Icebreaker:
- Why do people dwell on their past?
Going deeper
The sermon Zac Peake delivered focused on the idea that we often allow the past to dictate our present. For lots of people, the past can be a difficult thing; for others it can be filled with moments of pride and great achievements. But the sermon challenged us with the notion that the only significant moments of our past have to do with God. He (past tense) made us. God defined who were are. He gave us gifts and enabled us to receive His Spirit. For others, it is also worth noting that God remade us. We were made in God’s image; we messed up, but then God redeemed us. God is the key element for our past. While we celebrate those moments, we need to recognize that God called us to move forward from there. He has called us to get up and go. Each new sunrise we see should be a reminder that God has something for us to do. He allows us to live another day because He has called us to do something for his Kingdom.
- Why is it important to move on from the worldly past?
- Why is it important to remember what God has done for our past?
- Why is it important to have the things of God shape your present?
Take some time to recognize how God has conquered your past. Praise Him for His love and good work in your life. (Be encouraged to share if you are in a group)
Now, we dwell on what God wants us to do with our present. To do this, we need to ask God. This is a personal thing, something you have to take accountability for.
Read James 1:5-8
Ponder this passage as you seek God in prayer. Seek wisdom, encouragement, and opportunity from other people, but always remember that God is your standard. He is the author of your life, and He knows you best. Obey God over people.
This is a short session, but it’s a reminder that “the Kingdom of God is not just fancy talk; it is living by God’s power.” (1 Corinthians 4:20) We spend a lot of time sitting in circles talking about how God could move through us and how amazing it could be. Instead of just talking about it, let’s respond. Ask Him what you need to do, and then go do it.