BIG IDEA
We can stretch our faith by starting something new.
MESSAGE NOTES:
WHAT:
Similar to stretching our bodies, stretching ourselves spiritually allows us to become more flexible, hope filled, fully alive human beings in the world.
Jesus himself said – “I have come so that you might have life and have it abundantly.” John 10:10
SO WHAT:
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:1-2
Spiritual Practices can help start to stretch our faith and kickstart God’s transformation in our lives.
These 2 spiritual practices helps us grow in our relationship with God, and become more like Jesus.
Love God – by the renewing or our minds.
Love Others – by offering ourselves as living sacrifices to God.
NOW WHAT:
Paul gives us a whole list of spiritual practices that we could start doing today that would stretch us and jumpstart our faith.
SERVE: Figure out how God has gifted you, and then you use your gifts to take care of other people.
LOVE: Put other people before yourself (even the ones who are hard to love) and make sure they know they matter — to God and to you.
SHARE: Celebrate with people on the good days and cry with them when life is tough.
If you have two of something and they don’t have 1, give them one.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Q1: If you follow Jesus, what is one spiritual practice that you’ve recently started trying or want to start to help you renew your mind?
Q2: What’s one new spiritual practice that you could start to help you stretch your faith by loving others?
Q3: Which one is easiest for you: serving, loving, or sharing?
Q4: Which one is the most difficult for you: serving, loving, or sharing?