Fearlessly Courageous
Desk of Dennis Piller
8 23 2024
Audio Version
Monday is our 2nd week of kicking off our Courageous Men’s group but also all our groups at Grace Family Church.
Ephesians 4:16 says that the body, “grows as each part does its work.”
Rather than a devotional today. I wanted to ask some questions. Our Small Groups began last week and I felt compelled to give you some food for thought. Perhaps have this discussion at home or with your accountability partners. If you’re struggling to read this…search your heart and examine what voice you are listening to.
1. How can you motivate another Christian to show acts of love and good works?
What are some ways others have motivated you?
2. How have you experienced growth and maturity in your life since being in a small group? If you not…Why Not?
3. How does spiritual maturity differ from spiritual infancy?
4. Matthew 18:20 says, “ For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.” If we know God is everywhere at all times, why would Jesus point out His Presence in a small group gathering? Have you experienced His Presence like that? How did you know?
5. What gifts and talents do you have? Where do you think your gifts and talents would be best served at Grace Family Church? 1 Peter 4:10: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
I think we all need reminding that their gifts are meant to serve others and that using them in a group setting can fulfill this purpose.
6. Discuss the serving opportunities below. Which opportunity are you going to select together as a family or group?
(Men’s Courageous, Beautiful, Home Builders, Prayer Team, Ushers, Greeters, 2nd Saturday, Soup Kitchen, Dream Center, Weekend Team, Weekday Team, Student Ministries, Children’s Ministries, Global Missions)
1 Corinthians 12:4-7: “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.”
Each of us has a different gift by design. Our uniqueness serves everyone when we engage and are obedient to God’s calling for us to be involved.
7. Serving Others: Galatians 5:13: “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”
Isn’t service an expression of love and freedom, motivating people to join a group where they can actively contribute and grow in love?
8. Jesus’ Example: Mark 10:45: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Shouldn’t we use Jesus’ example of selfless service to inspire others to use their gifts in service to the community? That includes ourselves and our families.
9. Why is consistency such an important part of building community? Or building anything?
Take Away
Ephesians 4:16 says that the body, “grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.”
What steps must you take to fully work towards achieving this goal?
These things I have asked you to consider are not the doldrums of Christianity. They are the blessings of God. You will find a joy and fulfillment in being a part of God’s community where everyone’s gifts are valued and put to use. Each of us is unique to God and our community. Each of us is crucial for the health and growth of each group we give our hearts to. You cannot outgive God. Thank you for listening and praying about this. We need each other.
My wife Dyan goes into surgery today. She has a long recovery before her. Please keep her in your prayers. Blessings
Bring the rain Mercy Me
