In this new Thread series, we’re looking at a topic that many of us are unfortunately all too familiar with: division. Division isn’t just something we read about in the Bible. Fellowships, churches, small groups, and even families must often face the consequences of humanity’s impulse to divide instead of unite. This impulse makes the lessons of the three centuries of history that we call the Divided Kingdom invaluable for us.
Discovering our place in God’s story is a lifelong journey. Yet, many of us approach it with the assumption that we already understand what God’s story truly is. The Bible is often seen as a mere collection of stories or a guidebook for becoming a better spouse, parent, or friend. While it certainly offers valuable wisdom for leading a fulfilling life, this is not its primary purpose.
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Many ministers, shepherds and teachers are heading toward the second half of life if they aren’t there already. After such a promising first half, Solomon, even with all of his wisdom, failed in the second half. It’s not all negative though. We can have a great impact for many years. What opportunities do you see when you think about what’s ahead as a Christian?
We are never going to be perfect, as Christians. Sometimes, we can feel like the people around us expect us to be perfect. We are never going to be perfect, but we should strive to have the responsive humility of David when we do make mistakes. We need true friends and advisors (see the…
Take a moment to ponder about the state of your relationships. What does it, or would it, mean for you to have relationships that will be committed to you no matter what is going on in the church or in leadership? How might you go about developing these types of relationships?
Saul was quick to make up his own plan when it was difficult to follow God’s. poHe had a hard time even recognizing that he was off course. Where have you made your own plan? Where do you need to surrender to God again regardless of how scary, or difficult, or unpopular your surrender may be?
Is your life full of prayer? Do you pray with intention and depth or do you just have “filer” prayers? Do the people in your church pray for each other? In church, right on the spot, and throughout the week? Let’s examine Samuel’s heart for prayer to examine our own.
Most of our disappointments in the pursuit of love come from the quest itself. We elevate love, marriage, bff’s to believing the perfect mate or perfect friend will satisfy us, even complete us. But our mates and friends actually prove to be imperfect, even selfish!! And then the turbulent wave crashes our hopes,…