Sunday, June 2, 2024
This week, we begin our new series, Bad Boys of the Bible. Since the beginning in the garden, we have had a tendency to resist the rules. The Bible shares stories about numerous “bad boys,” and over the next few weeks, we will look at their lives to see what we can learn.
What's both incredibly encouraging and rather scandalous is that the God who created the universe doesn’t turn his back on us when we make rebellious choices. That doesn’t mean there won’t be consequences, as we will see, but God does still love us. In fact, acting out of unchecked insecurity will destroy your destiny.
But when we respond in humility we are met with grace.
1 Peter 5:5
“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
This week, invite God to open your eyes to areas where you are insecure and need to trust him. Set aside any distractions, close your eyes, take a few slow, deep breaths, and approach the Lord with humility. 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:
Father, I admit sometimes I am insecure, and that this unchecked insecurity causes me to respond in prideful ways rather than trusting you. Reveal these places to me, Lord. Help me humbly surrender them to you so that I can move forward, trusting you have a good plan for my life. In Jesus’ name, amen.
*********************************
Discussion Questions:
Icebreaker: What comes to mind when you think of "bad boys"?
How have you seen unchecked insecurity impact people’s lives?
Read 1 Samuel 15:1-23 and 1 Peter 5:5-7. What do you learn about unchecked insecurity? What do you learn about God?
What do you find the most challenging about obeying God and trusting him with the consequences?
What does trusting God look like to you? What is one way you can trust him this week?
Series Theme Verse:
Psalm 37:3-4
3 Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. 4 Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires.
Today’s post was written by Kelly Pagel, the Director of LivingItOut.