GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Saturday, December 18

Personal Application: Let’s “worship fully” every week. First Presbyterian Church invites you to worship fully on December 24 at 7:30 pm or 9:30 pm. And let’s do our part to help others worship fully, too. Everyone can take part in the Christmas Eve offering.

Family Activity: The Scriptures are filled with people singing. As a family, write your own song of praise and thanksgiving to God this Advent. Begin by choosing the tune of a hymn or praise song familiar to your whole family. You might try using a favorite Christmas carol!

Next, list everything your family is thankful for as well as phrases of praise and worship to God. Group together those that rhyme or have similar sounds. Now, work in your words of worship to the familiar tune. Feel free to use some of the original words from the song you’ve chosen in combination with your own. Use this song as a prayer, an opening for your family time, or share it with others as a witness to God’s faithfulness!

Prayer: Dear God, there is so much wonderful Christmas music. But sometimes I get sick of hearing it, especially when it turns into Muzak to use as a backdrop for more shopping. Plant your song in my heart this Advent, and then help me keep it alive. Help me to sing your praise as honestly and joyfully in February and June and August as I do during the Christmas season. Amen.

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Friday, December 17

Matthew 26:26-30; Psalm 118:13-29 

At the end of a Passover Seder, Jesus led the first “Lord’s Supper.” Then they “sang a hymn.” Most probably, they sang Psalm 118, the usual final hymn of the Passover hallel. If so, then just before his crucifixion, Jesus sang of the stone the builders rejected that became the cornerstone. He sang, “I will not die, but live” (verse 17).

• Sometimes we picture the Last Supper as a grim time with everyone, including Jesus, downcast and depressed. How does the idea of Jesus and the disciples singing a hymn of praise alter your perceptions of the tone of that evening? How do songs of praise fit into the serious, challenging times of life? 

• How ironic for Jesus to sing “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD”—the very words he’d heard five days before at the Triumphal Entry. Do some prayerful imagining. What do you think was in Jesus’ heart as he sang the psalm’s final words: “Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever”?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Thursday, December 16

Colossians 3:12-17 

On Tuesday we could picture a glad crowd of worshippers singing Psalm 98 at Solomon’s beautiful Temple. Today we read words to what was probably a house church in Colossae (modern day Turkey). They may have had as few as 15 or 20 people worshipping in a hostile city. But they, too, sang psalms of praise, with hearts grateful to God.

• “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly” (v. 16). In what ways do the various “right-brain” expressions (music, visual arts, poetry, dance, etc.) add richness to your Christian life? Which art forms most enrich your worship during Advent? 

• What does “whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus” (verse 17) mean to you? How can you, e.g., find a parking spot, relate to your boss, or return a purchase “in the name of the Lord Jesus”? What steps have you found helpful to keep yourself aware of this in your everyday activities?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Wednesday, December 15

Zephaniah 3:14-20 

At the very end of Zephaniah’s short prophecy came these beautiful words of promise. God would gather the exiles and bring them home—judgment would not be God’s final word to the people of Judah. Deliverance would give them a reason to sing (verse 14). But they would not be singing alone—God would rejoice over THEM with singing (verse 17)!

• Do you picture God as taking great delight in you? What experiences or influences in your life have led you to picture God’s attitude toward you the way that you do? In what ways does Zephaniah’s portrait of God give you a reason to “upgrade” your inner picture of God’s attitude toward you? 

• In verse 19 we read, “I will give them praise and honor in every land where they have suffered shame.” In what settings or relationships in your life have you most often felt feelings of shame? Thank God (in song, if you wish!) for the promise of deliverance and redemption from all the painful kinds of shame you’ve suffered.

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Tuesday, December 14

Psalm 98:1-9

This psalm practically bubbles over with joy and praise. The psalmist wasn’t satisfied to limit the praise to people. Let’s have the rivers clap their hands; let’s have the mountains and the sea join in the singing! Imagine how the hearts of early Christians must have soared as they sang “a new song,” one praising God for making salvation known in Jesus.

• “Sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things,” says verse 1. In what ways can God’s people (who are not immune from disappointments and tragedies) sing a song like that with integrity? What are the “marvelous things” in your life for which you can honestly praise God? 

• You may have learned that God’s judgment is a scary thing. For this psalmist, it’s not! Verse 9 begins, “Let them sing before the LORD, for he comes to judge the earth.” What reasons does the psalmist give for seeing God’s judgment as cause for singing?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Monday, December 13

Isaiah 12:2-6

This week we’ll read passages that show God’s people singing. Note, it’s not about skill—we won’t find verses saying, “Sing (if you have a good voice).” It’s not limited to any one day or season. And the Bible doesn’t urge us to sing because we love music, but because we love God and God loves us. Let’s join in the Advent Conspiracy’s call to “worship fully.”

• Today’s New International Version translates verse 2 as “the Lord is my strength and my defense.” A footnote says that it could be “my strength and my song,” a reading many other translations choose. How can songs (and, more broadly) gratitude and praise be a strength and defense in your life? Do you tap into that strength? 

• Isaiah states the reason for praise right at the start of this passage: “I will trust and not be afraid.” In what areas of life do you find it natural to trust in God and avoid fear? What fears do you feel that you can ask God to help you with today? What steps help you build that trust, even in the tough parts of life?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Saturday, December 11

Our Advent focus invites us to spend less and give more. Plan to feel the joy of that.

Suggested Activity: Choose a festive container to hold loose change and bills. (Talk about some ways your family can spend less and give more.). Consider eating at home one extra night per week instead of eating out. Maybe you could turn your heat down or turn your lights out when you leave a room. Include the entire family in each effort. Place the money you save into your container. Celebrate that you are spending less on yourselves to give more to others and to Jesus. Give it to one of our communities helping agencies or bring your money to a Christmas Eve service and share it as your offering. Give thanks to God for being able to give.

Prayer: God, in many ways this recession has prepared my heart better for Christmas than the previous years of excess and wealth. I find myself relying more and more on you for sustenance instead of on stuff and money. God, as you have provided for me, help me to reflect on how I, as part of the body of Christ, might be a blessing to others who are struggling this Christmas. Help me to emphasize your presence in this world and in their lives. Amen.

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Friday, December 10

Isaiah 61:1-3

John the Baptist knew Isaiah’s prophecies. So did Jesus - the one John identified as the Lamb of God. In January, we’ll read the gospel of Luke. In Luke 4 we will find that Jesus used this passage from Isaiah as the text for a sermon he preached in his hometown synagogue. I came, Jesus said, to bring good news to the poor.

• Isaiah portrays an upside-down world. In the world we know, the poor get very little good news, the brokenhearted usually stay sad, and captors seldom set their captives and prisoners free. What power did Isaiah count on to reverse the known order of things? How appealing does Isaiah’s world sound to you? 

• We know Jesus found his sense of calling, his “personal mission statement,” in this passage. To what extent do you, as Christ’s follower, also sense that these verses are speaking to you about your purpose in life? How has God equipped you to be actively involved in helping to bring about the changed world of Isaiah’s vision?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Thursday, December 9

John 1:19-34 

The Gospel of John tells many parts of Jesus’ story in a different way than Matthew’s. They agree, however, that John’s preaching and baptizing carried out the words of Isaiah 40. This gospel gives us a clearer view of the deep humility with which this prophet worked to prepare the way for Jesus.

• John clearly saw Jesus as the fulfillment of all that the Old Testament sacrifices were about. What does the image of Jesus as “the Lamb of God” tell you about the primary reason that he came? How can you use this Advent season to prepare your heart to receive “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world?” 

• In his day (and, some scholars think, for decades after) some of John’s followers disliked Jesus’ impact. “Everyone is going to HIM,” they said. John’s reply was amazing from one so dynamic: “He must become greater; I must become less” (John 3:30). How does John’s model of honoring Jesus above his own “success” speak to your heart?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Wednesday, December 8

Matthew 3:1-12

The Judean wilderness is harsh and bleak. The people who created the famous Dead Sea Scrolls lived in this wilderness. From this rugged land came the rugged, blunt prophet John. He heralded the Messiah’s nearness, and baptized those who repented. Bear in mind: “repent” means, not toxic self-hatred, but a moral choice to turn around and live a new way.

• Matthew gives a very concise summary of John’s preaching in verse 2. What are the key parts of the message? What is there about that message that would draw many people from the relative comfort of Jerusalem into the wilderness to listen and be baptized? In what ways do we need to hear John’s message today? 

• In verses 9-10, John challenged those who thought their ethnic or religious heritage alone made them close to God. How can family tradition or church affiliation take the place of a living personal union with God? Do religious as well as non-religious people need to hear and heed John’s call to repent?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Tuesday, December 7

Malachi 3:1-10 

Like Isaiah, Malachi (who wrote some 400 years later), foretold a herald who would prepare the way for the Messiah. But Malachi also expressed a deep spiritual concern. God was calling for a major change in the way God’s people did their business. If they weren’t willing to change, to live God’s way, then who could abide the Messiah’s presence?

• The prophets were key players in God’s Advent Conspiracy. They often made people uneasy, because they pointed beyond our usual ways to God’s better way. Are there any parts of verses 2-5 that make you uncomfortable? Ask God to show you any of your ways that may need to change in the light of the Messiah’s coming. 

• Malachi chose bold language to describe the fiscal ways of his day. “You are robbing God,” he told his hearers. “Test God. Be faithful, and see if you’re not blessed.” In what variety of ways might God “bless” those who faithfully act as stewards of what God gives them? How do these verses speak to your heart during Advent 2010?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Monday, December 6

Isaiah 40:1-5 

Ancient roads had many more bumps and hills than modern American highways. So, when a king was going to travel, work parties would level the highest and lowest spots on the road he was using. Based on that custom, Isaiah portrayed the work of the forerunner God would send to prepare people spiritually for the Messiah.

• The first section of Isaiah contains many tough messages of judgment. In this passage, the tone shifts. After the pain of exile in Babylon, God says, “Comfort my people.” In this way, Isaiah reminds us that grace is always God’s last word. In which part(s) of your life do you most need to hear God speak tenderly to you right now? 

• On Wednesday and Thursday, we’ll read in the gospels that Jesus’ forerunner, John the Baptist, fulfilled Isaiah’s words. Yet John and Jesus were poor peasants, in no way part of Israel’s elite. How did Isaiah’s image of a king coming to town help people in Jesus’ day (as well as us) to grasp Jesus’ royal identity as ruler of all creation?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Saturday, December 4

Personal Application: Our culture has planted this equation in us: “Spending money = love.” So an invitation to “spend less” feels jarring and unloving. But the equation is false. We can spend many things besides money on others—energy, time, creativity, and so on. Spending money on unneeded “stuff” is not love; it’s just spending. Think through specific plans as to how you can spend less, yet love more, this Advent season.

Family Activity: Spend some time talking about birthdays. Ask each family member to share memories of decorations, food, people, gifts and party locations at past family birthday celebrations. Ask each person what feelings their birthday brings, and why they feel that way. Now Jesus’ birthday is coming – celebrate! Create a list or draw a picture showing the gifts, decorations, and food Jesus might like for His birthday. Who would Jesus like to have at His birthday party? Keep that list or drawing up in your home as you prepare for Christmas. Ask yourselves if the ways you are celebrating will honor Jesus and make Him happy. Ask God to help your family focus on Jesus and His birth as you prepare and celebrate this Christmas.

Prayer: O Lord, the prophets whispered (and sometimes shouted) about the ways that you would change our world. Today, committed to being a Christ-follower, I realize that you’re calling me to be that change. Live in me, and guide me in the inner changes that will allow me to genuinely live as your hands and feet and your voice in this hurting world. Amen.

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Friday, December 3

Isaiah 40:8-11 

Handel made inspiring musical use of these verses in his Messiah. But, even without the music, it was an inspiring message Isaiah gave to Israel. Suffering, struggle, injustice and night were not endless. Their God was coming, and with God’s arrival would come the good news of God’s reign. The mighty shepherd would tenderly carry the lambs in his arms.

• Can you think of stories in which Jesus (“the Good Shepherd”) carried the struggling and weak in his arms? (If you’re not sure, try John 8:1-11, Matthew 19:13-14 for starters.) In what parts of your life do you especially long for a caring shepherd to carry you in his arms? 

• What can this Advent season give you the chance to “lift up your voice” and to say to those you know, “Here is your God”? Think through what a conscious worshipful choice to honor Christmas as Jesus would look like. What questions and opportunities to share might that create?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Thursday, December 2

Isaiah 11:1-9

Like Jeremiah, Isaiah looked forward to a day when a righteous branch would spring from David’s line. (Jesse was David’s father—see 1 Samuel 16, 17.) Isaiah uses startling, vivid images to show us the serene nature of this Davidic ruler’s kingdom. Think of lions lying down with lambs, or children playing near cobras!

• What parts of verses 2-5 came true during Jesus’ earthly ministry? Are there parts of the promise that are true of his eternal reign but that were not clear when he was on earth? In what ways does the multi-layered nature of these prophecies make them harder to trust? In what ways does it strengthen your faith in their divine origin? 

• Isaiah says that God’s “branch from David’s line” will “give decisions for the poor of the earth” with justice. What obstacles (attitudes, resources, or other) make it hard for the poor to get justice in today’s world? In what ways can you help to make the world we live in look more like the Kingdom of God?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Wednesday, December 1

Ezekiel 34:17-24 

In yesterday’s passage, Ezekiel said God would replace the shepherds who abused his “flock”, the people of Israel. In today’s verses, he went on to say that he would not let the “fat” members of the flock bully and exploit weaker ones. The good shepherd would value justice, rather than excess or exploitation.

• At times, we excuse excess spending with the logic that “it’s my money, so I only hurt myself if I blow it.” Consider how you could “spend less” this Advent. What inner fears or rewards most often drive you to spend more than you can afford, or than someone else needs? How can Ezekiel help you rethink those inner drivers? 

• “My flock will no longer be plundered,” God says. “I will place over them one shepherd.” How does it affect your outlook to see God as the “one shepherd” caring about the entire human family, rather than just individuals here and there? How can you be God’s hands to help bring about greater well-being for all people?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Tuesday, November 30

Ezekiel 34:1-16 

Ezekiel was an Israelite exiled in Babylon (Ezekiel 1:1). Like Jeremiah, he said God had not forgotten the people, but cared about their tough conditions. The future, he said, did not belong to those who enriched themselves at the people’s expense. “I myself will search for my sheep and look after them,” was God’s promise.

• In John 10:11, Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” In what ways did Jesus’ earthly ministry bring Ezekiel’s promises to reality? In what respects is the complete fulfillment of the promises still something we await in the future? 

• When (in any type of organization or family setting) have you seen “shepherds” who cared for their own interests, but not for “the flock”? Does knowingly self-centered leadership ever seem to “work” from a human point of view? How sure are you of the truth of Ezekiel’s message to self-serving shepherds?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Monday, November 29

Jeremiah 33:14-22 

This week we’ll read how the Old Testament prophets promised a Godly kingdom that would upend human ways. Jeremiah wrote when God’s promises seemed futile, and the vast Babylonian armies threatened Israel with total ruin, God, he said, promised a better future. An heir of David, Israel’s greatest king, would rule in justice forever.

• Through Jeremiah, God says the Branch from David’s line “will do what is just and right in the land.” Since all human leaders and systems eventually fall short of doing what is just and right, what do you believe God was promising? In what parts of your life do you most wish for a King who would do what is just and right? 

• If you had lived in Jerusalem with Jeremiah, what might this promise have led you to expect? (e.g., ongoing Temple sacrifices, unbroken Israelite political power.) What does the phrase “the days are coming” convey to us as Christ’s followers today? How can the core of this promise be true, even if some details change?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Saturday, November 27

Matthew 25:31-46 

People who are so poor they don’t have enough to eat or to wear, who can’t get good care when they’re sick, who are in prison, who are outsiders in our community—most of us are willing to do a little something to help them. But Jesus called such people “these brothers and sisters of mine.” We truly “buy into” in God’s transforming work in the world when we realize that the poor, the sick, the prisoners and the aliens are not “them”—they’re “us.” Jesus calls us to commit to doing his work as one family, bound by mutual caring and sharing.

• At church last week , we heard the Implementation Teams report on the future of our congregation and we invited people to pray and dream about these questions: what can we do together to be part of God’s work of transforming the world in the next ten years? In what ways can you personally take part in First Presbyterian Church ‘s work to transform the world in the next ten years? Pray over these questions, write out your God-given dreams, and put them where you will see them regularly.

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Friday, November 26

Romans 12:16-21 

The world Rome ruled was full of poverty, suffering, hatred and injustice. To Christians in the capital city itself, Paul offered this “strategy” for transforming that world: “Overcome evil with good.” It would sound awfully naïve—except that, looking back over 2000 years, we see that it’s made a difference (though many wrongs remain). It is still our strategy today.

• 1 Peter 2:23 cited Jesus’ example: “When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats.” What moral dangers do we create if we try to repay evil with evil, or seek revenge for wrongs done to us? Is this counsel only for powerless people, or for well-off, powerful Christians as well? 

• This is a hard ideal! author Stuart Briscoe notes, “We are not to feel that there is any… insensitivity on the part of the apostle as he instructs the disciples of the Lord….On the contrary, he knew what it meant, as did his Master, to feel the heat of adversity.” In what ways would a choice to “overcome evil with good” change your life?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Thursday, November 25

Luke 10:25-37 

We often see this parable as only a pleasant “be nice to your neighbor” story. But the “cast” of characters embodied many of that day’s social frictions: a priest, a Levite and (above all) a Samaritan, a hated non-Israelite. Then Jesus made the Samaritan the hero! It’s as if he drew back a curtain and said, “If I had my way, these hatreds, fears and divisions would vanish.”

• We usually apply this parable to the need for us to help others—a big part of Jesus’ teaching. But in this story, an Israelite accepted a Samaritan’s help, though Israelites usually shunned such help. How open are you to accepting help from others when you need it? What makes it easier sometimes to offer help than to accept it? 

• “Jewish teachers usually used ‘neighbor’ to mean ‘fellow Israelite.’” (The IVP Bible Background Commentary : New Testament) But Leviticus 19:34 said, “The foreigners residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself.” What made that hard in 1st century Palestine? What makes it hard today?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Wednesday, November 24

Luke 4:16-21 

For centuries, rabbis debated who Isaiah’s “servant of the Lord” might be. Jesus read from Isaiah 61:1-2. Then he stunned his hometown audience by saying, in effect, “I’m the one Isaiah meant.” Jesus “platform” said that as the Messiah, his mission was to transform the world, to bring spiritual and social good news, healing and deliverance.

• In Jesus’ day (and ours), religious reformers urged people to pray, read the Bible and go to synagogue more often. Social reformers urged them to drive Roman oppressors out at sword point. Neither group liked Jesus saying his spiritual mission was closely linked to the social change he brought. What do you believe: was he right? How has your spiritual growth showed itself in giving help to the poor, oppressed or prisoners? 

• Luke says Jesus went into the synagogue “as his custom was.” And Jesus didn’t agree with everything said there, or even always find a warm welcome! Would an observer say it’s your “custom” to be in worship regularly, as Jesus was? Why or why not?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Tuesday, November 23

Isaiah 1:11-18, 42:1-7 

Isaiah, one of Israel’s great prophets, spoke of God’s distaste for hollow rituals carried out by “religious” people who ignored both justice and mercy. Chapter 42 promised “the servant of the Lord.” Three times in four verses the prophet said “the servant” would bring justice. Jesus and his followers believed Jesus lived out the mission of Isaiah’s “servant .

• What actions led Isaiah to say that his people gave God “meaningless offerings”? Could it be that our offering s, and the ministries and budgets they make possible, lose their meaning if they are divorced from our whole way of life? To what extent are your offerings a sign that you are giving yourself to God and God’s purposes? 

• What are some ways you know of that Jesus brought justice during his life on earth? Though Christians have often gotten it wrong, what are some of the ways the work of Jesus’ church has increased justice since his ascension? In what ways can we be Jesus’ hands and feet, seeking to increase justice today?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Monday, November 22

Genesis 11:27 - 12:3

The early chapters of Genesis set the stage for the whole Biblical saga. God created a good world, and assigned humans to take care of it. They failed—by Genesis 6, their thoughts were “only evil all the time.” Sad but undeterred, God found Abraham, a man willing to listen and follow. “Through you,” God told him, “I will bless all the peoples on the earth.”

• Abraham faced a huge decision: “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household.” The IVP Bible Background Commentary: Old Testament says, “When Abraham gave up his place in his father’s household, he forfeited his security. He was putting his survival, his identity, his future and his security in the hands of the Lord.” What are you willing to give up to follow God’s call, and be a blessing to others? 

• Childless at 75, Abraham trusted God’s call to father a nation. In what ways, big or small, is God calling you to trust in your life?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Saturday, November 13

Hebrews 13:1-6 

In the midst of exhorting Christians to live according to the gospel the writer to the Hebrews actually commands contentment. Just as contentment is a result of trusting God, it is also the means of trusting God. T o be discontent is to accuse God with being either unloving or impotent. Contentment with our life is therefore as important a virtue as love, hospitality, mercy, or fidelity.

Sadly, we live in a culture of discontent. Every day we see an average of 3,500 ads, each trying to convince us that what we have is not good enough. We need something new, something better, something more fashionable. Desires become hopes, which become wants, which become 'needs'. "I've just got to have that new HDTV wide-screen TV." Once the newness wears off, it's time for another new thing.

Paul advises Timothy to stay focused on the lasting joy of contentment. "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it." (l Tim 6:6)

• Are you content with what you have? If not, then why? 

• How do you handle the pressure to 'keep up', or conform to a higher standard of living?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Friday, November 12

Matthew 6:24-34 

Jesus personifies wealth as Mammon. He even gives it the status of a false God, an idol, and lays down an all-or-nothing claim: if you worship wealth, you won't worship God. Our heart cannot contain two masters, two gods.

Worry is an indicator of worship. What you worry about is what you don't want to lose. Therefore, Jesus says that worrying about money and your future is an indicator of a lack of trust in God. Worse, it shows that the heart's true hope is in wealth. "His words are so uncomfortable that even those of us who say we love him find ourselves looking for ways around what he says.

Research has shown that many people do not give because they are afraid. The only way to ever stop worrying about money is to break its stranglehold on your heart by becoming generous. When you give money away, you stop worshipping it.

• If you gave until it lowered your lifestyle, would you be worried? Of what? 

• What would you give up to become enormously rich? Would you give up friends and family? Would you give up your time? Christ? What would you give up just to be 'comfortable'?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Thursday, November 11

Luke 12:13-21 

The rich fool thought that he could trust in his grain. Yet the grain outlasted his own life. He invested his wealth with something it could not give: security. It would always be there to make his life comfortable. But the things of this world are unstable, a pile of sand ready to collapse. God's response to him is blunt: "You fool."

Having lots of money can be like a drug. It can make you feel powerful and giddy. It can convince you that everything is going to be okay. We think that only if we accumulate more and more we will have enough. That day never comes-'enough' is never reached.

When we trust our Lord we can stop hoarding wealth beyond our needs and become 'rich toward God.' The only true security comes from trusting in God's care for his children. As Christians, we can be assured that God loves us because of Christ's work on our behalf. Therefore, we can loosen our grip on our treasures. We see them as temporary and God's kingdom as eternal.

• How much money do you want left when you die? Why? 

• What does becoming 'rich toward God' look like? Does that reflect your own lifestyle? Why or why not? 

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Wednesday, November 10

1 Corinthians 4:7-14 

Everything good in our lives comes from God: our abilities, our upbringing, our educational background. We would not be where we are without countless interventions by God on our behalf. Beyond those temporary blessings, God has given his children the greatest gift of all: his only Son. The Corinthian church, and many of us today, practically ignore the full wonder of that claim.

The Gospel is a gift. Our union with Christ is all by God's grace. There is nothing we did to deserve it or earn it. In fact, we all were in rebellion against God (Romans 1:18ff, 3:23). And yet Christ died for his people.

What if someone loaned us $100,000? Would we resent giving them five bucks? Would we treat all those resources as ours alone? God gives us things of this world to use on his behalf. He didn't have to. But we are his children now, he loves us and gives us what we need and what we can employ to further his kingdom, to spread his grace even more. His goodness includes giving us the joy of commitment to him.

• Would you treat your things differently if they belonged to someone else? What if you acted as if God owned everything you have: your home, your clothes, your furniture, your money, your time? 

• What have you received from God? How is your life different because of Christ?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Tuesday, November 9

Psalm 50, especially 7-15 

God is the creator (Gen 1:1), the sole ruler and Lord over all creation. He controls all things in this world, the whole creation (Psalm 50:12). Nothing that we do takes away from God's guiding presence throughout all of creation. It is God’s to create, and protect, and use for God’s glory. So whenever we use the resources of the world, we use the resources of God's world.

That also means that "the silver is mine and the gold is mine" (Haggai 2:8). When we look at our own finances, we tend to forget God's sovereign ownership of creation. We expect him to care for us as if he owes us something. In Job 41: 11, God replies, "Who has a claim against me that I must pay? Everything under heaven belongs to me." Or, we think that we have earned our treasures because of our own abilities (See Deuteronomy 8:17 above).

Therefore, God doesn't need our money as if he needed an income. Instead, we need him every moment to sustain us. Our worship, and the dedication of our whole lives to him, is an acknowledgment of his control over everything. It's a thank offering, a giving back of what we have so abundantly received (Psalm 50:14).

• Do you act like God "owes" you something? Why? 

• What causes you to forget God's loving control of the world?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Monday, November 8

Matthew 6:21 

Jesus here tells us the most important lesson about money. Our heart, our desire and hope, is tied closely to our treasure. Our money and our heart go together. We all know that, of course, to some extent. But when Jesus calls our attention to this part of our character, he confronts us.

He alerts us to the powerful tug that material wealth possesses, an allure that makes us do and act and believe contrary to our Christian confession. We say that we live for God. Our checkbook shows us what we really live for. Jesus calls us to examine where we place our money and our heart: earthly pleasures that fade away or eternal kingdom investments that last forever.

• Where is most of your treasure? Is that where your heart is? 

• When you give, does that frighten you or excite you? Why?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Saturday, November 6

Matthew 5:43-48 

Scholars often study these verses and suggest we can become “perfect in love”—not by never sinning, but having a deep heart desire to love God, and all of our human “neighbors.” According to Jesus, that’s getting it right.

• Jesus says that God causes it to rain on the just and the unjust alike. How often are you tempted to limit your help and your efforts to bless only the people you like, or consider “worthy”? How can you become more like God in your willingness to bless anyone who needs it? 

• How do you understand the idea of loving your enemies? Does that refer more to having mushy, affectionate feelings about them, or to choosing to act for their good despite what they have done to you? How can making those hard choices help you grow in character and maturity?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Friday, November 5

Matthew 5:13-16 

As a popular Christian song says, when Christians get it right, we ask God to “Make me salt, make me light, Let Your holy fire ignite, reveal Your glory in my life….As a city on a hill, a lamp on a stand, mold me in Your image, the work of Your hand.” (Lyrics by Jan and John L’Ecuyer)

• What’s the difference between doing good selfishly, from a wish to be seen and praised, and doing it unaffectedly, so that others are moved to praise God? What place on that spectrum do you tend to occupy? How, if at all, has it become more natural over time for you to let your light shine? 

• In The Message, Eugene Peterson paraphrases these verses as saying we’re called to bring out the “God-flavors” and “God-colors” in the world. In what ways, if any, has your experience of faith enriched life, making it more flavorful and colorful? How can you share that with others?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Thursday, November 4

Romans 12:9-21 

It’s a challenge to get it right with one another—here the apostle describes in considerable detail what that looks like. But we don’t only get it right with our close friends—a deeper key, says Paul, is to let God teach us how to get it right even with those who consider themselves our enemies.

• What historical or contemporary figures can you think of who practiced, in visible, public ways, the principle of overcoming evil with good? How can you apply that principle in the personal relationships you’re involved in every day? Paul quotes Proverbs 25:21-22 as a divine guideline about how to treat “your enemy.” 

• How do you grasp the image that says treating the enemy kindly is like “heaping burning coals” on his head? Have you ever tried this approach? What were the results in the relationship? In your inner life?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Wednesday, November 3

1 Corinthians 13:1-13 

As you read Paul’s lyrical description of when Christians get it right, note the things love doesn’t do—the signs of getting it wrong. But even more, note the things that love does, because these are the qualities, inward and outward, that God’s Spirit will increasingly grow in our lives.

• In verses 4-7, we get a compact list of how love does and does not act. Which of the items listed do you value most from someone else? Which is the most challenging for you to offer to another person? How will you open your life to God’s influence, so that you can grow in these qualities? 

• Verses 1-3 list many admirable, demanding things that a person could do. In what ways does the absence of love diminish and spoil even these positive actions? How, if at all, does accepting that “the greatest of these is love” alter the standards by which you judge greatness?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Tuesday, November 2

Luke 15:11-24 

Few characters in Jesus’ teaching are less “deserving” than this grating, ungrateful son. Yet Jesus shows the father running to meet his son, and welcoming him in lavish ways the son wouldn’t have dared ask for. He’s calling us to get it right, to love others (even the “undeserving”) as lavishly as God does. Jesus told this story to answer a complaint from the religious leaders that he welcomed sinners, even ate with them (Luke 15:2).

• How do you react to God (and God’s family, your church) welcoming people you consider sinners? How, if at all, have your feelings changed over time? Have you ever identified with the boy in this story? 

• How were you received by those who you considered righteous? How does this picture of a father’s welcome celebration speak to your heart about your heavenly parent’s welcome of you?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Monday, November 1

Matthew 22:34-40 

Christians “get it wrong” when we defend any valued “truth” in ways that keep us from loving God fully and loving our neighbor as ourselves. Jesus said “getting it right” means acting on the reality that any other truth or orthodoxy has value only as it leads us to more fully love God and all our neighbors. Jesus says that all the Bible teaches, all the truths we know about what God wants, “hang” or “depend” on the two commands he quoted.

• What do you believe makes these two commands so essential? Can you recall a time when a belief you held led you to be unloving, even without realizing it? 

• How well can you love your neighbor as yourself if you don’t have healthy ways of loving and caring for yourself? How well have you learned to nurture and value yourself? (If you struggle with this, Mindy Caliguire’s book Soul Care may be helpful.)

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Saturday, October 30

Acts 4:32-35 

Material blessings come and go—this thriving Jerusalem church later needed financial help, and Paul took up an offering in Greece for their benefit. But spiritual blessings are “for keeps.” Isn’t it great to see what God can do through people, then and now, who are deeply committed to God?

• What parallels do you see between the early Jerusalem church described in this passage and the spiritual energy and enthusiasm seen at FPC? What do you believe are the driving forces that create these parallels? 

• Acts says these Christians were of one heart, but many signs show us that the phrase does not mean they always agreed! What do you think the phrase means? How much spiritual power could be set loose if, at First Presbyterian Church and beyond, Christians again became of one heart? How might that happen?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Friday, October 29

2 Corinthians 8:7-12 

When we follow Jesus, we’re committing ourselves to follow a Lord who embodied self-sacrificing love. For Jesus’ followers, the central spiritual issue is to determine how best we can serve, how best we can give ourselves away for God’s kingdom.

• More than anything a Mastercard can buy Jesus’ gift of himself for us is priceless! How, if at all, do you express your gratitude to God for that gift? How, if at all, do you tell others about your gratitude for what God has done? 

• As you reflect on (and perhaps reset) your life priorities, examine how financial goals or hopes for certain items (house, car, etc.) rank on your list compared to “being generous.” Are you satisfied with your priorities? Is God? What inner changes, if any, are needed to reset your life priorities?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Thursday, October 28

1 Kings 17:8-16 


Today we read another story about a widow who took a leap of faith to honor God and to bless one of God’s servants. She had very little, but her humble gift honored God, and God miraculously multiplied what she gave in ways that brought life for Elijah, her son and herself.

• This widow’s “leap of faith” moved her from being resigned to dying of starvation (verse 12) to renewed life and service. Have you ever been scared to follow God’s call, but as you look back, you say “I’m so glad I did”? If so, share that story with someone else today. 

• In what ways, if any, are you “stretching” or taking a risk to follow God? How do you feel about your decision(s)? What outcome(s) do you hope for, and what results, if any, are you seeing?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Wednesday, October 27

John 4:4-11 

The Good News of the gospel often faces difficulty and discouragement on all sides. When we do what God calls us to do, it is not always popular with others. But God promises that as we offer our best to serve God and bless others, the Holy Spirit will help us overcome any hurdles we meet.

• The Christian message is truly “counter-cultural”—it calls us to live with reference to forces and values that exist before and beyond our culture. What are some of the ways, if any, that you have overcome negative cultural habits and patterns because of your faith in Jesus? 

• What culture-based fears and pressures are keeping you from offering your best to God? How do the principles in this passage offer you strength to resist those pressures?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Tuesday, October 26

1 Corinthians 12:12-26

In the early church, Christians gave generously to meet one another’s needs, and in this way they built up the church. Circumstances are different today, but it’s as true as ever that we are connected, that each of us is important as we serve God in the way we were made to serve, and that we need each other.

• In what way(s) are you a functioning member of the body of Christ at First Presbyterian Church? 

• What role(s) do you intend to play in the body during the coming year? 

• God’s concern for how we manage our finances is only one aspect of a broader divine interest in your whole life. 

• What resources besides money do you have that can serve and bless others? How, if at all, are you allowing God to guide you in your use of those resources?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Monday, October 25

2 Corinthians 9:6-15 

In setting the values that guide our lives, we must always keep in mind that money is a means to an end, not an end in itself. That is why Jesus said it is more blessed to give than to receive (see Acts 20:35). There is a joy in generosity, in exercising love and compassion for others.

• It’s Monday—no one is likely to pass you an offering plate today. Where do you have an opportunity to show a generous spirit on this Monday? How will you take that opportunity? 

• At the end of this passage, Paul expresses thanks for God’s indescribable gift. What do you think he means by that? Do you have a deep sense of gratitude for what God has done for you, and in your life? Why or why not?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Saturday, October 23

Luke 9:25-26

Jesus had a remarkable knack for getting at what was essential with a minimum of words—and he certainly did that with this pointed question. Open your heart to Jesus’ question, asking God to help you accurately value what’s at stake in your daily decisions.

• Do you know who the “real you,” the person God intends you to be, is? Have you learned how to locate God’s “true north” for your life, or do the expectations and approval of others drive many of your choices? Listen inwardly for God’s direction as you pray today. 

• Review your personal goals in the light of Jesus’ words. What “price tags” are attached to each of the goals? Are they all prices that you are spiritually wise to pay? How will they shape the legacy you will leave behind at the end of your life?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Friday, October 22

Psalm 25:1-7

What we leave behind matters—and, if we’re honest, we know that our moral legacy will not sparkle in God’s sunlight, totally free of defects and failures. The psalmist celebrates the fact that, in this crucial respect, we serve a forgetful God, one whose grace blots out the shame and the failures from our life. What are the chapters of your life that, like the psalmist, you want God to forget?

• Have you ever talked to God about them, owning your failure and asking for forgiveness? If not (or if some of them still haunt you with guilt), make that a focus of your prayer today. 

• As he asks God to forget the failures of the past, the psalmist also requests that God will show the right path, the ways of living that God desires. In what decisions do you need God’s guidance today? Are you open to doing what God wants you to do in those areas?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Thursday, October 21

2 Corinthians 2:14 - 3:3

By many human standards, Paul left nothing much behind when his life ended: no property, no financial assets, not even a spotless legal record! But in this passage, he shows that he evaluated his life by a different measure—the people whose lives he had touched.

• Who has been a “Paul” in your life—a person who has shaped you spiritually, and whose sincerity and example have drawn you to Christ? If that person is still living, when did you last express your appreciation? 

• Who are the people in whom you are investing yourself—family, co-workers, friends? In what ways do you seek to make sure your impact on their lives could be described, in Paul’s image, as a life-giving fragrance?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Wednesday, October 20

Matthew 7:15-23

What an animal leaves behind matters little, except that it shows the animal’s feeding habits and well-being. Similarly, Jesus said we learn about a tree’s inner makeup from the fruit it bears—and, in the end, the key spiritual reality for all of us is not how good we look publicly, but whether we know God or not.

• We often read these verses mainly in reference to religious leaders who fail morally—but the principle works the other way, too. Are there people you have learned to trust more as you have seen the fruit God bears in their life and work? What kind of “fruit” do you find most persuasive? 

• In verse 22, Jesus notes that certain kinds of “showy” actions do not necessarily show that a person knows God. How closely does your inner life align with the public “face” you show at church? What makes authenticity more valuable than outward show in God’s sight?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Tuesday, October 19

Luke 12:13-21

“What will I leave behind?” is a challenging, significant question. In this passage, Jesus addressed one of the most common human answers to that question, and pointed to the tragic triviality of a life lived in order to leave behind primarily a big collection of money and “stuff.”

• When public figures discuss their financial dealings, they regularly use the word “security.” The Contemporary English Version translates verse 15 as “Owning a lot of things won’t make your life safe.” What’s your definition of “security”? Do Jesus’ words challenge or affirm your definition?

• Who have you known who, as far as you could tell, had a “rich” relationship with God? What could you observe that helped that person build that kind of relationship? What impact, if any, has that person’s example had on your own spiritual life?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Monday, October 18

Acts 9:36-42

There are many ways of blessing others. Tabitha (Dorcas—meaning “gazelle” – in Greek) was apparently not much of a preacher, but God equipped her to sew, and gave her a heart for the poor. She was clearly known by what she left behind—the “show and tell” time in verse 39 is a deeply touching scene.

• To what extent do you think behavior like Tabitha’s is a matter of natural inclination, and to what extent do you believe it reflects intentional moral choices? What choices are you making to bless others with whatever talents and gifts you have been given? 

• God used both Peter, the apostle, preacher and healer, and Tabitha, the seamstress with a compassionate heart, to lead many to believe in Jesus. What role(s) has God equipped you to play in the work of the gospel? How committed are you to doing your part in helping others to believe?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Friday, October 15

Psalm 84:1-12

God provides for the animals—but they do not sit back passively, waiting for food to drop in front of them. God asks us, too, to be involved in the process of feeding our spiritual life—to earnestly seek God’s presence through spiritual practices like Bible reading, prayer and regular worship. 

* Mark Twain once said he didn’t know why Christians wanted to spend eternity in heaven when they could barely stand to spend one hour a week in church! How does your heart respond to being in God’s house? What might increase your delight in worship and praise? [One idea: consider arriving 5-10 minutes early for worship, so that you can prepare your heart and mind.] 

* Do you find that Bible reading, prayer and worship strengthen you spiritually? If so, how do you experience that strength? If not, how might you change your attitudes, or the ways in which you practice these things, so that they could be a greater source of strength?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Thursday, October 14

Psalm 42:1-8

No animal survives long unless it knows where and when to find good watering holes. The psalmist compares his thirst for God to a deer’s thirst for water. No matter what we face, he says, God’s love stays with us, like a song wafting through even the darkest night.
* How great is your thirst for God? What things have you noticed that tend to increase or decrease your interest in being in God’s presence?
* For the ancient Hebrews, the waves of the ocean symbolized the frightening, disorderly forces of chaos in life. What breakers are sweeping over your life today? Do they tend to drive you away from God, or to make you want to seek God more intently than ever?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Wednesday, October 13

Matthew 18:1-14

We are charmed when we see or hear about how elephants and other animals shelter and protect the youngest members of their herd. Jesus said a similar concern for the young and the spiritually vulnerable is a characteristic of God’s family.
* Occasionally we welcome young children into our church family through baptism. What responsibility do you feel for the ways the church influences the lives of those children? In what ways can you bless and support the children of our church?
* Was Jesus only concerned with people’s age in these verses, or was he also addressing their level of spiritual maturity and strength? What are some steps you could take, or some personal qualities you could focus on, to ensure that you don’t cause new believers and seekers to stumble?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Tuesday, October 12

1 John 4:7-21

Our connection with other members of God’s family, says John’s letter, runs much deeper than the instinctive “herd” response of animals. As we grow in our ability to love one another, we are reflecting God’s actions toward us in Jesus Christ.
* Based on this passage, how do you believe John defined “love”? In what ways is the picture of love these verses paint different from the ways “love” is defined in much popular music, at the multiplex, or in People magazine? 

* Of the many challenging sentences in this passage, which one speaks most deeply to you? How will you think and act differently today in the light of that sentence? Speak your intention(s) in prayer, and ask God to help you live into them.

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Monday, October 11

Ephesians 4:1-6

As we observe how African animals live, we see the tendency of most species to face life together rather than separately. Though our culture often glorifies rugged individualism, the animals can show us the truth of this passage in Ephesians: unity and peace are important, to God and to us.
This passage urges us to be humble, gentle and patient. 

• How do those qualities relate to effectiveness in your daily work? Do you want those qualities to define your favorite sports team or political candidate? What makes these qualities important to a Christian?
Different views and experiences often cause disunity in the Christian community. 

• In what does this passage ground our unity? Is it possible to worship one God, serve one Lord, be led by one Spirit and still disagree with one another? If unity doesn’t mean agreement on everything, what does it mean?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Saturday, October 9

Personal Application: 

How has God spoken to you this week? What will you do about it? Take time today to write it all down. Then share it with someone who will support, encourage, and perhaps help you as you follow through with this plan.

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Friday, October 8

Acts 2:1-47 

This passage describes the birth of the Church as it developed from a small group of disciples into a widespread and growing movement that would change the world. Yet we read that people on the outside made fun of what they saw happening, saying that the disciples were just drunk or crazy. That's when Peter stepped forward to explain what was happening.

At times those who are following Jesus, being faithful to God, seem out of place or even out of sync with the world around them. They might even seem crazy to other Christians. In those times, we know that God has sent the Holy Spirit to help us clearly explain what is happening.

It took a lot of courage for Peter to stand up and give this speech, but it is important to recognize that his courage was only a small piece of the puzzle. More importantly, he was open to letting the Spirit direct his words and actions.

In what ways are you called to tell the story, to explain to others how God is working through Christians? If you have sensed that God is calling you to take some kind of action this week, how might you explain it to those around you?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Thursday, October 7

Matthew 2:1-12 

Does this story sound familiar? If you've been using this guide all week, you might recognize that there are similarities between this story of the birth of Jesus and the story of the birth of Moses. Both stories describe how gentiles (non-Israelites) acted in resistance to the path of least resistance, ultimately preserving the life of a child who would become a redeemer of the people.

What might God be calling you to resist? What do you see happening in your daily life that tugs at your heart, calling you to action? Perhaps God is calling you to follow your heart, as difficult as it may be.

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Wednesday, October 6

Jeremiah 25:1-14 

God used Moses to bring the Israelites out of Egypt, eventually bringing them to the “Promised Land.” Early in the journey, the people were constantly complaining and longing to go back to Egypt. They seemed to prefer the oppression they had known to the freedom they didn't know or understand. Generation after generation the Israelites would follow God faithfully for a short time, only to turn away again and again. They had been warned not to imitate the people in the surrounding areas. They had been warned that doing so would inevitably lead them into a life of disobedience, breaking their part of God's covenant relationship with them. God repeatedly sent prophets to warn the people that if they didn't get back on track they would wind up oppressed yet again in a foreign land.

For the Israelites, the path of least resistance seemed to be conforming to the ways of all the people around them. That meant worshipping false gods and adopting customs that were contradictory to their covenant with the God who brought them out of Egypt. Instead of being unique in their faithfulness to this God, they chose to get on the interstate to cruise along.

Just as many interstates direct traffic away from or along the outskirts of a city, this interstate directed the Israelites away from the one true God.

Think of an example of this kind of interstate in your daily life. In what ways does the path of least resistance lead you away from faithfully following in the way of Jesus?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Tuesday, October 5

Exodus 2:11 – 3:22 

Yesterday we read about several women whose combined actions thwarted Pharaoh's attempt to wipe out the Israelites. As a result, a baby Israelite boy, Moses, was not only rescued, but brought up as a member of Pharaoh's family. This grandson of Pharaoh, could easily have kept his cover. He could have overlooked the injustices he saw all around him. Instead, he dared to intervene, killing an Egyptian, and ultimately had to sneak out of town in order to survive.

We know how the story ends. Moses ends up leading the Israelites out of Egypt. But what happens in the long time before Moses returned to Egypt? Among other experiences, he encounters God and his life is changed forever. During his years in Midian, he picked up new skills that would shape his future leadership of the Israelites.

Along life's journey, we don't always leave the interstate intentionally. Sometimes circumstances cause us to take an unplanned pitstop or exit ramp. As you look at your own life, what unplanned pitstops have you taken? How have these experiences shaped your life? How have you encountered God?

If you can't think of an example, perhaps it's about time to get off the interstate and take a breather. Have there been times when you should have taken an exit ramp or an unplanned pitstop, but didn't? What current circumstances might be good reasons to get off the interstate for awhile?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Monday, October 4

Exodus 2:1-10

At the invitation of their brother Joseph, and of Pharaoh (the king of Egypt), the other 11 sons of Jacob (God's nickname for him was Israel) and their families moved to Egypt in order to escape a widespread famine. More than 400 years later, these families had grown so much that it became an increasing concern for a new Pharaoh (who apparently blew off history class). Out of fear that the Israelites could pose a threat to the Egyptian national security, Pharaoh decided to make them forced laborers (slaves). Yet the Israelites continued to grow in number, and Pharaoh continued to monitor this national security issue. Eventually, he even ordered that all the newborn baby boys be thrown into the Nile, presumably to be drowned.

If everything had gone according to Pharaoh's plan, his national security issue might have been effectively resolved. Yet there were some who dared to resist and/or bend the rules. They chose to “get off the interstate”, the path of least resistance, in search of an alternate route.

Interstates are designed to help people travel without dealing with time consuming, annoying obstacles like traffic lights, school zones, and busy intersections. There is no doubt that interstates have their advantages, but if we use them exclusively, we can get a distorted view of reality.

This week, consider what kind of route you are traveling. Are you going through life consistently choosing the path of least resistance? Are you cruising through life on the interstate? How might interstate travel color your reality?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Saturday, October 2

1 Timothy 6:6-10

In the last few months, the news has been filled with words like “worry,” “fear,” “uncertainty” and “trouble.” This passage was written by a traveling preacher and tent-maker (Acts 18:1-4) with little money and no retirement plan—yet he talks (again) about “contentment”!

• Do you find the principle Paul states in verse 7 a source of contentment, or does it trigger other feelings in you? What attitudes and values in our world need to be reset in order for that principle to become a cause for contentment?
• Have you at times in your life felt trapped in “the rat race”? What is godly contentment worth to you (or, if you don’t have it, what would it be worth to you)? Open your heart to God in prayer, and ask for divine help in incorporating contentment and true joy into all of your life.

New Series starts tomorrow

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Friday, October 1

Philippians 4:10-13

From a prison cell (Philippians 1:13), Paul reflects on his inner response to gifts he  had received from the Christians in the city of Philippi. He gives us some challenging and profound insights to consider as we think about the relationship of “needs” and “wants” in our own lives.

• Paul does not glorify poverty or hunger in these verses—he expresses heartfelt gratitude for what the Philippians had sent. How did those gifts represent God’s care for Paul’s needs? In what ways are you able to be God’s physical presence to bless someone else who is in need? 
• Paul had learned to be content in every situation. How does he express his “secret” (verse 13)? How, if at all, have you learned to take strength from God’s presence with you when you deal with scarcity? Is it difficult to find contentment when dealing with plenty? If so, how does God help?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Thursday, September 30

Matthew 6:25-34

If we’re locked into this world’s values, any fiscal crisis or constraint can leave us feeling deprived and scared. Jesus tells us, “Don’t worry.” (For an uplifting Bible study project, look for all the places where Scripture tells God’s people, “Don’t be afraid.” Luke 12:32 and John 14:37 are good starting points.) 

• Jesus approaches this passage from two angles. His main point is that worry puts our attention on the wrong things (verse 33). What does your life look like when you are focused on God’s kingdom and righteousness? How does worry take you away from that kind of life?
• Jesus also makes the more practical point that worry usually doesn’t do any good (verse 27). Can you think of things you spent considerable time and energy worrying about that never came to pass? How does worry differ from sensible foresight and precautions?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Wednesday, September 29

Matthew 6:19-24

Here Jesus reminds us that there can only be one “most important” focus, one top priority, in our life. It’s simply not possible to make God and the values of the unseen kingdom of heaven most important if our priorities are ruled by the values of the tangible life and culture around us.

• Jesus says you cannot serve two masters. Who or what is the “master” you are serving, as measured by where you put the most energy, time and focus? In what ways, if any, have you experienced the power of money to control and direct your life?
• What forces besides purely financial ones (e.g. social prestige, children) can become your “treasure,” more important to you than God? How do you find that living in God’s kingdom makes you a better parent, citizen, friend, etc., if at all?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Tuesday, September 28

Matthew 6:1-4

Sometimes we find that even our “generous” acts come because we feel the need to put on a performance for others—to make ourselves feel better, to get others to think better of us. Jesus pointed to the fact that God is leading us away from these “false selves” to our true “child of God” selves. 

• When you give to others, in what ways (if any) do you identify with this text? Ask Jesus to give you a vision of serving “an audience of one,” and allowing God to fill the empty places inside you. 
• In his book The Life You’ve Always Wanted, John Ortberg writes that many of us suffer from an “approval addiction.” Have you ever done something generous, and purposely tried to make sure no one else knew about it? If not, try it this week and see how it affects you inwardly.

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Monday, September 27

Matthew 19:16-20

Jesus invited the young man in this story to reset his priorities, to change the focus of his life. The young man chose not to do that. That he went away sad suggests that he really wanted to follow Jesus—but not if following Jesus meant actually making Jesus central to the way he lived his entire life. 

• This story confronts us with the difficult question, “Which of my possessions, if any, are so precious to me that I’d choose them over Jesus?” We know the young man’s answer to the question. What is your answer?  
• The disciples thought prosperity always showed God’s favor on a person. Jesus’ perspective on wealth and poverty turned their world view upside down. In our sometimes upside down financial world, how will you strengthen your trust in God and reset your valuation of earthly treasures?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Saturday, September 25

Personal Application:

Make a list of personal habits that may not be in line with Scripture. Then make a list of issues that you may need to rethink in light of Scripture. Choose one thing from each list and describe what you need to do in order to let God’s word rule instead of the world. Begin to put into action in real life what you have just described. You might forget or feel like you fail at times, but remember that in Christ you are forgiven, and try again.

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Friday, September 24

Matthew 28:30; 2 Timothy 2:9 

The writers of “The Theological Declaration of Barmen” likely considered Jesus’ words at the end of Matthew to be a great source of comfort. When they referred to this verse in the letter to Timothy, what claim were they making? There were many people in Germany at the time, including Christians, who wanted to get rid of everything in the Bible that carried even a hint of Jewish influence, or anything else that didn’t line up with the overall values of the German people. The writers of the “TDB” argued that it was wrong to try to impose restrictions or even change the message of the Word of God. In fact, they argued, it couldn’t be done. Ultimately the Word of God could not be bound by humans.

What restrictions do you impose on Scripture (intentionally or not)? What would happen if you truly let the word of God rule your actions and world view?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Thursday, September 23

1 Peter 2:13-17

This letter was written to people who were facing difficult choices in living out their faith. Should they be open and public about being a Christian or should they submit to the emperor and Roman law? (It was not necessarily legal to be a Christian.) The writer of this letter encourages Christians to submit to all legitimate authorities, just as Jesus did. However, the writers of “The Theological Declaration of Barmen” use this passage to argue against the government taking over the leadership of the church itself, as well as the church taking over the primary role of the State (government).

What do you think it means to “Fear God” and “Honor the Emperor”? What impact does that make on how you live out your Christian faith?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Wednesday, September 22

Matthew 20:20-28

In this passage, two of his disciples (along with their mother) approach Jesus with a request that basically could be seen as a power play. The other disciples were furious that they had done this, but many of them had similar motives in their competition with one another to be the ‘greatest among them’. Jesus responded by reminding them that following him was different than the Roman way of doing things. He wanted them to stand as a sharp contrast to the world.

If Christian leadership involves serving others with great humility, how might that be different than leadership in our world today?

If you are a leader in the church, or are considering taking on a leadership role in the church, does this passage change your view of what it means to be a Christian leader? If so, how? If not, how does your view line up with what Jesus says in this passage?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Tuesday, September 21

Ephesians 4:15-16 

“‘We reject the false doctrine, as though the church were permitted to abandon the form of its message and order to its own pleasure or to changes in prevailing ideological and political convictions.” (TBD 8.18)

When the law of the land goes hand in hand with Christian beliefs, it can seem easy to be a Christian. On some level we might be tempted to equate being a ‘good Christian’ with being a ‘good citizen’ of our country. The question is, where do we find our true citizenship?

The writers of “The Theological Declaration of Barmen” argued that Christian citizenship in the Kingdom of God must take priority over being a German citizen. As a result, they thought it was more important to follow Scripture, the Word of God, than to follow the doctrine of the Nazi party, the words of Hitler.

In your life, what are the implications of placing citizenship in the Kingdom of God as a priority over being an American citizen? What difficult choices might you need to make as a Christian in this time and place?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Monday, September 20

John 10:1, 9; 14:6; 1 Corinthians 1:30

“We reject the false doctrine, as though the church could and would have to acknowledge as a source of its proclamation, apart from and besides this one Word of God, still other events and powers, figures and truths, as God’s revelation.” (TDB 8.12)

“We reject the false doctrine, as though there were areas of our life in which we would not belong to Jesus Christ, but to other lords - areas in which we would not need justification and sanctification through him.” (TBD 8.15)

These words from “The Theological Declaration of Barmen” highlight the fact that we do not belong to Jesus in part, but he has authority over a person’s whole life. In the time leading up to World War II, many German Christians were giving in to the idea that the Church must take into consideration the ideas and ideals upheld by the Nazi party. Along with this, the prevailing sentiment among most German Christians was, in effect, that faith or religion should have a secondary role to the practice of politics and daily life.

Who or what comes first in shaping how you approach life? Is it really Jesus? Describe some of the implications of Jesus having the primary role in what you do and how you think about the issues that come up in your daily life?

The Theological Declaration of Barmen

This confession was used in our worship service on September 19th as part of the Sermon Series "Finding Your Way Out of the Desert". The first Message ("A New Creation") and the second ("Who Is Your Desert Guide?") are available in audio (MP3) and video (MP4, FLV) formats on our website, www.discover-first.org.

This text is from the "Book of Confessions"(English) ("Spanish"), part of the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (USA). There it was reprinted, with permission, from The Church’s Confessions Under Hitler by Arthur C. Cochrane, pp. 237–242. Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1962.

I. An Appeal to the Evangelical Congregations
and Christians in Germany

The Confessional Synod of the German Evangelical Church met in Barmen, May 29–31, 1934. Here representatives from all the German Confessional churches met with one accord in a confession of the one Lord of the one, holy, apostolic church. In fidelity to their Confession of Faith, members of Lutheran, Reformed, and United Churches sought a common message for the need and temptation of the church in our day. With gratitude to God they are convinced that they have been given a common word to utter. It was not their intention to found a new church or to form a union. For nothing was farther from their minds than the abolition of the confessional status of our churches. Their intention was, rather, to withstand in faith and unanimity the destruction of the Confession of Faith, and thus of the Evangelical Church in Germany. In opposition to attempts to establish the unity of the German Evangelical Church by means of false doctrine, by the use of force and insincere practices, the Confessional Synod insists that the unity of the Evangelical churches in Germany can come only from the Word of God in faith through the Holy Spirit. Thus alone is the church renewed.

Therefore the Confessional Synod calls upon the congregations to range themselves behind it in prayer, and steadfastly to gather around those pastors and teachers who are loyal to the Confessions.

Be not deceived by loose talk, as if we meant to oppose the unity of the German nation! Do not listen to the seducers who pervert our intentions, as if we wanted to break up the unity of the German Evangelical Church or to forsake the Confessions of the Fathers!

Try the spirits whether they are of God! Prove also the words of the Confessional Synod of the German Evangelical Church to see whether they agree with Holy Scripture and with the Confessions of the Fathers. If you find that we are speaking contrary to Scripture, then do not listen to us! But if you find that we are taking our stand upon Scripture, then let no fear or temptation keep you from treading with us the path of faith and obedience to the Word of God, in order that God’s people be of one mind upon earth and that we in faith experience what he himself has said: “I will never leave you, nor forsake you.” Therefore, “Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”

II. Theological Declaration Concerning the Present Situation of the German Evangelical Church

According to the opening words of its constitution of July 11, 1933, the German Evangelical Church is a federation of Confessional churches that grew out of the Reformation and that enjoy equal rights. The theological basis for the unification of these churches is laid down in Article 1 and Article 2(1) of the constitution of the German Evangelical Church that was recognized by the Reich Government on July 14, 1933:

Article 1. The inviolable foundation of the German Evangelical Church is the gospel of Jesus
Christ as it is attested for us in Holy Scripture and brought to light again in the Confessions of the Reformation. The full powers that the Church needs for its mission are hereby determined
and limited.
Article 2(1). The German Evangelical Church is divided into member Churches (Landeskirchen).

We, the representatives of Lutheran, Reformed, and United Churches, of free synods, church assemblies, and parish organizations united in the Confessional Synod of the German Evangelical Church, declare that we stand together on the ground of the German Evangelical Church as a federation of German Confessional churches. We are bound together by the confession of the one Lord of the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic church.

We publicly declare before all evangelical churches in Germany that what they hold in common in this Confession is grievously imperiled, and with it the unity of the German Evangelical Church. It is threatened by the teaching methods and actions of the ruling church party of the “German Christians” and of the church administration carried on by them. These have become more and more apparent during the first year of the existence of the German Evangelical Church. This threat consists in the fact that the theological basis, in which the German Evangelical Church is united, has been continually and systematically thwarted and rendered ineffective by alien principles, on the part of the leaders and spokesmen of the “German Christians” as well as on the part of the church administration. When these principles are held to be valid, then, according to all the Confessions in force among us, the church ceases to be the church and the German Evangelical Church, as a federation of Confessional churches, becomes intrinsically impossible.

As members of Lutheran, Reformed, and United churches, we may and must speak with one voice in this matter today. Precisely because we want to be and to remain faithful to our various Confessions, we may not keep silent, since we believe that we have been given a common message to utter in a time of common need and temptation. We commend to God what this may mean for the interrelations of the Confessional churches.

In view of the errors of the “German Christians” of the present Reich Church government which are devastating the church and are also thereby breaking up the unity of the German Evangelical Church, we confess the following evangelical truths:

1. “I am the way, and the truth, and the life: no one comes to the Father, but by me.” (John 14:6.) “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber. . . . I am the door; if anyone enters by me, he will be saved.” (John 10:1, 9.)
Jesus Christ, as he is attested for us in Holy Scripture, is the one Word of God which we have to hear and which we have to trust and obey in life and in death.

We reject the false doctrine, as though the church could and would have to acknowledge as a source of its proclamation, apart from and besides this one Word of God, still other events and powers, figures and truths, as God’s revelation.

2. “Christ Jesus, whom God made our wisdom, our righteousness and sanctification and redemption.” (I Cor. 1:30.)
As Jesus Christ is God’s assurance of the forgiveness of all our sins, so in the same way and with the same seriousness is he also God’s mighty claim upon our whole life. Through him befalls us a joyful deliverance from the godless fetters of this world for a free, grateful service to his creatures.

We reject the false doctrine, as though there were areas of our life in which we would not belong to Jesus Christ, but to other lords—areas in which we would not need justification and sanctification through him.

3. “Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way
into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body [is]
joined and knit together.” (Eph. 4:15–16.)
The Christian Church is the congregation of the brethren in which Jesus Christ acts presently as the Lord in Word and Sacrament through the Holy Spirit. As the church of pardoned sinners, it has to testify in the midst of a sinful world, with its faith as with its obedience, with its message as with its order, that it is solely his property, and that it lives and wants to live solely from his comfort and from his direction in the expectation of his appearance.

We reject the false doctrine, as though the church were permitted to abandon the form of its message and order to its own pleasure or to changes in prevailing ideological and political convictions.

4. “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you; but whoever would be great among you must be your servant.” (Matt. 20:25, 26.)
The various offices in the church do not establish a dominion of some over the others; on the contrary, they are for the exercise of the ministry entrusted to and enjoined upon the whole congregation.

We reject the false doctrine, as though the church, apart from this ministry, could and were permitted to give to itself, or allow to be given to it, special leaders vested with ruling powers.

5. “Fear God. Honor the emperor.” (I Peter 2:17.)
Scripture tells us that, in the as yet unredeemed world in which the church also exists, the State has by divine appointment the task of providing for justice and peace. [It fulfills this task] by means of the threat and exercise of force, according to the measure of human judgment and human ability. The church acknowledges the benefit of this divine appointment in gratitude and reverence before him. It calls to mind the Kingdom of God, God’s commandment and righteousness, and thereby the responsibility both of rulers and of the ruled. It trusts and obeys the power of the Word by which God upholds all things.

We reject the false doctrine, as though the State, over and beyond its special commission, should and could become the single and totalitarian order of human life, thus fulfilling the church’s vocation as well.

We reject the false doctrine, as though the church, over and beyond its special commission, should and could appropriate the characteristics, the tasks, and the dignity of the State, thus itself becoming an organ of the State.

6. “Lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age.” (Matt. 28:20.) “The word of God is not fettered.” (II Tim. 2:9.)
The church’s commission, upon which its freedom is founded, consists in delivering the message of the free grace of God to all people in Christ’s stead, and therefore in the ministry of his own Word and work through sermon and Sacrament.

We reject the false doctrine, as though the church in human arrogance could place the Word and work of the Lord in the service of any arbitrarily chosen desires, purposes, and plans.

The Confessional Synod of the German Evangelical Church declares that it sees in the acknowledgment of these truths and in the rejection of these errors the indispensable theological basis of the German Evangelical Church as a federation of Confessional churches. It invites all who are able to accept its declaration to be mindful of these theological principles in their decisions in church politics. It entreats all whom it concerns to return to the unity of faith, love, and hope.

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Saturday, September 11

Personal Application: “Work” is different for a young mother, a hard-driving sales person, an executive, or a retired person living alone. List the work you do, paid and unpaid. For each item on your list, ask God “Are you calling me to keep doing this?” Next ask “How could I do this better?” Then ask “Lord, what shall we celebrate about this work?” Finally, ask God to help you to set your work aside regularly and rest.
Family Activity: As a family, list different ways people work including household chores, mission projects and careers. Using your own criteria, categorize these jobs into “big” and “small.” Read Colossians 3:23. Does God distinguish between “big” and “small” jobs or is all work important to God? How does our attitude and the quality of our work matter to God? Choose a volunteer job to do as a family. Consider sponsoring a litter removal area, planting a neighborhood garden or helping your school or workplace recycle. Be aware of your spirit and attitude as you serve others, fulfill household duties or complete tasks at school or your workplace. Would God be pleased? Thank God for the opportunity to work and ask God for a servant’s heart.
Prayer: God, many days I need both energy and purpose. Help me to remember to turn to you, the source of both and so much more. Keep me from activities that drain me and turn my focus away from you. Thank you for the always-open door into your presence. Amen.

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Friday, September 10

Deuteronomy 5:12-15, Exodus 34:21

God wants us to work honestly and diligently. But in our “workaholic” culture we also need to hear what God taught Israel by setting up the Sabbath. The Israelites had been slaves in Egypt who NEVER got days off. Now God told them a Sabbath rest, the ability to stop working and renew their inner life in communion with God, was as important as their work.
Recall that Genesis says God set the model for a rhythm of work and rest (Genesis 1:31 -2:2). Is your work “never done?” Are you a person who can find a stopping point, rejoice in what you’ve done and rest? How can making a Sabbath rest a regular part of life specifically bless driven, Type-A personalities?
Exodus 34 says, to a mainly agricultural people, “even during the plowing season and harvest you must rest.” How can you apply that to the patterns and rhythms of your life? In which times or seasons do you think, “I just can’t take a break”? What would a Sabbath rest look like in your life?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Thursday, September 9

Luke 19:1-10

The Roman Empire told each tax collector how much they expected. Anything he collected beyond that was his. So Zacchaeus, a “chief” tax collector, was wealthy. But he wanted to meet Jesus, and Jesus wanted to meet him. When Jesus’ grace touched his life, Zacchaeus’ first response was to say, “I’m going to make things right.”
Is Zacchaeus wealthier and more of a “success” at the start of this story or at its end? Sure, you know the answer you’re supposed to give! But, honestly, how do you define “wealth” and “success” for yourself? Would you give up as much as Zacchaeus did in order to have Jesus, the “pearl of great price,” in your life?
Jesus seemed to like being with sinners and outsiders. That appalled the “good” people of his day (verse 7). Suppose Jesus was here today Who would he “call out of the trees” in your neighborhood, your workplace or your city that would be likely to upset you? How can you help him call them?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Wednesday, September 8

Amos 8:1-7

The wealthy merchants of Israel no doubt saw Amos as a rural bumpkin (Amos 1:1) who just didn’t “get” what it took to make it in business. But Amos spoke for God. God saw actions like exploiting the poor or using short weights and measures as a spiritual issue. There was no unique “business” part of life where spiritual values didn’t apply.
Amos lived in a world without standard measures. The principles he taught, though, apply as much today as in his day. What modern practices have you seen that fit the words “we make the measures small and the price of things big”? In what areas are you tempted to think, “The bottom line is all that matters”?
Beyond plain fraud, Amos confronted these pious people (8:3) about how they “trampled the needy.” What “legal” things do you see, on any scale from private to global, which trample and seek to do away with the poor? How can you act to help “justice and righteousness roll on like a river” (Amos 5:24)?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Tuesday, September 7

Daniel 6:1-10

Daniel was a Hebrew exile serving the Persian Empire—a clear target for political plots. But Daniel’s rivals were shocked. They found no sleaze, no slips, nothing to criticize. So they duped the king into making a law aimed at the spiritual habits that sustained Daniel. Daniel was ready to lose his job, even his life, rather than even appearing to stop his prayers.
We often hear public figures facing a scandal complain, “No one could survive the kind of scrutiny I’ve faced.” However, the most powerful people in the Persian government found nothing about Daniel that could be used against him. How about your work, your life? Would you pass the “Daniel test”?
Today’s verses set the stage for the famous story of Daniel in the lions’ den. Was it all really necessary? Would it have been so wrong for Daniel to say his prayers quietly in an inner room, or at least to keep the windows shut? Was he foolish or faithful to risk his standing and impact by holding to his well-known practice of prayer

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Monday, September 6

Genesis 1:31 – 2:2, 2:8-15

The pagan nations around Israel described their gods as living lives of leisure and fooling around. By contrast, the creation stories in Genesis show God as a master artisan, working to make a “very good” world. God also gave humans work (caring for the Garden). God meant that work to be wholesome and fulfilling.
The Hebrew of Genesis 2:15 uses a verb that means “to guard or protect.” Part of the work God gave humans is to guard and protect the earth. How well or poorly do you believe we have done in living up to this divine commission? What is one change you personally could make to better care for the earth?
We sometimes think we are “stuck” with work because it’s a harsh, hostile world. But Genesis shows God at work creating and sustaining the conditions in which human work will be fruitful (2:8-9). How do you see your work, paid or unpaid? Are you “on your own,” or is God working before and with you?

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Saturday, September 4

Personal Application: In Genesis 28:18, Jacob turned the stone he used for a pillow into a sign of God being there with him, even in painful times. Find a way to do something similar in your life. It might be a picture put up in your workspace, a verse taped to the dash of your car, or a common TV tray used as a simple altar. Creatively remind yourself of God’s abiding presence and steadfast love.

Family Activity: Do you appreciate receiving a blessing? Blessings, whether they are words, gifts, or kind deeds uplift our spirits, renew our strength and sustain us along life’s journey. Scripture is filled with blessings from God. Read aloud the following passages: Genesis 2:2-3; Psalm 33:12; Ezekiel 34:26; and Matthew 5:3-11. Discuss the blessings found in each one. Create a family blessing basket. Write kind word or phrases on several small slips of colorful paper and place them in a basket. Younger children could draw pictures to place in the blessing basket. Whenever a family member is in need of a blessing, pull a slip of paper, read or show it to him or her, then share a hug or smile.

GPS - Grow, Pray, Study Weekly Guide: Friday, September 3

Genesis 27:42 - 28:22

Jacob ran for his life. Isaac didn’t think the plotting and hurt wiped out God’s covenant with Abraham (28:3-4). And God went with Jacob. Did you ever sing “Jacob’s Ladder”? In Jacob’s dream, the Lord at the top of the ladder promised him safety and a role in God’s grand story. Jacob inherited the covenant promises, not because he was great, but because God is.

As to Abraham in Genesis 12:3, so here God promised Jacob that his descendants would be a blessing for all peoples on earth. How does this “blessed to be a blessing” theme shape your grasp of what it meant for God to bless Abraham, Isaac and Jacob? How does it challenge you to use the blessings in your life?

Genesis says that when Jacob awoke, he said, “Surely the Lord God is in this place, and I was not aware of it.” Have you ever had a moment like that—an uncanny sense that “God is in this place, this person, this event—and I had missed it”? How can you become more aware of God’s presence in your life?