Sparking Hope Discussion Guide
Summary
Pastor Lisa McGinnis Smith delivers a dynamic message about the power of intentional connection and hope. She emphasizes that the most influential people are those who carry the most hope, and challenges the congregation to move beyond merely visiting church to truly participating in community. Through interactive demonstrations with hats, chocolate sharing, and physical movements, she illustrates how small actions can change atmospheres and create connection. She stresses the importance of memorizing Scripture as a high-value habit that transforms our thinking and equips us to share hope with others.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather today to discuss the power of connection and hope, we invite Your presence into our conversation. Open our hearts to receive what You want to teach us about being carriers of hope in this world. Help us to see the opportunities You've placed before us to connect meaningfully with others. May Your Word come alive in us today as we learn together. Guide our discussion and show us how we can be more intentional in our relationships. In Jesus' name, amen.
Ice Breaker
What's one small gesture someone made toward you recently that brightened your day?
Key Verses
Romans 15:13
Matthew 5:14-15
Philippians 4:6-7
Proverbs 3:5-6
John 1:5
Philippians 4:13
Questions
Pastor Lisa said 'the most influential people in the room are the people that carry the most hope.' What does it mean to you to be a carrier of hope?
How do you distinguish between positive thinking and biblical hope? Why is this distinction important during times of crisis?
What Scripture verses have you memorized that help you in difficult times? How has having God's Word 'in you' made a difference?
The sermon emphasized moving from being a 'visitor' to a 'participant' in the family of God. What's one step you could take to deepen your participation in church community?
Pastor Lisa talked about 'high value behaviors' that become 'high value habits.' What spiritual habits would you like to develop more consistently?
How might intentional one-on-one conversations strengthen our church community? What prevents us from having more of these connections?
In what ways do you 'clothe yourself with Christ' or 'put on hope' in your daily interactions with others?
How can small actions (like a smile, a scripture, or a quick prayer) change the atmosphere around you? Share an example from your own experience.
Life Application
This week, commit to having at least one intentional one-on-one connection with someone from church. This could be inviting them for coffee, ice cream, a meal at your home, or even just a walk. During this time, practice active listening and be willing to share a word of encouragement or scripture that has been meaningful to you. Also, choose one scripture to memorize this week that speaks hope into your life, and look for opportunities to share it with others when appropriate.
Key Takeaways
The most influential people are those who carry the most hope - hope is contagious and changes atmospheres.
Scripture memorization is a high-value habit that equips us to speak God's truth to ourselves and others, especially in moments of pressure.
True community is built through intentional one-on-one connections, not just group gatherings.
Small actions (20 seconds at a time) can change atmospheres and create opportunities for meaningful connection.
We need to move from being visitors to participants in the family of God by actively engaging with others beyond Sunday services.
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for reminding us that we are carriers of Your hope in this world. Help us to be intentional about connecting with others and sharing the hope we have in You. Give us courage to move beyond our comfort zones to invite others into deeper relationship. Plant Your Word firmly in our hearts so that we can speak truth and encouragement when needed. May we not just visit Your house, but truly participate in Your family. Use us to change atmospheres with Your joy and hope wherever we go this week. In Your powerful name we pray, amen.