Lighthouse Baptist Church
and Christian Academy

STEPS TO TAKING WISE RISKS

1. INFORMATION: GET THE FACTS.

[Your Objective: Gather the facts to enable us to take wise risks rather than foolish risks.]

According to Proverbs 14:8, what is the downfall of fools?

• What are the benefits of collecting the facts before taking a major risk?
• Why is it not enough to be simply enthusiastic when planning to take risks?
• What are some benefits to gathering facts when sharing your faith with others?

According to Proverbs 13:16, how does a prudent person act?

• What are some of the obstacles that get in the way of gathering facts?
• What are some of the consequences or costs when a leader makes a decision without the facts?
• What are some sources that help us gather facts about our faith in Jesus?

Evangelism (Mission) - Think about the many questions people may have before deciding to accept Christ into their hearts or as their Savior. Are you prepared to answer such questions about your faith from factual knowledge directly from the Bible? To prepare yourself, consider investing in a study guide, books, or materials to enhance your understanding of the Bible and the basis of your faith in Jesus.

2. EVALUATION: COUNT THE COST.

[Your Objective: Evaluate the cost in order to take wise risks.]

What does Luke 14:28 suggest or instruct a person to do before building?

• What types of costs do people consider before deciding to take a major risk?
• Why wouldn't it be a good idea to evaluate the cost of a major decision when depressed?
• Before deciding to share one's faith with others, what are some of the costs one considers?

Evangelism (Mission) - Think about the things that may hold you back from sharing your faith with others. What are some of the fears that might confront us? Sharing one's faith with others takes prayer, discernment, preparation, and knowing some Bible-based facts about faith in Christ. If you haven't already, look for a class or seminar at your local church that will prepare you to evangelize wisely and with freedom.

3. PREPARATION: PLAN YOUR STEPS.

[Your Objective: Learn how to use good planning skills to achieve our goals and God's will in life.]

According to Proverbs 20:18, what does God want us to have as we go into battle?

In Proverbs 16:9 we should make plans and also count on God to do what?

• What are some of the reasons people do not make plans before forging ahead with action?
• What role does faith play in making plans and making decisions?
• Why do some people not seek out wise counsel before making a decision?

Fellowship (Membership) - As we mature in our faith we realize how God wants us to be connected to other believers to offer support and gain insight. Preparation can be enriched by relationships with other believers. How might fellowship with other believers assist us in revealing God's will for us? Are you someone who leans more toward planning and less action, or action and not enough planning? Meet this week with someone who can assist you with a tough decision you are facing.

4. DECLARATION: ANNOUNCE YOUR GOAL.

[Your Objective: Recognize the importance of making a statement of faith by announcing a goal or commitment publicly.]

According to Proverbs 16:1, the final outcome is in whose hands?

Read James 4:15. What does this reading say about the Lord's will?

• What might keep someone from announcing goals and commitments to others?
• How might you feel knowing you are fulfilling God's will?
• Why is it not important for all the details of the plan to be worked out prior to announcing a goal publicly?

Magnification (Worship) - Our lives become statements and expressions of worship to others by our actions and works. Even in our decision making and the ways we handle minor and major decisions, others can see how we worship God. What happens when others see us using Biblical insights to guide us as we announce a decision? How might our attitude and actions be changed by our statement of faith to others about our goal? Do you have a goal you could announce to your small group?

5. INITIATION: LAUNCH OUT IN FAITH.

[Your Objective: Be ready to take action when God calls.]

In Exodus 14:15 what does God tell Moses?

• Why do you need faith to start moving?
• What can we expect from God as we launch out in faith?
• What common fears might we need to overcome as we move ahead?

According to 2 Corinthians 3:5, who gives us our capabilities?

• How do we discover the talents God has given us?
• Why does God give us special talents?
• What is our responsibility toward God regarding our talents?

In Proverbs 16:9 who gives us the abilities to live out our plans?

• What could happen if we do not consider God as we go forward?
• What has God promised if we use our talents faithfully?

Ministry - Ministry is serving God in the church by meeting the needs of the congregation. What needs are there that you can serve with the abilities God has given you? What will be your first step?

6. MOTIVATION: DO IT IN LOVE.

Objective: [Be motivated by love when taking risks.]

In 1 John 4:18 what does God tell us about love?

• Why does perfect love drive out fear?
• What are some common fears in taking risks that could be overcome by love?

According to John 3:16, why did God send his Son to die?

• Other than love, what are the common motivations people have for taking risks?
• How does being focused on love as you take risks elevate you to a spiritual realm rather than a worldly one?

Discipleship (Maturity) - Maturity means loving each other as Jesus loved us. During this coming week, consider what motivate your actions toward others. If worldly motives are interfering, ask God to give you the right kind of motivation, making you more like Christ.

PERSONAL APPLICATION AND COMMITMENT:

[Your Objective: Identify the biggest fear in your life and the wise risk steps you most need to take now.]

Fear can control everything we do, making us sarcastic, stubborn, and short sighted. Can you identify any painful situation you are stuck in now because of a fear of launching into some new and unpredictable area? Take a few minutes to allow each person in your group to comment about his or her situation. What is the biggest fear you face now - what risk do you think God wants you to take at this point in your life? Share your conclusion with the others in your small group, and identify which of the six wise risk steps you need to take now.