Recap

Last week, we explored the concept of “setting the table for God’s suddenly,” understanding that God desires to move suddenly in our lives. However, we have a role to play in preparing for these divine moments. This week, as we engage in what we call “Seek Week,” it is crucial to revisit that message. It lays the foundation for the spiritual journey we are about to undertake.

Our word for the year 2024 is “Seek.” When we seek God, everything else falls into place. It’s not just a good idea; it’s a biblical promise. Jeremiah 29:11-13 tells us that God knows the plans He has for us—plans to prosper us and give us a future. But there’s more: He says, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” This is the crux of our faith journey—seeking God wholeheartedly.

We mustn’t let last week’s message remain theoretical. It’s vital to bring it down into our daily lives. This week, we’re focusing on four practical ways to set the table for God’s movement in our lives. These are not just abstract concepts; they are actionable steps that can transform our spiritual walk.

The first step is Praise and Worship. Psalm 100:4 teaches us to “enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise.” Praise creates an atmosphere where God’s presence is welcomed. It’s like driving out the fog that clouds our lives—whether that fog is anxiety, fear, or conflict. When we praise God, we move from our earthly realm into a spiritual realm where God is enthroned on our praises. Practically, this might mean putting on headphones, finding a quiet place, and allowing worship to change the atmosphere of your life.

Next is Confession. Hosea 10:12 urges us to “plow up the hard ground of your hearts.” Just like a garden can’t flourish if rocks block the roots, our spiritual lives can’t grow if we harbor unconfessed sins or unresolved issues. Confession clears the path for God’s grace, removing the barriers that hinder our relationship with Him. This week, take time to kneel before God, confess your sins, and allow Him to cleanse and renew you.

The third step is Thanksgiving. Psalm 100:3-5 reminds us to rejoice, seek His strength, and remember His wonders. Thanksgiving shifts our focus from our needs to God’s provision. It’s a powerful practice that not only aligns our hearts with God’s will but also brings about mental and emotional healing. Science even backs this up, showing that gratitude can improve our overall well-being. This week, take time each day to write down what you’re thankful for, reflecting on God’s goodness in your life.

As we go through this week, remember that these practices are not about feelings but about obedience. Jesus didn’t say to praise, confess, or give thanks only when we feel like it. These are commands from God, designed to draw us closer to Him and prepare us for His sudden movements in our lives.

In conclusion, this week, engage with these practical steps. Put on your headphones and praise God, confess your sins to clear the path for His grace, and cultivate a heart of thanksgiving. As you do this, you’ll find that you’re not just a spiritual sprinter but a marathon runner, equipped to endure and thrive in your faith walk.

Let us pray together as we commit this week to seeking God and setting the table for His divine moments in our lives. May He speak to us, move in us, and transform us into His likeness as we seek Him with all our hearts.

 

Group Questions

Opening Discussion:

  1. Reflection: What stood out to you most from last week’s message on “setting the table for God’s suddenly”? How did it impact your approach to this week’s “Seek Week”?
  2. Personal Experience: Can you share a moment in your life where you felt God moved suddenly? What was your spiritual preparation like during that time?

Scripture Exploration:

  1. Jeremiah 29:11-13: How does the promise that we will find God when we seek Him with all our hearts resonate with you in your current season of life?
  2. Psalm 100:4: What does it mean to you to “enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise”? How have you experienced a change in atmosphere when you engage in praise and worship?
  3. Hosea 10:12: How do you understand the metaphor of “plowing up the hard ground of your hearts”? What might that look like in your own life?

Practical Application:

  1. Praise and Worship: This week, how can you create an environment of praise in your daily routine? What are some practical steps you can take to make praise a priority?
  2. Confession: What are some barriers in your life that might be preventing you from fully experiencing God’s grace? How can you incorporate regular confession into your spiritual practices?
  3. Thanksgiving: Why is cultivating a heart of thanksgiving important, even in difficult times? How has the practice of thanksgiving changed your perspective or mood in the past?

Group Activity:

  1. Praise Exercise: As a group, spend a few minutes in praise and worship. Share how this time together has impacted your spirit or perspective.
  2. Confession and Prayer: Pair up with someone in the group and spend a few minutes in confession and prayer, supporting each other in clearing the path for God’s grace.

Closing Reflection:

  1. Obedience vs. Feelings: How does the idea that these practices are about obedience, not just feelings, challenge or encourage you? In what area do you feel God is calling you to be more obedient this week?
  2. Commitment: What is one specific action you will take this week to “set the table” for God’s sudden movements in your life? How can the group support you in this?