Aspire!
May 7, 2023
The word “aspire” means to seek to attain or accomplish a particular goal. Some people aspire to achieve power; some strive for wealth or fame. The apostle Paul’s greatest aspiration was to know Christ and the power of His resurrection. What is your greatest aspiration? Join us for a message exploring our church’s aspirations.
Our Aspirations
We Aspire to love everyone, always!
Self-evaluation: ___ 1. ___ 2. ___ 3. ___ 4.
As I aspire to love everyone always this week, I will __________________________________________________________________________________________.
I will share my commitment with: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________.
We Aspire to make disciples and equip those who do.
Self-evaluation: ___ 1. ___ 2. ___ 3. ___ 4.
As I aspire to love everyone always this week, I will __________________________________________________________________________________________.
I will share my commitment with: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________.
We Aspire to be for Christ, for the city, for good.
Self-evaluation: ___ 1. ___ 2. ___ 3. ___ 4.
As I aspire to love everyone always this week, I will __________________________________________________________________________________________.
I will share my commitment with: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________.
Small Group Questions
Use this outline for personal reflection, as a couples or family devotion, or with a small group.
HANGOUT
Did you set any goals or make any resolutions for 2023? If so, what were they, and how are you doing with that goal or resolution?
What is the purpose of a trellis? Have you ever considered building a trellis to accommodate your spiritual growth? How might one go about creating such a trellis?
HEAR
Prayer and Meditation.
Read Luke 5:16; Luke 6:12; Luke 9:8; & Luke 22:40-44.
- What do these verses have in common? What can we learn about prayer from these examples?
- What is the difference between prayer and meditation? Should Jesus’ followers practice both? If so, how?
- How would you describe your prayer life? What is the most helpful advice you’ve received related to prayer and meditation?
- What will you do this week to engage with God through prayer?
Bible Reading and Reflection.
Read Psalm 119:9-11 & 105; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; & Hebrews 4:12.
- Based on these verses, how would you describe the Bible and its role in our lives?
- Describe a time when God spoke to you through His Word.
- Do you have a daily Bible reading plan? If so, what is it? What is the most helpful advice you’ve received related to reading and reflecting on the Scriptures?
- What will you do this week to connect with God through His Word?
Sabbath and Rest.
Read Exodus 20:8-11; Hebrews 4:12-11; & Matthew 11:28-29.
- How does Jesus fulfill the promise of Sabbath rest? What is the difference between Sabbath as a religious requirement and Sabbath as a means of relationship?
- Do you have a hard time with rest and silence? If so, why?
- Do you have a weekly rhythm of rest? If so, what is it? What is the most helpful advice you’ve received related to Sabbath?
- What will you do this week to practice Sabbath rest?
HUDDLE
Between prayer, Bible reading, and Sabbath rest, which is the hardest to practice? Why? Talk about it, invite accountability, and take time to pray together.
Daily Reading
Most of the letters in the New Testament were written to congregations. As we read through 1 & 2 Corinthians this month, invite the Holy Spirit to speak to you about our church and the part He has for you in it.
- Day 1: 1 Corinthians 1
- Day 2: 1 Corinthians 2
- Day 3: 1 Corinthians 3
- Day 4: 1 Corinthians 4
- Day 5: 1 Corinthians 5
- Day 6: 1 Corinthians 6
- Day 7: 1 Corinthians 7
Think Deeper
- Whom do you have a difficult time loving? What must you do to surrender to Christ so His love can flow through you?
- Is there someone you can intentionally disciple in the ways of Jesus?
- How would your world be different if you lived entirely for Christ, for the good of others?
Suggested Reading
Don’t Waste Your Life, by John Piper
The Purpose Driven Life, by Rick Warren
Celebration of Discipline, By Richard Foster
Check out these books from our suggested reading list at https://bit.ly/AspireSMB.