Sunday, August 20, 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 Acts 10:34-35
34 Then Peter replied, “I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. 35 In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right.”
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 look back on the adventure God has you on.
Prayer:
Day 7 Prayer Focus - For Our Churches (Matthew 28:18-20)
Heavenly Father, we thank you for gathering us today as your church. We ask you to guide us as we seek to know you more and to share your love and truth with others. Help us to understand the purpose and mission you have for us as your followers and ambassadors. When we do, we believe that you have an amazing adventure for our lives and for everyone around us. We pray this in the name of Jesus, our Savior and Lord—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:
Ice breaker: Share a time when you had an awkward experience with a stranger. Did you extend God’s love to them in the situation? Why or why not?
What makes loving strangers challenging sometimes?
What do you learn about God and his love for us in Acts 10:34-35?
How does the truth of Colossians 1:19-22 inspire you to love others?
What is something you can do each day this week to remember God’s love for you and to love others well because of it?