Lighthouse Baptist Church
and Christian Academy

1. REMEMBER WHEN YOU FIRST CAME TO CHRIST.

[Your Objective: Focus on the importance of remembering what Christ did for us when we first believed.]

According to Hebrews 10:32a, what does Paul advise his readers to remember? Relate this to the warning of Christ in Revelation 2:3-5.

• How would a Christian benefit in remembering the time they came to Christ?
• What changes in attitude and knowledge might we see looking back to that time?
• Why do you think new believers might be more excited about serving Christ than those who have believed for a long time?

2. REMEMBER THE MIRACLES.

[Your Objective: Realize that miracles point to the one true God.]

In 1 Chronicles 16:12, when the Ark of the Covenant was put in the tent, what were the Children of Israel encouraged to do?

What particular unchanging characteristic of God does Moses point to in Deuteronomy 7:9?

• Why does God want us to remember His miracles?
• What do His miracles show us about our God?
• How would remembering His miracles affect a believer's actions?

Fellowship (Membership) - When we become members of God's family, we find God is in the business of changing lives. Remembering our past provides a measuring stick for our spiritual growth. It also gives us reason to pray and to praise Him. A miracle is an event for which the only explanation is God. He shows us His faithfulness as well as His power. How can you become more aware of God's workings in your life? Begin to keep a journal of the miracles you have witnessed in your life and in the lives of others.

3. REMEMBER TO BE GRACIOUS.

[Your Objective: Remember that being gracious is not about being polite, but about offering undeserved forgiveness.]

See Colossians 3:13. In his instructions on Christ-like behavior, what type of attitude toward others did Paul describe?

• Think about how Christians are often portrayed in the news today. What can we do to more closely reflect the person of Christ, both individually and through our small groups? How can remembering God's forgiveness help us to forgive?
• What prevents us from forgiving others even though the Scripture so clearly commands it?
• Why is learning to forgive others so difficult? What has to happen inside us if we are to forgive as we are commanded?

4. REMEMBER TO BE GENEROUS.

[Your Objective: Understand that being generous makes us more like Christ.]

According to Acts 20:35, what words of Jesus did Paul call to remembrance?

• Why are the words Jesus spoke difficult for most of us to learn?

Read 2 Corinthians 9:6. What truth of nature do we find here?

• How do our actions, based on our attitudes, reveal this truth? What is Paul's message to us?
• Why do you think the lessons of Jesus are so often described as "hard teachings"?

According to 2 Corinthians 9:13, what is one way we demonstrate obedience to Christ?

• Is giving generously optional? Explain some typical excuses we give for not doing so.

Discipleship (Maturity) - Each and every day we are given opportunities to show Christ to those around us - at home, at school, in the workplace or in the marketplace. Extending grace and forgiveness to others, even when it is difficult, is a sign of spiritual maturity. Even more difficult for some is being generous to the point that it hurts. These are opportunities, however, for us to stretch our faith respectively by relying on God's strength and trusting Him to provide for us. How do you think you can apply these principles to your life on a daily basis? Discuss your thoughts with the group.

5. REMEMBER GOD WILL BE WITH YOU.

[Your Objective: Be encouraged by God's continual presence in your life, no matter what.]

How did God reassure His people in Isaiah 43:2?

• In this verse, God promised to protect His children from both flood and fire. How does this give us hope today? What kinds of disasters do we face? Talk about how we can have confidence in God, no matter what the headlines say.
• When you feel like you're in the minority, what does 1 + God = ?

When we face devastating loss, loneliness or despair, what can we know, according to Hebrews 13:5?

• During uncertain times in our lives, how does relying on reason keep us from seeing God's greatness?
• In what way might seeking a personal revelation from God grow our faith? Share some examples.

6. REMEMBER GOD FINISHES WHAT HE STARTS.

[Your Objective: Realize that God's work in us is a process and He will complete it.]

Consider Philippians 1:6. When will God finish His work in us?

• If you've ever felt frustrated at your own human failings, how does this promise make you feel?
• How does knowing God will complete His work give us confidence even when circumstances seem hopeless?

What does 1 Corinthians 1:9 say about God and His promise to us?

During their time of exile in Babylon, how did God reassure the Israelites? See Jeremiah 29:11.

• When we are not sure of what to do or we are feeling hopeless about tomorrow, how can knowing this truth help?
• We live in an age when it is easy to feel condemned and worthless. What does God say about that?
• If any in your group have a testimony of God's faithfulness, take time to share it now as an encouragement.

Worship (Magnification) - When we spend time in God's presence, the reality of who He is becomes bigger than our view of ourselves. Have you ever felt like God has given up on you? All of us do at one time or another. These verses prove to us that God will never give up on us! What decision can you make, right now, to recall these promises next time you are tempted to "give up"? Consider making your quiet time this week a time to memorize at least one of these verses.

Take a moment to review any assignments/challenges made during the personal application and commitment section of your previous meeting. Seeing God at work in the lives of those who commit to Him is essential for growth.

PERSONAL APPLICATION AND COMMITMENT:

[Your Objective: Realize our memories of God's work in us give us courage to trust Him now and in the future.]

Writing down what God has done for us can provide helpful reminders when we need courage to trust Him. Make a list or journal your story of the things God has changed in you since you first believed in Him. Consider changes in your attitudes, desires, the way you deal with others, goals, perspectives on daily living, priorities, and anything else that stands out as God's work in you. How can these remembrances help you face something you currently struggle with? Forgiveness and generosity can be tough lessons for all of us. Who is God asking you to forgive and how is He asking you to be generous? How can remembering that God will never leave you and that He always finishes what He starts help you to take a next step towards forgiveness or generosity? Ask the group to pray for you as you commit to this step.