~Open in prayer~
Icebreaker
• Favorite Movie, new or old?
• Do you attend in-person or online service?
• Do you drink coffee or tea?
MESSAGE REVIEW
Do you know someone who struggles with a “victim mentality”? The basic principles that govern the world’s lives are called “cause and effect,” but the bible speaks of “sowing and reaping” a harvest. Some things enter our lives that are not by our own doing. There are words, actions, and offerings that can create outcomes in the future. Victims’ mentalities do not want to be held accountable for anything and do not take responsibility for their situation. If the problems in life are always someone else’s fault, they will never be resolved. But when we take responsibility and cry out to God, He will give us the grace to deal with what is before us.
LET’S TALK ABOUT IT!
•Read Matthew 13:24-30 The word speaks about sowing and reaping. The difference is that the parable says that the enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat. This parable describes that you may reap a harvest that you did not sow for. It could be from someone you marry or a friendship you allow in your life. Or if you are sowing what you want to see in your life? Eating unhealthy but unsure why you gained weight. Or have you sowed negative words to people close to you but then upset when negative things happen in your home. Are you reaping from someone else’s seed in your life sowed? Why is it important to examine your heart and see if the harvest you are experiencing is from your sowing?
•Read I Peter 4:12 The bible says in this passage, when life gets really difficult don’t jump to conclusion that God isn’t there. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner. When a trial arises in your life, do you look at it as a devastating problem or an opportunity for Jesus to show up?
•Read John 9:2-5 In this passage it says, “Walking down the street, Jesus saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked, “Rabbi, who sinned: this man or his parents, causing him to be born blind?” Jesus said, “You’re asking the wrong question. You’re looking for someone to blame. There is no such cause-effect here. Look instead for what God can do. We need to be energetically at work for the One who sent me here, working while the sun shines. When night falls, the workday is over. For as long as I am in the world, there is plenty of light. I am the world’s Light.” When something goes wrong are you quick to look for someone or something to blame? How can you change this response and instead look how Jesus can shine in this moment?
PRAYER FOCUS & REQUESTS
Ask your members if they have any prayer requests or praise reports. Be mindful this week to look at any issues or problems that may rise up as opportunities for the Goodness of God to show up!