Forgotten God / week 6

1. Why might it be safer to commit to following "God's will for your life" rather than following God is what He may lead you to do today?

>Watch the video for session 6 at RightNow Media or YouTube now.

2. The poses an important question: If you were absolutely, 100% submitted to the will of God at this moment, what do you think He might ask you to do?

Read Romans 8:1-13.

In Romans 7, Paul discusses the impossibility of obedience in the flesh: "I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out." [vs 18]. This is a hopeless situation. But what is impossible in Romans 7 is made possible in Romans 8. What makes the difference? The Holy Spirit.

"The Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death." [8:2]

According to Romans 8, the difference between trying and failing, and truly obeying God has everything to do following the Spirit's leading.

3. In verses 5-8, Paul talks about the difference between the mind set on the flesh and the mind set on the Spirit. Think about this difference. Give an example of what each type of person looks like.

4. Look at verses 9-13. What things does Paul mention that set the Spirit-filled person apart?

5. What do you think it means to 'by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body" [v. 13]?

6. Think about the analogy of walking. Practically, what would it mean for you to walk by the Spirit in your daily life?

7. The thought of being called to give things up may be scary, but honestly answer this question: Which is more frightening to you, giving up everything you own, or going through life on your own without the Holy Spirit? Why do you say that?

8. Though we might wish that being Spirit-filled were as easy an event , what are the benefits of maintaining an on-going relationship with the Holy Spirit?

9. Identify a particular sin in your life. What would it look like to be Spirit-led in a moment of temptation? [If you're working with a small group, you won't be asked to name the specific sin unless you feel it would be beneficial for the group.]

10. Think about some practical, mundane daily activities. [i.e. spending time with family or co-workers, shaping your budget, chores etc.] In which of these are you prone to do your own thing without considering how the Spirit might lead you?

11. How can you turn these activities into opportunities to follow the Spirit's leading?

12. We have a tendency to try to do the Spirit's work in our own strength. Practically, how can you do the work of the Spirit through the power of the Spirit?

13. Spend some time in prayer. Ask God what He wants you to do-- not in five years, but right now, today. Pray for strength to follow the Spirit's leading in whatever He may be calling you to do.