HOSTS
Make sure to start off with prayer. Open up group with this icebreaker:
What is your favorite season of the year and why?
TALK-IT-OUT
Open YouVersion and take turns reading: Ephesians 2:19, Joshua 1:2-9, and 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Main points from this week's message:
The Power of Encouragement
Main Point: Encouragement helps us overcome our hesitation and fear.
Talk-it-Out: God calls Joshua out of the wilderness by encouraging him to move forward despite his fear. We all have fears that hold us back. We get discouraged as we fight through our hesitation and fear. What scares you about your future? How have you moved through discouragement and fear in the past?
Main Point: Some people think holding on is strong, but sometimes it takes more strength to let go.
Talk-it-Out: Joshua is called to step out and be the leader of God’s people. He had to let go of his comfort for the promises God had given them. Is God calling you to change the trajectory of your life and family legacy? What are you holding on to that you need to let go of to move forward?
Main Point: Encouragement is everyone’s responsibility.
Talk-it-Out: We are called to build each other up. How does it feel when someone encourages you? How does it feel when you encourage others?
Main Point: Nobody hears too much encouragement. Drill deeper to your heart of gratitude. Brighten up! Lighten up!
Talk-it-Out: Is your heart open to hear encouragement, or do you brush it off when someone says something encouraging? How can you encourage yourself when you feel discouraged?
Main Point: God is with you. He is for you. Be strong and of good courage. If you’re going through something right now, remember, what the enemy meant for evil, God wants to turn it for good.
Talk-it-Out: What do you need to do to change the words you speak to yourself and others to overcome the negative effects of discouragement and fear?
WRITE-IT-OUT
Journal about your setbacks, what has caused you to be discouraged and then, write out what God says.
LIVE-IT-OUT
This week, purpose to encourage five people (or more). Ie. I’m so proud of you, you’re incredible, way to go, etc.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
Finish group with prayer requests and praise reports.