Date: 7/13-14
Series: The Bible
Passage: Psalm 23
Introduction – 5 minutes
Describe a time when you were selected to do something that you felt unqualified for.
Observation – 15 minutes
Read Psalm 23
What are some of the qualities in the passage that describe David’s relationship with God?
Leader Note: While this passage may be familiar to your group lead them to see the that these statements of David’s dependence on God created character and discipline which in part qualified him to live out his calling as King of Israel later in life.
Some answers may include..
- David trusted God (v. 1)
- David was dependent on God’s leading (v.2-3)
- David spent time with God (v. 2-3)
- David committed to God’s path (v. 3)
- David acknowledged but did not fear evil (v. 4)
- David had a heart of gratitude (v. 5)
- David saw the bigger picture (v. 6)
Understanding – 20 Minutes
What qualities does our world look to when selecting someone for a position of power or influence?
Leader Note: Be it education, strong work ethic or physical appearance; lead your group to eventually see that most of the qualities we look to are based on a set of measurable and visible value.
Where have you seen “unqualified” people make an impact in the world around them?
What qualities did those people possess?
Commentary: As it was with David it’s not always the obvious or outward qualities that enable us to be used by God (1 Samuel 16:7). David set a disciplined foundation of trust on God from an early age, which established his character and enabled him to live out God’s call on his life.
Application – 20 minutes
What qualities are you most in need of to carry out your calling/purpose?
Leader Note: You may wish to refer your group back to weeks 6 and 7 of Rooted and the discussion on purpose. Ask them to state what they believe their God intended purpose is (if the are able to identify it).
Sample answers may include…
- Courage
- Belief that God’s spirit will empower
- Trust to know that He is in control and will lead me
- Gratitude
What does it look like to live out your calling without those characteristics?
Sample answers may include…
- Fear
- Comparing to others
- Obligation versus joyful service
- Prideful belief in my own ability
What does it look like to live out your calling with those characteristics?
Leader Note: As we head into the fall season you may also want to use these questions to prompt your group to consider what collective purpose God is calling you to live out as a community. We believe that God does some of His best work through community and that He has a specific purpose for your group to engage.
Live It Out – 10 minutes
How might others be impacted if you began to live out your calling through God’s strength versus your own ability?
Prayer: Father I thank you that in your gracious wisdom you call us all to express your kingdom through our lives. I thank you for every calling and purpose represented not only through the individuals of this group but also through the collective purpose of this group. Give us ears to hear your voice and courage through the power of your Holy Spirit to respond as you lead us this week