Group Notes | February 1

Get Fit: Trusting God for Your Future

Open:

Trusting our lives to things or situations occurs hundreds of time each day. What are some things you can think of that we trust in, usually without thought?

The past month we have been focused on getting fit in every area of our lives. This week we end this series as we encompass all we have learned in order to make our lives conform to the goal of living our lives with the purpose of bringing glory to our God.

Discuss:

1. Living our lives to bring God glory sounds impossible. Read Mark 10:27. What does this scripture tell us? What are some of the impossibilities that the Holy Spirit is implying?

2. Read Psalm 33:1-22. If we are to live our lives for God’s glory, what will this look like on a daily basis?

3. This Psalm tells us in verses 1-5 that we are to worship Him with all that we are. What are some reasons He is worthy of our worship?

4. In verses 6-9, the psalmist gives us a small picture of the greatness of God. If we worship Him because of what He has done, not only in creation and throughout history, but in our own lives, what are some things you can list?

5. Do you have goals that will line your life up with God’s purpose for you? Share some of them and tell what actions are you taking to make these goals realities?

6. Why did Richard Blackaby say “the primary purpose of spiritual leaders [or Christians] is not to achieve their goals but to accomplish God’s will”?

7. We would all agree that Christ is worthy of our trust. Re-read verses 18-22. What are some ways He shows Himself faithful? If He has been faithful in the past, what are some things we should trust Him with in the future?

8. What signals alert you to the possibility you may not be trusting Him?

Close:

God can do amazing things with us if we are willing, ready, and available to be used. We have to live our lives intentionally to accomplish His plans and purposes for us. As we break into small groups, discuss the possibilities that could occur if you set goals that you knew you could accomplish, knew that you would not fail, be willing to pay the price, and what you would be willing to sacrifice to attain them. Remember to discuss needs that might be met by the small groups meeting at the church, and especially remember to pray for those who are seeking God’s help, His glory, and His will in their lives.

Memory Verse: Psalm 33:20, 21: “Our soul waits for the Lord, He is our help and our shield. For our
heart shall rejoice in Him, because we have trusted in His holy name.” (NKJV)

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Group Notes | January 25

Get Fit Financially January 25, 2015

Open:

Money, like politics, is a very sensitive subject. Can you think of some clichés or wise sayings that you hear in regard to money?
We have looked at getting fit in every area of our lives this month: spiritually, in relationships, and physically. This week we look at finances. It is difficult for people to agree on wise spending habits, so we must go to the source of all wisdom–God’s word.

Discuss:

1. Read Matthew 25:14-29. Why is it vital that we understand the importance of handling our finances properly?

2. What did Christ want us to learn from the third servant’s actions and excuses?

3. Why do we get in trouble when we rationalize our ‘wants’ to be ‘needs’?

4. God has provided many things to enjoy. How can these be a test of our devotion to Christ?

5. Read Prov. 22:27.

a. List areas of spending that may be keeping you from being free from debt.

b. If these are ‘needs,’ can you think of substitutes that might lighten the impact on your spending?

6. Getting debt free can be a long process. What are some things you are willing to do in order to be where you want to be?

7. All plans start with a first step. Give some suggestions that would help you or others begin the road to freedom?

8. Read Matt. 6:21. Spending foolishly can become a habit, which can become an addiction. Where are some places that one can get help?

Close:

It makes one feel very vulnerable to admit to being a poor money manager. As you break into small groups, try to see your friends as a support group who can hold you accountable with your finances. The church is also offering extra help to those who truly wish freedom from debt. Pray that God will lead you to a place where you can take the steps necessary to enjoy His treasures without worshiping them or coveting more. Close by thanking Him for always providing for your needs.

Memory Verse:

Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

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Group Notes | January 18

Get Fit: Physically

Scott Bullman January 18, 2015

Open:

Deciding to change something about yourself, and then actually doing it, is by far easier said than done! What are some examples of physical change that you or someone you know has accomplished?

The past two Sundays we have understood that beginning the new year by getting fit spiritually and with relationships starts with developing a closer bond with God. This week Scott Bullman will help us look at our bodies as the temple of the Holy Spirit, and learn what our responsibility is as we take care of it.

Discuss:

1. Read 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20. Before we can solve a problem, we have to identify it.

a. What is something physical we need to change about ourselves?

b. Which of these might impact our testimony as a follower of Christ?

2. Why do you have to get to the point where “the pain of bearing the problem is greater than the pain of changing it” before you are mentally ready to take the first step? (Henry Cloud)

3. Where should discipline begin when change is needed?

a. Read Eccl. 4:10. What is the benefit of accountability?

b. Express any hesitation you might have with an accountability partner.

4. Read 1 Peter 1:13. What is special about self-control?

5. Why do we need the power of God to change?

6. Read Romans 12: 1, 2.

a. What are some reasons why deliverance does not come immediately?

b. What are some ways that others can benefit as they see us changing?

c. When will you be able to stop your discipline?

Close:

Changing habits that have a strong grip on your life is a task that will take fervor, determination, and discipline. As you break into small groups, discuss changes that you know you need, and explore possibilities of the church providing groups who will help you. As you close, pray specifically for strength to determine to change strongholds and deliverance from anything that hurts your relationship with Christ.

Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20: Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit Who is in you, Whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore, glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.

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Group Notes | January 18

Get Fit: Physically

Scott Bullman January 18, 2015

Open:

Deciding to change something about yourself, and then actually doing it, is by far easier said than done! What are some examples of physical change that you or someone you know has accomplished?

The past two Sundays we have understood that beginning the new year by getting fit spiritually and with relationships starts with developing a closer bond with God. This week Scott Bullman will help us look at our bodies as the temple of the Holy Spirit, and learn what our responsibility is as we take care of it.

Discuss:

1. Read 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20. Before we can solve a problem, we have to identify it.

a. What is something physical we need to change about ourselves?

b. Which of these might impact our testimony as a follower of Christ?

2. Why do you have to get to the point where “the pain of bearing the problem is greater than the pain of changing it” before you are mentally ready to take the first step? (Henry Cloud)

3. Where should discipline begin when change is needed?

a. Read Eccl. 4:10. What is the benefit of accountability?

b. Express any hesitation you might have with an accountability partner.

4. Read 1 Peter 1:13. What is special about self-control?

5. Why do we need the power of God to change?

6. Read Romans 12: 1, 2.

a. What are some reasons why deliverance does not come immediately?

b. What are some ways that others can benefit as they see us changing?

c. When will you be able to stop your discipline?

Close:

Changing habits that have a strong grip on your life is a task that will take fervor, determination, and discipline. As you break into small groups, discuss changes that you know you need, and explore possibilities of the church providing groups who will help you. As you close, pray specifically for strength to determine to change strongholds and deliverance from anything that hurts your relationship with Christ.

Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20: Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit Who is in you, Whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore, glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.

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Group Notes | January 11

Get Fit in Relationships
January 11, 2015

Open:

People were created to be social beings, but maintaining close bonds is often a challenge. Can you share situations where relationships were in danger, and yet had an excellent ending?
Last week we looked at getting fit in our spiritual life through avoiding sin, worshiping and pursuing God, and being in His Word. Today we are going to examine how a deep relationship with God enables us to have stronger ties with family and friends.

Discuss:

1. Quote Psalm 119:11 together (last week’s memory verse). Why is it necessary to get our lives spiritually fit before working on relationships with others?

2. Read 1 Peter 3:8-12. Anything that is valuable takes maintenance and care to protect it. So it is with relationships we truly care about. What are some actions we can take to keep a relationship healthy?

3. What are some obstacles to a healthy relationship, and why? What is probably the greatest hindrance?

4. Re-read verse 9. When someone hurts or uses us, what is our natural response? What type of response does God desire from us?

5. What is the promise in verse 10 which sounds so simple? What are some ways we can get control over our responses when we want to wound, hurt, or “get even?”

6. What does it take to be honest yet encouraging to everyone we talk to?

7. What are the instructions given in verse 11 that help us embrace better relationships?

8. Verse 12 gives us the abundant promise of security as we seek to live a life pleasing to God. What can we be assured of?

Close:

The relationships we are building should never be taken for granted. They are precious evidence of a life being lived to glorify Christ. As you close in prayer, remember to lift up the groups that are meeting at church to further meet needs in this area. Also pray that God will help you keep a bridle on your tongue, that you always speak softly, and keep your words pure.

Memory Verse, January 11, 2015:
1 Peter 3:8: “Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous.

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Group Notes | January 4

Get Fit Spiritually
January 4, 2015

Open:

In today’s culture to speak of “getting fit” is usually assumed to mean a change in diet or exercise for the benefit of appearance. Is this sentence right or wrong, and why? What other areas could fall under someone “getting fit?”

Last week we looked at our mission statement, the past year, and the possibilities for improvement in 2015. Today we are going to look at getting fit in our spiritual life as we focus on growing in our relationship with Christ.

Discuss:

1. Read Psalm 119:1-11. As you listened to the Psalm, what seemed to be the passion of the writer’s heart? Give specific instances.

2. It is impossible to live a sinless life, but how would you rate yourself in trying to obey God’s commands?

3. Which verses encourage us to remove ourselves from sinful situations?

4. Spiritual health requires worship! What are some ways to worship, and what benefits are in each?

5. Why does worship require that we recognize God for Who He is? What are some of the words of “worship” in the verses that were read?

6. When we desire something, we actively pursue it. What are some examples showing we are actively pursuing a relationship with Christ?

7. Discuss the impossibility of being spiritually fit, but Biblically illiterate.

8. Quote Psalm 119:11. What is the greatest benefit of memorizing the Word of God?

Close:

As we break into small groups for prayer, let us be mindful that there are groups that will be meeting at church to help us follow up on “getting fit.” TRBC also encourages daily devotions through the “My Time” on the website. As you close, pray that God will help you memorize the verses each week, as you seek to “hide His word in your heart.”
Verse for Week 1: Psalm 119:1: “I have hidden Your word in my heart, that I might not sin against You.”

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Group Notes | April 12

He Lives…Do You? Fishing or Following?
Matt Willmington
April 12, 2015

Open:

So many circumstances can happen to us that totally change our lives. Can you think of situations you have had that completely altered your way of living?

Today we begin to center our thoughts on the difference the resurrection makes in the lives of those who meet Jesus, and deal with the question: has accepting the reality of His sacrifice changed you personally?

Discuss:

1. Read John 21:4-8. Why did the disciples return to fishing after the crucifixion?

2. The disciples were unsure what to do next, having seen Jesus alive again, but not having instructions from Him. What do you do when you are not sure what your next step should be after a disturbing experience?

3. Can you give an example of being uncertain of a next step, only to have Him suddenly make His will known? How were you obedient?

4. Read verses 9-14. Jesus was on the shore with the fire, some food, and His presence. In this situation, how would you have approached Him? Would your shame be foremost in your mind?

5. All the disciples had forsaken Him at the Garden of Gethsemane. Do you think they had to face their humiliation as they looked and listened to Him now? What about you—do you need to face past actions?

6. Read verses 15-19. Can anyone share a time when they were so out of God’s will that a re-commitment to Him had to be made? Notice that Jesus did not make the disciples come to Him, but He came to them—just as He meets us where we are, not where we should be!

7. Read verses 20-22. Jesus’ instructions to the forgiven disciples were plain and simple: “Come, follow Me.” Are you ready to follow Him or are you still fishing?

Close:

The same instructions Jesus gave His disciples are given to us as well. He wants us to follow Him with our whole heart, forgetting the past. As you break into small groups, let His Spirit bring to mind anything that needs confession or repentance, so that you can follow Him fully. Don’t forget to search the Life Groups at church to see if you can serve: there is always someone who needs comfort and encouragement from what you have been through!

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