July 14-21, 2019

Take about 45 minutes during your missional community gathering to discuss what God is teaching you and how he is leading you in light of the weekend sermon.

Connecting

1. What are some areas in your life where you really feel the need to be in control? (ex: work hours, driving, types of food you eat, sleep schedule, etc.)
2. Is there is theme behind the things you like to be in control of? Why are those things what you want to be in control over?
3. Do you have any areas in your life where you actually enjoy having others in control? (ex: vacation planner, wedding planner, financial planner?)
4. Is there a theme behind the things you like to give others control of? Why are those things what you want them to have control over?
5. How do these two themes translate into the things you want God to have control over in your life and the things you like to plan?

Application: You can worship like a Christian, but plan like an atheist

1. Read James 3:14-16, 4:1-2, 4:6. How do the prayers and actions being made in these passages indicate the assumption that we are in control
2. What are some habits you have in your life that indicate you feel as though you are in control?
3. What impact does this kind of thinking have on our relationship with God?
4. What are some things in life as an adult where you are easily reminded that you are not the one in control?
5. Have you ever planned something only to be disappointed and then came to the reality that you are not the one in control? Explain your relationship with God at this time. What were some of the stages you had to go through?
6. Was there ever a time when you came to the conclusion that His ways are better than your ways? Where a disappointment later turned out to be a blessing?
7. After reviewing these things, how would you explain what planning like an atheist looks like?

Application: Approach each day with a crucified calendar.

1. Read Act 18: 21, 1 Corinthians 4:19. Is it wrong for Paul to makes plans on his own in this case?
2. What truth is Paul acknowledging as he makes these plans?
3. Have you ever had a Christian respond to you and end with the phrase, “if the Lord wills?” What was your thought process after?
4. How can you make your life plans in a way that acknowledges God’s sovereignty over your life?
5. How does planning your life like this remove baggage and bring peace?