mercy, even when you fell short or felt ashamed? Did this change the way you view God’s feelings towards you?
Prayer 🙏
Ask for prayer requests from the group.
Pray that God would help you be salt and light to others and create disciples.
Ask God to help you receive His grace and forgiveness if you are struggling with shame.
Ask for prayer for relationships that need healing and reconciliation.
Pray that God would help you trust Him to help you do what He’s called you to do, even when it’s difficult or uncomfortable.
July 13: Extra-Ordinary Moments
Sermon Recap 🎬
In Pastor Adam's sermon, he gently invites us to recognize the divine opportunities woven into our daily routines, whether it's making dinner or sharing stories with friends. He reminds us that God is not only aware of our every move but is also actively present, ready to transform the ordinary into the miraculous. Pastor Adam highlights the significance of being truly present and available in our lives, emphasizing how each of us has the power to bring light and flavor to our families, friends, and communities through our identity in Christ. He challenges us to embrace every moment as an opportunity to connect with God and others, which allows us to both be a blessing, and experience God’s blessings and opportunities for us, even in the seemingly normal or everyday things.
Ice Breaker 🧊
Ice Breakers at http://gracelife.com/icebreakers
Message Clip 📼
Here is a 14 minute clip of the message: https://vimeo.com/1101323657
Discussion Questions 💬
What are some ordinary moments in your life that you might overlook, and how can you see God's presence in those moments?
Why do you think it is important to recognize that God is present in all our daily routines? How can we change our attitude towards things that we may think are too small for God to care about?
In John 5:7, Jesus says, “My father is always at his work, even to this very day, and I too am working”. In what ways have you seen God work in your life? Are there any areas you think He wants to work on, but you need to surrender to Him first?
Pastor Adam shared that our identity in Christ empowers us in our everyday moments. What does it mean to be called a 'child of God'?
Since God wants to bless us and prepares us for the moment, how can we humble ourselves and allow God room in our lives as to not miss those moments?
What are some ways you can be more present and available for the people around you in your ordinary moments? Can you think of any ways God has used you in the moment to be a blessing to someone else?
Prayer 🙏
Ask for prayer requests from the group.
Pray that God would help you dwell in His presents during moments He calls you for.
Pray for God to help you recognize ordinary moments in your life and the significance they hold.
Ask for the courage to be present and available in everyday moments.
Seek guidance to encourage others and share the love of God in your interactions throughout the week.
July 6: Poured Out
Sermon Recap 🎬
In Pastor Joe's sermon, he reminds us that even when our cups seem drained, we can still be filled and pour out into others with love and service. Drawing on his recent mission trip to the Dominican Republic, where students built a house for a family in need, Pastor Joe illustrates the profound joy and fulfillment found in giving, even when we feel like we have little to offer. In moments where life feels heavy, he challenges us to shift our perspective, emphasizing that pouring into others can actually lead to our own refilling. The ultimate example, of course, is Jesus, who in his final hours chose to serve and love his disciples instead of focusing on his own impending suffering. By risking our vulnerabilities and stepping into service, we can trust that God will fill us up, and also help bear our burdens.
Ice Breaker 🧊
Ice Breakers at http://gracelife.com/icebreakers
Message Clip 📼
Here is a 12 minute clip of the message: https://vimeo.com/1099474040
Discussion Questions 💬
How can we pour out love for others, even when we feel empty?
What does Jesus mean when He says, 'Love each other as I have loved you' in John 15:12? How can we apply this to loving our neighbor?
In what ways can pouring into others actually lead you to being filled up?
What do you think Jesus means when he says “For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light” in Matthew 11:30?
In what ways have you yoked yourself to worldy things that are too heavy to bear? What are some things you can do to trust God in these areas?
How can we apply Jesus’ teachings to our daily lives and look for opportunities to pour into others?
Prayer 🙏
• Ask for prayer requests from the group.
• Pray for the ability to pour out love and support to those around us, even when feeling drained.
• Ask God to reveal opportunities to serve and share His love in our daily lives.
• Seek strength and renewal through relationships with others in our community.
• Reflect on any burdens we need to surrender to God and trust Him to fill us up.
June 29: Jesus at the Table
Sermon Recap 🎬
In this sermon, Pastor John Mark passionately explores the idea that the most transformative experience this season can be taking time to set a table. Using the stories of Jesus gathering around meals, he emphasizes the vitality of being present with family, friends, and ultimately, with Jesus himself. Each anecdote reveals the heart of our mission as a church: to seek the lost and build lives, just as Jesus did, welcoming everyone to the table regardless of their past, and encouraging us to love one another just as He loves us.
Ice Breaker 🧊
Ice Breakers at http://gracelife.com/icebreakers
Message Clip 📼
Here is a 12 minute clip of the message: https://vimeo.com/1097644497
Discussion Questions 💬
What does it mean to you when Pastor John Mark talks about 'pulling up a seat', and that Jesus welcomes you to the table?
How can being present in the moment, like the woman who poured perfume on Jesus' feet, impact our relationships and time with Jesus?
What do you think Jesus meant in Luke 7:47 when he said, 'her sins, which are many, have been forgiven, for she loved much; but he who is forgiven little, loves little'? How does this relate to our relationship with God?
In what ways can we 'set the table' in our lives this summer to invite others in?
Prayer 🙏
• Ask for prayer requests from the group.
• Pray for opportunities to invite others to share meals and experiences with you.
• Seek strength to be present and involved with others, even when it might seem inconvenient.
• Ask for God's guidance in applying the principles of hospitality in your life this week.
June 22: The Power of a Breakthrough
Sermon Recap 🎬
Pastor Clem invites us to consider the possibility of a much-needed summer breakthrough instead of just a break. Drawing inspiration from the Old Testament prophet Micah, Pastor Clem shares how Jesus, our King and Breaker, leads us through life’s obstacles. He recounts the story of Abram, who faced fear and despair amidst his own doubts, illustrating how God intervened and provided the breakthrough he desperately needed. Pastor Clem poignantly reminds us that God doesn’t fixate on our failures; rather, He focuses on what lies ahead. We’re encouraged to remain committed to the process of growth and to pray for breakthroughs in courage, commitment, and heart.
Ice Breaker 🧊
Ice Breakers at http://gracelife.com/icebreakers
Message Clip 📼
Here is a 9 minute clip of the message: https://vimeo.com/1095642637
Discussion Questions 💬
What does it mean to have a 'breaker' in your life, as mentioned by Pastor Clem? How can we align ourselves with this 'breaker' when facing obstacles?
In Genesis 15, God tells Abram not to fear and reminds him of His promises. Why do you think fear often holds people back from believing in God's promises?
A breakthrough often requires a change in perspective, like when God took Abram outside to see the stars. Why do you think it's important to change our perspective in difficult times?
What are some obstacles in your life that you feel are holding you back from experiencing a breakthrough?
What is an area in your life where you feel you need a breakthrough in your heart?
Prayer 🙏
• Ask for prayer requests from the group.
• Pray for God’s help in applying the message of breakthrough in our lives.
• Seek courage to confront any obstacles we are facing this week.
• Ask for help to Trust God’s process in our personal journeys.
June 15: What Every Child Needs to Hear
Sermon Recap 🎬
Pastor Kendrick Vinar's sermon focuses on honoring fathers while highlighting the essential emotional needs every child has from their dad: love, pride, acceptance, support, and belief. He emphasizes the importance of verbally expressing love and appreciation, as these affirmations help establish a strong foundation for a child's identity and self-worth. By sharing personal anecdotes and emphasizing God's unconditional love, Pastor Kendrick encourages everyone to not only receive these affirmations from their Heavenly Father but also to extend them to others. Ultimately, the message is one of grace, ensuring that we all recognize our inherent value and potential through love and support from both earthly and heavenly fathers.
Ice Breaker 🧊
Ice Breakers at http://gracelife.com/icebreakers
Message Clip 📼
Here is a 13 minute clip of the message: https://vimeo.com/1094181523
Discussion Questions 💬
Why is it important for children to hear 'I love you' from their fathers, and how can this phrase impact their emotional well-being?
What does it mean to you when someone says 'I believe in you'? How can expressing belief and encouragement shape someone's future?
Pastor mentioned that hearing 'I'm pleased with you' is important for fostering self-esteem. How can knowing that God is pleased with us, based on scripture, motivate us in our daily lives?
In what ways can dads change the narrative around Father's Day from criticism to honor, as suggested in the sermon?
How does the idea that 'your past does not need to define you' resonate with you, particularly in terms of receiving love from God and others?
What do you need to hear from your Heavenly Father?
Prayer 🙏
• Ask for prayer requests first.
• Pray for the ability to verbally express love and encouragement to those around us this week.
• Seek God's guidance in applying the sermon principles in daily interactions.
• Ask God to help us experience His love, pride, and belief in us throughout the week.
June 8: Finances Built to Last
Sermon Recap 🎬
Pastor Jonathan Love's sermon focuses on the crucial topic of finances and stewardship. He shares personal experiences to emphasize the importance of tithing and honoring God with our money, while stressing that God desires for us to experience peace and freedom from financial anxiety. The heart of the message is that God blesses us not just for our own benefit, but so we can be a blessing to others, reflecting His generosity. Pastor Jonathan encourages us to trust God as our provider, reminding us that true fulfillment comes from living a life of giving and sharing God's love with others.
Ice Breaker 🧊
Ice Breakers at http://gracelife.com/icebreakers
Message Clip 📼
Here is an 11 minute clip of the message: https://vimeo.com/1091856396?p=0s
Discussion Questions 💬
Why is it important to honor God with our finances?
What does Pastor Jonathan Love mean when he says, 'Don't worry about money; God is your provider'?
How can being generous with our money and having a heart to give lead to more fulfillment in our lives?
What is the significance of the promise in Malachi 3 that God will bless those who bring the full tithe into the storehouse?
Why do you think Pastor Jonathan Love emphasized that God doesn't need our money, but desires our hearts? How do you think this relates to obeying and enjoying God?
Prayer 🙏
• Ask for any prayer requests from the group.
• Pray for peace and freedom concerning financial worry.
• Seek guidance on how to be a blessing to others with the resources you have.
• Ask God to help you recognize areas where you can honor Him with your finances.
June 1: Faith Built to Last
Sermon Recap 🎬
Pastor Kendrick Vinar emphasizes the importance of faith built to last, highlighting that true faith in God can sustain individuals through life's trials. He encourages the church to not only believe in God's existence but to experience a personal relationship with Him, as faith enables one to stand firm in the face of challenges. Using the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, he illustrates that God can deliver us through difficult circumstances, and even if the outcome isn't what we desire, trusting in God's goodness is essential. Ultimately, Pastor Kendrick calls on everyone to examine their faith, let go of past offenses against God, and embrace a deeper relationship with Him to grow in their spiritual lives.
Ice Breaker 🧊
Ice Breakers at http://gracelife.com/icebreakers
Message Clip 📼
Here is a 13 minute clip of the message: https://vimeo.com/1090243383
Discussion Questions 💬
What does it mean to have faith in God, as described in Hebrews 11:6, and why is it important for us to believe that He exists?
Pastor mentioned that trials can strengthen our faith. How have difficulties in your life changed the way you view your faith?
Why is humility important when trying to grow our faith, as mentioned by Pastor Kendrick?
What does it mean to pre-decide our commitments in faith, like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego did?
How can knowing God more deeply help us trust Him in difficult situations, according to Pastor Kendrick?
What is God putting on your heart?
Prayer 🙏
• Ask for prayer requests first. • Pray for courage to stand firm in faith amidst trials. • Ask God for opportunities to grow your faith this week. • Seek guidance in trusting God’s plan, even when it's difficult.
May 25: What Do You Do When You Don’t Know What to Do?
Sermon Recap 🎬
Pastor Jeff Little answered the question, "What do you do when you don't know what to do?" We praise. Pastor Jeff shared a powerful story from Acts 16, highlighting how Paul and Silas, despite facing imprisonment and opposition, chose to pray and praise God, resulting in a miraculous breakthrough. The pastor encouraged the congregation to embrace praise as a weapon during difficult times, illustrating that it can lead to powerful spiritual breakthroughs and transformation, just as seen in Paul and Silas' experience. He concluded by reminding everyone that God's greatness surpasses all challenges and invites them to magnify Him through their praise.
Ice Breaker 🧊
Ice Breakers at http://gracelife.com/icebreakers
Message Clip 📼
Show you own clip of the message. The full message can be found here: https://vimeo.com/1087521560
Discussion Questions 💬
What does it mean to 'build a legacy that honors God' as discussed in the sermon?
In Acts 16, Paul and Silas were imprisoned, but they chose to pray and sing praises to God. Why do you think praising God was their response in such a difficult situation?The sermon discusses the idea that opposition often comes when you are following God's plan. How can we recognize and deal with the opposition we face in our lives?
What role does praise play in overcoming difficulties, according to the sermon?
Pastor emphasizes that praise is more powerful than we often realize. In what ways can you learn to praise more actively in your own life?
Prayer 🙏
• Ask God to help us apply the principles of building our lives on the foundation of Christ throughout this week. • Pray for the courage to praise Him even in difficult circumstances. • Ask for prayer requests from participants to support each other this week. • Seek God’s guidance in areas of our lives where we feel lost or uncertain.
May 18: A Legacy Build to Last
Sermon Recap 🎬
Pastor Kendrick Vinar emphasizes the importance of recognizing and living in alignment with God’s kingdom rather than the kingdom of self. He encourages attendees to develop a “kingdom passion” that influences their daily lives, urging them to serve others as ambassadors of Christ. By understanding our unique shapes—spiritual gifts, hearts, abilities, personalities, and experiences—we find our calling to build God’s kingdom collectively. The message concludes with an invitation to embrace this calling and actively participate in community life, helping one another grow in faith and service through the Dream Team.
Ice Breaker 🧊
Ice Breakers at http://gracelife.com/icebreakers
Message Clip 📼
There is an 14 minute clip at https://vimeo.com/1086149501 that you can show your small group.
Discussion Questions 💬
What does it mean to have a 'kingdom passion' as discussed in the sermon?
How does seeking first the kingdom of God change our daily priorities and concerns, based on Matthew 6:33?
Which part of the S.H.A.P.E. acronym (Spiritual Gifts, Heart, Abilities, Personality, Experiences) do you feel most confident about—and which part do you feel unsure about? Why?
How have your past experiences—especially painful or challenging ones—shaped the way you relate to and serve others today?
We learned that “when we use our S.H.A.P.E., ministry becomes life-giving.” Have you ever served in a way that felt draining? How might that have been misaligned with your God-given shape?
Which part of your S.H.A.P.E. do you believe God is asking you to use more boldly right now—for His Kingdom or in your daily life (home, work, school, relationships)?
What’s one area in your life where your spiritual gifts or abilities could meet someone else’s need right now—either inside or outside the church?
What Dream Team do you want to join?
Prayer 🙏
• Ask for any prayer requests from the group.
• Pray for the courage to follow a kingdom passion in their lives.
• Request God's guidance to help apply the sermon teachings throughout the week.
• Ask for strength to live for God and not for ourselves.
May 11: A Family Built to Last
Message Recap 🎬
Pastor Kendrick Vinar emphasizes honoring mothers and the importance of family dynamics during his sermon. He encourages the congregation to see the good in their family members, affirming that God is proud of each mother's efforts. The pastor outlines three key steps for improving family relationships: seeing the good, forgiving the bad, and creating a positive future together with God's help. Ultimately, he reminds everyone that a strong family foundation is built through love, honor, and faith in God.
Ice Breaker 🧊
Ice Breakers at http://gracelife.com/icebreakers
Message Clip 📼
There is an 9 minute clip at https://vimeo.com/1083643183 that you can show your small group.
Discussion Questions 💬
Why is it important to see the good in our family members, especially when there may have been past conflicts or misunderstandings?
What does it mean to forgive the bad, and why do you think it's often more challenging to forgive family members than friends or acquaintances?
In the sermon, Pastor mentions the concept of creating the best future for family relationships. How can we actively participate in creating positive changes within our families?
How do the scriptures, such as Proverbs 11:27, highlight the importance of our perspectives on family relationships?
Pastor Kendrick talked about the importance of speaking words of life and encouragement to our family. Why do you think verbal affirmation is so powerful?
What is God putting on your heart as your next step?
Prayer 🙏
• Ask for any prayer requests in the group.
• Pray for eyes to see the good in family members this week.
• Ask God to grant strength to forgive any wrongs experienced.
• Seek guidance in creating a culture of faith and hope within families.
May 4: A Marriage Built to Last
Sermon Recap 🎬
Pastor Kendrick Vinar's sermon emphasizes the significance of building lasting relationships, particularly marriages, through a biblical lens. He underscores that marriage is a spiritual union designed by God, meant to reflect His love and bring unity, and emphasizes that each individual's growth and transformation within the relationship is crucial. Pastor Vinar encourages couples to engage in prayer, forgiveness, and mutual respect to strengthen their connections, while also reminding singles to choose partners based on shared values and spiritual compatibility. Ultimately, he stresses that marriage is not just a contract but a commitment that can positively impact future generations and should be treated with importance and intentionality.
Ice Breaker 🧊
Ice Breakers at http://gracelife.com/icebreakers
Message Clip 📼
There is an 10 minute clip at https://vimeo.com/1081915859 that you can show your small group.
Discussion Questions 💬
Why do you think Pastor Kendrick emphasized the importance of focusing on becoming the right person rather than finding the right person when looking for a partner?
What does Ephesians 5:21 mean when it says to 'submit to one another out of reverence for Christ'? How does this work in marriage?
How does marriage being a spiritual union change the way we view the commitment involved in getting married?
What do you think about the 3 kinds of love and putting them in the proper sequence? Is this a helpful guide for your romantic relationships?
What are some practical steps you can take to ensure open communication and understanding in your future relationships, as encouraged by the pastor?
Prayer 🙏
• Ask for any prayer requests from the group.
• Pray for God to help us apply the principles of marriage discussed in the sermon to our relationships.
• Ask for courage to change and grow in our personal lives this week.
• Seek guidance on how to strengthen our connections with loved ones.
April 27: A Life Built to Last
Sermon Recap 🎬
Pastor Kendrick Vinar spoke about building a life that lasts, emphasizing the importance of having a solid foundation in Christ, especially during life's inevitable storms. He encouraged listeners to engage with a new six-week series called "Built to Last," where they could deepen their faith and form relationships within the church community. Drawing parallels from the Sermon on the Mount, he highlighted that obedience to God's word leads to a life built on the rock, while neglecting it leads to instability. Ultimately, Pastor Kendrick reminded everyone that while storms may come, trusting and obeying God provides strength and peace through life's challenges.
Ice Breaker 🧊
Ice Breakers at http://gracelife.com/icebreakers
Message Clip 📼
There is an 8 minute clip at https://vimeo.com/1079537935?share=copy that you can show your small group.
Discussion Questions 💬
1) What do you think Pastor shared about the importance of building your life on a solid foundation? How does this relate to the parable Jesus told about the wise and foolish builders?
Pastor discussed how both builders heard the words of Jesus, but only the wise man acted on them, which made his house stand firm in storms.
Can you think of a time when you faced a challenge or storm in your life? How did your actions or decisions help you stand firm during that time?
2) Pastor mentioned that storms are inevitable in life. Why do you think he believes this is important for us to understand?
He emphasized that storms can come to anyone and everyone, regardless of their choices, and that being prepared for them is essential.
How can understanding the inevitability of storms help you handle difficulties when they come your way?
3) What role does obedience play in having a life built to last, according to Pastor's message?
Pastor stated that obedience is the key to building a strong foundation by putting Jesus’ words into practice, not just hearing them.
Can you think of an area in your life where you feel challenged to obey? How can you take steps to follow through on that?
4) How did Pastor relate personal experiences with storms in his life to the larger message of finding joy and peace during challenges?
He shared his own struggles and how he relied on faith and God’s promises to navigate through difficult times.
What are some ways you can rely on your faith or support from others when facing your personal challenges?
5) Pastor pointed out that we often focus on the outward appearance while neglecting what is inside. Why do you think this happens?
He reminded us that God cares more about what is going on in our hearts rather than how we appear to others.
Reflect on your own life: How can you ensure that you are nurturing your inner self while not only focusing on your outward appearance?
Prayer 🙏
• Ask for prayer requests from the group first.
• Pray for courage to face and trust God through the storms in our lives.
• Ask God to help us apply the message of building our lives on His teachings.
• Ask for opportunities to practice forgiveness and love in our daily interactions.