THREE THINGS TO KNOW
DON’T MISS THIS
Singles First Friday is this week. It’s a great opportunity for Singles 35+ to connect with others from the church. This Friday is Fowling! Find more info and register here.
GROUP VALUES
This month we’re focusing on the value of Formative Conversations. Formative Conversations are at the heart of small groups. As leaders, we want our small group discussion to be a time when our group members are being formed in the character of Jesus. Make it a habit to pray before your group meets and ask God to help your group have formative conversations.
GROW AS A LEADER
Huddles are coming up in November! Huddles are small group leader gatherings designed to help you discuss group leadership with other small group leaders. Please make it a priority to attend one of the upcoming opportunities. If you have questions, reach out to your staff contact.
DISCUSSION GUIDE
Welcome to the fourth week of our new series, DANIEL: HONOR IN EXILE. This week we discuss Nebuchadnezzar’s pride and how pride impacts all of us.
What’s an accomplishment from your childhood you are most proud of?
Have a couple of people take turns reading the story in Daniel 4. Who’s narrating this chapter? What surprises you about the story?
THE PALACE
Nebuchadnezzar looked at Babylon and said, “I did this.” Why do you think it is easy for us to look around and say that in pride?
In what areas do you find yourself thinking, “I did this”?
While we work hard, God plays a part as well. We can see his work in things like where we were born, the people we meet or our parents. What are some ways God has played a part in what you have?
How can remembering the ways God has played a part help us be humble instead of proud?
Pastor Jeff Manion said that one way we can walk in humility is to show kindness to others. In what relationship is God urging you toward humility by being kind to someone?
THE DREAM AND THE WARNING
What warning does Daniel give Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 4:27?
God gives many warnings against pride in the Bible. Why do you think God returns to this warning over and over?
Pastor Jeff Manion said that one way we can walk in humility is to show kindness to others. In what relationship is God urging you toward humility by being kind to someone?
God often speaks through his Word, the voice of his Spirit and the church community. How can our small group help each other listen to the warnings against pride?
THE FIELD
Proverbs 16:18 says, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” How have you seen that to be true?
Why do you think it can be hard to humble ourselves and ask for help?
Nebuchadnezzar humbles himself, and God restores him. What are some ways humility is a necessary part of restoration?
There’s something in the heart of God that responds to the humble. Why do you think God is drawn to the humble?
How have you seen God restore?
WRAP UP
Today we talked about pride and humility. What’s one thing you want to do to push pride out of your life?