Ask Seek Knock Discussion Guide
Summary
The sermon focuses on Jesus' teaching in Luke 11:9-10 about asking, seeking, and knocking (ASK). The pastor explains that these aren't just three ways of saying the same thing, but rather a three-step process for how to approach God with our requests. He emphasizes that this process involves maintaining a dependent relationship with God through asking, allowing our hearts to be shaped through seeking, and taking faithful action through knocking.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your Word, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to understand Your truth about prayer and seeking You. Help us to be honest with ourselves and each other as we explore what it means to ask, seek, and knock. Guide our discussion and show us how to apply these principles in our daily lives. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Ice Breaker
What's the most memorable thing you've ever asked for and received as a gift?
Key Verses
Luke 11:9-10
2 Corinthians 3:18
Questions
Why do you think many people struggle with maintaining a consistent prayer life?
How does treating God like an 'Amazon delivery service' affect our relationship with Him?
What's the difference between asking God for something and seeking His will about it?
How has your understanding of prayer changed as you've grown in your faith?
What does it mean to you personally to 'knock' on God's door of provision?
How can we tell if what we're asking for aligns with God's will for our lives?
What role does patience play in the ASK process?
How can we maintain faith when we don't receive what we've asked for?
Life Application
This week, commit to implementing the ASK process in your prayer life. Choose one specific area where you need God's provision. First, bring it to God in prayer (Ask). Then, spend time in His Word and in prayer seeking His will about it (Seek). Finally, take a specific step of faith toward that provision (Knock). Journal about your experience and what God reveals to you through this process.
Key Takeaways
Asking demonstrates our dependent relationship with God
Seeking God aligns our hearts with His will
Knocking requires taking action steps of faith
God delights in our requests, regardless of their maturity
True prayer is a process, not just a one-time request
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for teaching us how to approach You with our needs and desires. Help us to be faithful in asking, diligent in seeking, and courageous in knocking. May we grow in our understanding of Your heart and will through this process. Give us the wisdom to recognize Your provision and the faith to take action when You lead. In Your name we pray, Amen.