Crisis of Confidence // A Guide to an Empowered Life / 01. Empowered... In the Future - Stephen Dawson // 2 Peter 1:3-4
01. Empowered... In the Future - Stephen Dawson // 2 Peter 1:3-4
In this message, we're reminded that our confidence in the future doesn't come from knowing what lies ahead, but from knowing who holds the future. Drawing from 2 Peter 1:3-4, we explore how God's divine power grants us everything we need for life and godliness. The sermon challenges us to shift our focus from worldly anxieties to eternal matters, encouraging us to fear the right things – not tomorrow's uncertainties, but the state of our souls before a holy God. Yet, this fear is quickly relieved by God's grace and the precious promises He offers us. We're called to treasure these promises, guarding them against the enemy who seeks to steal our confidence in God's goodness. As we face the future, we're invited to partake in the divine nature, sharing in God's holiness and becoming more like Him. This incredible truth should empower us to live with confidence, knowing that we're united with Christ and equipped for whatever lies ahead.
Discussion Questions:
Icebreaker:
"What's one thing you've planned or decided recently that didn’t go as expected, but turned out better (or worse) than you imagined?"
1. Reflecting on Our Future: In your day-to-day life, how do questions about your future (e.g., career, relationships) affect your emotional state or decision-making? What are some of the pressures you feel?
2. God’s Empowerment: 2 Peter 1:3 talks about being given "divine power for life." How do you think understanding that our lives are not our own can bring freedom? Can you share an example where you’ve experienced this?
3. God’s Promises vs. Anxiety: How do the promises of God (acceptance, love, affirmation) challenge the world’s definition of success? How might holding on to these promises help with anxiety about the future?
4. Worry and Pride: The passage suggests that worry is a form of pride, where we believe we are in control. Does this idea resonate with you? How might letting go of control and trusting in Jesus shift your perspective on the future?
Here are some ways you could apply this talk:
Daily Promise: Choose one of God's promises from Scripture to meditate on each day this week. Share how it impacts your perspective.
Prayer Audit: Take time to review recent decisions or plans you've made. Pray over them, asking God for guidance and alignment with His will.
Divine Works Journal: Start a journal to record moments where you feel God is leading you to specific actions or "good works." Reflect on how He empowers you in these situations.
Worry vs. Trust Exercise: When faced with a worry this week, practice immediately turning it into a prayer of trust in God's provision and guidance.
Group Encouragement: Share one area where you'd like to step out in faith. As a group, pray for and encourage each other in these endeavours.
Discussion Questions:
Icebreaker:
"What's one thing you've planned or decided recently that didn’t go as expected, but turned out better (or worse) than you imagined?"
1. Reflecting on Our Future: In your day-to-day life, how do questions about your future (e.g., career, relationships) affect your emotional state or decision-making? What are some of the pressures you feel?
2. God’s Empowerment: 2 Peter 1:3 talks about being given "divine power for life." How do you think understanding that our lives are not our own can bring freedom? Can you share an example where you’ve experienced this?
3. God’s Promises vs. Anxiety: How do the promises of God (acceptance, love, affirmation) challenge the world’s definition of success? How might holding on to these promises help with anxiety about the future?
4. Worry and Pride: The passage suggests that worry is a form of pride, where we believe we are in control. Does this idea resonate with you? How might letting go of control and trusting in Jesus shift your perspective on the future?
Here are some ways you could apply this talk:
Daily Promise: Choose one of God's promises from Scripture to meditate on each day this week. Share how it impacts your perspective.
Prayer Audit: Take time to review recent decisions or plans you've made. Pray over them, asking God for guidance and alignment with His will.
Divine Works Journal: Start a journal to record moments where you feel God is leading you to specific actions or "good works." Reflect on how He empowers you in these situations.
Worry vs. Trust Exercise: When faced with a worry this week, practice immediately turning it into a prayer of trust in God's provision and guidance.
Group Encouragement: Share one area where you'd like to step out in faith. As a group, pray for and encourage each other in these endeavours.
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