Sermon Notes:
1. The three responses
a) Let’s go back (verses 10-12)
b) Let’s stand still (verses 13-14)
c) Let’s go forward (verse 15)
2. Go forward in the increase of Christian graces
a) Faith
b) Hope
c) Love
3. Go forward in exercising Christian disciplines
a) Daily reading and study of God’s Word
b) Secret and public prayer
c) Worship
d) Serving others
Follow-up Questions from Sunday’s Message:
Quick Review:
Looking back on last Sunday’s message and your notes, what was the most meaningful part for you?
Digging Deeper:
1. Share some of the extremely difficult “pursuing army” or “red sea” experiences that you dealt with in the past. How did it affect your life?
2. There are 3 ways to respond when faced with difficulty (go back, stand still, go forward). How do you usually respond when you find yourself in a very difficult and stressful situation? Why do you think you respond that way?
3. How did you respond when you were younger? To what do you attribute the change? In what ways have you grown in your ability to handle difficult situations? How has last Sunday’s message been helpful to you?
4. Comparing your spiritual journey with the Israelites, where would you say you are right now? Are you (1) trapped and confused; (2) doubting God; (3) stepping out in faith or (4) safely on the other side? Explain your answer.
5. Christian disciplines are meant to help us grow spiritually, so we can respond as Jesus would respond (Studying God’s Word, Prayer, Worship, Service). Which of these disciplines do you find most helpful to you? Explain why.
Taking it Home:
Take a moment to spend some time this week in prayer and worship of God, doing some soul searching and asking yourself where you can still grow in your Christian life. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you areas in your life that you can grow in. Ask God for boldness and courage to do the right thing, even if it’s difficult.