Getting Gains God’s Way Discussion Guide
Summary
Pastor Kathleen delivered a message titled 'Getting Gains God's Way,' using the story of the rich young ruler from Matthew 19:16-20. She emphasized that spiritual growth requires surrender and giving up things that hold us back, just like physical fitness requires sacrifice. The message focused on three key points: choosing relationship with God over rule-following, being willing to drop the 'weights' (burdens, insecurities, control) that prevent us from fully embracing God's purpose, and recognizing that life wasn't meant to be lived alone but in community with others and dependence on God.
Kathleen shared personal experiences of becoming a new mother and how it challenged her previous 'checklist faith,' teaching her to find God in everyday moments rather than just scheduled devotional times. She encouraged the congregation to surrender whatever might be holding them back from stepping into the freedom and purpose God has for them, especially as the church enters a new season of expansion.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts, ready to learn and grow in Your presence. As we gather together in community, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to receive what You want to speak to us today. Help us to set aside our distractions and preconceived notions, and make us receptive to Your Holy Spirit's leading. Lord, we acknowledge that we don't have all the answers, but You do. Guide our discussion and help us to encourage one another as we explore Your Word together. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
Ice Breaker
What's one thing you've had to give up or sacrifice in order to gain something better in your life? (This could be anything - sleep for a new baby, time for education, comfort food for health, etc.)
Key Verses
Matthew 19:16-22
Matthew 22:36-37
Matthew 11:30
Questions
Kathleen mentioned having a 'checklist faith' before becoming a mother. What are some ways we might fall into the trap of following rules rather than building relationship with God?
How can we practically allow God access to all areas of our lives, not just our scheduled 'God time'?
What are some common 'weights' or burdens that people carry that might prevent them from fully stepping into God's purpose for their lives?
The rich young ruler walked away sad because he couldn't let go of his possessions. What makes it difficult for us to surrender things to God, even when we know it would be better for us?
Kathleen shared about finding God in mundane moments like diaper changes and 2am wake-ups. How can we cultivate awareness of God's presence in our everyday, ordinary moments?
Why do you think God designed us to need community and not go through life alone? How have you experienced this in your own spiritual journey?
Jesus said 'My yoke is easy and my burden is light.' How does this contrast with the heavy burdens we sometimes carry, and what does it mean practically?
As our church enters a season of expansion, what might God be calling us individually and collectively to surrender or let go of in order to step into what He has planned?
Life Application
This week, identify one specific 'weight' or burden you've been carrying (such as worry, control, past hurt, or insecurity) and practice surrendering it to God daily through prayer. Additionally, take one practical step toward deeper community - whether that's joining a Connect Group, attending a Growth Night, or simply having a meaningful conversation with someone at church about your faith journey.
Key Takeaways
God desires relationship with us over rule-following - He wants our hearts, not just our compliance with religious activities
We must be willing to 'drop the weights' - surrender the burdens, insecurities, and control that prevent us from fully embracing God's purpose
Life wasn't meant to be lived alone - God designed us for community and dependence on Him and others
Spiritual growth requires sacrifice and surrender, just like physical fitness requires giving up certain things to gain strength
God wants access to all areas of our lives, not just scheduled devotional times - He desires to be present in the mundane, everyday moments
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for this time of fellowship and learning together. We're grateful for the reminder that You desire relationship with us above all else, and that You've called us to live in freedom, not under the burden of trying to earn Your love through our performance. Help us to identify and surrender the weights we've been carrying that hold us back from Your best for our lives. Give us courage to step into the community and vulnerability You've designed us for. As we go from this place, help us to see You in every moment of our days and to live with open hands, ready to receive all that You have for us. We trust You with our lives and our futures. In Your precious name we pray, Amen.