THE ART OF EXPECTATION PART 7 SMALL GROUP STUDY GUIDE
The sermon continues a series on 'The Art of Expectation' focusing on understanding seasons in life and faith. The pastor emphasizes that everything has a season, and Christians must be willing to move with God's timing rather than staying stuck in past seasons. He discusses how people often resist change while wanting different results and explains that true spiritual growth requires moving forward with God rather than remaining stagnant in familiar theological or behavioral patterns.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your word about seasons and change, we ask that You open our hearts and minds to receive what You want to teach us. Help us to be honest with ourselves and each other as we examine where we might be stuck in old seasons. Guide our discussion and reveal areas where we need to grow. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Ice Breaker
What was your favorite season (spring, summer, fall, or winter) as a child, and has that changed as an adult? Why?
# Key Verses
Ecclesiastes 3:1-2
Genesis 8:22
Ephesians 3:20
Questions
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your word about seasons and change, we ask that You open our hearts and minds to receive what You want to teach us. Help us to be honest with ourselves and each other as we examine where we might be stuck in old seasons. Guide our discussion and reveal areas where we need to grow. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Ice Breaker
What was your favorite season (spring, summer, fall, or winter) as a child, and has that changed as an adult? Why?
# Key Verses
Ecclesiastes 3:1-2
Genesis 8:22
Ephesians 3:20
Questions
- What signs might indicate that you're stuck in a past season God wants you to move on from?
- The pastor mentioned that 'we all want change, but we don't want to change.' What makes change so difficult for us?
- How can we tell the difference between God moving us to a new season versus our restlessness?
- What role does humility play in being able to move forward with God?
- How has your understanding of God and faith evolved over the years? What catalyzed those changes?
- The pastor discussed the cycle of belief, behavior, and results. How have you seen this play out in your own life?
- What's the difference between confessing sin and truly repenting? How can we tell if we've genuinely repented?
- How can we support each other as a community when God is moving us into new seasons?
Life Application
This week, take time to honestly evaluate one area of your life where you might be resistant to change or growth. Write down what's holding you back and pray specifically about it each day. Take one concrete step toward embracing the new season God might be calling you into.
Key Takeaways
Everything has a season, and seasons never cease or stay the same
True growth requires moving with God rather than staying stuck in old patterns
Confession without change isn't true repentance
Pride often prevents us from moving forward into new seasons
God's work in our lives is progressive and requires our willingness to change
Ending Prayer
Lord, thank You for Your patience with us as we learn to recognize and embrace new seasons in our lives. Give us the courage to let go of what's familiar when You're calling us to something new. Help us to truly repent where needed and to support one another through seasons of change. May we be people who consistently grow in our faith and effectiveness for Your kingdom. In Jesus' name, Amen.