At the start of the new year, it’s all about beginnings… there’s not much thought given to the ending. But as believers, we should be living with the end in mind. And when we get quiet and ask ourselves, “What If?” 2023 was the last 12 months we spent on earth; what does the Bible have to say about what God would want us to be doing?
Key Scripture
1 Corinthians 15:58, 2 Corinthians 8:7
Discussion Questions
Don’t be afraid to add to this list, skip questions that don’t work for your group, or branch off with additional questions as discussion unfolds. Conversation is key! This is the time to work through the application of scripture and have group members figure things out together.
- We received two very exciting updates this Sunday, including the arrival of Eugene and Jess Coetzer and the announcement that the Search Team and Board of Directors have unanimously recommended Anthony Fusco as our next Lead Pastor. Please take a minute to thank and praise God for these individuals and their families. Also, please pray for them as they lead our congregation and community to the foot of the cross.
- Pastor posed the question “what if?” this week… as in, “What if this was your last year on this earth?” If you knew that was the case, is there any *“unfinished business”* in front of you? What’s keeping or delaying you from doing those things now?
- Pastor mentioned that we should serve God with gratitude. Read 1 Corinthians 15:58. How are you abounding in the work of the Lord (serving Him)? Do you find yourself serving with a thankful heart? Has it ever felt like an obligation? How can we ensure we’re serving out of gratitude?
- Read Psalm 119:11–16. Pastor talked about the importance of being a good student of God’s Word. What does your time in the Bible look like? How often do you read it? How has it changed you or your outlook on life? How can you be more consistent with meditating on the Word this year?
- We know that we cannot serve both God and money. We also cannot serve God the way He wants us to if our motives are impure or our hearts are in the wrong place. As a group, read Matthew 6:1–4. What do these verses tell us about how we should serve God and others? How can we ensure our service and gifts are meant for God alone and not for others to see and praise?
Accountability
- Where are you reading in the Bible this week? What has God been revealing to you through your quiet time with Him?
- Discuss any struggles you may be going through with your group.
- How can you be praying for your group this week? How can they be praying for you?