Sunday, March 24, 2024

As we wrap up our final week of Places, we are exploring locations in the Bible in order to get to know God better. Mountains, rivers, gardens and trees are all the settings for significant events and also represent aspects of our journey.

This week will will explore how trees represent the opportunity to trust God and represent life, provisioning and blessing

Matthew 7:17-18

¹⁷ A good tree produces good fruit, and a bad tree produces bad fruit. ¹⁸ A good tree can’t produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can’t produce good fruit.

Take a moment to invite God to open your eyes to what he wants to teach you this week through the various trees found throughout Scripture. Set aside any distractions. Close your eyes, and take a few slow, deep breaths. Ask the Lord to help you identify what is healthy and unhealthy in terms of your technology use.

Finally, consider recording your responses in a journal, whether digital or hard copy. It's a great way to be able to look back on the adventure God has you on.

Prayer:
Lord, thank you for your beautiful creation of trees and the opportunity to trust that they represent. Although you are perfectly trustworthy, Father, I don’t always trust in you and instead try to do life on my own. This week, show me where I need to take a step towards your invitation of trust. Amen.

***************************

Discussion Questions:

• Icebreaker: Have you ever explored your family tree? What is something interesting you learned?
• The tree of knowledge represents trusting God knows what is best. Why do you think this can be difficult for people to do?
• Read Exodus 3:1-10. What do you learn about God in this passage? What do you learn about purpose? What purpose do you believe God has for you?
• Read 2 Corinthians 5:21. What do you learn about Jesus from this passage? How does knowing this strengthen your trust?
• Where is Jesus inviting you to trust him more? What is one step you can take toward this?

Series Theme Verse:

Romans 1:20
For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.

This post was written by Kelly Pagel, Director of the LivingItOut.