Lighthouse Baptist Church
and Christian Academy

1. I EXPERIENCE PAIN.

[Your Objective: Recognize that God uses pain to help us change, mature, and build trusting relationships as we reach out to other Christians.]

In 2 Corinthians 7:10, why does God sometimes allow pain and sorrow to enter our lives?

• What are examples of pain or sorrow that God uses?

What does Psalm 119:71 say pain forces us to learn?

• How can pain prompt a "change of heart" in our lives?
• How does God use pain and sorrow to produce a good outcome?

Fellowship (Membership) - When you are experiencing pain in your life, it's important to reach out to other believers whom you can trust to gain insight and support. How can a small group or programs such as Celebrate Recovery help you understand how God can use the pain in your life? How will you take advantage of this support?

2. I BELIEVE GOD WANTS WHAT'S BEST FOR ME.

[Your Objective: Believe God wants only good things for us.]

According to Isaiah 48:17, what does God teach us?

• Describe examples of thinking we know better than God what is best for ourselves.

Read Romans 15:13. How is God described? What should we expect if we trust in Him?

• Why might we think God does not want to bring joy into our lives?
• How will focusing on God's desires result in peace, joy, and fulfillment in our lives?

How does Romans 8:32 explain the generosity of God?

• Referencing the last part of this verse, discuss what it means for God to "...give us everything else."

What is the advantage of rejecting the ways of the world according to Romans 12:2?

• Why is it often a struggle to follow God, but easier to follow the world's ways?
• Have a few people share examples of when they chose God's ways rather than conforming to the ways of the world. What was the result?

Worship (Magnification) - Worshiping God is our way of acknowledging Him for who He says He is. Whether we are living a mountain top experience or going through a dark valley in life God does not change. He wants what is best for us and is always worthy of our worship. Do you believe God wants what is best for you? If so, does your life reflect this belief so others can see joy, peace, and fulfillment in you? Commit to memorize scriptural truths about God and pray with a partner that God will reveal new aspects of Himself in your life.

3. I KNOW GOD'S TRUTH.

[Your Objective: Move toward seeking the Word of God for change.]

What is the difference between a wise or intelligent person and a fool according to Proverbs 15:14?

• What examples of folly or trash do we encounter in our daily life?
• What are some investments we can make for seeking the truth of God?

Where does respect for the Lord and knowing God come from according to Proverbs 2:2-5?

• How can we find God's truth?
• What are some different ways we can hunt for truth?

What does John 8:32 say happens when you know the truth?

• What will the truth set you free from?
• What investments can we make to help other people find this freedom?

Evangelism (Mission) - People in pain are hungry for some advice that may help them. It is in our hands to make God's truth available to them so they may live. What will your next step be toward this goal?

4. I DO WHAT GOD SAYS.

[Your Objective: Realize obedience is essential for spiritual growth when we know what God expects of us.]

How are we to live according to Matthew 3:8 and Colossians 2:7?

• Why do we often learn and take in the good things of God and yet fail to pass them on to others?
• Give an example of how knowing God's will can help us properly order our priorities.
• What excuses seem sensible and justified in putting off serving God and His people for a better time?
• How does failing to obey what we have learned about Christ stunt our growth and cheat the body of Christ?

What is the warning in Romans 2:3-4? What leads us to change our ways and live God's way?

• How does knowledge often cause us to judge others? How is this contrary to the teaching of Christ?
• What attitude toward others is likely to draw people to Christ rather than push them away?
• Jesus condemned those who judged others unjustly. How do you think God would have us relate to those who do not live as Christ tells us?

How does Paul describe the effort he put into doing God's will in Philippians 3:13-14?

• What would motivate believers to put all their energy into God's calling?
• Why is it important for believers to put all their energy into doing what God tells them to do in His Word?
• How does doing what God tells us bring about a God-like attitude?

Discipleship (Maturity) - God speaks to us through His Word, gifted teachers, and pastors, as well as through the mature believers around us. Some things that often keep us from doing what He tells us might be fear, anger, procrastination, a desire to wait for perfect timing, or more maturity. Is there something God is asking this group to do? What is keeping you from changing your heart and responding to His direction for you now? What will your response be to God today? If you know what God is asking today, share with the group the first step you plan to take this week.

PERSONAL APPLICATION AND COMMITMENT:

[Your Objective: Identify where you are in the change-of-heart process and commit to the next step.]

God knows what makes life fun for us, and wants us to find peace and joy through growth and a change of heart. Where is your heart in this growth process? Is God trying to get your attention through pain? Do you confidently believe God wants what is best for you? Are you hungry for God's truth and spending enough time each day to find it? Have you searched your heart to identify the one important thing God wants you to do next, and asked Him for the strength to do it? Discuss with your group where you are in this process, and make a specific commitment for the next step you are going to take this week.