When Your Shadow Speaks Discussion Guide
Summary
In this sermon titled 'When Your Shadow Speaks,' Pastor Katrina explores the concept of positive influence through the story of Peter's shadow in Acts 5:15. She explains how people brought the sick into the streets hoping Peter's shadow would fall on them and heal them - not out of superstition, but from faith in God's power flowing through Jesus' followers. Pastor Katrina emphasizes that everyone casts a shadow of influence, and we can choose whether that influence is positive or negative. She outlines three key ways to ensure our shadow speaks positively: pursue God's presence, let the power of simple acts speak, and persevere through challenges.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss the impact our lives can have on others, we invite Your presence into our conversation. Open our hearts to understand how our shadows—our influence—can bring healing and hope to those around us. Help us to see ourselves as You see us: vessels of Your light and love. Guide our discussion today and reveal to each person here exactly what You want them to learn about the influence You've called them to have. In Jesus' name, amen.
Ice Breaker
If you could be remembered for just one quality or characteristic after you're gone, what would you want that to be and why?
Key Verses
Acts 5:15
1 John 1:5
Questions
Pastor Katrina compared our lives to a sponge that needs to be soaked in God's presence. In what ways are you currently 'soaking' in God's presence, and how has that affected your influence on others?
The sermon mentioned that Peter wasn't powerful because of who he was, but because he walked closely with Jesus. How does this challenge your perspective on influence and leadership?
What 'simple acts' are you currently doing that might be having more impact than you realize?
Have you ever felt 'invisible' like Pastor Katrina described? How does the message about Peter's shadow encourage you in those moments?
Pastor Katrina said, 'You can't stay stuck in your past and step into what God's called you to at the same time.' How might this apply to your life right now?
What area of your life do you feel God is asking you to persevere in, even when you feel like giving up?
The sermon emphasized that we don't need a spotlight to influence people. How might this change how you view your everyday interactions and responsibilities?
What is one specific way you could intentionally use your 'shadow' (influence) to bring healing or hope to someone this week?
Life Application
This week, identify one area where you feel God has positioned you to have influence (family, workplace, neighborhood, church, etc.). Choose one intentional action you can take in that area that reflects God's presence in your life. It doesn't have to be big or visible - remember Peter's shadow! Perhaps it's sending an encouraging text to someone who's struggling, praying consistently for a coworker, or serving quietly behind the scenes. Write down what happens as a result, noting how God might be using your 'shadow' to impact others in ways you might not have noticed before.
Key Takeaways
Our influence comes from being filled with God's presence - like a sponge soaked in water, we naturally overflow with what we're filled with.
You don't need a spotlight or stage to have significant impact - often it's the quiet, consistent presence that brings the most healing to others.
Simple, faithful acts done consistently can have profound influence on those around you.
Perseverance is essential - your influence grows over time as you continue walking with God through challenges.
Everyone casts a shadow of influence; we get to choose whether that influence brings life or not.
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for the reminder that our lives cast shadows of influence everywhere we go. Help us to pursue Your presence daily so that we overflow with Your love and power. Give us the courage to be faithful in the small things, knowing that You can use even our simplest acts to bring healing and hope to others. When we feel like giving up, remind us of Peter - an ordinary person whose shadow carried extraordinary power because he walked closely with You. May we persevere in following You so that our shadows might speak of Your goodness long after we've passed by. Use us to bring Your light into dark places this week. In Jesus' name, amen.