Welcome to week five of our winter series The Grace Effect. This series helps us understand how grace should inspire whole life generosity and that gift receivers become gift givers. This week we discuss making whole life generosity an integral part of our lifestyle.
SHARE LIFE
Building healthy and life-giving relationships.
Updates
What has been new or challenging in your life since last time the group met? Spend 20–30 minutes checking in with each other.
Prayer
Many of us set spiritual goals at the beginning of the year. Give an update on how those are going and how your group can be praying for you as you pursue those goals.
Share part of your story
Share about a time you received a gift you didn’t expect.
PURSUE GOD
Taking next steps toward Christ together.
In Acts 20:35, we learn Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Why do you think Jesus said this? Do you think most people really believe this?
Awareness to Action
Have someone read Galatians 6:10 aloud. Do you feel like most people notice the needs around them? When we do notice a need, do we usually see it as an opportunity or an inconvenience?
What are some potential obstacles to seeing needs around us?
Do you think you notice opportunities to be generous on a regular basis? Why or why not?
What are some ways we could get better at noticing the needs around us?
Make it a Habit
Have someone read Matthew 5:16 aloud. What is the difference between being generous every once in a while and making whole life generosity a habit?
What emotions do you experience when you think about making generosity a habit? Why do you think you feel that way?
How can we make whole life generosity a core value for ourselves and others around us?
We learned that sometimes our generosity can be an answer to someone’s prayer. Have you ever thought about this? Has someone’s generosity ever been an answer to your prayer?
Impact
Have someone read Proverbs 11:25 aloud. What is the general principle this verse is trying to convey?
Why do you think the author of Proverbs says this is a principle of life?
Have you ever felt like being generous “refreshed” you? If so, share about that experience.
The acronym MEE stands for Model, Encourage, Engage. How can you do those things to impact those around you?
Discuss the following statement by Winston Churchill: You make a living by what you get, you make a lifestyle by what you give.
This week’s conversation centered around whole life generosity. We were encouraged to become aware, make it a habit and have an impact. What is one next step you can take this week to do those things?
INVEST IN OTHERS
Valuing people outside the group and outside the faith.
Service
Whole life generosity includes finances but also our time, words and actions. What is a way for your group to practice generosity together? Brainstorm some options for how your group can be generous during the month of February. Pick one option and come up with a plan to make it happen.
Download a printable PDF here.