Joyful Living - Week 7: Joy in Striving
Small Group Discussion Guide
For the week of March 15, 2020
Connecting (Aim for 15 minutes)
Breaking the Ice/Think Time
Describe what it was like to strain towards the goal in a sport that you may have participated in.
• Quick Review… Looking back at your notes from this Sunday’s sermon, what caught your attention, challenged, or confused you?
Understanding the Truth (Aim for 30-40 minutes)
Read Phil. 3:12-16
In verse 12, Paul says that he has not already obtained “this, “and that he “presses on.” What has he not obtained, and what is he pressing on for?
In the same verse, Paul mentions that he is not yet perfect. The Greek word here translated does not mean sinless but absolutely mature. What is the danger of thinking we have obtained absolute maturity in our spiritual journey?
Read verse 13. Paul says the way to reach the goal of being more like Christ is to do what 2 things?
In verse 14, What is the one thing that Paul does as he realizes that he is still in the process of becoming what Christ wants him to become?
What is it about the things that are behind us that can cause us to lose sight of the goal?
What are events that can get us side-tracked, injured, or lost in our spiritual journey because of past mistakes or experiences? What can be done to get back in the race?
What is Paul asking those who are “mature” to do? What does Paul say God will do to those that “think otherwise?” (verse 15)
Read verse 16. What is the only condition Paul asks of the “mature believer?”
What does Paul mean by “holding true to what we have attained?” (Read Phil. 3:8-11)
Seeing Our Savior
Read 1 Cor. 9:24; 14:20; Luke 9:62; Phil. 3:10; Heb. 12:1-3; 2 Tim. 4:7
Believers are called to consider the ultimate example of perseverance—Jesus. Runners in an athletic competition cannot be distracted by unimportant objects. As runners in the race of life, we must “fix our eyes on Jesus.” As we run, we must be looking at Him in faith. He is more than our example; He is our final destination. We must run toward Him with all our might, in the promise that we will be conformed to His image. Let’s all finish the race……
Living the Truth (Aim for 20 minutes)
If you had to compare your life in Christ right now to a track race, where would you be: Sitting on the sidelines? Warming up? At the starting blocks? Giving it your all? Straining for the finish? Why?
Have you ever been tempted to think that your past victories are enough, so you can stop running towards the goal? What must we do when that tempting thought rises within us?
What would need to change for you to give your spiritual journey the same effort (straining) that you give to other areas of your life? How can you commit to making this change in your life?
God not only hears but loves to answer prayers that are “according to His will.” (1 John 5:14-15). We can pray confidently when we pray obediently to this truth. You have just spent time discovering God’s will for you. Now, ask God for what you need to fulfill His will in your life, your friends & family, neighbors, church & community. Don’t be afraid to ask forgiveness where you have blown it, strength where you are weak, courage where you are afraid.
Prayer Requests (Aim for minimum of 10 minutes)
Pray that God reveals to you who He truly is