the Sacred echo / session 4

Watch video 4 at RightNow Media, entitled You Follow Me. Answer the following questions for class.

Read John 21:15-22.

>Why do you think Peter turned around and looked at John? >Does anything surprise you about Jesus’ response in verse 22? In chapter five, Margaret shares how God echoed the message “You follow me” while she was studying her Bible, running at a track, and swimming in a pool.

>Have you ever had God speak to you repetitively regarding a situation? If so, describe. Read John 6:1-26. Following the miraculous multiplication of the loaves and fishes, Jesus says that some people were simply following him for the miracles he did.

>Why is it important to follow Jesus not just based on what he does for us?

Margaret writes, “That’s one reason I find spending time in Scripture so important. The Bible is not to be seen as a single volume as much as a rich library for God’s children. As I spend time in his Word, studying the people, places, and passages, I expand the resources that the Holy Spirit can draw from in my life.”

>In what ways have you found this statement to be true?

>Why do you personally think it’s important to spend time in Scripture?

In the video, Margaret talks about moments of self-doubt that emerged when she began comparing herself to others.

>Have you fallen prey to the comparison trap? If so, describe.

>How did it make you feel? >What have you found to be some of the best tactics when it comes to avoiding the comparison trap?

In the video, Abby candidly talked about how she compared herself to others and felt like she never measured up. She wondered how God could have a plan for her.

>Have you ever felt like Abby? What would you say to Abby as an encouragement? >Overall do you tend to be the first to go or the last to respond when it comes to following God’s leading?

>How is this response reflective of your overall personality and the way God wired you? >Do you think the invitation to follow Jesus looks the same or different in every person’s life? >Have you ever said “no” to God? If so, what was the outcome?

In the video, Margaret asks, “Have you ever considered your postures when you’re looking for a particular spot? You’re usually looking down. And God wants us to keep our eyes on Him and finding our delight in Him.”

>Do you tend to view life as a series of destinations or an ongoing journey? Explain.

>Have you ever had a decision to make where you felt like God said, “You pick!” If so, describe. >In what ways is God challenging “You follow me!” right now?

>Is anything stopping you from responding in obedience? Explain.

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Going deeper: Select at least one activity below to complete during the next week. —On a blank sheet of paper, create a timeline representing your spiritual life from the moment you knew God until now. Now place marks by special times in your journey when God made Himself real to you or called you to something new. Do you see any particular patterns? In what ways do you recognize God’s faithfulness in your life?

—Write Psalm 84:2 on an index card and memorize it. Each day this week, pray that God confirms the truth of this verse in your own life.

—Take a spiritual inventory of things God has done for you in the past. Make a list of times He’s answered prayer in amazing ways or surprised you with His faithfulness. Spend time thanking Him for His faithfulness in your life. Remember that the God who leads you also provides for you!