You Matter to God
Newbreak’s Sermon Study Guide is an in-house resource that serves sermon-based Life Groups and/or individuals who want to reflect further on how the message contributes to their spiritual formation. In this week’s study, lean in as we consider how reorienting our life around Jesus can make our life better and make us better at life.
The Question of Existence: Why am I alive?
Why was I born? Was it only to have trouble and sorrow, to end my life in disgrace? (Jeremiah 20:18)
Some approaches people use to find meaning in life:
“You were made by and for God’s purposes, and until you understand that, life will never make sense.”
The Lord has made everything for his own purpose. (Proverbs 16:4)
God created me to ____________________________.
Long before [God] laid down earth’s foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love... (Ephesians 1:4)
The Question of Significance: Does my life matter?
My work all seems so useless! I have spent my strength for nothing and to no purpose at all. (Isaiah 49:4)
I am your Creator. You were in my care even before you were born. (Isaiah 44:2)
You, [God], saw me before I was born and scheduled each day of my life before I began to breathe. Every day was recorded in your book! (Psalm 139:16)
His plans endure forever; his purposes last eternally. (Psalm 33:11) “Life is preparation for eternity.”
I was made to ____________________________.
When this tent we live in – our body here on earth – is torn down, God will have a house in heaven for us to live in, a home he himself has made, which will last forever. (2 Corinthians 5:1)
The Question of Intention: What is my purpose?
Why did you create us? For nothing? (Psalm 89:47)
“The only way to know your purpose is to ask your Creator.”
Knowing God results in every other kind of understanding. (Proverbs 9:10)
I find my purpose ____________________________.
For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible...everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him. (Colossians 1:16)
“Life is not about you; it’s all about God.”
It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for...part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone. (Ephesians 1:11-12)
It makes no difference who you are or where you’re from – if you want God and you are ready to do as he says, the door is open. (Acts 10:35)
Questions for Group Discussion or Personal Reflection
- What new insight did you gain from the video segment? What idea really grabbed hold of you?
- What have been some of your failed attempts to find meaning and purpose in life?
- When did you first hear about God’s love? How and where have you experienced God’s love? How does knowing you are loved by God affect the pursuit of His calling on your life?
- Do you live with an eye on eternity? What are some hindrances to living with an eternal perspective? How would your life be different if you really viewed it a “preparation for eternity?”
- What difference would it make if you acted like life is all about God and not about yourself?
- What has happened in your life – the good, the bad, and the ugly – that God has been able to use or may be able to use for His glory and in His service?
- How does knowing God has plans for you help you discard your own plans and turn your life over to Him? Specifically, what do you sense God is calling you to do?
- Is there a difficult task you’re now facing that requires God’s power to accomplish it? What is it? Share how a past challenge has developed your faith. Pray for God’s power to fulfill your calling.
Assignments
- Memorize Isaiah 44:2
- Read Days 1-7 of The Purpose Driven Life. Pick your favorite quote of the week and share it.
- Pray daily for yourself, group members, and church
- Visit Purpose Driven and start your personal devotional.