Sunday, August 13, 2023
Today, you’re invited to pause and consider how God is inviting you to apply the weekend message in the week to come.
To begin, take a few moments to sit quietly before God, giving him your worries and concerns and letting his peace wash over you.
Next, take some time to read the following verses and explore the questions that follow. You can do this on your own or with others.
Read 1 John 4:9-12
9 God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. 10 This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.
11 Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. 12 No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us.
What do you learn about God’s love for us in these verses?
What is one thing you can do this week to love others as God has loved you?
Finally, consider recording your responses in a journal, whether digital or hardcopy. It's a great way to be able to look back on the adventure God has you on.
Prayer:
Lord, I praise you for this day. Jesus, thank you for your love for me and the sacrifice you made for me on the cross. I desire to love you, Lord, with all that I am and to love others as you love me. Help me be a light and share the love of Christ with the world. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Series Theme Verse:
1 John 4:10-11
10 This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. 11 Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other.
Discussion questions to spark conversation with your family, friends, or group.
Icebreaker: What is your favorite Christian curse word to say when you are frustrated?
Why do you think some people equate loving God with working hard for him?
Read 1 John 4:9-10. What do you learn about God’s love for us in these verses?
What are some ways you can love the Lord with all of your heart, soul, and mind in response to his love (Matthew 22:37-38)?
What is one thing you can do this week to love others as God has loved you (John 15:12)?