Group Notes | December 27

A Checklist for Christian Living
December 27, 2015
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

“Preventive Care” is a common phrase, indicating steps taken to ensure optimum health and keeping problems to a minimum. Can you think of some examples?

Today we are going to look at intentional “preventive care” for our walk with Christ in 2016, knowing that discipline in our spiritual life takes the same effort for a healthy love relationship with Christ as do wise choices for our mental and physical well-being. If we put these steps into practice, we will truly become “Champions for Christ.”

 Discuss:

Spend Time In The Word

  1. Few of us would take on a major project without having a manual to know we will finish it with success. What are the parallels between that manual and the Word of God? Read Psalm 119:105 and illustrate this principle.
  2. Setting intentional, disciplined goals for Bible reading will reap many rewards. Read Psalm 119:11. What does this verse promise, and what are some other benefits?

Communicate With Him

  1. Give an example of a relationship floundering because of a lack of communication. How does this apply as you walk with God?
  2. What are important topics you can talk to God about as you seek to develop a fervent prayer life?

Have a Spirit of Repentance

  1. How important is it that you keep your sins confessed? Read Isaiah 59:2.
  2. What does 1 John 1:9 tell you? What does this feel like in family relationships when put into practice? Is the communion with God more important?

 Find A Place To Serve

  1. Read Matthew 28:19, 20. This commandment is given to all Christians. Ask Jesus for spiritual vision to see the hurting people around you. Opportunities to serve in His name are endless only if your heart is willing to be used.

Take Advantage of Opportunities to Share

  1. You don’t have to know all the answers to all theological questions! You have one thing to share with those you meet: the story of your own personal changed life. No one but you can share that as well as you.

Close:

This has been a long, but very important, list of ways to begin a new year. As you break into small groups, discuss your current relationship with Jesus Christ: are you hot, cold, or lukewarm? Do you desire a deeper walk with Him? Take the time to write the list down, putting it where it will remind you of your commitment to put God first in all areas of your life. This week, as always, seek out a Life Group at church if you need special mentoring in any area where you might need extra support. Remember to pray for those in your group this week!

Memory Verse: Psalm 119:105: “Your Word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path.”

How To Pray 15 Minutes A Day:

  1. Worship: begin with praise to God for Who He is
  2. Thanks: praise Him for His blessings to you
  3. Repent: make sure you are uncomfortable with any sin in your life, until you confess it!
  4. Pray for others
  5. Pray for yourself
  6. Worship: end with a time of magnifying His name!
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