On Sunday, Phil said that every person's core desire is "to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever" (Westminster Shorter Catechism). Read Psalm 73:25-28. In this passage, the Psalmist says, "there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you."  In what ways does God satisfy you, that no thing or no one else on earth can?

Why is it important to keep this "core desire" in mind as we explore different spiritual practices, such as fasting, service, community, etc? 

How can we become the sorts of people who glorify God and enjoy Him forever?  The answer is always, Jesus!  He is the way, the truth, and the life.  And He gives us this life as we abide in Him.  Read John 15:1-5.  What does it mean for you to abide in Jesus?  What does it mean that Jesus abides in you?

How does abiding in the Person of Jesus help us to become the persons we were made to be? 

The spiritual practices we plan to explore are: Sabbath, Scripture, Generosity, Solitude, Confession, Fasting, Prayer, Discernment, Service, Witness, and Community.  How can engaging in these sorts of practices help us to abide in Jesus?

What's one practice you're most excited to explore and one you're a little hesitant about?  Why? 

Phil shared this quote from John Mark Comer, "Can you imagine who we could become if we really gave our whole lives over to following Jesus? The kind of life we could enjoy?  The kind of community we could become together?"  Take a moment to consider and dream about this.  What comes to mind for you?

The quote continues, "Will this cost us?  Yes. We will have to die a thousand deaths, but it will be absolutely worth it.  With Jesus, you always gain far more than what you give up.”  What might be holding you back from more fully following Jesus?  What might you be afraid to lose?  Prayerfully bring those things to the Lord Who loves you.  How is He calling you to respond?