AS YOU MEET WITH EACH OTHER THIS WEEK, CONSIDER THESE QUESTIONS:
1. In this week's sermon Pastor Charlie spoke about the call of Gideon. Gideon was a man who was filled with fear, yet God called him a "mighty warrior." Throughout the story God strengthens Gideon's faith as Gideon continually finds it difficult to trust God. Gideon had a promise from God that he would be victorious and overcome his oppressors. In the same way we have a promise in Romans 8 that we are "more than conquerers through him who loves us," and that he "works out all things for good for those who love him and are called according to his purpose." This promise to work out "all things" for our good does indeed mean all things. In what ways do you, like Gideon, struggle to believe that? In what areas of your life do you feel you are lacking faith? Where are you not feeling like a "mighty warrior"?
2. It is tempting to think that in the face of adversity and hardship, what is needed is strength of resolve and will power. However, God tells us that His power is made perfect through weakness. What does that mean to you? How does this truth change how we confront the troubles in our lives?
3. Gideon was continually asking God to increase his faith, and the Lord was happy to do so. As we are going through our days this week, let's make a special focus of praying that the Lord would increase our faith in the areas where we struggle to trust him. Pray for one another now in regards to things discussed.