Sunday, September 10, 2023
Today I encourage you to pause and consider how God is inviting you to live out the weekend message in the week to come.
To begin, take a few moments to sit quietly before God. Set aside any distractions, close your eyes, and take a few slow, deep breaths. With each exhalation, give him your worries and concerns and let his peace wash over you.
Next, take some time to read the verses below and explore the questions that follow. You can do this on your own or with others.
John 14:16-17
16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. 17 He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.
John 14:26-27
26 But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.
27 “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.”
What do you learn about God in these verses?
What do you learn about the gift of the Advocate?
What do you think God may be trying to teach you through these verses?
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:
Father, so often I try to live life under my own power, and I end up fazed and exhausted. But this isn’t your intention for me. In your amazing grace, you not only sent your Son, so we could have a relationship with you, but also sent your Holy Spirit to teach us and guide us, offering us the peace we so desperately desire. Help me become more aware of and walk in step with the Holy Spirit. Thank you for loving us so well! In Jesus’ name, amen.
Series Theme Verse:
John 14:26
But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.
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Discussion Questions:
Icebreaker: How would you rate your peacefulness?
What steals people’s peacefulness and leaves them feeling fazed? What do they try to fill themselves with in search of peace?
What stands out to you when you read Romans 8:6 and John 14:26-27?
How do you try to live by your own power? What would it look like for you to trust and live in the power of the Holy Spirit?
What is one thing you can do this week to take a practical step of awareness toward the presence of God’s Holy Spirit?
This post was written by Kelly Pagel, Director of the LivingItOut Devotional.