THREE THINGS TO KNOW
DON’T MISS THIS. FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY (FPU) is a proven program that will teach you how to pay off debt, save for emergencies and manage your money. This winter, we offer a four-week version of FPU at each campus on Thursday nights from 7-9 p.m., beginning on February 6, 2025. Learn more and register HERE.
MONTHLY THEME. This January, we’re focusing on the value of creating a SAFE ENVIRONMENT. Safety isn’t just about what we say but consistency and reliability. Following through on commitments, starting and ending on time and maintaining regular communication all help members feel secure in the group structure. These small acts of dependability create the foundation for deeper sharing and connection.
GROW AS A LEADER. Make sure to check out the LEADER’S FACEBOOK PAGE if you haven’t lately. It’s a great place to stay informed about what’s happening around Ada Bible Church and in small groups. We post regularly, offering tips and encouragement for small group leaders. Connect with us at facebook.com/groups/adasmallgroupleaders.
DISCUSSION GUIDE
Welcome to week three of our sermon series TRUE WEALTH. This week, we explore how Jesus teaches us to move from fear to trust by examining his words about worry and God’s faithful provision.
ICEBREAKER
If you had to put your life in the hands of any person in history (except Jesus), who would you choose and why?
THIS WEEK’S TEXT
Have someone read Matthew 6:25-34 aloud.
What specific worries does Jesus address in this passage, and how does he describe their effect on us?
What lessons about God’s character does Jesus want us to learn from how God provides for the birds?
In Jesus’s teaching about the flowers, what point is he making about worry and trust?
THIS WEEK’S SERMON
Pastor Jeff Manion continued our True Wealth series by discussing how we can move from fear to trust. As a group, recall some of the sermon’s big ideas and main points.
What makes it particularly challenging to trust God with our financial future in today’s economic climate?
Pastor Jeff mentioned we often forget to observe God’s care in creation. Where have you seen evidence of God’s generous heart in the world around you recently?
Who has been a good example of trusting God during financial uncertainty? What about their response inspires you?
We’re more likely to stress about “what ifs” than to pray about them. What keeps us from bringing our financial concerns to God in prayer?
Have someone read Philippians 4:6-7 aloud. Peace replaces worry through prayer and thanksgiving. Share about a time when bringing your anxieties to God in prayer brought you his peace that “transcends all understanding.”
How does practicing gratitude help build our trust in God’s provision? Share something you’re thankful for that shows God’s care for you.
Pastor Jeff shared a model prayer for times of financial anxiety. What elements of that prayer stood out to you, and how might it help reshape your prayers?
Have someone read Romans 8:38-39. Nothing can separate us from Christ’s love, even if everything falls apart financially. How does knowing Jesus is with you change how you view financial hardships?
WRAP UP
This week, we discussed moving from fear to trust regarding our finances. What practical step can you take this week to shift your focus from financial worry to trust in God’s generous heart?