Crisis of Confidence // A Guide to an Empowered Life / 08. Empowered... In Your Own Skin - Matt Carvel // Psalm 139:1-16
08. Empowered... In Your Own Skin - Matt Carvel // Psalm 139:1-16
In this exploration of self-worth and identity, we delve into Psalm 139, uncovering the profound truth that we are fearfully and wonderfully made by God. The story of David's anointing reminds us that God sees beyond outward appearances, choosing the overlooked and underestimated. We confront the epidemic of shame in our society, recognizing how childhood experiences and societal pressures can deeply affect our self-perception. However, the message of being knitted together by God's loving hands offers a transformative perspective on our inherent value. As we grapple with the tension between longing to be known and fearing rejection, we're reminded of Christ's ultimate act of love - taking on our shame so we can experience the Father's unconditional acceptance. This message challenges us to see ourselves through God's eyes, embracing our uniqueness and finding empowerment in His love.
Discussion Questions:
The sermon mentions a "crisis of confidence" regarding body image. How have you seen this play out in your own life or in society?
Reflect on David's story of being overlooked by his family. Have you ever felt similarly undervalued or excluded? How did it affect you?
How does the idea that God "knitted you together" impact your view of yourself?
The pastor says, "Why are you trying to be someone else when you're already special to God?" How can we embrace our uniqueness instead of comparing ourselves to others?
Discuss the tension between wanting to be known and fearing rejection. How does this affect your relationships?
How does Jesus' experience of shame and rejection on the cross speak to your own struggles with shame?
What would change in your life if you truly believed and internalized God's unconditional love for you?
Here are some ways you could apply this talk:
Mirror Exercise: Each day this week, look in the mirror and say one thing you appreciate about how God made you.
Gratitude Journal: Write down three ways your body served you well each day, focusing on function rather than appearance.
Shame Inventory: Identify one area where you feel shame. Bring it to God in prayer, asking Him to help you see yourself through His eyes.
Affirmation Partner: Pair up with someone in the group to exchange encouraging messages throughout the week, reminding each other of God's love.
Media Fast: Take a break from social media or other sources that fuel comparison and insecurity. Replace that time with reading Psalm 139 or other affirming scriptures.
Discussion Questions:
The sermon mentions a "crisis of confidence" regarding body image. How have you seen this play out in your own life or in society?
Reflect on David's story of being overlooked by his family. Have you ever felt similarly undervalued or excluded? How did it affect you?
How does the idea that God "knitted you together" impact your view of yourself?
The pastor says, "Why are you trying to be someone else when you're already special to God?" How can we embrace our uniqueness instead of comparing ourselves to others?
Discuss the tension between wanting to be known and fearing rejection. How does this affect your relationships?
How does Jesus' experience of shame and rejection on the cross speak to your own struggles with shame?
What would change in your life if you truly believed and internalized God's unconditional love for you?
Here are some ways you could apply this talk:
Mirror Exercise: Each day this week, look in the mirror and say one thing you appreciate about how God made you.
Gratitude Journal: Write down three ways your body served you well each day, focusing on function rather than appearance.
Shame Inventory: Identify one area where you feel shame. Bring it to God in prayer, asking Him to help you see yourself through His eyes.
Affirmation Partner: Pair up with someone in the group to exchange encouraging messages throughout the week, reminding each other of God's love.
Media Fast: Take a break from social media or other sources that fuel comparison and insecurity. Replace that time with reading Psalm 139 or other affirming scriptures.
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