Sunday, March 3, 2024

Do you have a favorite place that you have visited? Perhaps you have felt God’s presence in that place.

Have you ever considered how the places in the world can help us know God better? As we read through Scripture,mountains, rivers, gardens and trees are all locations of significant events. Places like Mount Sinai where Moses was given the 10 commandments (Exodus 19) or Mount Tabor the site of Jesus’ transfiguration.

Matthew 17:1-2
¹ Six days later Jesus took Peter and the two brothers, James and John, and led them up a high mountain to be alone. ²As the men watched, Jesus’ appearance was transformed so that his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as light.

These locations can also be a metaphor for our spiritual journey.

Invite God to open your eyes to what he wants to teach you this week through the mountainous locations found in 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.

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Discussion Questions:

• Icebreaker: What is your favorite place on Earth?
• People love having a mountaintop experience. What might someone miss if they never had to endure "the climb" to get to "the view"?
• Read Matthew 5:1-12. How do you see God meeting people in the challenges they are facing?
• What mountain are you facing? Where is God inviting you to trust and follow him?
• What is one step you can take as you begin to climb this mountain?

Prayer:
Father, you have made some incredibly beautiful places on earth, where I can see the magnificent work of your hand. Thank you for these gifts. Teach me what you want me to know from the significant locations; help me consider these places in light of the journey you have me on and let my heart be open to the adventure. Amen.

Series 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.