December 31, 2013

Read:  Matthew 2:13-23, Psalm 139:1-4, Proverbs 15:3

How does this narrative of the first Christmas prove the omniscience of God?

What are some of the implications for us when you think of God’s omniscience?

In what ways do you practically ignore God’s omniscience and act like you know more?

How does the omniscient character of God provide you with hope for the future?

December 30, 2013

Read:  Matthew 1:18-25, 2:13-23

How might the encounters with Angels have emotionally affected Joseph in an adverse way that first
Christmas?

What common response do you see from Joseph?

How does this inspire you?

December 28, 2013

Read:  Matthew 2:11-12, John 3:16, 15:10-11, 2 Peter 1:1-12

What does Christmas represent when it comes to God’s gift to you? Be specific.

What does Christmas represent when it comes to your gift to God? Be specific.

In what way do you need to re-up your gift to God? What will happen when you do? (i.e. a win/win)

December 27, 2013

Read:  Matthew 2:11-12, Mark 12:41-44, 1 Corinthians 9:6-7, Acts 5:1-5

Explain the practical significance of gold, incense, and myrrh. How was this an expression of worship?

In what way did the poor widow in Mark 12:43-44 demonstrate an expression of worship?

What is God teaching you about your approach to worship? How can you re-up your commitment?

December 26, 2103

Read:  Matthew 2:1-12, 16:24-27, 22:37

Given that “worship” often evokes imagery of singing songs, how did the Magi expand your thinking?

List two ways the Magi showed that worship will, and should, impact every part of life?

What areas of your life do you need to be more intentional in giving to God this Christmas? Be specific.

December 25, 2013

Read:  Matthew 2:11a, John 4:1-24

How were the Magi essentially worship leaders? What two principles did they model in their approach?

How did Jesus describe the same kind of worshipers in John 4:24? Why is this important?

How is God challenging your approach and giving to God in worship? Take time to practice right now.

Advent Reading: Philippians 2:5-11, Hebrews 2:10-11, 14-18, 1 Thessalonians 3:13

December 24, 2013

Read:  Matthew 2:11a, Acts 10:19-26, Revelation 19:9-10, 22:8-9

Describe how the Magi approached Herod? How was this different than their approach to Jesus?

What does this imply about how to approach God? How does this relate to Christmas and worship?

In what way can you be more giving to God this Christmas? Be specific.

Advent Reading: Matthew 12:15-17, 16:16, 17:5, Luke 4:16-21, 20:9-13, Galatians 4:4-7

December 23, 2013

Read:  Matthew 2:1-11a

What three words would you use to describe how the Magi approached Christmas? Why?

What three words would you use to describe how Herod and the Jews approached Christmas? Why?

What is God teaching you about your approach to Christmas? What adjustments will you make?

Advent Reading: Colossians 1:15-23, Galatians 4:4-7, Romans 8:14-17, 1 John 3:1-2

December 14, 2013

Read:  Luke 2:33-35, 11:23, Acts 4:8-11, 1 Corinthians 1:18-24

Why will Jesus cause the “falling and rising” of many in Israel? (i.e., be a stumbling block)

How do you relate to being a Christian? How does this relate to being a Christian at Christmas?

How can spiritual disciplines help you celebrate Christmas? How do you need to be more intentional?

Advent Reading: Luke 1:57-66, 80, Luke 3:3-6, John 1:6-9, 15

December 13, 2013

Read:  Luke 2:34-35, Matthew 6:1-8, 23:13-36

What did Simeon mean by “thoughts of many hearts will be revealed”? How did this play out?

How do you see this happening during the Christmas season today? Give an example.

What does this imply about intentionality this Christmas, knowing the world has little concern for Jesus?

Advent Reading: Luke 1:26-38, 46-55, James 4:6

December 12, 2013

Read:  Luke 2:34, Matthew 12:22-32, 27:38-44, 28:5-13

What primary warning did Simeon give to Mary? Why? How was this a statement about Christmas?

In what way do you see this same thing happening today? Give an example.

Specifically, what will you do to be more intentional about celebrating Christmas this year?

Advent Reading: Luke 1:5-20, 22, 24

December 11, 2013

Read:  Luke 2:28-32, 2:8-14, Revelation 19:5-7

Use two words to describe how Simeon and the Shepherds responded to Jesus (Christmas).

How does this line up with your experience at Christmas? Why?

Given that Christmas is all about God saving us, how will you keep the “Merry” in your Christmas?

Advent Reading: Ezekiel 34:11-15, Psalm 23:1, Matthew 9:36, John 10:11, 14-17, 27-29, 1 Peter 2:25

December 10, 2013

Read:  Luke 2:28-32, Matthew 5:14-16, John 3:16-21, 12:46, Acts 13:44-49

Why is Jesus referred to as “light” in scripture? What does this imply about His coming? (Christmas)

How does this challenge or correct the way you have previously viewed Christmas?

In what way can you be a light this Christmas? (i.e. family, friends, etc.) Take time and ask God to use you!

Advent Reading: Psalm 23:1-3, Isaiah 55:1-2, John 4:7, 9-11, 13-14, John 7:37-39, Revelation 7:17

December 9, 2013

Read:  Luke 2:25-33, 1:69-70, 2:8-11, 25-32, John 3:16-21

Why did Simeon respond with such joy and celebration when he encountered Jesus?

What words did Simeon use to describe Jesus? Why is this important?

How does this help your perspective to celebrate this Christmas? Be specific.

Advent Reading: Isaiah 42:1-7, Mark 10:45, Romans 5:6-8

December 7, 2013

Read:  Matthew 5:27-30, 1 John 1:8-9, Hebrews 10:24-25, Psalm 119:15-16

What does Jesus highlight about “when” to deal with sin? How will this approach prevent cyclical sin?

How does 1 John 1, Hebrews 10, and Psalm 119 provide further insight into how to handle recurring sin?

What specific steps do you need to take in order to protect your walk with God and avoid cyclical sin?

Advent Reading: Judges 2:18, 2 Samuel 22:2-4, 7-10, 17-20, Isaiah 11:1-4, Psalm 34:17-19, Romans 10:13

December 6, 2013

Read:  Genesis 12:18-20, 20:9-10, Jonah 1:1-3:1, Hebrews 12:5-11

How did Abraham & Jonah test God’s patience? How did God respond? What is the overall lesson?

When you think about God’s discipline, what words come to mind? How can this insight prevent cyclical sin?

In what way are you currently testing God’s patience with sin? What do you need to do? Do it now!

Advent Reading: 2 Samuel 7:5, 16, Psalm 71:14-15, Isaiah 7:14, 9:1, 7, Jeremiah 33:14-16, Luke 2:14

December 5, 2013

Read:  Genesis 20:1-18, 12:10-13:1

What was similar and different about the way Abraham was treated by the Pharaoh and King Abimelek?

In what way was God disciplining Abraham? How could this have been misinterpreted?

Why is this important when it comes to preventing cyclical sin? In what sin is God challenging you?

Advent Reading: Deuteronomy 17:14-15, 20, Micah 5:2-5, Revelation 19:11-16

December 4, 2013

Read:  Ephesians 6:10-18

Given that every Christian is in a spiritual battle, what does this imply about cyclical sin?

What primary way have you found that Satan attacks you? (i.e. overt or covert) Why is this important to know?

How can stepping into sermon point #1 provide spiritual protection? What steps do you need to take?

Advent Reading: Psalm 136:1-12, 23-26, Jeremiah 31:3, John 3:16, 1 John 4:9-10

December 3, 2013

Read:  Genesis 20:9-12, 3:1-5, Matthew 4:1-11, 2 Timothy 4:2-4

In what way did Abraham try to justify his sin? How is this similar to how Satan works? (c.f. Genesis 3:1-5)

Why is this important when it comes to cyclical sin? Give three examples of how this can take place.

What specific sin are you accommodating or rationalizing? Take time now to confess and repent to God.

Advent Reading: Genesis 12:1-3, Psalm 86:9, Acts 3:24-25, Galatians 3:6-9, 27-29, Acts 17:26-28

December 2, 2013

Read:  Genesis 20:1-13, 12:10-20

What was similar or different about Abraham’s two encounters in Egypt and Gerar? Be specific.

What cyclical sin do you see taking place? How did God confirm this? What was Abraham’s root struggle?

What sin do you find yourself repeating over and over? Why? What is God teaching you about cyclical sin?

Advent Reading: Genesis 3:4-5, 7-8, 14-15, 22-23, Isaiah 59:1-2, Romans 5:12-19Read:  Genesis 20:1-13, 12:10-20

November 30, 2013

Read:  Psalm 100

Consider all the reasons God should be worshipped.

Pray with thanksgiving trying to include things you may normally take for granted.

November 29, 2013

Read:  Philippians 4:4-7, Matthew 28:20, Exodus 33:14, Psalm 16:11, 95:2

How does focusing on the presence of God bring the peace of God to your mind?

As you pray today, think about being in His presence and spend the entire time thanking Him. Begin with
spiritual blessings before addressing the physical blessings.

November 28, 2013

Read:  Psalm 103

Make a list of the things to be thankful for in this Psalm.

Pray through your list with an attitude of gratitude.

Choose one of these things to share with someone at the dinner table.

November 27, 2013

Read:  Philippians 4:4-7

Verse 7 talks about God guarding our hearts and minds. From what?

How does the enemy attack your mind? Chart when and where he attacks you. Is there a pattern?

Be prepared by giving thanks in advance so you will be guarded.

November 26, 2013

Read:  Matthew 6:25-33

Dive into this passage and write down the reasons Jesus gives not to worry.

Which of these reasons is the most powerful for you?

Ask God for victory over worry and anxiety and thank Him for it in advance.

November 25, 2013

Read:  Philippians 4:4-7

Journal your thoughts about the connection between the words “anything” and “everything” in this passage.

Make a list of your worries.

Take time to pray. Begin by giving thanks and then pray through your worries.

November 23, 2013

Read:  Exodus 20:5, Jeremiah 2:8-9, Genesis 9:24-26, 10:15-19, 19:30-38

What is being implied when God says He will punish the children for the sins of the father?

How do you see this playing out with Sodom going back to Noah? (c.f. today’s Genesis reading)

What adjustment do you need to make at work, home, etc. in order to prevent this same sin in your life?

November 22, 2013

Read:  Genesis 19:37-38, Numbers 25:1-3, Ezra 9:1-2, Psalm 83:1-7

Why did Moses (author of Genesis) highlight the offspring of Lot’s daughters? (i.e. Moab & Ben Ammi)

How would this have clarified the sinful struggles Moses’ audience was having with other people groups?

What does this teach about generational sin? Why is this important to remember in your walk with Jesus?

November 21, 2013

Read:  Genesis 19:31-35, Leviticus 18:6-18

Why did Lot’s daughters want to have sex with their father? (i.e. the end game) How did they go about it?

What does this teach you about ways to rationalize sin? How did Lot fall into the same trap in Genesis 19:5-8?

How can you be tempted in this way? Be specific. What steps of godly obedience do you need to take?

November 20, 2013

Read:  Genesis 19:5-8, 2 Peter 2:8, James 1:12-16, Luke 6:20-26

What does Lot’s behavior in Genesis 19:5-8 highlight about being able to see sin and still not obey God?

Why is this dynamic important to recognize when it comes to sin and compromise?

In what way have you experienced Luke 6:20-26? What is God teaching you about compromise?

November 19, 2013

Read:  Genesis 13:5, 10-13, 19:30-36, Luke 15:11-24

How do you see Lot’s journey similar to the lost son’s journey in Luke 15? What were the results?

What does this teach you about trappings of worldly success versus godly obedience?

Pray and ask God to reveal any ways you are falling into the same trap. Be obedient to what He reveals.

November 18, 2013

Read:  Genesis 12:1-4, 13:1-5, 10-13, 14:8-12, 19:1-2, 30-36

As you review Lot’s journey in life, what do you notice about his decision-making? (i.e. moving to Sodom)

In what way did his good ideas turn out to be bad ideas? How does this relate to a misalignment with God?

How do you struggle with this same issue? What realignment steps is God convicting you to make?

November 16, 2013

Read:  Genesis 19:17-27, Matthew 8:19-23, 12:30, John 3:16-18, Revelation 20:15

How does Lot’s wife prove point #3 and what God requires to follow Jesus and be saved?

What can happen if this isn’t emphasized when the Gospel is being presented?

Practice writing out the Gospel and limit your words to ½ page. How is God challenging you?

November 15, 2013

Read:  Genesis 19:17-27, Luke 17:28-33

Why was it important for Lot and his family not to “look back” at Sodom? What did this represent?

How did Jesus emphasize this same truth in Luke 17:32-33?

How does this apply to point #3 and responding to The Gospel? What has been your experience?

November 14, 2013

Read:  Genesis 19:14-16, 2 Peter 2:6-8, 1 Corinthians 3:11-16; 5:12

In light of 2 Peter 2:6-8 and Genesis 19:8 & 16a, what do you see has happened to Lot over time?

Why is this important for every Christian to understand in light of God’s judgment?

How does 1 Corinthians 3:11-16 challenge your thinking about salvation and obedience?

November 13, 2013

Read:  Genesis 19:14-16, John 14:6, Romans 3:20-26, Hebrews 9:27-29

How did God show mercy toward Lot and his family? Why is this important in light of God’s judgment?

How does the hand of the angel highlight the cross of Christ and the Gospel? (c.f. Genesis 19:15-16)

Explain the Gospel using the truth of points 1 and 2. How does “being saved” help with clarity?

November 12, 2013

Read:  Luke 17:28-32, Acts 10:42, 2 Corinthians 5:10, Hebrews 9:27, Jude 7

Why does God’s justice require His judgment? How do you see this same dynamic in our legal system?

In light of point #1, why is God’s judgment a critical part of the Gospel? What is at stake if it is omitted?

How comfortable are you talking about this topic? Why? What is God teaching you about loving others?

November 11, 2013

Read:  Genesis 13:13, 19:1-13, Leviticus 18:22, 19:29, 33-34, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10

List at least four sins that you see taking place in Genesis 19:1-13.

In what way do you see our culture today the same or different than ancient Sodom? Be specific.

Why is this important for every Christian to understand especially when sharing the Gospel?

November 9, 2013

Read:  Genesis 18:16-33, 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Why is prayer important in the Christian life? How does your prayer life reflect this value?

Take some time to meditate on 1 Thessalonians 5:17. Write down what the Lord is teaching you.

How will you step into a personal application of 1 Thessalonians 5:17 when it comes to intercessory prayer?

November 8, 2013

Read:  Genesis 18:16-33, Luke 18:1-8

In what way did Abraham and the widow apply a similar approach in how they prayed?

What was the result of their approach? What does this highlight about answered prayer?

What is God teaching you about your approach? How do you need to be more like Abraham and the widow?

November 7, 2013

Read:  Genesis 18:16-33, Ephesians 6:18-20, Luke 11:9-10, Hebrews 11:6

What is the common theme in today’s reading when it comes to praying for others? Why is this important?

What are we ultimately saying to God when we stop praying for someone who still needs it?

Who do you need to start praying for again? What practical steps will you take this week?

November 6, 2013

Read:  Genesis 18:16-25, John 17

How does Jesus’ prayer for His disciples model the same approach that Abraham used with God?

What can happen if this approach is not applied during intercessory prayer? Give an example.

Take some time now to pray for others applying the sermon point #1 guideline. Journal what God teaches you.

November 5, 2013

Read:  Genesis 18:16-25, John 14:12-14, Romans 8:26-27


What was Abraham’s primary concern about Sodom? How did he intercede for the righteous?

In what way was this similar to praying in Jesus’ name? Why is this important when praying for others?

Given that prayer is an alignment with God issue, how will you include God’s truth when you pray?

November 4, 2013

Read:  Gen. 18:16-25, Matt. 18:19-20, Eph. 6:18-20, Col. 1:3, 2 Thess. 3:1-2, James 5:16

Why is it important to pray for others? (i.e., friends, family, even enemies) What does God promise?

Describe a time when you had others praying for you. What happened? What impact did prayer have?

How often do you pray for others? What steps will you take to be more committed to intercessory prayer?

November 2, 2013

Read:  2 Chronicles 20:7, Isaiah 41:8, James 2:23, John 15:12-15

Why do you think Abraham is referred to as a friend of God? How does Jesus’ description of “friend” help?

Would you use “friend” to describe your walk with God? Why? How can “friend” be misinterpreted?

Why is friendship an important piece of communicating with God? How can you be a better friend today?

November 1,2013

Read:  Genesis 18:14a, Matthew 19:26, Ephesians 3:20-21

Why is it important for every Christian to regularly answer Genesis 18:14a? What happens when we don’t?

How can doubting the truth of Genesis 18:14a actually create a communication breakdown with God?

What is most challenging for you about Genesis 18:14a? How does this apply to Point #2 of this week’s message?

October 31, 2013

Read:  Genesis 18:15, Matthew 6:5-8, John 20:24-28

How did Thomas respond to the news of the resurrection? How did Jesus respond to Thomas’ doubts?

What specific “Thomas moments” have you avoided bringing before the Lord? Why?

What does this say about your communication with God? How do you need to change?

October 30, 2013

Read:  Genesis 18:9-15, Proverbs 28:13-14, Psalm 139:6-14

Why did the Lord correct Sarah’s response about being pregnant? What were her underlying issues?

How did this impact her ability to communicate with the Lord? (i.e. length of conversation)

In what way does repentance play into healthy communication with God? How can you apply this truth?

October 29, 2013

Read:  Genesis 18:1-8, Matthew 6:9-14, Luke 22:39-43, Philippians 2:5-8

How did Jesus demonstrate the same attitude as Abraham when communicating with the Father?

Why is it necessary to have a balance between petition and praise in your prayer life?

What does this teach you about your communication with God? Take time and talk to God about this now.

October 28, 2013

Read:  Genesis 18:1-8, 2 Chronicles 7:14, Psalm 149:4, James 1:10, 1 Peter 5:6

What three words would you use to describe Abraham’s behavior before the Lord? What did he communicate?

What personal benefit did Abraham receive from his encounter with God? Why is this important to note?

What three words would describe your behavior before the Lord? How can you step into Point #1 this week?

October 26, 2013

Read:  Genesis 17:23-27, John 15:1-2, Ephesians 6:10-18

Describe how God’s instruction to Abram would have been extremely challenging for you.

Currently, how comfortable is your walk with the Lord? What does this reveal about spiritual growth?

What uncomfortable next steps have you been hesitant to take for God? When will you take them?

October 25, 2013

Read:  Genesis 17:9-14, Deuteronomy 10:16, 30:6, Romans 2:17-29

Why did God require Abram and his household to be circumcised? Hint: The context is God’s covenant.

Explain the spiritual side to circumcision and how it relates to a heart check. Why is this important?

How is circumcision similar to or different than water baptism/communion? How does this relate to growth?

October 24, 2013

Read:  Genesis 17:3-8, 15-16, Matthew 4:19, John 15:5, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Ephesians 2:8-9

Why did God change Abram and Sarai’s name? How does a Christian today experience the same thing?

How does this truth essentially define and help measure biblical Christianity, salvation, and growth?

How have you experienced this recently? How does this encourage or challenge your walk with Jesus?

October 23, 2013

Read:  Genesis 17:3-8, 15-16, Galatians 3:5-16

What does an “everlasting” covenant mean? How does this relate to both Jews and Gentiles today?

Who is responsible for fulfilling Genesis 17:3-8? Why is this an important spiritual principle?

How should this impact the way we walk with the Lord? What does this personally mean to you?

October 22, 2013

Read:  Genesis 17:1-2, 2 Peter 1:1-10

Explain how 2 Peter 1:1-10 is a commentary on Genesis 17:1-2. How does this relate to consistency?

How would you rate your devotion to God in terms of “consistency”? What changes have you noticed?

In what way do you need to get back on track? Specifically, what steps will you take this week?

October 21, 2013

Read:  Genesis 17:1-2, Psalm 18:23-26, John 15:5-10, 1 Thessalonians 3:12-13

Describe what it means to “walk before” the Lord. How does the command to be “blameless” relate?

In what way did Jesus give the same command in John 15:5?

Why is this principle important for spiritual growth? What is God teaching you about your experience?

October 19, 2013

Read:  Genesis 12:18-13:14, 16:5-15

How did Sarai’s response to her sinful actions differ from Abram’s response to his sinful actions in Egypt?

What was the result of each response? Why is this critically important for preventing life’s regrets?

Are you more like Sarai or Abram? Why? What Abram steps do you need to take today and with whom?

October 18, 2013

Read:  Genesis 16:5, 2 Corinthians 7:8-10, 1 John 1:9-10, Romans 7:18-24, Ephesians 4:26-27

How did Sarai handle the failure of her sinful plan with Hagar? How did she use God to defend herself?

In what way have you seen this take place today? What is the root problem? How does God address this?

Take time right now to ask God how you are having a Sarai moment and confess your sin to Him.

October 17, 2013

Read:  Genesis 16:5-16

Describe three key decisions Sarai made in order to have a child. How did it lead to future regret?

As you consider Sarai’s actions and reactions, what do you notice? Who is taking responsibility?

What important principle is being highlighted when it comes to your behavior and future regrets?

October 16, 2013

Read:  Psalm 119:1-37, 103-105

What is the primary focus of Psalm 119? In what way will following its truth prevent regretful decisions?

Describe an important decision you are currently facing. What does God’s word say about it?

What do you find challenging about obeying God? What will you do? Pray about it and obey today.

October 15, 2013

Read:  Genesis 12:10-20, 16:1-4, 25:19-21

In what way did Sarai participate in a similar decision making process as Abram in Egypt?

How does this highlight the same struggle that Christians face today? Give an example.

How did Isaac operate in a way that left no regret? How can you specifically apply this truth today?

October 14, 2013

Read:  Genesis 16:1-3, 2:21-24, Galatians 4:22-23

Why did Sarai use Hagar as a way to have a child? How was this a socially accepted decision?

How was Sarai actually sinning against God? What could she have done differently? Be specific.

As you reflect on a regretful decision you’ve made, what is God teaching you about future protection?

October 12, 2013

Read:  Matthew 6:25-34

What struggle was Jesus addressing in today’s reading? How did timing and impatience relate?

How do you struggle with the same thing? What solution did Jesus provide for the struggle?

How can you apply His counsel to your life? Be specific. How will you make it a practice?

October 11, 2013

Read:  2 Peter 3:7-15, Galatians 5:22, 1 Corinthians 13:4, Romans 12:12, Philippians 4:6-7

Given that patience is a fruit of the spirit, what does this tell you about patience in the Christian life?

When do you find your patience being most challenged? Why? How will prayer help? Why?

What practical application should this have on “what” you pray for? Take time now to apply this truth?

October 10, 2013

Read:  Genesis 15:7-21, Jeremiah 34:18-20

In what way was Abram struggling with patience? How did God’s covenant bring him comfort and clarity?

How do you see worry and impatience working together in your life? Give an example.

Why is it important to be able to wait on the Lord? What practical step can you take to avoid a timing trap?

October 9, 2013

Read:  Genesis 15:5, Psalm 23, Romans 8:28, 2 Peter 1:3-9, Matt 6:31-34, Galatians 3:6-9

What do you typically worry about? (i.e. relational, financial, physical, spiritual, etc.) Why?

How has today’s reading comforted you? Be specific. How will you continue to meditate on this?

Using your bible concordance, what additional promises will you meditate on to protect against worry?

October 8, 2013

Read:  Exodus 14:31-15:1-22, 15:27-16:3, Psalm 106:7-14

What primary problem did Moses have with the wilderness generation? Why did they flip-flop so easily?

Explain how meditating on the promises of God could have helped them from being worrywarts.

Given that Psalm 106 was a song, how did it provide protection? How can that protect against forgetting
today?

October 7, 2013

Read:  Genesis 12:1-3, 13:14-17, 15:1-6

Describe how Abram was being challenged three different times in today’s reading.

How did God comfort Abram’s worry or concern? Why do you think God needed to repeat himself?

What does this teach you about handling your worries or fear? What practical steps will you take today?